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The most important player to every AFC teams’ playoff hopes

By Joel Deering

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - DECEMBER 16: Derrick Henry #22 of the Tennessee Titans celebrates his second half touchdown against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium on December 16, 2018 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Steven Ryan/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - DECEMBER 16: Derrick Henry #22 of the Tennessee Titans celebrates his second half touchdown against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium on December 16, 2018 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Steven Ryan/Getty Images) /
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AFC teams' playoff hopes - Gus Edwards
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND – DECEMBER 16: Gus Edwards #35 of the Baltimore Ravens runs with the ball in the second half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at M&T Bank Stadium on December 16, 2018 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) /

Baltimore Ravens (8-6)

Most important player: RB Gus Edwards

Lamar Jackson has been exciting to watch over his five games as a starter in the NFL, but it’s not him who’s the most important player to this AFC teams’ playoff hopes. That player is RB Gus Edwards.

Since becoming the starter four weeks ago, Edwards’ lowest rushing total has been 67 yards. That was the game the Ravens lost to the Chiefs in OT. In two of his other three starts, Edwards has rushed for 100+ yards. Edwards can make a similar impact for the Ravens as Sony Michel and James Conner can for the Patriots and Steelers. If the run game is established early by Edwards, it will open things up for Jackson in the passing game.

We all know Jackson isn’t the best passer, so it’s important for Edwards to put pressure on a defense to stop him. While Edwards’ rushing attack will help Jackson in the passing game, there’s another way he can help Jackson out. By running the ball effectively, it will force the defense to focus on him while Jackson takes off for big runs on the other side of the field.

Jackson’s lowest rushing total as a starter has been 67 yards. That was in a game he didn’t finish because of injury. Jackson’s legs have been one of the main reasons why the Ravens have gone 4-1 with him as a starter, but he can’t take all the credit. Edwards has been running well, which opens up a lot more room for Jackson when he wants to take off.

Not taking anything away from Jackson’s ability as a runner, but I’m not sure he’d be able to do what he’s done without the help of Gus Edwards.

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