The Baltimore Ravens are holding out hope for quarterback Joe Flacco to be able to play in Week 11 versus the Cincinnati Bengals. However, quarterback Lamar Jackson is doing everything he can to make sure he is ready to go.

There is a very good chance Jackson makes his first career start depending on Flacco's health. According to ESPN's Jamison Hensley, he is more than prepared to do so if that is the case:

“I feel like I'd be very prepared,” he said. “I'm trying to sponge everything in. Whatever happens, will happen.”

It is encouraging to see the confidence from Jackson. Of course, this should come as no surprise since he has never doubted his ability to play the position. He could finally have the opportunity to prove himself alongside the other quarterbacks in his draft class.

Flacco's inability to practice all week has opened the door for Jackson to take reps with the first team. It also presumably negates any further optimism that he will be able to return by Sunday. However, head coach John Harbaugh has indicated that the veteran does not necessarily need to practice in order to start versus the Bengals. His decision to play coy on the matter could serve as an advantage against Cincinnati's defense.

It would certainly be wise of Flacco to start by any means necessary. Jackson has shown flashes of promise throughout the 2018 campaign. If the rookie were to play at a high level in his absence, there will certainly be plenty of speculation regarding the situation under center moving forward.