2024 AFC Championship Game Preview: Former MVPs Lamar Jackson and Patrick Mahomes Set to Clash in Baltimore
Baltimore Ravens vs. Kansas City Chiefs
M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, Maryland
Sunday, January 21, 2024, 3:00 PM ET
TV: CBS, Paramount+
The Stage is Set for an Epic AFC Championship Showdown:
The 2024 AFC Championship Game promises to be a captivating clash between two of the league’s most dynamic and explosive offenses, led by former MVP quarterbacks Lamar Jackson and Patrick Mahomes. The Baltimore Ravens, the AFC’s No. 1 seed, will host the Kansas City Chiefs, the defending Super Bowl champions and No. 3 seed, in a battle for a spot in Super Bowl LVIII.
Baltimore Ravens: A Season of Dominance and Lamar Jackson’s MVP Candidacy:
The Baltimore Ravens have been a force to be reckoned with throughout the 2023 season, securing the top seed in the AFC with a 14-4 record. Their success has been largely attributed to the brilliance of quarterback Lamar Jackson, who is once again a frontrunner for the league’s MVP award. Jackson’s dual-threat ability, combining his exceptional passing skills with his electrifying running prowess, has made him one of the most dangerous players in the NFL.
In the regular season, Jackson threw for 4,233 yards and 36 touchdowns, while also rushing for 1,106 yards and 13 touchdowns. His ability to extend plays and create big plays out of seemingly nothing has been a nightmare for opposing defenses. In last week’s Divisional Round victory over the Houston Texans, Jackson showcased his dominance, accounting for four total touchdowns (three passing, one rushing) in a convincing win.
Kansas City Chiefs: Defending Champions Led by Patrick Mahomes’ Magic:
The Kansas City Chiefs, despite a slightly less dominant regular season record of 13-6, remain a formidable force in the AFC. Led by the reigning league and Super Bowl MVP, Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs have proven time and again that they are capable of producing offensive fireworks at any moment. Mahomes’ ability to make incredible throws from any angle and his knack for extending plays with his mobility make him one of the most exciting players to watch in the NFL.
In the regular season, Mahomes threw for 4,740 yards and 39 touchdowns, while also rushing for 358 yards and four touchdowns. His connection with star tight end Travis Kelce has been a consistent source of production for the Chiefs, and their chemistry is expected to play a crucial role in this matchup. In last week’s Divisional Round victory over the Buffalo Bills, Mahomes led a thrilling comeback, throwing for 326 yards and three touchdowns, including the game-winning score with just seconds remaining.
Keys to the Game:
1. Lamar Jackson vs. Kansas City’s Defense:
The Ravens’ offense, spearheaded by Lamar Jackson, will face a stern test against the Kansas City Chiefs’ defense, which has been one of the most opportunistic units in the league this season. The Chiefs have recorded a league-leading 60 sacks, and their secondary, led by cornerback L’Jarius Sneed and safety Justin Reid, has been effective in creating turnovers. If the Chiefs can generate pressure on Jackson and force him into mistakes, they will have a chance to slow down the Ravens’ high-powered attack.
2. Patrick Mahomes vs. Baltimore’s Defense:
On the other side of the ball, Patrick Mahomes will face a Baltimore Ravens defense that has been equally impressive this season. Led by linebackers Roquan Smith and Patrick Queen, the Ravens have allowed a league-low 16.5 points per game. Their ability to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks and force turnovers has been a major factor in their success. If the Ravens can disrupt Mahomes’ rhythm and force him into uncharacteristic mistakes, they will have a chance to keep the Chiefs’ offense in check.
3. The Battle in the Trenches:
The outcome of this game could hinge on the battle in the trenches. The Ravens’ offensive line, anchored by Pro Bowl guard Kevin Zeitler and tackle Ronnie Stanley, will need to provide Lamar Jackson with enough time to operate and open up running lanes for running back J.K. Dobbins. On the other side, the Chiefs’ defensive line, led by Chris Jones and Frank Clark, will need to generate pressure on Jackson and disrupt the Ravens’ running game. The team that wins the battle in the trenches will have a significant advantage in this matchup.
4. X-Factors:
In a game of this magnitude, the contributions of players beyond the stars can often make a significant difference. For the Ravens, wide receiver Rashod Bateman and tight end Mark Andrews will need to step up and make big plays in the passing game. On the Chiefs’ side, running back Isiah Pacheco has emerged as a dynamic playmaker, and his ability to create explosive runs could be a game-changer. The performances of these X-factors could swing the momentum in either direction.
Prediction:
This AFC Championship Game promises to be a high-scoring affair, with both offenses capable of putting up big numbers. However, the Ravens’ stingy defense and Lamar Jackson’s ability to make plays with his legs could be the difference-makers. In a close contest, the Ravens emerge victorious, securing their spot in Super Bowl LVIII with a 34-28 win.
Expert Pick:
Baltimore Ravens -4.5
Over/Under:
Over 44 points