Mahomes vs Allen: the truth about their 2024 season showdown

When you think of NFL quarterback duels in the modern era, Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen stand out like two heavyweight prizefighters. Their clash in the 2024 regular season, where Allen’s Bills bested Mahomes’ Chiefs 30-21, was another chapter in what feels like a saga. But how do these two stars truly stack up against one another? We asked our friends at Sofascore to dig in.

Mahomes vs Allen: two contrasting styles, one shared goal

Both quarterbacks are undeniably elite, yet their approaches differ. Mahomes, armed with his signature creativity, thrives on extending plays and finding openings where none seem to exist. On the other hand, Allen combines a bruising physicality with finesse, making him just as dangerous on the ground as he is through the air.

Take the November 17 matchup as a case in point: Allen racked up 104 rushing yards and a passing touchdown, compared to Mahomes’ more measured 181 passing yards and a pair of scores.

Allen’s efficiency vs Mahomes’ explosiveness

Josh Allen wrapped up the 2024 regular season with 28 touchdowns and just six interceptions. His passing stats (219.5 yards per game) may seem modest compared to Mahomes’ eye-popping 246 yards per game, but Allen’s 75% completion rate in the playoffs shows his knack for precision when it counts.

Meanwhile, Mahomes led the league with 3,928 passing yards, showcasing his knack for delivering fireworks even under pressure. (Allen’s individual statshere, Mahomes’ profile here.)

Efficiency vs red zone mastery

The Buffalo Bills, powered by Allen, excelled in red zone efficiency, converting 75% of their trips into points during that key game against Kansas City. The Chiefs, meanwhile, had a perfect red zone night at 3-for-3 but sometimes struggled to dominate time of possession. These small edges are often what separate the two quarterbacks’ supporting casts.

Playoff implications

Mahomes has the resume – two MVPs and two Super Bowl rings. But Allen has proven he’s more than capable of stealing the spotlight. His ability to run, as evidenced by 12 rushing touchdowns in the regular season, gives him an edge. Yet Mahomes’ consistency in big moments has left an indelible mark on the league. Their upcoming playoff showdown (set for 6:30 PM ET) feels like a potential passing of the torch – or maybe just another chapter in a long rivalry.

Mahomes or Allen: who has the edge?

It’s tempting to declare Mahomes the more accomplished quarterback - and by most measures, he is. But Allen’s dual-threat dominance makes him an unpredictable force. Perhaps the better question is: do you prefer the thrill of Mahomes’ improvisation or the grind-it-out determination of Allen? Either way, these two quarterbacks aren’t done defining their legacies.

Oh, but I’m edging towards, Josh. Sorry, Taylor!

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