MVP Showdown: Josh Allen vs. Lamar Jackson – Who Deserves the Crown?

Buffalo Bills QB, Josh Allen and Baltimore Ravens QB, Lamar Jackson
MVP Showdown: Josh Allen vs. Lamar Jackson – Who Deserves the Crown? - The Wandering Buffalo

As a Buffalo Bills fan, it’s hard not to believe Josh Allen has done more than enough to claim the 2024 NFL MVP award. However, with Lamar Jackson’s late-season surge, the conversation has grown heated. Allen’s case is compelling, but Jackson’s historic numbers and head-to-head advantage have complicated what felt like a sure thing just weeks ago.

Why Josh Allen Deserves the MVP

Let’s start with Allen’s season. Without “star” receivers like Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis, Allen put together the most efficient and statistically dominant campaign of his career. He led the Bills to a 13-4 record, outpacing the Ravens’ 12-5, while breaking multiple NFL records along the way. For instance, Allen became the first player in NFL history with 40+ touchdowns in five consecutive seasons and achieved the remarkable feat of scoring a passing, rushing, and receiving touchdown in a single game.

The Bills’ offense, led by Allen, topped the AFC with 30.1 points per game, while committing just eight turnovers—the fewest in league history. Allen’s ability to avoid sacks (the lowest sack rate in the NFL) further underscores his unparalleled efficiency. Beyond the stats, his leadership transformed the Bills into a legitimate Super Bowl contender.

Buffalo’s success against elite teams also adds weight to Allen’s MVP campaign. The Bills defeated both No. 1 seeds—Kansas City and Detroit—showing Allen’s ability to rise to the occasion in critical games.

The Case for Lamar Jackson

That said, it’s impossible to ignore the season Lamar Jackson has had. He’s putting up better numbers than during his previous MVP-winning campaign. Jackson’s dual-threat dominance is unmatched: he became the first player in NFL history to lead in both yards per pass attempt (8.8) and yards per rush attempt (6.6) in the same season. He’s also the only player to throw for 4,000 yards and rush for 900 in a single year.

While Allen has been sensational, Jackson has a clear statistical edge in key areas. His passer rating (119.6 vs. Allen’s 101.4) and passing touchdowns (41 vs. 28) are far superior. Jackson also boasts an impressive 6-2 record against playoff teams, compared to Allen’s sub-.500 mark. Additionally, in the Week 4 head-to-head matchup, Jackson outshined Allen, leading the Ravens to a decisive 35-10 victory over the Bills.

One could argue that Jackson’s consistency and performances against tougher competition make his MVP case stronger. The Ravens’ success this season came despite injuries and a tough schedule, and Jackson was the driving force.

What the Numbers Say

Here’s a quick comparison of their 2024-25 stats:

Completion Percentage: Allen 63.6% | Jackson 66.7%

Passing Yards: Allen 3,371 | Jackson 4,172

Passing TDs: Allen 28 | Jackson 41

Rushing Yards: Allen 531 | Jackson 915

Rushing TDs: Allen 12 | Jackson 4

Total TDs: Allen 41 | Jackson 45

Passer Rating: Allen 101.4 | Jackson 119.6

A Narrative Battle

As a Bills fan, it’s frustrating to see Allen’s achievements downplayed. But even I must admit there’s validity to the criticism that his MVP case leans too heavily on recent performances. The narrative of Allen excelling against top-tier opponents late in the season doesn’t hold up when you consider the full picture. The Bills have struggled against playoff teams, while the Ravens have consistently delivered.

If this award is truly about being the “most valuable,” both quarterbacks make compelling cases. For Allen, it’s his leadership and ability to elevate the Bills despite losing key weapons. For Jackson, it’s his unparalleled efficiency, historic milestones, and success against tougher competition.

My heart says Josh Allen deserves this MVP. He’s carried the Bills through adversity and delivered one of the most exciting seasons in franchise history. But my head acknowledges Lamar Jackson’s dominance. With better stats, a stronger head-to-head record, and more wins against playoff teams, Jackson has likely secured the edge.

Ultimately, the MVP might come down to this very matchup. Whoever’s team emerges victorious should likely clinch the award, as it would solidify their claim to being the most valuable player this season.

Both Jackson and Allen have expressed that they don’t care, so just give it to Allen. ;)

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