Was Lamar Jackson Snubbed for NFL MVP?

Lamar Jackson’s performance in the 2024 NFL season was nothing short of spectacular. Yet, despite his record-breaking numbers and dual-threat abilities, Jackson was overlooked for the NFL MVP award, which was handed to Josh Allen. When comparing the statistics between the two, it becomes evident that Jackson’s case for MVP is stronger than many realize. This article explores the standout statistics, team successes, and why Jackson’s 2024 season was arguably more deserving of MVP recognition than Allen’s.

Lamar Jackson’s Record-Breaking 2024 Season

Lamar Jackson has long been known for his electrifying style of play, making him one of the NFL’s top dual-threat quarterbacks. In the 2024 season, Jackson reached new heights, breaking career records and making history as a passer. His passing stats were remarkable, surpassing 4,000 yards for the first time in his career.

Lamar Jackson’s 2024 Performance:

• Passing Yards: 4,172
• Touchdowns: 41
• Interceptions: 4
• Rushing Yards: 915
• Rushing Touchdowns: 4

This season, Jackson didn’t just rely on his legs; he proved he could lead an offense from the pocket. He threw for 4,172 passing yards, which placed him among the league’s top passers, and his 41 touchdowns with only 4 interceptions showcased his precision and efficiency. Furthermore, Jackson added another layer of impact with his rushing ability, gaining 915 yards and scoring 4 touchdowns. His impressive stats and playmaking ability were key to the Baltimore Ravens’ success, finishing the season with a 12-5 record.

Josh Allen’s Strong, Yet Comparatively Lower, 2024 Performance

Josh Allen also enjoyed an incredible 2024 season that helped propel the Buffalo Bills to a 13-4 record. However, when comparing his numbers to Jackson’s, it becomes clear that Jackson had the edge in several critical categories.

Josh Allen’s 2024 Performance:

• Passing Yards: 3,731
• Touchdowns: 28
• Interceptions: 6
• Rushing Yards: 531
• Rushing Touchdowns: 12

Allen’s 3,731 passing yards were impressive but paled in comparison to Jackson’s 4,172. His 28 passing touchdowns also trailed Jackson’s 41, and Allen’s 6 interceptions were higher than Jackson’s 4. Although Allen contributed with 531 rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns, his rushing production didn’t quite match Jackson’s 915 yards. While Allen’s rushing touchdowns were higher, Jackson’s overall yardage advantage of 825 total yards and 5 more touchdowns made a significant difference.

Despite his own standout performance, Allen’s stats fell short of Jackson’s in both passing and rushing metrics. Jackson’s overall efficiency and greater total contribution across both facets of the game leave his MVP snub looking more questionable.

Total Yards and Total Touchdowns: Jackson’s Clear Statistical Dominance

When you total up both passing and rushing yards, the gap between Jackson and Allen grows even clearer. Jackson’s ability to combine his passing game with his rushing ability placed him in a league of his own in 2024.

Total Yards Comparison:

• Lamar Jackson: 4,172 passing yards + 915 rushing yards = 5,087 total yards
• Josh Allen: 3,731 passing yards + 531 rushing yards = 4,262 total yards

Jackson accumulated a total of 825 more yards than Allen, showcasing his dominant all-around performance. Furthermore, when looking at total touchdowns, Jackson again had the edge:

Total Touchdowns Comparison:

• Lamar Jackson: 41 passing TDs + 4 rushing TDs = 45 total touchdowns
• Josh Allen: 28 passing TDs + 12 rushing TDs = 40 total touchdowns

Jackson finished with 5 more total touchdowns, further proving that his total offensive output far surpassed Allen’s, even though the Bills finished with one more win than the Ravens.

Team Performance: Close but No MVP

Although team success is often a factor in MVP discussions, the gap between the Buffalo Bills and the Baltimore Ravens in terms of win-loss record was minimal. The Bills finished the season with a 13-4 record, while the Ravens went 12-5.

The difference in their records was just one game, and both quarterbacks played crucial roles in their teams’ offensive schemes. Jackson’s leadership and all-around performance helped the Ravens remain competitive throughout the season, while Allen’s strong passing and rushing play were pivotal to the Bills’ success. However, Jackson’s superior individual statistics—more yards, more touchdowns, and a more efficient passing game—should have made him a more viable MVP candidate.

Lamar Jackson’s MVP Case: Was He Snubbed?

The case for Lamar Jackson’s 2024 MVP campaign is hard to ignore. When examining the numbers, Jackson finished with far superior passing yards, total yards, and touchdowns than Allen. Additionally, his rushing stats provided an extra dimension that Allen’s rushing game couldn’t quite match. So, why wasn’t Jackson awarded the MVP?

A potential explanation could be the Bills’ slightly better win total. But when it comes to MVP voting, individual performance should arguably outweigh the importance of team success. Jackson’s ability to carry the Ravens as both a passer and a rusher demonstrates that he was the more valuable player overall. His season was historic, breaking personal records and proving he was not just a running quarterback but a complete offensive weapon.

Jackson’s performance begs the question: Should the MVP award be given more weight based on individual statistics and overall contribution rather than focusing too heavily on a team’s win-loss record? Jackson’s case for MVP stands strong when considering his overall impact on the Ravens and the impressive balance between his passing and rushing numbers.

Lamar Jackson’s Future and Legacy in the NFL

Despite his MVP snub, Lamar Jackson has solidified his place as one of the most dynamic and talented quarterbacks in the NFL. His 2024 season was not just a statistical achievement but also a statement that he is among the league’s top quarterbacks. Whether or not he won the MVP, Jackson’s performance has raised the bar for dual-threat quarterbacks and set a new standard for passing and rushing efficiency.

As Jackson continues to evolve as a quarterback, his ability to excel both in the pocket and on the ground positions him as one of the most dangerous players in the league. Moving forward, Jackson’s legacy is secure as a quarterback who defied the traditional notions of passing and redefined what it means to be a dual-threat in the modern NFL.

Though he was snubbed for MVP in 2024, Lamar Jackson’s future in the NFL looks incredibly bright. He has proven that he can succeed in all aspects of the game, and it’s only a matter of time before he earns another MVP trophy.

Conclusion

Lamar Jackson’s 2024 season stands as one of the most remarkable in recent memory, with jaw-dropping stats that surpassed those of Josh Allen in nearly every major category. Despite this, Jackson was overlooked for the MVP award, with Allen taking home the trophy due to his slightly better team record. However, when evaluating the total package, Jackson’s performance was superior in many respects, especially in terms of overall yardage and touchdowns.

While team performance plays a role in MVP discussions, Jackson’s individual accomplishments were more than worthy of the award. His all-around play, leadership, and statistical dominance in both the passing and rushing games should have earned him more recognition. Whether or not he was snubbed for MVP, Lamar Jackson’s place in NFL history is secure as one of the most talented and dynamic quarterbacks to ever play the game.