Lamar Jackson, Saquon Barkley, or Josh Allen? The NFL MVP controversy will continue to heat up.

NFL MVP Race: Josh Allen, Saquon Barkley, or Lamar Jackson? A Debate for the Ages

As the NFL season enters its final stretch, the MVP race is heating up, and three names have consistently emerged as frontrunners: Josh Allen, Saquon Barkley, and Lamar Jackson. These players have been the focal points of their respective teams’ successes, carrying the weight of their franchise’s playoff hopes on their shoulders. But who truly deserves the honor of NFL MVP for the 2024 season? This debate has become one of the most compelling storylines down the stretch, and with the regular season winding down, each player has made an undeniable case for the prestigious award.

In this discussion, we’ll break down the MVP race by evaluating the standout performances of Josh Allen, Saquon Barkley, and Lamar Jackson. We will look at their individual achievements, impact on their teams, and how each player has influenced their respective franchise’s position in the playoff hunt. We’ll also explore their statistical accomplishments, leadership qualities, and how their play has contributed to the narrative of the 2024 season. By the end, we’ll dive into why this MVP debate is one of the most intriguing in recent years.

Josh Allen: The Ultimate Dual-Threat Quarterback

Team: Buffalo Bills
Record: 11-3
Position: Quarterback

Josh Allen has been one of the most dominant quarterbacks in the NFL over the last few years, and in 2024, he has taken his game to new heights. The Buffalo Bills (11-3) are atop the AFC East and in strong contention for the top seed in the AFC, thanks in large part to Allen’s remarkable play. He has solidified himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the league, blending his rocket arm with the ability to make plays with his legs.

Allen’s Case for MVP:

Statistical Dominance: Through 14 games, Allen has posted career-best numbers across the board. He has thrown for over 4,200 yards, with 35 touchdown passes, and only 8 interceptions. His completion percentage is hovering around 68%, showing increased accuracy and decision-making. Allen’s ability to throw deep, combined with his accuracy in the short-to-medium game, has made him one of the hardest quarterbacks to defend in the league. His mobility is equally impressive, as he has rushed for 600 yards and 6 rushing touchdowns, making him a constant dual-threat weapon.
Impact on the Bills’ Success: The Buffalo Bills are once again one of the elite teams in the AFC, largely because of Josh Allen’s playmaking ability. The Bills’ offense runs through Allen, and while he has a talented supporting cast, his ability to elevate the play of his teammates is second to none. In several high-pressure games, Allen has led the Bills to victory with game-winning drives, clutch performances, and his sheer ability to take over games. He has become the centerpiece of the Buffalo offense and one of the league’s top players in terms of total impact.
Clutch Performances: Allen has shown a penchant for the big moment, and his play in key games this season has been crucial for the Bills. Whether it’s leading a game-winning drive in the final minutes or coming up with a crucial play when his team needs it most, Allen has repeatedly proven that he thrives in high-stakes situations. His ability to perform under pressure further strengthens his MVP candidacy.

Why He’s in the MVP Conversation:

Josh Allen has cemented himself as a top MVP contender due to his consistency, the dual-threat nature of his play, and his ability to lead the Bills to the top of the AFC. His performances have been critical to the success of Buffalo’s offense, and his leadership on and off the field has been a huge factor in the team’s 11-3 record.

Saquon Barkley: The Most Explosive Running Back in the NFL

Team: New York Giants
Record: 9-5
Position: Running Back

For years, Saquon Barkley has been one of the most talented and explosive running backs in the NFL, and in 2024, he’s delivered one of the most dominant seasons of his career. After a few seasons derailed by injuries, Barkley is back to full health, and he has carried the New York Giants (9-5) to playoff contention. His electrifying runs and ability to make plays in all facets of the game have made him an early favorite in the MVP conversation.

Barkley’s Case for MVP:

Statistical Excellence: Through 14 games, Barkley has accumulated 1,800 total yards from scrimmage, including 1,300 rushing yards and 500 receiving yards. He is averaging over 5.0 yards per carry, showcasing his ability to break off long runs and make plays in space. In addition to his rushing stats, Barkley has been a dynamic threat in the passing game, catching over 70 passes and contributing to the Giants’ offense in a variety of ways. His ability to be a dual-threat back—rushing and receiving—sets him apart from other players at his position.
Team Success: The Giants are 9-5 and currently in the NFC playoff picture largely because of Barkley’s ability to dominate on the ground. New York doesn’t have the same level of passing game firepower as some of the league’s top offenses, so Barkley has been the focal point of the offense. His ability to break tackles, accelerate through holes, and make defenders miss has helped carry the Giants’ offense, keeping them competitive in almost every game.
Game-Changing Ability: Barkley has made several game-changing plays this season, including multiple 50+ yard runs and key touchdowns in pivotal moments. His explosive nature and playmaking ability make him a constant threat, and his dominance on the field has helped the Giants control the clock and dictate the tempo of games. Barkley has often been the difference-maker in games that have been decided by a narrow margin.

Why He’s in the MVP Conversation:

While MVPs are typically awarded to quarterbacks, Barkley’s case is strong because of the sheer impact he has on the Giants’ offense. New York would not be in playoff contention without Barkley’s stellar season. He has been the heart and soul of the team, and his ability to change the course of a game with a single run makes him one of the most valuable players in the league.

Lamar Jackson: The Unstoppable Force at Quarterback

Team: Baltimore Ravens
Record: 10-4
Position: Quarterback

Lamar Jackson is in the MVP discussion once again, and for good reason. The Baltimore Ravens (10-4) are sitting comfortably at the top of the AFC North, and Jackson’s unique skill set as a dual-threat quarterback continues to redefine what’s possible in the NFL. While Jackson’s early MVP campaign in 2019 was a historic one, his 2024 season might be even more impressive as he continues to evolve as a passer and as a leader for his team.

Jackson’s Case for MVP:

Dual-Threat Dominance: Lamar Jackson is known for his explosive running ability, and this season he has continued to prove that he is one of the most dynamic runners in the league. Jackson has rushed for over 1,100 yards and 10 touchdowns on the ground, maintaining his position as one of the top rushing quarterbacks in NFL history. His ability to break off big runs, evade defenders, and keep defenses guessing makes him nearly impossible to stop. But Jackson has also shown that he can beat teams with his arm, throwing for over 3,200 yards, with 28 touchdowns and just 6 interceptions. He has developed into a more accurate and consistent passer, particularly in the deep game.
Team Success and Leadership: Jackson’s leadership has been a key factor in the Ravens’ success. The Ravens are 10-4, leading the AFC North, and Jackson has been the driving force behind their offense. While the team has dealt with injuries, particularly in the receiving corps, Jackson has elevated the play of those around him. He has made wide receivers like Rashod Bateman and Mark Andrews more effective, and he continues to make things happen with his mobility and creativity. Jackson’s leadership on and off the field is a huge asset to the Ravens, and his ability to perform at a high level week after week has been a big reason for their success.
Big Playability: As always, Jackson is capable of changing the course of a game with his legs. He has turned several games around with his ability to escape pressure and turn potential sacks into long runs or touchdowns. His combination of arm strength and speed makes him a nightmare for defenses, and even when things go wrong in the pocket, he has the ability to salvage plays and make something special happen.

Why He’s in the MVP Conversation:

Lamar Jackson has taken his game to new heights in 2024, improving his passing and still maintaining his dynamic rushing ability. The Ravens’ success can be directly attributed to his ability to make plays both with his arm and his legs. His versatility and leadership make him one of the most valuable players in the league, and his impact on the Ravens’ offense is undeniable.