Hall of Famer Claims Josh Allen’s MVP Win Over Lamar Jackson Was Unjustified

Josh Allen Wins First MVP Award, But Controversy Erupts

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen has finally captured his first MVP award, edging out Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson in a close vote. Allen received 27 first-place votes to Jackson’s 23, securing the win by a slim margin of 21 points. Despite being a perennial MVP contender, this is Allen’s first time taking home the prestigious award.

However, Allen’s victory has been met with controversy. Jonathan Ogden, a Hall of Fame player, suggested that Allen’s win was based on factors other than his performance this season. Speaking to TMZ Sports, Ogden stated, “I get it, because [Josh] is a great quarterback. He hadn’t won one. Lamar had two. And they’re like, ‘Let’s just give him one.’ But that’s the wrong reason.”

Ogden clarified that he wasn’t “hating” on Allen, acknowledging his tremendous talent. However, he emphasized that Jackson’s statistical performance surpassed Allen’s in several key categories. “But he didn’t have the year Lamar had,” Ogden asserted.

While Jackson’s numbers were indeed stronger across the board, Allen’s performance this season deserves consideration. Notably, he led the Bills to a dominant divisional win despite the departure of their star receiver, Stefon Diggs. This season also marked the first time since 2019 that Allen did not pass for 4,000 yards. However, he compensated with his running game, scoring 12 rushing touchdowns, the second-highest total of his career. He also led the NFL in total QBR with 77.4.

Jackson, coming off his second MVP win last year, achieved career highs this season with over 4,000 passing yards and 40 passing touchdowns. While Allen benefited from playing in a weaker division, leading the Bills to an early AFC East title, his consistent presence makes the Bills perennial Super Bowl contenders.

The MVP voting was close. Allen received 22 second-place votes to Jackson’s 26, and also garnered one third-place vote. Jackson received one fourth-place vote. This close result highlights the difficult decision voters faced in choosing between two exceptionally talented quarterbacks.

The debate surrounding the 2024 MVP award is likely to continue, with some arguing that Jackson’s superior statistics warranted another win, while others point to Allen’s leadership and success in the face of adversity as justification for his victory.