Former USC Trojan receiver Ja'Kobi Lane was not planning on making noise in training camp practices and leaving it there. Lane saw his opportunity in his first preseason game to match the training camp hype with some actual production in a game. Lane did not wait long in his first game to affirm the star power the Ravens witnessed in camp.
In his first game, Lane scored a 16-yard touchdown at the beginning of the second quarter. On that touchdown, Lane really showed fight and stretched for the end zone with two defenders draped on him. That is not how he usually scores touchdowns, but it is another great example of how versatile he is. Lane finished his first NFL game with 3 catches for 38 yards and a touchdown.
It is one thing to look like a star in practice and training camp. Lane did exactly what he was supposed to do after the standard he has set so far. He built further on his hype and showed that he can potentially be a star receiver this season. He is making the most of his opportunities heading into his rookie season.
Everybody has eyes on Lane after this game and is very excited to see what the production looks like this season. I am confident, and I am sure the Ravens are as well, that Lane will be heavily involved in the Ravens' offense this year. I would not be surprised if he picks up steam as a potential offensive rookie of the year dark horse. Nonetheless, I am excited, as many others are too, to see more of what he can do this preseason prior to the regular season.
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This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: Ja'Kobi Lane builds off training camp hype, shines in first NFL game