Rain and a 33-10 Loss Mark Fagnano's First Start
The undrafted quarterback completed 10 of 18 passes for 60 yards while his wife coached signals from the sideline.
By Aiko Nakamura ·
The rain fell steadily on the Jacksonville field as the Ravens' offense struggled to find rhythm.
Joe Fagnano, the 25-year-old undrafted rookie, completed 10 of his 18 passes for 60 yards in the Ravens' 33-10 loss to the Jaguars. He threw two interceptions while playing through an ankle injury. The Jaguars defense allowed an average of 15.1 points per game, the second-lowest total in the league. Fagnano had no practice reps that week because he was playing on a Thursday. He had previously served as the team's third quarterback behind Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley.
Before the first snap, Fagnano spotted his wife, Lydia, on the sideline. She had braved the wet weather to watch the game. The couple shared a brief hug and a kiss. Lydia told him, "Love you! Have fun!" She cheered loudly when the offense picked up first downs. Fagnano said on Tuesday that Lydia had helped him prepare for the game by walking through plays in their living room. "My wife, I mean, we go through walkthroughs in the living room," he said. "She's reading plays and stuff. She probably knows the playbook just as well as us at this point." He noted that she had worked on play calls and signals specifically for his first career start.
The loss dropped the Ravens to a 4-5 record. The team is reportedly acquiring Jacoby Brissett this weekend. If Brissett clears the physical examination, Fagnano may not start again this season. The Ravens will play the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 10.
Fagnano's performance was his first as a starter in the league. He faced a strong defense in difficult conditions. His wife's presence provided a consistent element of support during the game. The Ravens' next game is scheduled for the upcoming week.
