As the NFL season unfolds, eyes are keenly fixed on one standout performer: Lamar Jackson. The Ravens quarterback, known for his electrifying play, has been nothing short of sensational this season. Through a blend of sheer athleticism and strategic prowess, Jackson is writing a narrative that echoes his 2019 MVP triumph.
2019 MVP Season: Historical Context
In 2019, Lamar Jackson took the NFL by storm, putting up numbers that were not just impressive, but historic. His ability to blend passing and rushing at an elite level made defenses quiver. He threw for 3,127 yards and 36 touchdowns against six interceptions in 15 games and also ran for 1,206 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on 176 carries (6.9 yards per carry). This phenomenal performance was acknowledged as he clinched the MVP award unanimously, becoming a beacon of dual-threat quarterbacking.
2023 Season So Far: Striking Similarities
Fast forward to the current season, and the 26-year-old quarterback, standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 215 pounds, is mirroring his MVP form. Over nine games, Jackson has thrown for 1,954 yards and nine touchdowns with three interceptions, completing 71.5 percent of his passes. His prowess on the ground remains undiminished, rushing for 440 yards on 84 carries, averaging 5.2 yards per carry, and scoring five rushing touchdowns.
Athletic Prowess: Dual-Threat Dynamics
What sets Jackson apart is his dual-threat capability. The ability to devastate defenses both through the air and on the ground makes him an enigma. His rushing stats are not just impressive for a quarterback but would be enviable for a running back. Averaging 5.2 yards per carry this season, he turns plays that seem doomed into substantial gains, constantly keeping the opposition on their back foot.
Statistical Comparison: 2019 vs. 2023
When we juxtapose his 2019 stats with those of the current season, the parallels are uncanny. His passing yards per game and touchdown-to-interception ratio are tracking closely. While his yards per carry have dipped slightly from 2019, his total touchdown production remains on pace. These figures don’t just tell the story of consistency but also of an athlete in his prime, replicating an MVP-caliber performance.
Consistency in Performance: The Key to MVP
Consistency is the hallmark of greatness, and Jackson is the embodiment of that principle. Despite the ebbs and flows of an NFL season, his performance curve has remained steadily impressive. This unwavering display of excellence is what MVP voters look for—a player who not just shines intermittently but dazzles consistently.
Team Success: Ravens’ Flight
MVP consideration isn’t just about individual brilliance; it’s also intricately tied to team success. The Baltimore Ravens have been soaring, and a significant credit goes to Jackson. His ability to elevate the team, making clutch plays, and guiding them to victories, strengthens his MVP case. After all, the most valuable player is one who elevates the collective.
Kentucky sportsbook promos are going to be a hot commodity as Jackson, a University of Louisville graduate continues to put up MVP-type numbers.
As Jackson’s star ascends, so does the frenzy around his every play, making every game not just a sporting spectacle but a betting bonanza.
Comparison With Contemporaries: Standing Tall Amongst Peers
An MVP candidate doesn’t just compete with his past self but also with contemporaries having standout seasons. Jackson’s stats hold up impressively when compared with other quarterbacks in the league. His unique skill set and the resultant stats make his MVP case not just compelling but formidable.
Media and Fan Narrative: Public Perception
Public perception can significantly sway MVP votes, and Jackson’s narrative is compelling. From his humble beginnings to becoming a league icon, his journey resonates with fans and media alike. This positive sentiment, coupled with his on-field excellence, augments his MVP chances.
Road Ahead: Sustaining Excellence
With half the season still ahead, the onus is on Jackson to maintain his high level of play. Injuries, team dynamics, and the unpredictable nature of the sport are factors that could influence his MVP race. However, if his past and current performance are indicators, Jackson appears well-equipped to navigate these challenges.
Verdict: Second MVP on the Horizon?
Lamar Jackson’s 2023 season is not just a repeat of his MVP year but an evolution. His game has matured, and his leadership has become more pronounced. If he continues on this trajectory, a second MVP award isn’t just a possibility but a probability. Jackson isn’t just in the race; he’s leading the pack with the poise and prowess of a true MVP.
With Lamar Jackson under center, the Ravens possess not merely an exceptional signal-caller but also a commander, an innovator, and an emblem for Baltimore. His dual-threat presence on the field, melding passing finesse and rushing ability, has captured attention and bestowed the Ravens with a tactical advantage.
His remarkable performance this season is additional testimony to his evolution and advancement as an athlete. His partnership with offensive coordinator Todd Monken is flourishing, and this pair is poised to revolutionize offensive strategies in the league.
As the games unfold, the focus will remain on Jackson to determine if he can sustain this dynamic form, win his second NFL MVP award, and steer the Ravens toward the sought-after Super Bowl.
One Response
I’m definitely in the boat as far as Lamar 2nd MVP this year for many reasons mentioned in this article from his evolution, to dual threat King, to everyone selling his stock before season so hes got a narrative. The only thing hat concerns me that might hold Lamar back is what we’ve seen last couple weeks. Ravens smack Seattle 37-3, 4-5 TDs and RBs vulture all them up. Lamar doesn’t need 45 TDs like 2019 but he would need 30 to 35 tds you would think. Even if Ravens get no.1 seed, 13 Wins or something. HE rushes for 900 yrds and 3700 passing or more. All that can be great but 20-25 total Tds would be slightly underwhelming bc hes always giving it to Gusbus or someone in RZ. They need to call hsi number more. Get him 10+ rush TDs etc