Lamar Vs. Allen: 2023/2024 Stats Showdown!

Hey football fans! Today, we're diving deep into a statistical comparison between two of the most electrifying quarterbacks in the NFL: Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen. Specifically, we'll be pitting Lamar Jackson's 2023 season against Josh Allen's performance in 2024. Get ready for a detailed breakdown that will help you understand their strengths, weaknesses, and overall impact on their respective teams.

Lamar Jackson's 2023 Season: A Deep Dive

In 2023, Lamar Jackson showcased why he's considered one of the most dynamic players in the league. Leading the Baltimore Ravens, Jackson had a season that many quarterbacks dream of. His dual-threat ability—the capacity to make plays with both his arm and his legs—was on full display, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Let's break down some key stats:

• Passing Stats: Jackson threw for over 3,678 yards, completing 307 of his 477 pass attempts. His completion percentage hovered around an impressive 68.4%, showing his accuracy and decision-making. He also tossed 24 touchdown passes, illustrating his ability to find the end zone through the air. A crucial aspect of his passing game was his ability to avoid turnovers; he threw only 7 interceptions, maintaining a solid touchdown-to-interception ratio. These numbers highlight Jackson’s growth as a passer, proving he's more than just a running quarterback.
• Rushing Stats: What truly sets Jackson apart is his rushing ability. In 2023, he ran for an incredible 821 yards on 148 carries, averaging 5.5 yards per carry. This not only demonstrates his speed and agility but also his vision and ability to find running lanes. He added 5 rushing touchdowns to his tally, further showcasing his threat in the ground game. Jackson's rushing stats make him a constant headache for defensive coordinators, who must account for his running ability on every single play.
• Overall Impact: Beyond the raw numbers, Jackson’s impact on the Ravens was undeniable. His leadership and playmaking ability elevated the entire team. He consistently made clutch plays in critical moments, leading the Ravens to a 13-4 regular-season record and securing the top seed in the AFC. His performance earned him the NFL MVP award, solidifying his place among the league's elite quarterbacks. Jackson's ability to extend plays, create opportunities out of nothing, and inspire his teammates makes him an invaluable asset to the Ravens.

Josh Allen's 2024 Season: An In-Depth Look

Now, let's turn our attention to Josh Allen's 2024 season. As the quarterback for the Buffalo Bills, Allen continued to solidify his reputation as one of the league's premier passers and a formidable runner. His strong arm, combined with his size and athleticism, makes him a unique challenge for defenses. Let's dive into his statistics:

• Passing Stats: In 2024, Allen threw for an impressive 4,306 yards, completing 350 of his 542 pass attempts. His completion percentage was around 64.6%, indicating his accuracy and consistency. He threw 29 touchdown passes, showcasing his ability to make big plays through the air. However, he also threw 18 interceptions, a stat that he'll need to improve upon to reach the next level. Despite the higher interception count, Allen’s arm strength and ability to make difficult throws into tight coverage make him a constant threat.
• Rushing Stats: Allen is also a significant threat on the ground. In 2024, he rushed for 524 yards on 111 carries, averaging 4.7 yards per carry. He scored 15 rushing touchdowns, demonstrating his nose for the end zone. Allen’s rushing ability adds another dimension to the Bills' offense, forcing defenses to account for his potential to run on any given play. His physical running style often results in crucial first downs and scores, making him a valuable asset in short-yardage situations.
• Overall Impact: Allen’s impact on the Bills is immense. His strong arm and running ability make him a dual-threat quarterback that defenses struggle to contain. He led the Bills to an 11-6 regular-season record, securing a playoff berth. While his interception numbers were higher than desired, his overall performance demonstrated his growth as a leader and playmaker. Allen’s ability to make game-changing plays and his unwavering confidence make him a player that his teammates rally around. His presence alone elevates the Bills' offense and makes them a contender in the AFC.

Statistical Comparison: Head-to-Head

Now, let's put these two seasons side-by-side and compare the key stats:

Analysis of Passing Stats

When it comes to passing, Josh Allen edges out Lamar Jackson in terms of yardage and touchdown passes. Allen threw for 4,306 yards and 29 touchdowns, compared to Jackson’s 3,678 yards and 24 touchdowns. However, Jackson boasts a higher completion percentage at 68.4% compared to Allen’s 64.6%. The most significant difference lies in the interception numbers. Jackson threw only 7 interceptions, while Allen threw 18. This suggests that while Allen may be more aggressive and capable of making bigger plays, he is also more prone to turnovers. Jackson’s efficiency and decision-making are evident in his lower interception rate, making him a more reliable passer in terms of ball security.

Analysis of Rushing Stats

In the rushing department, Lamar Jackson clearly outshines Josh Allen in yardage, with 821 yards compared to Allen’s 524. However, Allen scored significantly more rushing touchdowns, with 15 compared to Jackson’s 5. This indicates that while Jackson may gain more yards on the ground, Allen is more frequently used in goal-line situations to punch the ball into the end zone. Jackson’s higher rushing yardage reflects his ability to make explosive runs and extend plays, while Allen’s touchdown count demonstrates his effectiveness as a power runner near the goal line. Both quarterbacks bring a unique dimension to their team’s running game, but in different ways.

Key Takeaways and Observations

After analyzing the stats, here are some key takeaways:

• Efficiency vs. Aggression: Lamar Jackson’s 2023 season was characterized by efficiency and ball security. His high completion percentage and low interception rate highlight his ability to manage the game effectively. Josh Allen, on the other hand, showcased a more aggressive style of play, resulting in higher passing yardage and touchdown numbers but also a higher interception count.
• Rushing Styles: Jackson’s rushing ability is more about speed and agility, allowing him to break off long runs and extend plays. Allen’s rushing is more about power and physicality, making him a weapon in short-yardage and goal-line situations.
• Impact on the Team: Both quarterbacks have a significant impact on their respective teams. Jackson’s leadership and playmaking ability led the Ravens to a dominant regular-season record. Allen’s strong arm and dual-threat ability make the Bills a perennial contender in the AFC.

Conclusion: Who Had the Better Season?

Deciding who had the better season between Lamar Jackson in 2023 and Josh Allen in 2024 is not straightforward. It depends on what you value more in a quarterback. If you prioritize efficiency, ball security, and explosive rushing ability, then Jackson’s 2023 season stands out. His MVP award is a testament to his overall impact and performance.

However, if you value a quarterback who can make big plays, rack up passing yards and touchdowns, and contribute significantly in the running game, then Allen’s 2024 season is more impressive. While his interception numbers are a concern, his overall production and ability to lead the Bills to the playoffs cannot be ignored.

Ultimately, both Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen are exceptional quarterbacks who bring unique skills and qualities to the game. Their statistical performances in 2023 and 2024, respectively, highlight their strengths and areas for improvement. As fans, we can appreciate their talents and look forward to watching them compete for years to come. Whether you prefer Jackson’s efficiency or Allen’s aggression, one thing is certain: both quarterbacks are exciting to watch and have a bright future in the NFL.