Ravens open as favorites vs. Bears with potential Lamar Jackson return

Lamar Jackson missed Monday’s practice, but the Ravens’ early Week 8 odds indicate confidence in his availability.

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What is the story about?

The Baltimore Ravens opened Week 8 as 6.5-point favorites in their upcoming matchup against the Chicago Bears.

Of course, that is predicated on Lamar Jackson playing this week after missing the last two games with a hamstring injury. That was the expectation heading into the Ravens’ Week 7 bye, but Jackson did not participate in Monday’s practice, raising concern that he may not return in Week 8 after all. John Harbaugh declined to comment on Jackson’s absence and availability for Sunday’s game.

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Ravens’ odds shifted massively when Jackson missed his first practice in Week 5 and will likely do so again this week if he is absent on Wednesday.

The Bears, meanwhile, are coming off four straight wins under new head coach Ben Johnson. Their defense has forced 15(!) turnovers in that span and their offense put up at least 385 yards in three of those victories. Based on how the Ravens have played this season, Chicago would appear to have a chance even if Jackson is available. Still, he has been dominant against NFC teams in his career, which could still win out on Sunday.

Here are the Ravens’ early Week 7 odds, courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook.