The biggest shock in the Detroit Lions' 38-30 victory over the Baltimore Ravens is how the defense contained quarterback Lamar Jackson. A relentless pass rush and an incredible group of linebackers limited the Ravens' QB to 35 rushing yards and consistently put pressure on his pocket.
Interestingly enough, head coach Dan Campbell credited Lions wideout/QB Malik Cunningham (h/t @PrideOfDetroit) for helping the team prepare for Jackson throughout the last week of practice. Cunningham spent parts of two seasons with the Ravens and was also Jackson's collegiate teammate at the University of Louisville, so the two know each other well.
Cunningham's scouting helped as the Lions' pass rush was on Jackson all evening, sacking him seven times for 55 lost yards. It was incredible to watch Detroit's defense bottle up one of the most talented dual-threats the league has seen.
Lions HC Dan Campbell Credits Malik Cunningham for Helping Bottle Up Lamar Jackson
Cunningham doesn't have the speed or cutting ability of Jackson; however, his speed and ability to create when the play breaks down are a solid simulation of the uphill battle the defense was going to be facing on Monday night. It clearly worked with the first two levels of Detroit's defense looking incredible, locked in on the Baltimore run game.
Great players have been made to look silly on more than one occasion by Jackson's ability to create a sense of misdirection, but that wasn't the case as Lions defenders Alex Anzalone and Jack Campbell both made impressive plays against the talented QB. There were multiple times it seemed Jackson was about to break out, and either linebacker was there to finish the play. It was a complete masterclass on how to play one of the NFL's elite signal-callers.
For Cunningham, it has to feel satisfying to see Campbell credit his effort after an important week of practice. He may not have played a single snap on Monday night, but it's clear the Lions wouldn't have won without him, further highlighting how winning in football requires a full team effort.
The league took notice of the Lions and how the defense was able to bottle up a player who has often seemed unstoppable. Only time will tell if Cunningham will play a role in Detroit's next win, which could come as early as Week 4 against the Cleveland Browns.