Thursday is MVP! If all goes well for the Chiefs, Patrick Mahomes is having the worst statistical start of his career. So, is there a rise in power to come or is there real concern in sight? Regardless, Lamar Jackson doesn't ask any questions and continues to outrageously dominate the first third of this 2024 version of the MVP race.
Behind him, the podium tightens with the Josh Allen-Jared Goff duo. On the running back side, Derrick Henry and Saquon Barkley pull the wool over their heads and steal the spotlight from the other quarterbacks in the league.
Star of the week: Lamar Jackson (QB), Ravens
Lamar Jackson is making his mark on the season and is establishing himself as the favorite for a third MVP title. After seven days, the Ravens quarterback is on another planet. Monday evening, during the victory against the Buccaneers, he delivered a recital: five passing touchdowns, 281 yards and almost no errors (rating of 158.1), all with the disconcerting ease that characterizes him.
With 15 touchdowns to only two interceptions and 1,810 passing yards, Jackson once again became the man to take down. His 455 rushing yards, a record among quarterbacks this season, add an additional dimension to his game. Baltimore is also supported by him: first attack in the league in points (31.1 per game), in yards (461 .4) and, unsurprisingly, in rushing yards (210.9). Jackson does much more than shine individually, he is the real engine of the Ravens. Every week, he crushes the competition and quietly moves to the front of the race. At this rate, a third trophy seems within his reach, which would bring Jackson into the closed circle of NFL legends like Peyton Manning, Tom Brady or Aaron Rodgers.
But history is not yet written. To claim this title, he will have to maintain this infernal pace, especially since the competition is tough with Josh Allen and Jared Goff in particular. However, one thing is certain: if Lamar continues this momentum, the trophy should not escape him.
Revelation of the week: Jared Goff (QB), Lions
Jared Goff, once seen as a transition quarterback, is now a serious candidate for MVP. With 85.3% of passes completed, 887 yards, seven touchdowns and no interceptions over his last three games, the leader of the Lions displays impressive statistics. His performances, marked by formidable efficiency and precision, propelled Detroit among the best attacks in the league.
Criticized at the start of the season, he quickly dispelled doubts, guiding his team to a solid 5-1 record. More than just a passer, Jared Goff has become the driving force behind an ambitious team. After already experiencing a Super Bowl with the Rams, Goff seems ready to do the same with the Lions, transforming a franchise in full revival. His consistency and composure make him a major asset in Detroit's quest for a place in the playoffs and, why not, a coronation at the end of the season.
Last year, the Lions were the surprise underdogs in the NFC conference finals. This year, they're considered serious contenders, and that's largely thanks to Goff. If he continues this momentum, the MVP title could well crown his incredible journey in Detroit.
Disappointment of the week: Patrick Mahomes (QB), Chiefs
Patrick Mahomes, often considered one of the favorites for the MVP title, is having a perplexing start to the season. Although the Kansas City Chiefs are the only undefeated team in the NFL, their leader is struggling to regain his usual level of excellence. His statistics speak for themselves: only six touchdowns against eight interceptions. A particularly disappointing figure for a player of his caliber, which removes him from the race for the MVP title.
Of course, not everything is to be thrown away in his performances. Mahomes remains a master in the art of leading drives decisive, capable of sealing victories at the right time. He is not entirely responsible for his interceptions, some being the result of mistakes by his teammates. However, for a player of this stature, these statistics tarnish his start to the season and are worrying at a time when the competition for the MVP title is intensifying.
Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs offense absolutely need to correct some deficiencies. Ball protection and the ability to generate more explosive actions on the pitch are areas for improvement. Despite these struggles, Kansas City continues to score points and be among the top teams in shooting percentage. drives successful. But in the race for MVP, Mahomes seems to be behind for the moment, far from his usual standards. If the Chiefs can turn things around, no one will forget that they already overcame similar challenges last season, ultimately winning the Super Bowl. However, for Mahomes, it is time to react if he wants to hope for a third MVP trophy.
The ranking: Jared Goff enters directly into the Top 3
1- Lamar Jackson (-) Quarterback – Baltimore Ravens (5-2)
7 games – 1810 yards at 68.2% completions – 15 touchdowns, 2 interceptions, 118 rating
2- Josh Allen (+1) Quarterback – Buffalo Bills (5-2)
7 games – 1483 yards at 63% completions – 12 touchdowns, 108.4 rating
3- Jared Goff (+3) Quarterback – Detroit Lions (5-1)
6 games – 1610 yards at 73.6% completions – 10 touchdowns, 4 interceptions, 111.5 rating
4- Derrick Henry (+1) Running Back – Baltimore Ravens (5-2)
7 games – 873 yards at 6.5 yards per carry, 8 touchdowns – 7 receptions, 62 yards, 2 touchdowns
5- Saquon Barkley (+1) Running Back – Philadelphia Eagles (4-2)
6 games – 658 yards at 6.1 yards per carry, 5 touchdowns – 16 receptions, 103 yards, 1 touchdown
