The NFL MVP race is heating up. Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson leads the pack, while Buffalo Bills star Josh Allen trails just behind. Jackson has been sensational this season, pushing the Ravens to a 7-3 record and racking up stats, including top-five rankings in passing yards and touchdowns.
He led his team to a thrilling 35-34 win over the Cincinnati Bengals, completing 25 of 33 passes for 290 yards and four touchdowns. Jackson’s explosive performance made noise in all the right corners, and he is surely the front-runner in this season’s MVP conversation.
Josh Allen, however, isn’t out of the race yet. Allen has been putting up big numbers with the 8-2 Bills, throwing 17 touchdown passes and adding four rushing touchdowns. He’s posted 2,281 passing yards so far, ranking fifth in QBR with a solid 70.3 rating.
Former Lions QB Hopeful for Josh Allen’s Chance in NFL MVP Race
Even with a roster that lacks the firepower of Baltimore’s offense, Allen has found ways to keep Buffalo on top of the AFC East. This week, he faces a high-stakes showdown against the Kansas City Chiefs (9-0) — a perfect opportunity to make a statement in the MVP debate.
NFL analyst and former Detroit Lions QB Dan Orlovsky laid out what it would take for Allen to overtake Jackson in the MVP race on ESPN’s Get Up. “Lamar Jackson is running away with the MVP,” Orlovsky declared. “Josh won’t get back into the race unless he wins this game [vs. Chiefs].”
According to Orlovsky, Allen must play with unmatched urgency to overcome Kansas City’s offense, known for dominating possession. “Every possession is going to matter. You have to take advantage of every single time you get the football,” Orlovsky stressed while discussing the pressure Allen will face.
The Bills are on a five-game winning streak and are standing strong in the AFC despite injuries to key players like wide receiver Amari Cooper.
Allen has shown resilience and kept Buffalo at the top. There’s no doubt in Allen’s capability to perform when the odds are stacked against him — a crucial quality if you’re running in the MVP race.
Meanwhile, Jackson continues to dazzle, and with Baltimore battling for the AFC North title, his odds for a third MVP award are looking strong. The Ravens prepare to face the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday at Acrisure Stadium. Jackson will have another chance to pad his stats and extend his lead.
For Allen, a win over the reigning Super Bowl champs could be the boost he needs to stay in MVP contention. But as it stands, Jackson is the man to beat, making every game count as he pushes to establish his legacy.