Joe Burrow’s case for MVP grows stronger with every week, but if he manages to lead the Cincinnati Bengals to the playoffs, it will be impossible to ignore his value. While Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, and Saquon Barkley have all been outstanding, Burrow has done something they haven’t—carried his team through seemingly insurmountable adversity.
Josh Allen’s (-300, BetMGM) Bills have been dominant all season, with Allen racking up 3,731 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and six interceptions, along with 531 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns. Similarly, Lamar Jackson (+240) has showcased MVP-worthy numbers for the 11-5 Ravens, throwing for 3,955 yards and 39 touchdowns while adding 852 yards and four scores on the ground. Saquon Barkley (+1800), the engine behind the Eagles’ NFC-best record, has posted a jaw-dropping 2,005 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. Yet, all of these players have had strong teams surrounding them, with complementary pieces that helped propel their success.
Burrow’s (+2000) journey has been anything but smooth. At one point, the Bengals were 0-3 and later 4-8, written off as playoff afterthoughts. Through sheer will and exceptional performance, Burrow has guided them back into contention. Over the past eight weeks, he has been electric, throwing 27 touchdowns to just five interceptions, elevating a team riddled with issues.
Statistically, Burrow’s season is unmatched in some key areas. He leads the NFL with 4,641 passing yards and 42 touchdowns while limiting mistakes with just eight interceptions. What makes these numbers even more remarkable is the lack of consistent support. Outside of Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, who missed part of the season, Burrow has had little help. His defense has been unreliable, frequently putting the team in tough situations, and the offensive line has struggled to provide stability.
If the Bengals secure a playoff spot, it will come down to a must-win scenario in Week 18 against the Steelers, coupled with losses by the Broncos and Dolphins. This uphill battle underscores just how valuable Burrow has been. Unlike Allen, Jackson, or Barkley, his success hasn’t been bolstered by a great supporting cast. He has been the team’s lifeline, turning a season of despair into one filled with hope.
MVP isn’t just about statistics or team records; it’s about defining value. Joe Burrow has been the most indispensable player in the league this year. If the Bengals find themselves in the postseason, it will be because of him. For that reason, he deserves to take home the MVP award.
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