As we approach the midpoint of the 2024 NFL season, the landscape is starting to take shape. Teams are declaring their identities—some are emerging as true contenders, while others are scrambling in the murky middle of the standings. Amidst all this, one player is making history: Lamar Jackson, the Baltimore Ravens’ star quarterback, is having a season that could be regarded as one of the greatest in NFL history.
Lamar Jackson: A Season for the Ages
Lamar Jackson is not just playing well; he’s rewriting the record books. Through seven games, he’s arguably the best quarterback in football, with the Ravens boasting one of the most explosive offenses in the league. In a recent victory over the Buccaneers, Jackson threw five touchdowns and only had five incompletions. If he maintains this level of performance, he could secure his third MVP award—a feat accomplished by only five players in NFL history, including legends like Peyton Manning and Tom Brady.
What makes Jackson’s season even more remarkable is his potential to become the first quarterback to achieve over 4,000 passing yards and 1,000 rushing yards in a single season. Currently, he’s on pace for an astounding 4,396 passing yards, 36 touchdowns, five interceptions, and 1,105 rushing yards. This would place him in a league of his own among dual-threat quarterbacks, a title he already shares with legends like Michael Vick.
His performance under pressure has also been elite. Jackson ranks first in expected points added per dropback when under duress and has not thrown an interception in those situations. His ability to handle blitzes is equally impressive; he ranks fourth in expected points added per dropback against blitzes and leads in success rate. With an improving offensive line and a young group of pass-catchers, Jackson is elevating the Ravens to Super Bowl contenders.
The NFL’s Messy Middle: Who’s for Real?
While Jackson dazzles, the rest of the league is a mixed bag, especially among the teams sitting around the .500 mark. This season has created a cluster of teams that could be anywhere from playoff contenders to also-rans, making it hard to determine who’s truly legitimate.
Atlanta Falcons (4-3)
The Falcons showed promise despite a 34-14 loss to the Seahawks. With a solid offensive success rate, they have the talent to be competitive, but their defense continues to struggle. If they can clean up turnovers and shore up their defense, they could make a push for the NFC South title.
Seattle Seahawks (4-3)
Much like Atlanta, Seattle has a capable quarterback in Geno Smith, but their defense has been inconsistent. However, with the 49ers facing injuries, the Seahawks could seize control of the NFC West if their offense clicks.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-3)
The Buccaneers’ situation looks bleak after losing Chris Godwin for the season and possibly Mike Evans. Their defense is not what it once was, making it tough to compete in a tough NFC South. Their upcoming matchup against the Falcons will be pivotal.
Arizona Cardinals (3-4)
Despite flashes of brilliance, the Cardinals’ defense is their Achilles heel. They simply don’t have enough talent to make a serious run this season.
Denver Broncos (4-3)
The Broncos are an enigma, showcasing a championship-caliber defense while their offense struggles. If they can find some consistency on offense, they could sneak into the playoffs.
Teams Looking Ahead to 2025
Unfortunately, some teams have already resigned themselves to the fact that 2024 isn’t their year. The following franchises are looking ahead to the draft and next season.
Carolina Panthers (1-6)
After a humiliating 40-7 loss, the Panthers find themselves in a dire situation. Injuries have hampered their defense, and they still lack a franchise quarterback. With a top-three pick in sight, they’ll need to focus on rebuilding.
Cleveland Browns (1-6)
With Deshaun Watson out for the season, the Browns face a tough road ahead. Their quarterback situation is in flux, and the outlook is grim. They may need to draft a new signal-caller to revive their fortunes.
Tennessee Titans (1-5)
The Titans have a solid defense, but poor quarterback play has hindered their offense. They could turn things around if they resolve their quarterback issues, but that might not happen until the offseason.
New England Patriots (1-6)
With a young quarterback in Drake Maye, the Patriots are at least building toward the future, despite their struggles this season.
Lions Make a Statement Against the Vikings
In a standout performance, the Detroit Lions showcased their offensive prowess against the Minnesota Vikings. Jared Goff’s incredible efficiency—completing 22 of 25 passes—led the Lions to a dominating 31-point performance on the road. With the best collection of talent in the league, the Lions continue to make a case for being serious Super Bowl contenders.
Against the Vikings, Goff averaged 9.4 yards per dropback while successfully navigating blitzes with a 62.5% success rate. If the Lions maintain their health and continue to perform at this level, their Super Bowl aspirations are well within reach.
Conclusion
As we look ahead to the rest of the NFL season, the spotlight remains firmly on Lamar Jackson and the elite Ravens. Meanwhile, teams in the middle must find their footing, while others face the sobering reality of rebuilding. The upcoming weeks will be crucial for playoff positioning, and every game counts as teams vie for a shot at the Lombardi Trophy.
