Lamar Jackson made a dazzling return from a hamstring injury, throwing four touchdown passes to guide the Baltimore Ravens to a commanding 28-6 win over the Miami Dolphins on Thursday night.
The two-time MVP showed no signs of rust in his first start since Week 4, completing 18 of 23 passes for 204 yards as Baltimore continued their push in the competitive AFC North. The victory improved the Ravens’ record to 3-5, keeping them within striking distance of the division-leading Pittsburgh Steelers (4-3). With a favorable stretch ahead—facing only one team above .500 in their next six games—Baltimore is hoping to become just the fifth team in NFL history to reach the playoffs after losing five of their first six games.
Tight end Mark Andrews was Jackson’s favorite target, hauling in two touchdown catches. Jackson also found Charlie Kolar and Rashod Bateman in the end zone, while running back Derrick Henry powered the ground attack with 119 yards on 19 carries. Henry achieved a significant milestone by surpassing 12,000 career rushing yards, becoming only the 17th player in NFL history to do so.
The Dolphins (2-7) started well statistically, outgaining Baltimore 226 to 109 yards in the first half and limiting them to just one third-down conversion. However, costly errors prevented Miami from capitalizing on their early dominance. A fumble by rookie Tahj Washington set up the Ravens’ first touchdown, and penalties derailed promising drives.
De’Von Achane rushed for 67 yards on 14 carries, while Jaylen Waddle caught six passes for 82 yards. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa threw for 261 yards but failed to produce a touchdown, with Miami settling for two field goals by Riley Patterson.
The second half belonged entirely to Baltimore. Jackson’s poise and precision dissected the Dolphins’ defense, connecting on his first nine passes after halftime. His fourth touchdown pass—a nine-yard strike to Bateman—sealed the victory midway through the third quarter.
The Dolphins’ struggles were compounded by injuries to linebacker Chop Robinson, who suffered a concussion, and rookie running back Ollie Gordon II, who left with an ankle issue.
With Jackson healthy again and Henry in vintage form, the Ravens appear ready to mount a serious playoff charge as the season enters its decisive phase.
