Mahomes vs. Jackson: Chiefs’ King Continues Reign Over Ravens’ Comeback Kid in Thrilling QB Showdown
The NFL landscape is defined by powerful quarterbacks, and few matchups spark as much excitement as Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson. Together, they have captured four MVP awards, showcasing their dominance in this new era of football. However, when the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens clash, Mahomes has generally held the upper hand over Jackson, both in the regular season and playoffs.
Their encounters not only spotlight their individual prowess but also emphasize the star-studded nature of the league. Both quarterbacks are among only four players to have won two MVPs before turning 28, and they have shattered numerous records early in their careers. Below is a detailed examination of how these two elite quarterbacks have fared against each other.
Regular Season Showdowns
Lamar Jackson’s Record Against Patrick Mahomes
Record: 1-4
Completion Percentage: 58%
Passing Yards: 1,023
Touchdowns: 5
Interceptions: 3
Rushing Yards: 383
Rushing Touchdowns: 1
2018: The First Encounter
The first meeting between Jackson and Mahomes occurred in Week 14 of the 2018 season, marking Mahomes’ inaugural year as a starter and Jackson’s rookie season. Jackson had recently taken over for Joe Flacco, while Mahomes was in the midst of his first MVP campaign. The game was tightly contested, but Kansas City emerged victorious at home, with Mahomes throwing for 377 yards and two touchdowns, overshadowing Jackson’s 147 passing yards as he adjusted to the rigors of the NFL.
2019: A Battle of MVP Candidates
The following year, the two quarterbacks faced off again in Kansas City during Week 3. This time, Jackson was beginning his first MVP season, but Mahomes continued his dominance, securing his second victory over Jackson. The Chiefs built a considerable lead early, with Mahomes racking up 374 passing yards and three touchdowns while Jackson struggled to mount a comeback, resulting in Baltimore’s first loss of the season.
2020: Maintaining Control
In Week 3 of the 2020 season, Mahomes again showcased his skills, throwing for 385 yards and four touchdowns, leading the Chiefs to a comfortable 34-20 victory in Baltimore. Jackson was unable to find his rhythm, finishing with under 100 passing yards while the Ravens fell behind early and struggled to catch up.
2021: Jackson’s Breakthrough
After a two-year drought against Mahomes, Jackson finally triumphed in their fourth meeting in Week 2 of 2021. In a thrilling match, Jackson orchestrated a late-game comeback, overcoming several 11-point deficits to secure a 36-35 victory at home. He finished the game with 239 passing yards and 107 rushing yards, marking a significant milestone in his career as he defeated Mahomes for the first time.
2024: A Close Contest
The two quarterbacks met again to kick off the 2024 season, following the Chiefs’ triumph over the Ravens in the previous season’s AFC Championship Game. The game was a nail-biter, with Kansas City claiming a 27-20 victory. Mahomes had a quieter outing with 291 passing yards and one touchdown, while Jackson delivered one of his best performances against the Chiefs, notching 273 passing yards and 122 rushing yards.
Playoff Encounters
AFC Championship, 2024
The only playoff meeting between these two quarterbacks took place during the 2024 AFC Championship Game, hosted by the Ravens. Baltimore, holding the top seed in the AFC, faced the Chiefs, who were riding high after a significant road victory against the Buffalo Bills. In this tightly contested matchup, Baltimore managed to limit Mahomes to 241 passing yards and one touchdown. However, Kansas City’s early scores proved decisive, as Jackson’s efforts—272 passing yards and 54 rushing yards—were not enough to overcome two crucial turnovers.
Through these encounters, the saga of Mahomes and Jackson continues to unfold, highlighting the fierce competition and remarkable talent both quarterbacks bring to the field. Each game adds another chapter to their burgeoning rivalry, captivating fans and setting the stage for future showdowns.
