Super Bowl LIX promises to be another thrilling chapter in what we can officially call a rivalry between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs.
So in case anyone forgot, this is actually a rematch of Super Bowl LVII, where the Chiefs narrowly defeated the Eagles 38-35 in a wild finish.
As the teams prepare to meet again on the gridiron’s biggest stage, the question on everyone’s mind is: who will emerge as the Super Bowl MVP?
The answer isn’t as easy as it may sound. The playing field is chock full with candidates who can each in their own rite win the Pete Rozelle Trophy. Here’s who we have on our short list:
Patrick Mahomes, Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, Travis Kelce, AJ Brown, and Kareem Hunt.
Seems about right? Well, each player brings a unique skill set, killer instinct and desire to be that guy when it all comes down to it.
Let’s break it all down.
Why Patrick Mahomes?
Patrick Mahomes is the probably the favorite to win Super Bowl MVP. The Chiefs’ star quarterback has been nothing short of spectacular all season, finishing with 3,928 passing yards (7th in the league) and 26 touchdowns (9th). Despite battling some nagging injuries throughout the year, Mahomes’ poise and playmaking ability have made him a constant threat to literally take over games. His 11 interceptions, tied for 95th in the league, are the only blemish on an otherwise incredible season. With a QBR of 67.7 (8th), Mahomes has once again proven why he’s considered one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks. If the Chiefs are to capture their second Super Bowl in three years, it will have to be on Mahomes back. That’s why we have him as the leading MVP candidate once again.
Why Jalen Hurts?
Jalen Hurts is becoming HIM. The number one QB in Philly from 2020 and the franchise has not looked back since. Hurts is the point guard when it comes to the Philadelphia Eagles offense that is heavy on the run but dangerous when he keeps the ball in his hands. Hurts threw for 2,903 yards (20th in the NFL) and 18 touchdowns (tied-20th) during the regular season. His ability to make plays both in the air and on the ground has set him apart from other quarterbacks. With only 5 interceptions (tied-72nd), Hurts has demonstrated great decision-making, while his QBR of 65.7 (10th) speaks to his overall effectiveness and poise. If the Eagles are going to avenge their Super Bowl LVII loss, Hurts will need to be at his best, probably making few to no mistakes making him a top tier candidate for Super Bowl MVP. His dual-threat ability gives him an edge, and when the brotherly shove aka the tush push is employed, the Eagles can’t be stopped.
Why Saquon Barkley?
Saquon Barkley is looking like one of the all time greats this year. What a come back story he has become since exiting the New York Giants and even coming off ACL surgery. Stat wise, he finished as the league leader in rushing yards with 2,005 (1st) and touchdowns with 13 (8th). Barkley also led the NFL in rushing attempts with 345, showcasing his workhorse ability. With an average of 5.8 yards per carry (54th), he’s a nightmare for opposing defenses. Like did ya’ll see his first carry against the Commanders? Like, wth? If the Eagles are going to take control of the game, Barkley will be the focal point of their offense. His ability to control the clock and break off big runs makes him a quintessential MVP candidate.
Why Travis Kelce?
Travis Kelce. Yup, he has to be here. Kelce is arguably the greatest tight end in the history of the game so it’s no surprise the critical piece of the Chiefs’ offense is primed to be an MVP candidate. With 97 receptions (12th in the league) and 823 yards (39th), Kelce is Mahomes’ favorite target in clutch situations. His 3 touchdowns (tied-81st) may not jump off the page, but his consistent ability to move the chains and make crucial plays in the red zone is invaluable. Kelce’s 8.5 yards per reception (150+) and veteran leadership make him a key player in any game, especially at the Super Bowl where he just keeps appearing. If the Chiefs win it all, it’s likely that Kelce will play a significant role, and that may just earn himself his first Super Bowl MVP.
Why AJ Brown?
AJ Brown should be in the conversation. In the run first Eagles offense, he’s sneakily their secret weapon. Brown has been a dominant force in the Eagles’ passing game this season, finishing with 1,079 yards (17th) and 7 touchdowns (tied-21st). His 16.1 yards per reception (30th) speaks to his ability to stretch the field and make explosive plays. Brown’s physicality and great hands have made him a favorite target of Hurts. If the Eagles are to win, Brown will likely be the key to breaking down the Chiefs’ secondary. A few game changing receptions that result in TD’s or game saving catches would make Brown a viable MVP candidate, especially in a game that’s poised to be a high-scoring affair.
Why Kareem Hunt?
Kareem Hunt is another comeback story we can all get behind. Hunt has been a steady contributor for the Chiefs throughout the season, finishing with 728 rushing yards (31st) and 7 touchdowns (tied-19th). While not a headline-grabber like Barkley, Hunt is consistent and dangerous. He has been a reliable back who can contribute both as a rusher and as a receiver out of the backfield. His 3.6-yard average per carry (150+) may not seem impressive, but his ability to make plays in key moments and finish drives by punching in short yardage red zone TDs makes him a potential Super Bowl MVP candidate. If the Chiefs are to defeat the number one defense in the league, Hunt will be relied upon to produce in clutch situations, making him a nothing short of a dark horse in the Super Bowl MVP race.
Mahomes’ trophy to win or time for a new MVP?
We know Mahomes has been the Super Bowl MVP in each of the last two contests. He’s that guy. Period. However, with so many talented stars in the mix in Super Bowl LIX, it may be time for a new name to emerge. Whether it’s Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, or another standout performer, the MVP race is wide open, maybe more competitive than ever before. While, Mahomes remains most pundit’s favorite, don’t be surprised if a new hero rises to the occasion and claims the coveted Pete Rozelle trophy this time around. It’s anyone’s guess.
As for us, well, let’s just say our choice just might be someone who knows how to fly.
