The Baltimore Ravens are enduring one of the toughest starts in recent memory, and head coach John Harbaugh is facing mounting pressure after a 1-5 record as fans and analysts question whether he can turn the season around.
Harbaugh has been a cornerstone of the franchise since 2008, leading the Ravens to a Super Bowl title and numerous playoff runs. His longevity and leadership have earned him respect throughout the NFL.
Quarterback Lamar Jackson has been central to Harbaugh‘s success, but a hamstring injury has severely limited Baltimore’s offensive output.
Without Jackson, sustaining drives and scoring efficiently has become a major challenge.
The defense, meanwhile, has allowed more big plays than expected.
Combined with offensive struggles, this has left the team underperforming in all facets, raising questions about coaching adjustments and overall strategy.
Baltimore’s single win against five losses has left them near the bottom of the standings. Injuries across the roster are compounding issues, exposing gaps in depth and forcing constant lineup adjustments.
Harbaugh now faces scrutiny as the season’s struggles spark debates about whether his leadership is to blame.
His long track record provides credibility, but ongoing losses could pressure the front office to consider leadership changes.
Despite the challenges, hope remains. Harbaugh has proven capable of stabilizing teams mid-season, adjusting game plans, and guiding rosters through adversity. His ability to manage the offense without Jackson is crucial.
The question of whether Baltimore can succeed without their franchise quarterback is central. Expectations of playoff contention and a Super Bowl run have been tempered by this slump, testing the organization’s resilience.
The Ravens currently rank 26th in offensive efficiency with a D+ grade according to PFSN metrics. How quickly they regain health and rhythm will affect Harbaugh‘s job security and postseason prospects.
When is Lamar Jackson expected back for the Ravens?
Jackson‘s hamstring injury has sidelined him for several games. Reports suggest he could return in the next few weeks if rehabilitation progresses smoothly. The team prioritizes full recovery over rushing him back.
Coaches are monitoring his progress daily and plan a measured reintegration. Jackson‘s return is expected to restore balance, revitalize the offense, and provide Harbaugh a realistic path to salvaging Baltimore’s 2025 campaign.
Even without Jackson, younger offensive players have had opportunities to step up. How they adapt will influence whether the Ravens can remain competitive in a tough AFC North, keeping hopes alive for a late-season turnaround.
The Ravens will face the Steelers in Week 8 on Sunday, October 27, at 13:00 ET/10:00 PT at the Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh.
Fans can watch the game live on CBS, with streaming available via Paramount+ or the CBS Sports app. A win is vital for Baltimore’s ambitions against their fellow NFC North rivals.
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