Micah Parsons doesn’t just play defense—he stirs the pot too. And his latest take has MVP hopefuls Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson glancing nervously over their shoulders.

On X, Parsons posted, “If Joe Burrow takes this team to the playoffs I don’t even think it should be in question who’s MVP!! God damm! Best in the world rn!” That’s quite a statement, especially with the tight MVP race this year. But Parsons isn’t just hyping Burrow for no reason.

Burrow just surpassed his own franchise single-season passing record with a 409-yard performance against the Broncos. Bringing his total to four-six-for-one yards! Truly incredible for a QB belonging to a team hanging on 8-8. Burrow also became the first quarterback this season to hit 4,000 passing yards. To make things even better, he’s now the 11th in NFL history to throw 40 touchdowns in a single season. These stats constitute an MVP campaign. However, Cincinnati’s struggles have somewhat overshadowed the QB’s brilliance.

The Bengals are placed at 8-8 and playoff hopes are hanging by a thread. They would face the Steelers in their week 18 game. Burrow’s case for MVP now hinges on his ability to drag Cincinnati into the postseason. That’s precisely why Parsons’s praise resonates. It acknowledges Burrow’s herculean efforts despite the team’s flaws.

The Bengals’ chances for a playoff run are grim. They not only need a win next week but also plenty of help from other teams to make the playoffs. And if Burrow pulls it off, Parsons’s words might carry more weight in the MVP conversation.

Burrow’s MVP case faces fierce competition

Saturday’s 30-24 overtime win against Denver encapsulated Burrow’s season perfectly: brilliance mixed with chaos. Joe Burrow found Tee Higgins for the game-winning touchdown in overtime after a missed field goal and clock mismanagement nearly cost them the game. It was Burrow’s 42nd passing touchdown this year, further solidifying his MVP credentials. While Burrow has been electric, the MVP race is far from a one-man show.

Lamar Jackson has made his own strong case. Jackson’s dual-threat dominance has been critical for Baltimore. His ability to both pass and run circles around defenses makes him a nightmare for opposing teams. He was even tied with Burrow for the first rank in TDs with 39 before Burrow took him over today. However, he continues to lead in the QB rating (77.7). His recent performances, including a Christmas Day blowout of the Texans, have sparked a lot of buzz about his potential for another MVP win. On the other hand, Josh Allen is another top contender.

Allen’s been putting up numbers that keep him firmly in the MVP race. The QB ranks 2nd in QBR ratings (76.8) and holds the 6th position in TD rankings, with 26 of them under his name. Add Saquon Barkley, chasing the single-season rushing record, and Burrow’s path to MVP looks like a gauntlet.

However, what sets Burrow apart is his ability to shine under pressure. Saturday’s chaotic win showcased his resilience. Even with seven sacks and constant defensive breakdowns, Burrow delivered when it mattered most. That’s the type of leadership that defines MVPs.

Parsons’s endorsement may not influence voters directly, but it stirs the debate. With one week left, the stage is set for a dramatic finale. Can Joe Burrow push Cincinnati into the playoffs and his MVP case into overdrive?