NFL MVP Race 2024: Josh Allen vs. Lamar Jackson
The 2024 NFL regular season has brought an electrifying race for the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. Two elite quarterbacks—Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills and Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens—are leading the charge. Both players have showcased remarkable talent and leadership, delivering record-breaking performances and pushing their teams toward playoff success. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the stats, milestones, and factors shaping this thrilling MVP race.
The Case for Josh Allen
Career-Best Passing Performance
Josh Allen has taken his game to another level this season, leading the Buffalo Bills to a stellar 12-3 record. His passing stats speak for themselves:
- 3,549 passing yards
- 26 touchdowns
- Only six interceptions, a career low
This level of accuracy and decision-making marks significant growth in Allen’s career, positioning him as one of the most reliable quarterbacks in the league.
Dominant Rushing Contributions
In addition to his passing, Allen has continued to dominate as a rusher:
- 11 rushing touchdowns, bringing him close to the Bills' all-time franchise record held by Thurman Thomas
- His physicality and ability to score in the red zone make him a dual-threat quarterback like no other.
Team Impact
Allen’s leadership has been instrumental in the Bills clinching their fifth consecutive AFC East title. Whether through clutch performances or consistent excellence, Allen has proven to be the heartbeat of Buffalo’s success.
The Case for Lamar Jackson
Record-Breaking Season
Lamar Jackson continues to redefine the quarterback position, breaking Michael Vick’s all-time rushing yardage record for quarterbacks. His total stands at:
- 6,110 career rushing yards
Jackson’s ability to both run and pass at an elite level makes him a unique force in the NFL. His season stats highlight this dual-threat capability:
- 3,955 passing yards
- 39 passing touchdowns, a career-best
- 852 rushing yards and 4 rushing touchdowns
Explosive Plays
Jackson’s explosiveness on the field is unmatched. In a recent game against the Houston Texans, he clocked a top speed of 21.25 mph during a 48-yard touchdown run—the fastest of his career. His ability to create big plays out of nothing keeps defenses on their heels.
Keeping the Ravens in Contention
Despite injuries and challenges, Jackson’s leadership and ability to deliver in clutch moments have kept the Baltimore Ravens firmly in the playoff picture. His consistency as a passer and dynamic rushing ability make him a formidable MVP candidate.
Comparing the Contenders
Statistical Breakdown
| Category |
Josh Allen |
Lamar Jackson |
| Passing Yards |
3,549 |
3,955 |
| Passing Touchdowns |
26 |
39 |
| Interceptions |
6 |
7 |
| Rushing Yards |
705 (approx.) |
852 |
| Rushing Touchdowns |
11 |
4 |
Allen edges out in rushing touchdowns and efficiency, while Jackson leads in total offensive production and explosive plays.
Betting Odds Update
- Josh Allen: Initially the favorite with odds of -900, Allen’s MVP chances have tightened to -200 due to Jackson’s rise.
- Lamar Jackson: Once an underdog, Jackson’s odds have surged to +145, reflecting the impact of his record-breaking performances.
What Will Decide the MVP Race?
The MVP race remains too close to call, with both players excelling in different areas. The final games of the regular season will be crucial in determining the winner. Key factors include:
- Final Game Performances: Both quarterbacks have the opportunity to solidify their cases with standout games in the last stretch of the season.
- Team Success: The ability to elevate their respective teams in the playoffs will weigh heavily on voters.
- Milestones and Records: Allen’s potential to break franchise rushing touchdown records and Jackson’s career milestones add to their compelling narratives.
- Media and Fan Sentiment: Public perception and media narratives can influence MVP voting, with Allen praised for his consistency and Jackson celebrated for his game-changing play style.
Conclusion
The 2024 NFL MVP race is one for the ages, with Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson pushing the boundaries of what quarterbacks can achieve. Allen’s combination of passing precision and physical dominance has driven the Bills to success, while Jackson’s historic milestones and explosive athleticism have made the Ravens a force to be reckoned with.
As the regular season nears its conclusion, all eyes are on these two elite players. The MVP title will ultimately go to the quarterback who performs best under the spotlight, proving their value to their team in the most critical moments. One thing is certain: both Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson have left an indelible mark on this season, showcasing the future of the NFL.