If there are still skeptics of Lamar Jackson, fellow Pro Bowl quarterback Josh Allen has a message for them. The Buffalo Bills’ QB1 offered high praise for the Baltimore Ravens’ signal-caller ahead of their Week 4 matchup at M&T Bank Stadium on Sunday Night Football.
Allen acknowledged the two-time NFL MVP for transforming the game, stating, “He’s changed the way guys play the game, but don’t get it twisted—he can throw the football as well as anyone. I’ve got a lot of respect and love for him,” according to Kevin Oestreicher of Ravens Wire.
Allen, a multiple-time Pro Bowler himself, also explained why Jackson commands such respect from his peers. He noted that Jackson’s journey from being doubted to becoming a star has been an inspiration: “The way he plays, the doubters he had coming out, with people asking him to switch positions, and for him to show the resilience, work ethic, and attitude to go on and win two MVPs, guys around the league see that.”
Allen also admitted he enjoys watching Jackson play, noting, “Every play is never dead with him. He’s got an unbelievable ability to keep plays alive, make guys miss, and get the ball downfield.”
This is strong praise from a contemporary who arguably mirrors Jackson’s style. Both quarterbacks are dynamic, dual-threat playmakers who face similar critiques about their abilities as passers and their performances in crucial games.
Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen Share Similar Criticism
Both Jackson and Allen are known for their ability to shred defenses with their legs, a talent that is both an asset and a liability. Their versatility helps their teams remain competitive, but they are often questioned about their passing mechanics and ability to read defenses.
Jackson’s continued criticism frustrates his head coach, John Harbaugh. Similarly, Allen has faced scrutiny, sometimes being labeled “overrated,” despite two Pro Bowl selections and five playoff appearances.
Allen’s 5-5 postseason record leaves him open to doubt, just as Jackson’s 2-4 playoff record keeps his critics talking.
Ironically, Allen is responsible for one of Jackson’s playoff exits.
Josh Allen Has Been a Challenge for Lamar Jackson and the Ravens
Allen holds a 1-2 record against the Ravens in the regular season but won their last matchup. That was a 23-20 victory in Baltimore during the 2022 season, where Allen’s rushing touchdown was highlighted by ESPN’s Matt Bowen.
The Ravens’ defense regularly practices against a mobile quarterback, which should prepare them to contain Allen. However, it didn’t help in 2022, nor in the 2020 Divisional Playoffs, when Allen threw a touchdown to fuel a 17-3 win in Buffalo.
Allen has had the upper hand when it matters most, and he enters the upcoming matchup with the advantage. The Bills are undefeated at 3-0, while the Ravens stand at 1-2, coming off a road win against the Dallas Cowboys.
Defeating an unbeaten team led by one of the league’s top quarterbacks would be a bold statement that Jackson and the Ravens are back on track this season.
