Lamar Jackson Vs Josh Allen: 2022 Season Stats Compared

Hey guys! Let's dive into a super interesting comparison: Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen in the 2022 season. Both quarterbacks are known for their incredible athleticism, strong arms, and ability to make game-changing plays. But how did their stats stack up against each other that year? Let's break it down and see who had the edge in different categories. It's going to be a fun ride, so buckle up!

Passing Stats: A Deep Dive

When we talk about passing stats, we're looking at the core of what quarterbacks do. Passing yards, completion percentage, touchdown passes, and interceptions are key indicators of a quarterback's effectiveness. In 2022, Josh Allen played 16 games, throwing for 4,283 yards with a completion percentage of 63.3%. He tossed 35 touchdowns but also had 14 interceptions. That's a lot of touchdowns, showcasing his aggressive play style and willingness to take risks downfield. Allen's ability to make those big throws often put the Bills in scoring position, making him a constant threat to opposing defenses. His average of 267.7 passing yards per game demonstrates his consistent contribution to the Bills' offensive output. Even with the interceptions, his high touchdown count highlights his impact on the team's scoring.

On the other hand, Lamar Jackson's 2022 season was unfortunately cut short due to an injury, and he only played 12 games. During that time, he passed for 2,242 yards with a 62.3% completion rate. He threw 17 touchdown passes and 7 interceptions. While his numbers are lower than Allen's, keep in mind he played fewer games. Jackson's passing game is often complemented by his rushing abilities, making him a dual-threat quarterback that defenses struggle to contain. Despite the injury-shortened season, his presence on the field significantly impacted the Ravens' offensive strategy. Jackson's ability to extend plays and find receivers downfield makes him a dynamic player, even if his raw passing numbers don't always reflect his overall impact. It's clear that when Jackson is healthy, he brings a unique dimension to the Ravens' offense that opposing teams must account for.

Rushing Stats: The Dual-Threat Advantage

One of the biggest differentiators between Lamar Jackson and many other quarterbacks is his rushing ability. He’s not just a passer; he’s a legitimate running threat. In 2022, Jackson rushed for 764 yards in 12 games, averaging an impressive 63.7 rushing yards per game, and added 3 rushing touchdowns to his tally. This dual-threat capability forces defenses to account for his legs, opening up opportunities for both the passing and running game. Jackson's speed and agility make him a nightmare for linebackers and defensive ends, who often struggle to contain him in the open field. His rushing ability not only extends drives but also adds a level of unpredictability to the Ravens' offense that is hard to defend. The threat of Jackson taking off at any moment keeps defenses on their toes, creating favorable matchups for his teammates and making him a constant headache for defensive coordinators.

Josh Allen is no slouch when it comes to running either! He rushed for 762 yards in 2022, almost matching Jackson's total, and scored 7 rushing touchdowns in 16 games. Allen's size and strength make him a powerful runner, often plowing through defenders for extra yards. His rushing touchdowns demonstrate his willingness to put his body on the line to score points, especially in critical situations near the goal line. Allen's rushing ability adds another dimension to the Bills' offense, making them less predictable and harder to defend. His physicality as a runner also inspires his teammates, showing his commitment to doing whatever it takes to win. While he may not be as elusive as Jackson, Allen's sheer power and determination make him a formidable threat on the ground.

Comparing Efficiency: Passer Rating and QBR

To get a more comprehensive view, let's look at passer rating and QBR (Quarterback Rating). These metrics attempt to encapsulate a quarterback's overall performance into a single number. In 2022, Josh Allen had a passer rating of 92.7. This number reflects his high touchdown count and yardage but is somewhat tempered by his interceptions. A passer rating in the 90s is generally considered quite good, indicating a solid and effective quarterback. Allen's rating shows that he was a valuable asset to the Bills' offense, contributing significantly to their scoring and yardage totals. Despite the interceptions, his overall performance was strong, making him a key player in the team's success.

Lamar Jackson, in comparison, posted a passer rating of 91.1 in 2022. Given that he played fewer games and had fewer passing yards, this is a respectable number. His passer rating indicates that he was efficient when he did throw, making smart decisions and minimizing mistakes. Jackson's ability to maintain a high passer rating despite his limited playing time demonstrates his skill and effectiveness as a quarterback. His rating, combined with his rushing abilities, highlights his overall value to the Ravens' offense. It's clear that when Jackson is on the field, he's a dynamic and efficient player who can significantly impact the game's outcome.

Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts

So, what can we conclude from this comparison? Josh Allen had a statistically superior season in terms of passing yards and touchdowns, showcasing his role as a high-volume passer in the Bills' offense. His ability to consistently throw for big yardage and touchdowns makes him a constant threat to opposing defenses. However, his higher interception count also indicates a willingness to take risks, which can sometimes lead to turnovers.

Lamar Jackson, while playing fewer games, demonstrated his unique dual-threat ability, contributing significantly both through the air and on the ground. His rushing prowess adds a dimension to his game that Allen doesn't quite match. Jackson's efficiency and ability to make plays with his legs make him a dynamic and unpredictable quarterback. Despite the injury-shortened season, his impact on the Ravens' offense was undeniable.

Ultimately, both quarterbacks bring different strengths to the table. Allen's passing volume and touchdown output are impressive, while Jackson's rushing ability and overall elusiveness make him a unique challenge for defenses. The choice between the two really depends on what you value more in a quarterback. Both are game-changers in their own right!