Lamar Jackson Inches Closer to Historic MVP Milestone—But the Odds Are Stacked Against Him!
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is in the running for his third NFL MVP award, a feat that would place him in an elite group of players. While the conversation surrounding his candidacy is heating up, Jackson faces stiff competition from Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen, who currently leads as the favorite for the coveted […]
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is in the running for his third NFL MVP award, a feat that would place him in an elite group of players. While the conversation surrounding his candidacy is heating up, Jackson faces stiff competition from Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen, who currently leads as the favorite for the coveted award.
Harbaugh and Local Media Back Jackson
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh didn’t hesitate to express his unwavering support for Jackson.
“He’s my MVP. He’ll always be my MVP — I promise you that,” Harbaugh said.
This sentiment was echoed by local media, who named Jackson the Ravens’ team MVP in an unsurprising vote announced on Tuesday. While this honor was a foregone conclusion, the bigger question remains: can Jackson secure his third league MVP award?
Joining an Exclusive Club
Only six players in NFL history have won the MVP award three times:
– Peyton Manning (5)
– Aaron Rodgers (4)
– Tom Brady (3)
– Brett Favre (3)
– Johnny Unitas (3)
– Jim Brown (3)
Jackson, who already has two MVPs to his name, could join this prestigious list. Notable two-time MVPs include Patrick Mahomes, Joe Montana, and Steve Young.
MVP Odds and Competition
As of Tuesday, Josh Allen (-300) is the frontrunner for MVP, according to BetMGM, with Jackson (+225) as the closest contender. If Allen wins, he would become the NFL’s first first-time MVP since Jackson claimed the honor in 2019.
Jackson has acknowledged the frequent MVP chatter, often tagged in online debates.
“If it does happen, it happens. That’d be dope — three times,” Jackson said. “That’s never been my goal though. I always want to finish with the championship, but I’ve been falling short.”
Jackson’s Stellar Season
Statistically, Jackson has built a strong case for the MVP award this season. He leads Allen in touchdown passes, passing yards, rushing yards, and has thrown fewer interceptions. With a passer rating of 121.6, Jackson is closing in on the league’s single-season record of 122.5, set by Aaron Rodgers in 2011 during his first MVP campaign.
However, team success often plays a significant role in MVP voting. The Bills (13-3) are set to finish ahead of the Ravens (11-5) in postseason seeding. Buffalo’s key wins over Kansas City and Detroit—potential No. 1 seeds in their respective conferences—bolster Allen’s MVP candidacy.
The AFC North Showdown
For now, Jackson and the Ravens have more pressing concerns. They are heavy favorites in their upcoming game against the Cleveland Browns. A win on Saturday would clinch the AFC North title and secure a home playoff game for Baltimore.
Still, Jackson’s individual performance will be closely watched.
Teammates Rally Behind Jackson
Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum is among those advocating for Jackson’s MVP case.
“You see him every day, the things he’s able to do, and carrying it over to the game. He’s a special player,” Linderbaum said. “He’s extremely fun to play with, just the things he’s able to do. There’s no one more deserving of that award than Lamar Jackson.”
The Bigger Picture
As the MVP race intensifies, both Jackson and Allen have their eyes on a greater prize: a Super Bowl championship. The MVP will be announced just days before the big game, but the ultimate goal for these elite quarterbacks lies on the NFL’s grandest stage.
While Jackson’s path to a third MVP remains uncertain, his impact on the Ravens and the league is undeniable. Whether or not he secures the award, his performance continues to captivate fans and solidify his legacy as one of the NFL’s most dynamic players.
