The Philadelphia Eagles’ resounding victory over the Kansas City Chiefs has sent shockwaves through the NFL, prompting fans and analysts to reconsider some of the league’s top quarterbacks, including Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen. While the Eagles’ dominant performance was a testament to their well-rounded team and stellar play on both sides of the ball, it has led to a debate: Does this victory, and the way the Chiefs were handled, cast Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen in a negative light? Are these two young quarterbacks being held to unfair expectations in comparison?

The Eagles’ Statement Win Over the Chiefs

In a thrilling matchup that captivated NFL fans, the Philadelphia Eagles showed their prowess on both offense and defense, overpowering the defending Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs. Jalen Hurts, with his remarkable poise and leadership, led the Eagles to a comprehensive win, while the defense stifled Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs’ high-powered offense.

For many, the dominant nature of the Eagles’ win raised the question of how quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen would have performed under similar circumstances. Jackson, the MVP-winning quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens, and Allen, the star signal-caller for the Buffalo Bills, have often been compared to Mahomes in terms of their potential to win championships and lead their teams to glory. However, after witnessing the Eagles take control of the game in such a commanding fashion, some are beginning to wonder if Jackson and Allen’s failures to elevate their teams in similar situations make them look bad by comparison.

The Quarterback Comparisons: Mahomes vs. Lamar Jackson & Josh Allen

Both Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen have been considered among the best quarterbacks in the league, with high expectations placed on their shoulders each season. However, neither quarterback has yet to capture the elusive Super Bowl ring, despite their immense talents.

Lamar Jackson, known for his electrifying ability to run the ball and make incredible plays on the move, has often been criticized for his playoff performances. While he has led the Ravens to the postseason multiple times, the team has faltered when it matters most, with Jackson struggling to match the level of play needed to compete with other elite quarterbacks in high-pressure games. The Eagles’ win over the Chiefs, which featured excellent quarterback play from Jalen Hurts and a dynamic offensive attack, raised questions about whether Jackson, who has similar traits, can carry the Ravens to the ultimate prize.

Josh Allen’s situation is similar. Allen’s cannon of an arm and ability to make dazzling throws have put him in the conversation for elite quarterbacks in the league. Yet, the Buffalo Bills have yet to break through the AFC Championship Game, and they’ve come up short in crucial moments, including in last season’s playoffs. The Eagles’ decisive win over the Chiefs further fueled concerns about whether Allen, despite his immense talent, can lead the Bills to the promised land.

Are Lamar Jackson & Josh Allen Held to Higher Standards?

It’s important to note that both Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen have been exceptional quarterbacks in their own right, but the shadow of Mahomes looms large over the NFL. Patrick Mahomes is widely regarded as one of the best quarterbacks to ever play the game, with his combination of arm strength, mobility, and playmaking ability. He’s consistently put up MVP-level seasons and delivered the Chiefs to multiple Super Bowls, winning two and earning a Super Bowl MVP along the way.

As Mahomes continues to perform at an elite level, other quarterbacks like Jackson and Allen are often measured against him, which may not always be fair. Jackson and Allen play in different systems and have different playing styles, and comparing them directly to Mahomes in the context of their postseason success can be misleading.

The Pressure to Win the Big One

While it’s easy to criticize quarterbacks like Jackson and Allen for failing to win a Super Bowl, we must consider that both have had less-than-ideal circumstances surrounding them in comparison to Mahomes. Jackson, for example, has been limited by injuries to key players, inconsistent offensive lines, and a lack of receiving weapons. Allen, meanwhile, has dealt with inconsistencies on defense and has been in tight playoff battles with teams that were equally as hungry for a championship.

The Eagles’ win over the Chiefs highlights a major difference between teams: it’s not just about the quarterback. While Jalen Hurts has played at a high level, his supporting cast has been one of the most complete in the league, with a strong offensive line, playmaking wide receivers, and a defense that can get stops when needed. In contrast, Jackson and Allen have faced teams that have often been built around them as the centerpiece, putting more pressure on them to carry the load and produce miracles in high-stakes games.

Conclusion: The Debate Will Continue

While the Eagles’ dominant victory over the Chiefs has sparked some interesting debate about the future of Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen, it is important to remember that football is a team sport. Quarterbacks are undoubtedly the face of their teams, but their success is largely dependent on the quality of the team surrounding them.

Jackson and Allen may not have the Super Bowl rings or consistent playoff success of Mahomes, but both quarterbacks remain incredibly talented and have bright futures ahead of them. As the NFL continues to evolve, it’s possible that both Jackson and Allen will have the opportunity to lead their teams to championship glory in the near future. For now, the comparisons to Mahomes are inevitable, but it’s important to keep perspective on the unique challenges and circumstances these quarterbacks face in their quest for a Super Bowl.

Ultimately, the Eagles’ win serves as a reminder that a complete team effort is often the key to victory in the NFL. Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen may look to learn from the Eagles’ blueprint, but their futures are far from defined by one single game or comparison.