While the Baltimore Ravens quarterback is putting up some of the best numbers of his career, Josh Allen’s historic performances and Buffalo’s superior record have vaulted him into the favorite’s spot.
With four games remaining against the Giants, Steelers, Texans, and Browns, Jackson must produce MVP-caliber moments, rivaling or surpassing Allen’s unprecedented feats, to have any shot at clinching his third MVP award.
Statistical Brilliance Amid Baltimore’s Struggles
Despite Baltimore’s 8-5 record and recent skid, Jackson’s individual brilliance remains undeniable. He is second in the NFL in passing yards and touchdowns while leading the league in passer rating.
On the ground, Jackson has amassed 678 rushing yards, more than any other quarterback, further solidifying his dual-threat dominance. Statistically, he’s on pace to set career highs in passing yards (4,302) and touchdowns (38), along with his usual excellence as a runner.
These numbers are already an improvement over his 2023 MVP campaign, where he posted 3,678 passing yards, 821 rushing yards, and 29 total touchdowns.
However, the MVP race is rarely just about stats. Allen has surged ahead in large part due to his highlight-reel moments and Buffalo’s superior 10-3 record.
His Week 14 performance against the Rams — a jaw-dropping display of 342 passing yards, 82 rushing yards, three passing touchdowns, and three rushing scores — was the kind of singular achievement that defines MVP seasons.
Allen became the first player in the Super Bowl era to achieve this feat, matching a record set by Otto Graham in the 1954 NFL Championship Game.
While Jackson has delivered his own flashes of magic this season, including an iconic stiff-arm-and-throw touchdown against Cincinnati in Week 5, his most memorable plays occurred earlier in the year. The lack of recent signature highlights, combined with Baltimore’s struggles, has hurt his case.
Additionally, some MVP voters may hesitate to crown Jackson for a third time without a Super Bowl appearance, especially given Allen’s narrative of overcoming adversity after losing his star receiver, Stefon Diggs, in the offseason.
The Path to a Comeback
For Jackson to re-enter the MVP conversation, he’ll need to match Allen’s brilliance down the stretch while leading Baltimore to victories. Fortunately, his remaining schedule provides opportunities to make a statement.
Matchups against playoff contenders like the Steelers and Browns offer the chance to shine against tough competition, while games against the Giants and Texans could allow Jackson to pad his stats.
One key area where Jackson can make up ground is in total touchdowns. Currently, Allen leads all quarterbacks with 33 total scores, while Jackson, with 32, is right on his heels. By dominating both as a passer and rusher in the final four games, Jackson could close the gap.
Ultimately, Jackson’s path to a third MVP will require not just statistical excellence but also the kind of unforgettable moments that sway voters. With Allen setting a historic pace, Jackson will need to summon the same magic that has defined his career and carry Baltimore to a strong finish to keep his MVP hopes alive.
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