The debate over the top quarterbacks in the NFL remains a fervent topic, especially in the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/afc/”>AFC, where talent is abundant but support varies. Recently on ESPN‘s First Take, Stephen A. Smith weighed in on which AFC quarterback gets the most done despite limited help, choosing Buffalo Bills’ Josh Allen for this distinction. This conversation shines a light on Allen’s remarkable contributions amid a supporting cast often seen as lacking.
Allen’s Impressive Statistics and Improved Decision-Making
According to Smith, Allen’s performance over the past five years has been unmatched, with 216 total touchdowns since 2020, combining passing, rushing, and receiving — 36 more than any other NFL player in that stretch. Smith also praised Allen for refining his approach to the game, particularly in reducing turnovers, which previously had been a major concern.
216 total touchdowns, passing, rushing, receiving, since 2020, that’s 36 more than anyone else during this time period, and most in a five-year span than any NFL player,
—Stephen A. Smith
When turnovers were your achilles heel, coming into last season, and you rectify that as well, that wasn’t just about his offensive line, that was about his decision making, that was about him being, you know not, stop trying to engage in hero ball, and modifying his game to a degree to be more efficient, and to hurt his team less,
—Stephen A. Smith
Challenges with Supporting Cast and Comparisons to Other AFC Quarterbacks
Unlike some AFC peers such as Lamar Jackson, who benefits from a dominant running back like Derrick Henry, Allen has often dealt with a Buffalo Bills support team ranked in the lower half of the league. Despite this, Allen consistently delivers, surpassing 40 touchdowns for the fifth consecutive season. Last year, his efforts guided the Bills to the AFC Championship game and earned him the league MVP award, underscoring his significance to the team.
Broader Context for the Bills and What Lies Ahead
The Bills’ roster and coaching have attracted attention beyond Allen’s individual success. While some analysts suggest adjustments, such as trading veteran defenders or improving offensive line depth, the coaching staff under Sean McDermott continues to receive praise, even as they face mixed rankings. The sustained performance of Allen against these odds highlights both his talent and resilience, setting expectations high for the team’s future AFC campaigns.