Ravens Face Crucial Test: Fagnano to Start Against Jaguars
Baltimore’s quarterback room is in disarray, and a loss tonight would complicate their playoff odds ahead of the trade deadline.
By Samantha Reed ·
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Fagnano will make his first career start on Thursday night against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
The matchup occurs as the Ravens sit at 4-4, with star quarterback Lamar Jackson sidelined indefinitely by a thumb injury and backup Tyler Huntley also unavailable. The team is awaiting the arrival of Jacoby Brissett, who is set to be traded from the Arizona Cardinals soon.
Defensive lineman Calais Campbell acknowledged the team’s struggles during a Tuesday media session. He stated, “I think all of us wanted to be better than 4-4 at this point in time in the season.” Campbell added that the team still has hope, noting, “We win a couple games, and we’re still in it.”
Fagnano’s role is historically difficult. Since 2000, only one undrafted quarterback who started at least two games in his rookie season finished with a winning record. That player was Matt Moore, who went 2-1 for the 2007 Carolina Panthers. General manager Eric DeCosta faces increased scrutiny to rebuild the roster, and poor play from Fagnano could hinder the evaluation of the offense before Brissett arrives.
The Jaguars present their own challenges, though their defense is missing key pieces. Defensive lineman DaVon Hamilton suffered a season-ending quadriceps injury. With Hamilton on the field, Jacksonville allows only 3.1 yards per designed run carry. Without him, that figure rises to 3.8 yards. Coach Liam Coen praised Hamilton, saying, “There’s not many better humans, better competitors, team guys.” The Jaguars are also missing starting safety Eric Murray, who suffered a season-ending injury, while defensive end Travon Walker is questionable due to rib issues.
The game offers a personal storyline for Ravens cornerback Nate Wiggins, who is considered questionable due to an illness. In 2024, Wiggins believed he would be selected by Jacksonville with the No. 23 overall pick. Instead, the Jaguars chose Brian Thomas Jr. Wiggins was later drafted by Baltimore at No. 30. He has allowed 22 catches on 34 targets for 240 yards and two touchdowns this season. If healthy, he may face Thomas, who has caught 10 passes for 117 yards and two touchdowns in seven games.
The Ravens’ playoff chances have dwindled. According to recent projections from The New York Times, their odds of making the postseason have dropped to 12%. ESPN’s model places those odds at 6.4%. To keep their hopes alive, Baltimore needs to win at least three of their next four games. Those contests are against the Jaguars, the Los Angeles Chargers, the Carolina Panthers, and the Houston Texans.
Jacksonville ranks fourth in overall offensive efficiency, placing fourth in passing and sixth in rushing. The Jaguars have a 5-2 record and aim to secure a fourth straight victory over the Ravens. The game is scheduled for Thursday night at M&T Bank Stadium.
