John Harbaugh, the head coach of the Baltimore Ravens, has made his choice for the MVP of the current NFL season clear. With the Ravens leading the AFC North with an impressive 11-5 record and securing a playoff spot, the race for the Super Bowl is heating up. Harbaugh’s unwavering support for his star quarterback, Lamar Jackson, is evident as he openly declares him his MVP.
Harbaugh’s MVP Vote
“Lamar Jackson will always be my MVP. He’s our guy, but that’s not really what we’re thinking about. I haven’t heard anybody talk about that. I haven’t heard Lamar talk about that. We’re just trying to win the next game,” Harbaugh stated, emphasizing the team’s focus on winning rather than individual accolades.
The Competition
While Harbaugh is steadfast in his support for Jackson, the competition for the MVP award is fierce. Players like Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles, Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills, and Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals are all in the running. Interestingly, Burrow surprised many by excluding himself from the MVP conversation, while Allen’s coach, Sean McDermott, has thrown his support behind him. This only adds to the excitement of the MVP race.
Lamar Jackson’s Stellar Season
Jackson’s performance this season has been nothing short of spectacular. The Ravens quarterback has completed 300 passes for an impressive 3,955 yards and has contributed a staggering 39 touchdowns. With a potential division championship on the line in their next game, Jackson’s performance could serve as a compelling argument for his MVP candidacy. Harbaugh’s confidence in Jackson is not unfounded; his numbers speak for themselves.
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) throws a pass before the game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Baltimore Ravens on December 17, 2023, at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, FL.
Harbaugh has expressed on multiple occasions that while the MVP conversation is important, his primary focus remains on the team’s success. “We’re just trying to win the next game,” he reiterated, showcasing the team’s collective mindset. However, it’s clear that Jackson’s contributions are integral to the Ravens’ success this season.
Coaches and Players Weigh In
It’s not just Harbaugh who has made his MVP preferences known. Coaches and players across the league are voicing their opinions. For instance, Sean McDermott has publicly endorsed Josh Allen, while other players have also shared their thoughts on who they believe deserves the coveted MVP title. This open dialogue among players and coaches adds another layer of intrigue to the MVP race, making it a topic of conversation throughout the league.
As the season winds down, every game becomes crucial, not just for playoff positioning but also for individual accolades. Jackson’s ability to lead his team to victory in the coming weeks will undoubtedly influence the MVP voting. With his impressive stats and leadership, he remains a strong contender for the award.
Looking Ahead
As the Ravens prepare for their next matchup, all eyes will be on Jackson. Can he deliver another standout performance that solidifies his MVP candidacy? With the playoffs looming, every game counts, and the pressure is on. Harbaugh’s unwavering support for his quarterback is a testament to Jackson’s abilities and the trust the Ravens organization has in him.
In the end, the MVP race is about more than just statistics; it’s about leadership, impact on the game, and the ability to rise to the occasion. Jackson has shown time and again that he possesses these qualities, making him a deserving candidate for the MVP award. As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this thrilling narrative unfolds.
