The Baltimore Ravens don't have much room left for another setback. After dropping consecutive games, Baltimore gets a major boost with Lamar Jackson expected back in the lineupfor Sunday's matchup against theBuffalo Bills. His return changes the outlook for an offense that has struggled to find consistency without its two-time MVP quarterback.
That doesn't mean the Ravens have an easy assignment. Buffalo has the offensive firepower that can turn a close game into a shootout, while Josh Allen presents a challenge for a defense that needs to create more disruptive plays.
Baltimore will need contributions across all three phases to get back on track. Plenty is at stake, but Jackson's return gives the Ravens a chance to rediscover some of the explosiveness
that's been missing. Here are five bold predictions for the Week 8 matchup.
Lamar Jackson accounts for three touchdowns, including an explosive play
Lamar Jackson should immediately give Baltimore's offense a dimension it hasn't consistently had during his absence. His ability to extend plays and create opportunities outside the offense's structure can change how defenses approach the Ravens, especially when the passing game needs a spark.
Look for Jackson to account for three touchdowns against Buffalo, with at least one coming on an explosive play of 20 yards or more. One of those scoring connections will come with a talented rookie on the receiving end, giving the offense another reason to feel encouraged about its potential.
Ja'Kobi Lane scores his first NFL touchdown
Jackson and Ja'Kobi Lane have had time to build chemistry, and Sunday's game offers a chance for that work to pay off. The rookie has the talent to become a meaningful part of Baltimore's passing attack, but getting his first NFL touchdown would be a significant milestone.
The connection between the two could provide a timely spark against Buffalo. Jackson has shown he can make plays with different receivers, and Lane could be the latest beneficiary of his return. Expect the two to connect for six points.
Both teams rush for 100 yards, but Baltimore wins the ground battle
Josh Allen's mobility makes Buffalo dangerous on the ground, even when the designed rushing attack isn't producing consistently. His ability to evade pressure and turn broken plays into meaningful gains could help the Bills surpass 100 rushing yards.
Jackson's ankle is worth monitoring, even after he made it clear he doesn't intend to manage his movements in the pocket. He may still be more selective about when to take off, but Baltimore has enough talent in its backfield to establish the run without relying entirely on its quarterback. Both teams reach the century mark, but the Ravens finish with more rushing yards.
Baltimore's defense records a sack, interception, and forced fumble
Allen is notoriously difficult to bring down, and Baltimore shouldn't expect to win one-on-one matchups against him consistently. Still, the Ravens need to create opportunities to change possession and disrupt Buffalo's rhythm.
Expect Baltimore to record at least one sack, force a fumble, and get an interception. Those plays won't necessarily come easily, but the defense has to find ways to make Allen uncomfortable without losing discipline when he escapes the pocket. A takeaway or two could prove decisive in a close contest.
Ravens win a tight game featuring three lead changes
Buffalo won't make this an easy welcome-back game for Jackson. The Bills have enough offensive firepower to match Baltimore's scoring drives, and Allen's ability to extend plays should keep the pressure on the Ravens all afternoon.
The lead changes hands three times as both teams trade momentum, but Baltimore makes the final move. Jackson's return gives the offense enough playmaking ability to deliver when it matters, and the Ravens escape with a hard-fought victory. It won't erase concerns about the team's recent struggles, but beating a quality opponent gives Baltimore something meaningful to build on.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: 5 bold predictions for Ravens vs. Bills in Week 8 showdown
