The highly anticipated quarterback showdown between Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen was the highlight of a thrilling divisional playoff weekend, with the Buffalo Bills facing the Baltimore Ravens. Both Allen and Jackson had emerged as the top two MVP contenders in 2024, playing the best football of their careers. Sunday’s game was a pivotal battle to determine which of these two dual-threat quarterbacks would continue their pursuit of a first Super Bowl appearance.
In the end, Allen and the Bills came out on top. Although Allen didn’t have his most flashy or productive game, he managed the ball well, rushed for two touchdowns, and avoided turnovers and costly mistakes, which proved essential for his team. Jackson, despite a strong season, struggled with an interception and fumble, and a couple of key miscues from his teammates, including a fumble and drop from Mark Andrews, helped the Bills secure the win.
After the game, the two quarterbacks, who had been frequently compared throughout the season, exchanged nothing but respect for each other. Despite his frustration over the loss and the Ravens’ mistakes, Jackson shared a heartfelt message with Allen: “‘Man, go get something. Go win something. MVP or Super Bowl. Do something.’ I want him to be successful.”
Lamar Jackson on his exchange with Josh Allen after the game:
"Great players recognize greatness, and we both recognize each other, but I told him, 'Man, go get something. Go win something. MVP or Super Bowl. Do something.' I want him to be successful."
📸: @BuffaloBills pic.twitter.com/WLXQ1XiqMe
— Sarah Ellison (@sgellison) January 20, 2025
“Great players recognize greatness, and we both recognize each other,” Jackson said, acknowledging the mutual respect between him and Allen.
Allen also expressed deep admiration for Jackson after the game, rushing to meet him once the final whistle blew.
“I got so much respect and love for [Lamar Jackson],” Allen told Tracy Wolfson. “The way he plays the game, he’s a true competitor, he’s a true football player. One of the greatest to ever step on the football field. Nothing but love.”
