Mahomes vs. Hurts: Early MVP Predictions for Super Bowl 2025

The confetti has settled from Super Bowl LIX, but the buzz surrounding the NFL’s top quarterbacks is already building. With the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles fresh off their championship clash, the spotlight is firmly on Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts. Can Mahomes secure his fourth Super Bowl MVP, or will Hurts finally claim the title that narrowly eluded him in Super Bowl LVII? Let’s dive into the early predictions for Super Bowl 2025 MVP.

The Case for Patrick Mahomes

Patrick Mahomes’ resume speaks for itself. Three Super Bowl MVP awards, a knack for delivering in clutch moments, and a playoff record that strikes fear into opponents (20-3) solidify his status as a perennial MVP contender. In the 2024-2025 season, Mahomes showcased his talent with 3,928 passing yards, 26 touchdowns, and a 93.5 passer rating.

Mahomes’ Strengths:

Proven Track Record: Mahomes has consistently elevated his game on the biggest stage, earning MVP honors in all three of the Chiefs’ Super Bowl victories since 2020.
Clutch Performance: His ability to make improbable plays under pressure is unmatched.
Passing Prowess: Even with a receiving corps that some analysts consider lacking impact players, Mahomes finds ways to dissect defenses.

Challenges for Mahomes:

Evolving Defenses: Teams are increasingly focused on containing Mahomes, forcing the Chiefs to adapt their offensive strategies.
Need for a Stronger Run Game: Analyst Danny Parkins noted that the Chiefs need to improve their running game to alleviate pressure on Mahomes. In 2024, the Chiefs ranked 22nd in rushing yards per game.
Dependence on “Mahomes Magic”: The Chiefs sometimes rely too heavily on Mahomes’ improvisational skills, which can be unsustainable in the long run.

The Case for Jalen Hurts

Jalen Hurts is hungry for redemption. After a stellar performance in Super Bowl LVII, where he amassed 374 total yards and four touchdowns, Hurts is determined to finish what he started. In the 2024-2025 season, Hurts posted a 103.7 passer rating with 2,903 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions.

Hurts’ Strengths:

Dual-Threat Ability: Hurts’ running ability adds a dynamic element to the Eagles’ offense, keeping defenses guessing.
Strong Arm: Hurts has the arm strength to make all the throws, connecting with receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith for explosive plays.
Leadership: Hurts’ leadership qualities have been instrumental in guiding the Eagles to success.

Challenges for Hurts:

Consistency: While capable of brilliance, Hurts needs to maintain a high level of play throughout the entire game.
Turnovers: Reducing turnovers will be crucial for Hurts to solidify his MVP candidacy.
Competition from Barkley: With Saquon Barkley now in the Eagles’ backfield, Hurts may have to share the offensive spotlight.

Other Potential MVP Candidates

While Mahomes and Hurts are the frontrunners, several other players could emerge as MVP contenders:

Saquon Barkley (Eagles, RB): If the Eagles dominate the game with their ground attack, Barkley could be a strong MVP candidate.
Travis Kelce (Chiefs, TE): Mahomes’ favorite target could have a dominant performance against the Eagles’ defense.
Chris Jones (Chiefs, DT): If the game becomes a defensive battle, Jones could disrupt Hurts and swing the MVP vote.
A.J. Brown (Eagles, WR): Brown’s big-play ability makes him a threat to score multiple touchdowns and earn MVP consideration.

Early Predictions

As of March 2025, the odds favor Patrick Mahomes (+105) to win Super Bowl LIX MVP, followed by Saquon Barkley (+240) and Jalen Hurts (+375). However, Super Bowl MVPs are often unpredictable, and a standout performance from any of the players mentioned above could change the narrative.

Factors to Watch:

Offensive Line Performance: The ability of both teams’ offensive lines to protect their quarterbacks and create running lanes will be critical.
Defensive Pressure: Which defense can generate consistent pressure and force turnovers?
Red Zone Efficiency: Converting red zone opportunities into touchdowns will be essential for MVP candidates.

Super Bowl LIX promises to be another thrilling chapter in the Mahomes-Hurts rivalry. While Mahomes is the current favorite, Hurts is determined to seize the moment and lead the Eagles to victory. With several other potential MVP candidates in the mix, the race for the Super Bowl LIX MVP is wide open.