JJ Watt, three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year and current CBS analyst, offered his insights on this game. He wondered aloud whether Huntley should have had more opportunities earlier on; nonetheless he highlighted Huntley’s improved functionally on offense that brought comparisons with Lamar Jackson; however he noted they lacked their top 3 cornerbacks due to roster restrictions for Bears players.
Initially, John Harbaugh had pinned his hopes on Lamar Jackson for the 2025 season, but an injury during the week 4 game against the Kansas City Chiefs hampered these plans. Following a disappointing performance by QB2, Cooper Rush, against the Houston Texans and the LA Rams, where Rush’s performance notably declined, Harbaugh reconsidered his quarterback choice.
Despite being benched during the game against the Rams, Huntley showed promise by completing a higher percentage of passes than Rush, which eventually led Harbaugh to start him in Week 8. Huntley’s performance not only contributed to the win but also elicited an emotional response from Lamar Jackson, who has been eager for victories.
Lamar Jackson Reacts to Week 8 Victory
Throughout the offseason, speculation swirled about when Jackson would sign his extension. Clearly focused on winning, Jackson was visibly moved by the team’s second win of the 2025 season, expressing his joy on social media. Under Huntley’s guidance, the offense achieved a balance between passing and rushing, mirroring Jackson’s own dual-threat capability. Alongside Huntley, running back Derrick Henry played a crucial role in the victory, contributing significantly to the rushing attack.
Jackson’s response encapsulated the collective effort and improvement by all on the team, and with plans in place for him to return against the Dolphins this coming Week 9, Huntley may get more opportunities until Jackson completely recovers.
As Harbaugh oversees his Ravens through this season, all eyes will be upon his decision-making regarding quarterback Carson Wentz given recent events and their emotional win.