Following a gut-wrenching 27-25 loss to the Buffalo Bills in the AFC divisional round, Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson made it clear that tight end Mark Andrews would not be blamed for the pivotal missed two-point conversion. Instead, Jackson pointed to the Ravens’ uncharacteristic turnovers as the main factor in the defeat.
Jackson, visibly frustrated, addressed the media after the game, lamenting the turnovers that plagued the Ravens throughout the contest.
“We can’t have that,” Jackson said, slapping his hands together in frustration. “Every time we get in situations like this, turnovers play a factor. We’re moving the ball great, but we’ve got to hold onto the ball. It’s just annoying. I’m tired of this.”
Despite the turnovers — including two by Jackson himself — the Ravens had a shot to tie the game in the final minutes. Jackson’s 24-yard touchdown pass to Isaiah Likely brought Baltimore within two points, 27-25, with just 1:33 remaining. On the ensuing two-point conversion attempt, Jackson’s pass was on target but slipped through Andrews’ hands as he fell backward into the end zone.
Andrews, who had been a consistent and reliable target for Jackson throughout the season, was not available for comment after the game. His drop was particularly painful, as he had not dropped a pass since Week 6 against Washington, and his second drop of the day included the crucial missed two-point conversion.
Despite the uncharacteristic mistakes, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh rallied behind his star tight end.
“Mark Andrews has more heart, cares more, and fights harder than anyone,” Harbaugh said. “We wouldn’t be here without him. He’ll handle this well. Destiny is what you make of it, and Mark will handle this fantastic.”
In addition to the dropped pass, Andrews also had a costly fumble late in the fourth quarter when the ball was punched out near midfield. It was just the second fumble of his seven-year career.
Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton echoed Harbaugh’s sentiment, emphasizing that no one should blame Andrews for the loss.
“One play doesn’t define anybody,” Hamilton said. “Mark’s been a consistent leader for us. He’s the all-time touchdown leader in Ravens history. Anyone who criticizes him is being unfair. His work ethic and success speak for themselves.”
After the failed two-point conversion, Jackson immediately spoke to Andrews on the sideline, reassuring him that the loss was not his fault.
“I’m just as hurt as Mark,” Jackson said. “We’re all responsible. It’s a team game. We’re not putting this on Mark. He’s been battling all season, doing great things. Sometimes it doesn’t go our way, but we’ll figure it out.”
The game was a tale of two halves for Jackson. After a rough start that saw him throw an interception and fumble early on, he rallied the team in the second half. However, his turnovers — including two in the first half — contributed to the Ravens’ downfall.
“Protecting the ball is the number one priority, and we didn’t do that,” Jackson admitted. “Especially me. I’m the leader, and I’ve got to protect the ball. I’m angry about it.”
Jackson’s struggles in the postseason continued, as this marked his fourth playoff game with both an interception and a fumble. Despite his MVP-caliber regular-season performance, the Ravens have yet to win consecutive playoff games with Jackson at the helm.
Now, with another season ending in disappointment, Jackson is determined to keep improving.
“I have to get over this,” Jackson said. “We were right there. We need to punch that ticket. We have to get right in the offseason.”
As the Ravens reflect on yet another playoff exit, Jackson’s quest for a Super Bowl will continue next season, with his eyes set on redemption.
