During the Week 13 edition of Fox NFL Sunday, a spirited debate erupted among analysts Terry Bradshaw, Rob Gronkowski, and Michael Strahan regarding who should be crowned the NFL MVP for the current season. The lively discussion showcased the passion and knowledge these former players bring to the table, as they passionately argued their cases for different candidates.
Before the highly anticipated matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Baltimore Ravens, Gronkowski made a compelling argument for the reigning two-time MVP, Lamar Jackson. He emphasized Jackson’s impressive performance, stating, “I’ve played with a quarterback (Tom Brady) who has won multiple MVPs, so I know what it looks like. And it looks like the guy in Baltimore – Lamar Jackson. He is the most entertaining quarterback in the league right now.” Gronkowski’s admiration for Jackson was evident as he continued, “He bedazzles every time he has the ball in his hands [and] he makes guys miss left and right. He’s just so fun to watch.”
Jackson’s impact on the Ravens has been undeniable; he has led the team to an impressive eight wins in their first twelve games. Gronkowski highlighted that despite Baltimore’s run-first offensive strategy, Jackson still leads the league in passing yards. “He is numero uno [in passing yards]. That is number one in Spanish Terry – you got that baby?” Gronkowski playfully challenged Bradshaw, who responded with a chuckle, “I don’t think so, not that fast Gronk!”
In a surprising twist, Bradshaw countered Gronkowski’s argument by advocating for Ravens running back Derrick Henry. “My guy is Derrick Henry,” he declared. “His running style is unique – a little bit more upright – he’s 6-foot-2, 245, 250 and he’s so fast! He’s so powerful.” Bradshaw pointed out that Henry’s performance has been crucial, especially considering he plays behind an offensive line that isn’t as strong as the one in Philadelphia. “The difference that you’re seeing at Baltimore – even though they’ve lost four games – is the fact this guy has made a difference in their quarterback, their offensive setup, and they’re doing exactly what John (Harbaugh) wants to do,” he explained.
The debate took an interesting turn when Strahan chimed in, initially suggesting Saquon Barkley as the MVP. “He leads the NFL in both yards and scrimmage and rushing, period,” Strahan asserted. Barkley, who joined the Eagles in the offseason, has been a significant contributor to the team’s success, helping them achieve a 9-2 record before their clash with the Ravens.
Bradshaw, however, was quick to defend Henry’s case, comparing him to Barkley. “Barkley has helped an Eagles squad that was in shambles last season and has carried the team thus far,” he noted. The Eagles, who had a rocky previous season, have seen a resurgence with Barkley’s contributions. In their matchup against the Ravens, Barkley recorded 107 rushing yards on 23 carries, while Henry managed 82 yards on 19 attempts.
As the conversation unfolded, it became clear that the MVP race is heating up. Barkley has amassed an impressive 1,766 yards from scrimmage this season, putting him in contention for the award. Currently, he ranks second in MVP betting odds, trailing only Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen, who boasts 20 touchdowns against just four interceptions.
The debate among the analysts highlighted the diverse opinions surrounding the MVP award. With no running back having won the MVP since Adrian Peterson in the 2012 season, the landscape is shifting. Could this be the year that changes?
As the analysts continued to discuss their picks, it was evident that the MVP conversation is about more than just statistics; it’s about the impact players have on their teams and the excitement they bring to the game. Each candidate has a unique story and a compelling case, making this year’s MVP race one of the most intriguing in recent memory.
In the end, whether it’s Lamar Jackson dazzling fans with his electrifying plays, Derrick Henry bulldozing through defenses, or Saquon Barkley leading his team to victory, the debate will continue until the award is officially announced. The passion for the game and the players’ performances make the NFL season exhilarating, and the MVP discussions are just one of the many reasons fans are glued to their screens every Sunday.
As we move further into the season, one thing is certain: the MVP race will remain a hot topic, and the excitement surrounding it will only grow. Who will ultimately take home the coveted award? Only time will tell, but for now, the debate rages on, fueled by the passion of those who love the game.
