Is Patrick Mahomes the Only Hurdle in Lamar Jackson’s Second MVP Campaign? Stephen A. Smith Thinks So

The Kansas City Chiefs led by Patrick Mahomes are all set to face the Baltimore Ravens, steered by Lamar Jackson. Mahomes clinched his first MVP in 2018 and added a second in his pocket in 2022. Now, he finds a formidable rival in Jackson, the 2019 MVP and leading contender for the 2023 award. Their team dynamics have been evident in the four meetings since they became starters, with the Chiefs holding a 3-1 edge over the Ravens.

This weekend’s AFC Championship Game in Baltimore will be their first playoff face-off and it will be a hard-fighting road to greatness. Not to mention, the sports world has already acknowledged that Jackson’s ascent in the MVP race is closely tied to surpassing Mahomes. Moreover, this rivalry has become the heartbeat of the NFL. Ahead of the game, Stephen A Smith shared his point of view on the matter as well.

Stephen A. Smith on Mahomes and Jackson

Stephen A. Smith passionately expressed his views on the MVP race. He definitely emphasized the remarkable achievements of Lamar Jackson. However, he also pointed out that Mahomes might be the only one that could stand between Lamar and the MVP award. Smith highlighted, “Lamar Jackson who is our soon-to-be League MVP for a second time in his career, first time he won was in 2019 second time is going to be this year.”

He reminisced about Jackson’s triumphant performances against Detroit, Seattle, and San Francisco. Smith also acknowledged CJ Stroud, calling him “a future star in the making,” despite his playoff debut being overshadowed by the stiff Baltimore defense. Furthermore, he said, “If there was ever a roadblock standing in his path, it is that of Patrick Mahomes.” He remarked, “Patrick Mahomes, six years as a starter in the National Football League, six years in the AFC Championship game, three Super Bowl appearances, two Super Bowl titles already,” definitely make him a strong contender.

He further concluded by elaborating on Jackson’s significant contract, “260 million, with 187-188 million guaranteed,” as a testament to his caliber. According to Smith, Jackson will be the MVP if Mahomes doesn’t get the award. As the game is almost around the corner, let’s dig in to find out where and what time is it happening.

Chiefs vs. Ravens Live

On this upcoming Sunday on Jan. 28, NFL enthusiasts will be treated to the AFC Championship Game. The Chiefs and Ravens will battle it out at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.

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This eagerly awaited contest is scheduled for a 3 p.m. ET kickoff. CBS will broadcast the game live, featuring a stellar commentary team including Tony Romo (analyst), Jim Nantz (play-by-play), along with Tracy Wolfson, Jay Feely, Evan Washburn, and Gene Steratore providing insights from the sidelines and as a rules analyst.

For fans preferring to stream, the game will also be available on Paramount+. Who do you think will win in this matchup?

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