Smith speaks with credibility on both sides of the ball. He coached the Ravens’ defensive line and linebackers from 1999 to 2002, contributing to a defense that helped Baltimore post some of the stingiest numbers in NFL history, including an era when the unit surrendered just 10.3 points per game in 2000. That background informs Smith’s view: defending Jackson creates sustained pressure on a defense, and Jackson’s versatility makes that task even tougher.
From the spread to the run-pass option, Jackson’s style stretches the field and disrupts traditional defensive concepts. Smith notes that quarterbacks who can keep plays alive after the initial read force defensive backs to cover longer—and that fatigue from longer drives can wear defenses down, allowing the Ravens to move the chains and drain the clock with sustained first downs.
The former assistant also contrasts Jackson with past comparables. While Michael Vick was often cited as the modern prototype, Smith argues Jackson’s improved passing development adds another layer of concern for opponents. He points to Jackson’s accuracy—achieving 62.6% in seven of eight seasons—as part of Jackson’s evolution that has produced more prolific passing numbers while preserving his rushing threat.
Since Jackson arrived in 2018, Smith notes, the Ravens have consistently piled up yards, leading the league in offensive production with more than 22,000 rushing and passing yards combined over that span. Yet the postseason narrative remains nuanced: the Ravens are 3-5 in the playoffs with Jackson at the helm, posting a 10:7 touchdown-to-interception ratio, prompting questions about whether Baltimore can translate this dynamic into a championship.
Ultimately, Smith’s verdict centers on legacy. He suggests Jackson’s impact on how the quarterback position is viewed will endure, shaping the game long after his playing days. Time will tell whether the Ravens can capture a Super Bowl with Jackson, but Smith’s assessment positions him as a transformative figure in modern NFL history.
