08/13/2026
2026 ends the Joe Burrow Josh Allen debate.
Everyone is predicting one of the two to win MVP.
Both the Bengals and Bills have zero roster or coaching excuses so we can finally let the boys air it out and determine who’s the best quarterback in the NFL.
Let’s take a look at both sides:
Burrow’s pocket numbers are insane.
He gets the football out in a lightning 2.55 seconds while posting a league-leading +4.2% completion percentage above expectation.
His ridiculously low 1.4% turnover-worthy play rate proves he reads pre-snap coverage disguises faster and cleaner than anyone else in the league.
But here’s the tough one on Burrow’s physical limits: when interior pass rush beat his five-man protection and force him off his launch point, his EPA per dropback plummets.
He rocks an elite 68% completion rate on schedule, but he simply lacks the scramble mobility to turn broken plays into thirty-yard gains.
Now check Josh Allen:
Allen generated a league best +0.22 EPA per dropback while attacking downfield with an 8.9-yard average depth of target. Combine that with his 14 rushing touchdowns in 2025, and Allen single-handedly overpowers defensive fronts in ways Burrow physically cannot.
But Allen’s hyper-aggressive style brings serious turnover risk issues.
His turnover-worthy play rate spikes up to 3.1% whenever he breaks the pocket and extends plays outside the tackle box.
When smart coordinators trick him with late safety shifts, his urge to force deep balls turns into drive-killing giveaways.
That’s exactly why 2026 is the BEST year to settle the debate.
Both superstars are in the absolute prime of their physical and mental careers.
This season’s data will officially prove whether Burrow’s clinical timing or Allen’s off-script playmaking is the better formula.
Follow NFL Daily for more 🔥
Comment your pick👇
