Baltimore Ravens refuse to blame Mark Andrews for loss
Baltimore Ravens refuse to blame Mark Andrews for loss
“Every time we’re in situations like this, turnovers play a factor,” Jackson said, visibly upset and slapping his hands together. “We can’t have that, and that’s why we lost the game. As you can see, we’re moving the ball wonderfully... it’s about holding on to the ball. I’m sorry for my language, but this is frustrating. I’m tired of it.”
Despite the setbacks — including two turnovers from Jackson himself — the Ravens had a chance to tie the game late. Jackson connected with tight end Isaiah Likely on a 24-yard touchdown pass to cut the deficit to 27-25 with 1:33 remaining. On the ensuing 2-point conversion attempt, Jackson’s pass hit Andrews in the stomach but slipped through his hands as he fell backward in the end zone.
“Mark has more heart, cares more, and fights more than anybody,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said in defense of Andrews. “We wouldn’t be here without Mark Andrews. He’ll handle this like the pro he is.”
Andrews, who was unavailable to speak to reporters after the game, made uncharacteristic errors, including two dropped passes and a fumble near midfield in the fourth quarter. Prior to this game, Andrews hadn’t dropped a pass since Week 6 and had fumbled only once in his seven-year career.
“People don’t turn on one another,” said Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton. “One play doesn’t define anybody. Mark is the all-time-leading touchdown receiver in Ravens history. To criticize him would be unfair given everything he’s contributed.”
Jackson echoed these sentiments, speaking with Andrews on the sideline after the failed 2-point conversion. “I’m just as hurt as Mark,” Jackson said. “This isn’t on him. All of us played a role in this loss. It’s a team effort. Mark has been battling and performing all season. Sometimes it doesn’t go our way, and we need to figure that out.”
Jackson’s performance was also uneven. Despite throwing a career-low four interceptions this season, he was picked off on Baltimore’s second drive of the game and fumbled while attempting to evade pressure on the next possession. This marked his fourth postseason game with both an interception and a lost fumble.
“Protecting the ball is the No. 1 priority, and I didn’t do that,” Jackson admitted. “As the leader, I have to take responsibility, and I’m upset with myself.”
The loss extends the Ravens’ playoff struggles under Jackson, as they have yet to win consecutive postseason games during his tenure. Now, Jackson will have to wait another year to renew his pursuit of an elusive Super Bowl victory.
“I have to get over this because we’re right there,” Jackson said. “I’m tired of being close. We need to finish. We need to punch in that ticket and get things right in the offseason.”
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