Rookie Fagnano starts for Ravens in loss to Jaguars

Joe Fagnano completed his first NFL start on Thursday night, finishing with ten passes for 60 yards and two interceptions. The 25-year-old undrafted rookie stepped into the starting role for the Baltimore Ravens during their 33-10 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Fagnano had only three days to prepare for the game. He was summoned to start after two-time MVP Lamar Jackson and backup Tyler Huntley both moved to injured reserve. The loss marked the Ravens' fourth consecutive defeat.

The Jaguars took control of the game shortly before halftime. Trevor Lawrence threw a 50-yard touchdown pass to Parker Washington. The score extended Jacksonville's lead to 17-3.

Ravens coach Jesse Minter said the big play before the half opened up the game. "I thought the team was ready to play, and from a competitive standpoint, I really think the explosive play before the half really kind of broke the game open," Minter said.

Baltimore relied on a Wildcat formation led by running back Derrick Henry. This strategy aimed to protect Fagnano, who entered training camp fourth on the depth chart. The team committed four false-start penalties during the contest.

Tight end Mark Andrews fumbled a snap on a fourth-down attempt in the third quarter. Fagnano threw interceptions to Montaric Brown and Jourdan Lewis on similar out routes in the second half.

The Ravens are expected to sign Jacoby Brissett before the Tuesday trade deadline. Brissett started Arizona's first eight games before losing the job to Gardner Minshew. That move likely means Fagnano will return to the bench for the Week 10 game against the Los Angeles Chargers.

"I know that our front office and ownership are going to do what’s necessary to give us a chance," Minter said. "Tons of respect for Joe and how he operated and how he played. … Anybody that comes in, we’ll see how it goes, and we’ll see where it takes us."