The Baltimore Ravens weren’t able to pull out an ever-so important victory in Week 16 against the Cincinnati Bengals, losing 41-21. Baltimore ended up having to start quarterback Josh Johnson in the absences of Lamar Jackson, Tyler Huntley and Chris Streveler, and despite the loss the veteran played well, completing 28-of-40 passes for 304 yards to go along with two touchdowns and one interception.
After the game, Ravens tight end Mark Andrews talked about the performance of Johnson, and gave high praise to the veteran for what he was able to do against the Bengals in Week 16.
“No doubt. He studies the playbook, works hard. He’s a smart guy, and he’s been around the league for a long time. So, he did a great job stepping in, knowing the plays and then hitting open guys. He spread the ball around big time, and a lot of guys made big plays: Tylan [Wallace], James [Proche II], ‘Quise’ [Marquise Brown], ‘Bate’ [Rashod Bateman] – all those guys. So, he was able to spread the ball around, and he played that quarterback position really, really well today. Like I said, you’ve got to tip your cap off to him. He’s been here for 10 days. Playing quarterback, knowing a system for 10 days is not an easy thing.”
There’s no question that Johnson stepped up in a tough spot and delivered solid play all around. He wasn’t perfect, but showed many flashes where he placed the ball in a perfect window and delivered it with power and poise. All things considered, the 35-year-old did his job well, and impressed his Baltimore teammates in the process.