Lamar Jackson is one of the most electrifying players the NFL has ever seen. Since being drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2018, Jackson has revolutionized the quarterback position with his unmatched combination of arm strength and mobility.
In 2019, Jackson became the youngest quarterback to win league MVP, dazzling fans with over 3,100 passing yards, 36 touchdowns, and 1,200 rushing yards. The Baltimore QB has led the Ravens to consistent playoff appearances, and may win another MVP trophy this season, but despite his brilliance, Jackson’s Super Bowl hopes face an insurmountable obstacle: Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs.
A Dynasty Blocking the Path
The NFL is a quarterback-driven league, and right now, no quarterback defines the era more than Mahomes. Since becoming the Chiefs’ starter in 2018, Mahomes has redefined offensive football with his uncanny ability to improvise, throw no-look passes, and come through in clutch moments. He’s already won two league MVPs, two Super Bowl MVPs, and led Kansas City to three Super Bowl appearances, winning two of them.
For Jackson, the problem isn’t just that Mahomes is in his prime; it’s that the Chiefs are in the AFC, meaning the road to the Super Bowl almost always runs through Kansas City. The Ravens have been a strong team, but recent seasons have shown their inability to consistently challenge the Chiefs. In the Mahomes era, Baltimore hasn’t beaten Kansas City, and those losses highlight the strategic and talent gaps between the teams.
Andy Reid: The Mastermind
Another hurdle for Jackson is Andy Reid, one of the greatest head coaches in NFL history. Known for his offensive genius and meticulous preparation, Reid has built a dynasty in Kansas City, pairing Mahomes’ generational talent with elite schemes and in-game adjustments.
Reid’s teams have consistently been able to neutralize dynamic players like Jackson. The Chiefs’ defense under Reid doesn’t always boast the best stats, but they excel at bending without breaking. Reid and his defensive staff create game plans that force quarterbacks like Jackson to abandon their strengths, turning games into uphill battles.
History has shown that Reid thrives against mobile quarterbacks. His teams use disciplined edge rushers, spy defenders, and well-timed blitzes to contain players who rely on athleticism. For Jackson, whose success hinges on making plays outside the pocket, facing Reid in the postseason feels like running into an unsolvable puzzle.
Ravens' Struggles and AFC Depth
The Ravens’ struggles to reach the Super Bowl in recent years only add to the challenge. Baltimore has consistently fielded a competitive roster under head coach John Harbaugh, but injuries, offensive inconsistency, and tough playoff matchups have kept them from taking the next step. Even when Jackson and the Ravens have looked dominant in the regular season, they’ve faltered in the playoffs, where the margin for error is razor-thin.
Beyond Mahomes and the Chiefs, the AFC is stacked with other elite quarterbacks like Josh Allen, and Joe Burrow, both of whom are leading formidable teams. For Jackson, the path to the Super Bowl means potentially outdueling multiple elite quarterbacks in consecutive weeks—a tall order in any scenario, let alone with the Chiefs looming.
Why Lamar and the Ravens Won’t Win
For all of Jackson’s talent, the odds are stacked against him because of who he’s competing against. Patrick Mahomes is the NFL’s pre-eminent player, leading a dynasty helmed by a legendary coach in Andy Reid. The Chiefs have the experience, coaching, and star power to keep dominating the AFC for years to come.
While Jackson’s skill set ensures the Ravens will always be contenders, the Mahomes-Reid duo represents an era-defining hurdle. It’s not just about Jackson’s greatness—it’s about the greatness standing in his way. Until that changes, the Lombardi Trophy will likely remain just out of reach for Lamar Jackson.
