Dec 10, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen (17) talks with Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) after a game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports

As the 2024 NFL season winds down, the race for the top seed in the AFC is heating up between two heavyweights: the Buffalo Bills and the Kansas City Chiefs. With superstars Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes at the helm, who holds the title of the NFL’s premier quarterback?

Since taking over the Chiefs’ offense in 2018, Patrick Mahomes has transformed the franchise into a powerhouse. Under his leadership, Kansas City has clinched the AFC West for seven straight seasons and secured three Super Bowl victories along the way. However, Mahomes’ sustained excellence has sometimes lulled observers into taking his prowess for granted. His style centers on dynamic athleticism and a cannon-like arm, capabilities that both elevate his teammates and sometimes put the ball in harm’s way. Last season, for instance, Mahomes threw the fourth-most interceptions in the league, signaling a need for refinement in decision-making.

Defensive strategies against Mahomes have become more pronounced, focusing on cornerbacks who can maintain coverage and edge rushers who force him into uncomfortable throws. The Buffalo Bills have notably capitalized on this approach to disrupt his rhythm. This year, Mahomes has faced additional hurdles with injuries to receivers like Rashee Rice and Marquise Brown, coupled with the natural aging of key target Travis Kelce. As a result, Mahomes’ performance has been a bit more erratic, with 11 interceptions and just 22 touchdowns, alongside a career-low 6.7 yards per attempt.

Contrastingly, Josh Allen has taken significant strides this season, honing his craft to turn in what could be the best season of his career. Leading the MVP chase, Allen has passed for 3,395 yards with an impressive eight yards per attempt. His 25 touchdowns and modest five interceptions reflect his evolution in reading defenses, augmenting the stout arm talent he’s always possessed. Allen’s dual-threat capability shines through his additional 484 rushing yards and 11 rushing touchdowns.

What’s remarkable about Allen’s campaign isn’t just the numbers — it’s the context. Operating with a roster filled with younger talent like rookie Keon Coleman, Khalil Shakir, Mack Hollins, and Amari Cooper, Allen has been the glue holding it all together, consistently elevating his teammates’ play and becoming a model of efficiency.

Both Mahomes and Allen remain extraordinary talents on their paths to potential greatness, yet this season, Allen’s all-around enhancement and leadership give him the decisive edge as the top quarterback of 2024. For now, the crown of best quarterback appears to rest snugly atop Allen’s head, but with playoffs looming, anything can happen. The rivalry between these two will undoubtedly continue to drive each of them to new heights.