NFL MVP Favorites Entering Week 8, Latest Power Rankings

The 2023 NFL season is full of surprises, and the MVP race is no exception. Let’s break down the top contenders as we head into Week 8.

Lamar Jackson: A Strong Favorite

Lamar Jackson, the Baltimore Ravens‘ star quarterback, is making a strong case for MVP. He’s been on fire, passing for 1,610 yards and boasting a solid 101.9 passer rating this season. In Week 7, he threw for 357 yards and three touchdowns against the Detroit Lions and added 363 rushing yards with five rushing touchdowns. If the Ravens secure the AFC’s No. 1 seed, Jackson could be the favorite at +650 odds.

Tua Tagovailoa’s Ups and Downs

Tua Tagovailoa of the Miami Dolphins has had some great games against weaker teams, but he’s struggled against tougher opponents. In his recent game against the Philadelphia Eagles, he had just 216 yards, one touchdown, one interception, and an 87.5 passer rating. Until his odds improve, Tagovailoa may not provide much value for MVP bettors.

Jalen Hurts in the Mix

Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles is getting back in the MVP conversation, although his stats this season aren’t as impressive as last year’s. With eight interceptions and an 87.8 passer rating, he might not get all the credit, even if the Eagles lead the league.

Brock Purdy’s MVP Hopes Dwindle

Brock Purdy of the San Francisco 49ers is falling out of MVP contention. He struggled against the Minnesota Vikings, throwing for 272 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. Opposing defenses have found ways to pressure him, especially without Deebo Samuel on the field. It’s clear that for Purdy to excel, everything needs to click in San Francisco.

Consider Myles Garrett

Myles Garrett, the Cleveland Browns’ defensive end, is a long shot at +20,000 odds for MVP. The award typically goes to quarterbacks, but Garrett is worth a small bet. He’s been a force on defense with 7.5 sacks, 16 quarterback hits, and three forced fumbles in six games. If the Browns make a surprising run and Garrett maintains his performance, he could be a dark horse for the MVP title.

The MVP race in the NFL is heating up, with Lamar Jackson leading the pack and unexpected contenders emerging.

NFL Power Rankings Week 8

1. Philadelphia Eagles (6-1)
2. Kansas City Chiefs (6-1)
3. Baltimore Ravens (5-2)
4. San Francisco 49ers (5-2)
5. Detroit Lions (5-2)
6. Miami Dolphins (5-2)
7. Jacksonville Jaguars (5-2)
8. Seattle Seahawks (4-2)
9. Cleveland Browns (4-2)
10. Dallas Cowboys (4-2)
11. Pittsburgh Steelers (4-2)
12. Buffalo Bills (4-3)
13. Atlanta Falcons (4-3)
14. Cincinnati Bengals (3-3)
15. Houston Texans (3-3)
16. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-3)
17. New York Jets (3-3)
18. Los Angeles Rams (3-4)
19. Indianapolis Colts (3-4)
20. Washington Commanders (3-4)
21. New Orleans Saints (3-4)
22. Minnesota Vikings (3-4)
23. Las Vegas Raiders (3-4)
24. Los Angeles Chargers (2-4)
25. Tennessee Titans (2-4)
26. Green Bay Packers (2-4)
27. New England Patriots (2-5)
28. New York Giants (2-5)
29. Chicago Bears (2-5)
30. Arizona Cardinals (1-6)
31. Denver Broncos (2-5)
32. Carolina Panthers (0-6)