Going into Sunday, most people probably have the Baltimore Ravens coming into Chicago to take care of business against the Bears. That isn't a surprise. They're one of the best teams in the AFC with an MVP contender at quarterback in Lamar Jackson. The Bears just lost their best defensive player for the season in Khalil Mack and another mainstay, Akiem Hicks, won't play because of an ankle injury. Combine this with an offense that struggles to score? Yeah, their chances don't look great.
However, something weird is happening over in Baltimore. All week reports from there have indicated Jackson was missing practices due to an unspecified illness. Nobody thought much of it. They figured Jackson would eventually recover in time to play. An assumption backed up by his return to practice on Friday and his removal from the injury report. Nothing to see here.
Then Saturday arrived and things veered off course.
Usually when a player is added back onto an injury report? It is pretty serious. There is a legitimate chance Jackson may not play. That would mean the Bears get his backup Tyler Huntley instead. Considering how much the Ravens have leaned on Jackson this year to carry them? It would be a devastating blow to not have him in this game. Conversely, Chicago would suddenly have fresh hope that they might be able to end their four-game losing streak. A win would set them up to play the Lions on Thanksgiving with a chance to reach 5-6. Just like that, they could insert themselves back into the playoff picture. It is amazing to think the possible absence of one man might have such a ripple effect. Such is the impact Lamar Jackson has on games. No doubt Justin Fields is anxious to prove himself after what happened in Pittsburgh. Playing the Ravens' league-worst pass defense presents quite the opportunity.
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