Lamar Jackson currently leads the 2024 NFL MVP race, but Patrick Mahomes could still contend for the prestigious award. This article explores the single scenario where Mahomes might overtake Jackson.
Patrick Mahomes scrambling out of the pocket.Alt: Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes evades pressure during an NFL game.
Lamar Jackson boasts impressive statistics with 2,669 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and only two interceptions through ten games. In contrast, Patrick Mahomes has 2,208 passing yards, 12 touchdowns, and nine interceptions in nine games. Jackson’s passer rating of 123.2 significantly surpasses Mahomes’ 90.3. How can Mahomes possibly bridge this gap?
An Undefeated Season: The Key to Mahomes’ MVP Hopes
While Jackson is the clear frontrunner, Mahomes has a potential ace in the hole: an undefeated season. An NFL expert proposes a realistic scenario where a perfect 17-0 record could swing the MVP vote in Mahomes’ favor.
Patrick Mahomes throwing the ball during a game.Alt: Patrick Mahomes throws a pass for the Kansas City Chiefs during an NFL game.
Achieving a 17-0 record would be a historic feat, making the Chiefs the first team to accomplish this in the modern NFL. This unprecedented accomplishment would significantly impact the MVP race. Expert Nick Wright argues that an undefeated season, especially one where the Chiefs defeat all other AFC playoff contenders, would make a compelling case for Mahomes.
The Chiefs’ Path to an Undefeated Season
The Chiefs have already defeated several playoff-caliber teams, including the Baltimore Ravens, Los Angeles Chargers, and Denver Broncos. Their remaining schedule includes crucial matchups against the Buffalo Bills, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Houston Texans. Victories in these games would strengthen their claim to the MVP award.
Creed Humphrey, Trey Smith, and Patrick Mahomes running onto the field.Alt: Kansas City Chiefs players Creed Humphrey, Trey Smith, and Patrick Mahomes enter the field before a game.
Upcoming Challenges for the Chiefs
The Chiefs face tough tests in the coming weeks, particularly against the Buffalo Bills in Week 11 and the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 14. These games will be crucial in determining whether the Chiefs can maintain their undefeated streak.
Week 11: Bills vs. Chiefs
Week 12: Panthers vs. Chiefs
Week 13: Chiefs vs. Raiders
Week 14: Chiefs vs. Chargers
These upcoming games will heavily influence the Chiefs’ pursuit of a perfect season and Mahomes’ chances of winning the MVP award. If the Chiefs stumble, a 17-0 record becomes unlikely, diminishing Mahomes’ chances of surpassing Jackson. However, if they emerge victorious, an undefeated season could solidify Mahomes’ MVP candidacy.
In conclusion, while Lamar Jackson currently holds a commanding lead in the MVP race, a 17-0 season for the Kansas City Chiefs could dramatically alter the narrative. This historic achievement would bolster Patrick Mahomes’ claim to the award, making him a serious contender despite his current statistical disadvantage.
