Baltimore, MD — It didn’t take long for Lamar Jackson to remind fans and analysts why he’s considered one of the premier dual-threat quarterbacks in the NFL. Returning from a three-game absence, Jackson delivered a poised, efficient, and explosive performance on Thursday night, leading the Baltimore Ravens to a dominant 28-6 victory over the struggling Miami Dolphins. The win pushes Baltimore to 3-5 and keeps them alive in a tight AFC landscape, while the loss drops Miami to 2-7, intensifying speculation about the future of head coach Mike McDaniel.
The Ravens entered halftime ahead 14-6, despite being outgained 225-109 in total yards and punting four times. Miami moved the ball efficiently but failed to capitalize when it mattered most. Once the third quarter began, the Ravens flipped the script, controlling possession for over 11 minutes and outscoring Miami 14-0 in a stretch that completely buried the Dolphins’ momentum.
Jackson Finds His Rhythm
Jackson finished 18-of-23 for 204 yards and four touchdown passes, marking his second four-TD outing of the season. His scoring throws included two to tight end Mark Andrews, one to Charlie Kolar, and a goal-line strike to Rashod Bateman. Jackson also contributed five rush attempts, showing flashes of his trademark agility.
His return doesn’t just strengthen the box score — it brings leadership, tempo, and a level of unpredictability that Baltimore desperately missed. With Jackson under center, the offense looked versatile and calm under pressure.
Henry Punishes Miami’s Front
Running back Derrick Henry imposed his will on the ground, rumbling for 119 yards on 19 carries. His physical style opened up passing lanes and forced Miami’s defense to commit to the run, giving Jackson clean pockets and favorable matchups.
Rookie receiver Zay Flowers continued to show growth, hauling in five receptions for 64 yards and displaying sharp route-running. In total, eight Ravens caught passes — a sign of the team’s balanced attack.
Missed Opportunities Haunt Dolphins
Miami’s offense accumulated yardage but repeatedly failed to finish drives. The Dolphins went 0-for-3 in the red zone, lost three turnovers, and committed costly penalties in key moments.
One early sequence summed up the night: trailing by a single possession, Miami lined up to go for it on 4th-and-1, only for right tackle Larry Borom to commit a false start. Forced to kick, Riley Patterson missed from 35 yards, shifting momentum firmly toward Baltimore.
Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa put up respectable yardage — 261 on 25 completions — but his interception and lack of scoring support overshadowed his stat line. Jaylen Waddle posted 82 receiving yards, while rookie De’Von Achane added a combined 106 total yards, showing flashes of promise.
NFL’s Growing Blowout Trend
Thursday’s outcome fits a broader narrative developing across the league. In Week 8, 12 of 13 games were decided by double digits. Week 9 is already mirroring that pattern. Fans and analysts have raised concerns about competitive gaps, offensive inconsistency, and widening talent disparity — issues the league will likely address this offseason.
Ravens Looking Ahead
The win gives Baltimore valuable momentum as they brace for a challenging stretch of divisional matchups. With the AFC playoff race tightening, every possession and turnover matters. Jackson’s health and rhythm will be critical factors moving forward.
Pressure Rising in Miami
For Miami, questions won’t slow down anytime soon. Red-zone failures, turnover issues, and lack of discipline continue to derail potential wins. With a 2-7 record, the organization must evaluate coaching decisions, play-calling, and roster construction over the next few weeks.