Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen is recognized for a rare blend of talents often likened to those of Cincinnati Bengals star Joe Burrow and Baltimore Ravens standout Lamar Jackson. His dynamic playing style makes him a challenging opponent on the field, combining both strong passing and rushing capabilities. This Lamar Jackson Josh Allen comparison highlights Allen’s ability to excel in multiple facets of the game.
A defensive coordinator explained to Mike Sando of The Athletic that Allen is “the toughest quarterback to defend.” He elaborated,
“He is a combination of Lamar and Burrow. Lamar is the better runner. Burrow is the better pure passer. Josh is right in the middle. He can sling the ball around for 400 yards. If you have that covered, he can run for 100 yards, too.”
This statement underscores the difficulty defenses face when planning for Allen’s versatility.
The coordinator also noted Allen’s progress regarding decision-making, saying,
“The only thing that has been an issue for him is turnovers playing hero ball, and that was better last year.”
This reflects Allen’s growth in managing risks while maintaining his high-impact style.
Record-Breaking 2024 Season Highlights Allen’s Growth
Allen’s performance in the 2024 NFL season earned him Most Valuable Player honors for the first time in his career. Over 17 starts, he completed 63.6 percent of his passes, amassing 3,731 yards and throwing 28 touchdowns against only six interceptions. His 77.3 QBR was tied for the league’s best, showcasing his efficiency and leadership on offense.
Beyond his passing numbers, Allen’s rushing ability remained a significant weapon. He gained 531 yards on 102 carries and scored 12 rushing touchdowns, marking the second straight season with double-digit scores on the ground. This running threat adds an extra layer of difficulty for defenders.
Clutch Performances in Playoffs Cement Allen’s Impact
During Buffalo’s playoff run that concluded in the AFC Championship Game, Allen maintained his high level of play. In three postseason matchups, he threw for 636 yards and four touchdowns without an interception, completing 70.7 percent of his passes. His ability to avoid turnovers during critical moments demonstrates his maturation as a quarterback under pressure.
Allen’s unpredictability, shifting seamlessly between passing and running, forces opposing defenses to prepare for multiple scenarios. His career includes four games with at least 400 passing yards and three games with 100 or more rushing yards, reflecting the rare combination of volume and versatility.
The Challenge Ahead: Defending a Multifaceted Quarterback
Josh Allen’s dual-threat talents challenge defensive coordinators across the NFL, who must account for a quarterback capable of impacting the game in numerous ways. His blend of passing prowess and rushing ability places him in a category alongside Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow, two of the league’s premier signal-callers. As Allen continues to evolve, his role as a franchise leader for the Bills remains crucial in their pursuit of a Super Bowl title.