Lamar Jackson’s MVP Surge: Can Anyone Catch the Ravens’ QB?
The Baltimore Ravens’ 2024 season was nothing short of spectacular, and at the heart of it all was quarterback Lamar Jackson. With a record of 12-5, the Ravens soared to the top of the AFC North, showcasing a potent offense that left defenses scrambling. But it wasn’t just about wins; it was about the sheer dominance of Jackson, who put up numbers that have him firmly in the conversation for the NFL’s Most Valuable Player. In a Week 15 game against the Giants, Jackson threw for five touchdowns, a performance that exemplified his incredible season. The question now isn’t just whether he’ll win MVP, but whether anyone can catch him in this race.
A Season of Record-Breaking Performances
Lamar Jackson’s 2024-2025 campaign was a masterclass in quarterback play. He finished the season with a passer rating of 119.6, throwing for 4,172 yards and an astounding 41 touchdowns, while only throwing 4 interceptions across 17 games. These numbers aren’t just good; they’re historic. Jackson became the first quarterback in NFL history to surpass 4,000 passing yards and 800 rushing yards in a single season, adding 915 rushing yards to his already impressive passing stats. His dual-threat capability makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses, forcing them to account for both his arm and his legs. He also set a new record for career rushing yards by a quarterback, surpassing Michael Vick’s previous record with a total of 6,173 yards.
The Evolution of Lamar Jackson
It wasn’t long ago that some questioned Jackson’s ability to be a true pocket passer. But this season, he silenced those doubts. His improved accuracy and decision-making have transformed the Ravens’ offense into a dynamic force. In a Week 9 game against the Denver Broncos, Jackson achieved a perfect passer rating of 158.3, completing 16 of 19 passes for 280 yards and three touchdowns. This performance wasn’t an anomaly; it was a testament to his growth as a quarterback. He is not just a runner who can throw; he is now a complete quarterback who can dominate in multiple ways.
The Ravens’ Offensive Scheme
The Ravens’ offensive success isn’t solely due to Jackson’s individual brilliance. Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken’s scheme has played a crucial role in maximizing Jackson’s potential. The Ravens led the league in rushing yards and total offensive yardage, demonstrating the effectiveness of Monken’s approach. The addition of Derrick Henry to the backfield has further enhanced the Ravens’ ground game, making them even more difficult to defend. The Ravens’ run game is heavily based on “Pin & Pull” schemes, which attack the edges of a defense and force them to defend moving gaps from sideline to sideline. They also incorporate “Influence” schemes that mimic the pulling linemen but attack the backside of the perceived point of attack. Monken’s ability to adapt and evolve the offense has been a key factor in Jackson’s success. The Ravens have also extended Monken’s contract, ensuring continuity for the offense moving forward.
The MVP Competition
While Jackson’s performance has been exceptional, he’s not the only contender for the MVP award. Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen is also a strong candidate, with many considering him the favorite. Allen is a dynamic player with impressive stats, but Jackson’s historic season and the Ravens’ overall success give him a strong case. Other players in the MVP conversation include Joe Burrow, Jared Goff, and Saquon Barkley. However, Jackson’s dual-threat ability and his impact on the Ravens’ offense make him a unique and compelling candidate. The Pro Football Writers of America have already named Jackson their MVP for 2024, further solidifying his status as a frontrunner.
Can Anyone Catch Him?
The question remains: can anyone catch Lamar Jackson in the MVP race? While other players have had great seasons, Jackson’s combination of passing prowess, rushing ability, and overall impact on the Ravens’ success makes him a difficult candidate to surpass. His career-high numbers in passing yards, touchdown passes, and quarterback rating, coupled with his league-leading rushing yards by a quarterback, make him a truly unique player. He is not just putting up numbers; he is changing the game.
Looking Ahead
As the NFL season progresses, all eyes will be on Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens. Their offensive dominance, coupled with Jackson’s exceptional play, makes them a team to watch. The Ravens are looking to improve on their 2024 season and make the playoffs for the fourth straight year. With Jackson at the helm, they have a legitimate shot at making a deep playoff run. The Ravens’ focus in the offseason will be on reinforcing the offensive line and adding another pass rusher to further solidify their team.
Conclusion
Lamar Jackson’s MVP surge is a testament to his growth as a player and the Ravens’ offensive prowess. His record-breaking season has put him in a strong position to win his third MVP award. While the competition is fierce, Jackson’s unique skill set and impact on the game make him a truly special player. The question of whether anyone can catch him is a testament to his dominance.
What are your predictions for the rest of the season? Do you think Lamar Jackson will win the MVP award? Share your thoughts in the comments below!