The Buffalo Bills have kicked off the season with a flawless 2-0 record, but despite the teamโs early success, quarterback Josh Allen continues to face his share of criticism. Since entering the NFL in 2018, Allen has been a pivotal figure in Buffaloโs resurgence, renowned for his dual-threat capabilities. Though praised for his athleticism, some critics still question his overall performance.
One area where Allen truly shines is rushing touchdowns. Leading all NFL quarterbacks with 55 rushing touchdowns since 2018, he has even surpassed notable names like Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles. Yet, when it comes to other key categories, Allen falls just short of his AFC counterparts. He ranks fourth in total touchdowns, trailing Kansas City Chiefs’ star Patrick Mahomes, and is fifth in passing yards, with Mahomes once again holding the top spot.
Allenโs peers from the 2018 draft class have also had remarkable success. Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, who entered the league the same year as Allen, has already earned two MVP awards, while Allen is still seeking his first. However, Allen remains unconcerned about individual accolades. For him, an MVP title is secondaryโhis ultimate goal is to bring a Super Bowl trophy to Buffalo. “I’d rather have a Super Bowl than an MVP,” Allen affirms, solidifying his focus on team success over personal recognition.
“I couldnโt care less about winning an MVP. The only thing that matters to me is lifting the Lombardi Trophy,” said Josh Allen, making it clear that his priorities lie with team success rather than individual honors.
Despite his many achievements, turnovers have been a persistent issue throughout Allenโs career. Since entering the league, he has led the NFL in total turnovers with 103, and his 2023 season was particularly challenging, throwing a career-high 18 interceptions. Even as he strives for improvement, the criticism hasnโt subsided.
So far, in the 2024 season, Allen has shown signs of greater efficiency, completing 31 of 42 passes for 371 yards and three touchdowns over two games. However, the scrutiny over his past mistakes continues to follow him, casting a shadow over his early-season success.
When asked about being labeled “overrated,” Josh Allen responded with unexpected calm and confidence.
โI loved it,โ Allen remarked. โI saw it as a term of endearment or respect.โ
For Allen, the criticism fuels his determination, but it also underscores the constant scrutiny he has faced throughout his careerโparticularly the lingering narrative about his struggles to advance beyond the AFC Championship game. This criticism only strengthens his resolve as he continues to pursue his ultimate goal: a Super Bowl victory.
Allenโs newly revamped receiving corps is still finding its rhythm. Rookie Keon Coleman, anticipated to play a significant role in the offense, has so far been limited to just four receptions for 51 yards over the first two games. On the other hand, Khalil Shakir has emerged as the teamโs leading target, hauling in eight receptions for 96 yards and a touchdown, stepping up when needed most. As the season progresses, Allen will be looking to build stronger chemistry with his receivers to fully unlock the offenseโs potential.
As the Bills gear up for their Week 3 showdown against the winless Jacksonville Jaguars, Josh Allen faces the dual challenge of fine-tuning his connection with his new offensive weapons while silencing his critics. Expectations for the team are sky-high, and Allen is determined to show that he can elevate Buffalo to even greater heights. With a perfect start on the line, Allenโs focus remains on keeping the momentum going and proving he can lead the Bills deep into the postseason.
