2023 NFL MVP Race: Who's Dominating the Field?

As we approach Week 7 of the 2023 NFL season, the race for the coveted Most Valuable Player award is gaining momentum. Let's dive into the contenders, considering input from a diverse panel of 12 astute analysts - Matt Bowen, Courtney Cronin, Jeremy Fowler, Dan Graziano, Matt Miller, Jason Reid, Jordan Reid, Mike Tannenbaum, Lindsey Thiry, Seth Walder, Seth Wickersham, and Field Yates.

In a season marked by the absence of unbeaten teams, we've witnessed three different quarterbacks jostle for the top spot in MVP predictions at Caesars Sportsbook. The signal-caller orchestrating the NFL's most electrifying offense currently boasts the most favorable odds in Las Vegas and has garnered the most first-place votes from our expert panel. Alongside, three other quarterbacks make a compelling case, alongside a versatile force leading the league in rushing yards.

Could this year break the quarterback MVP streak? What impact does having two contenders from the same team have on their individual chances? Additionally, we'll explore the players on the rise and those who've faced setbacks. Our analytics guru, Seth Walder, even throws a dark-horse MVP contender into the mix. Stay tuned for an exciting update on the 2023 MVP race after an action-packed Week 7.

1. Tua Tagovailoa

In 2023, Tua Tagovailoa shines as Miami's quarterback sensation. With 1,876 passing yards, 14 TDs, and just 5 INTs, he boasts a 74.7 QBR. Leading a high-octane offense, Miami ranks second in total yards (2,992) and tops the league in scoring (37.2 points/game). Tagovailoa's impressive stats have kept him in the top five of MVP odds for six straight weeks. Notably, he leads in touchdown percentage (7.1%) and ranks third in QBR. Standout performances include a 309-yard, four-touchdown spectacle against the Broncos and a clutch Week 6 win over the Panthers with 262 passing yards and three touchdowns. Miami's offensive prowess under Tagovailoa's command is turning heads and making him a serious MVP contender.

2. Patrick Mahomes

Patrick Mahomes, the maestro of Kansas City, is making waves in 2023. With 1,593 passing yards, 11 TDs, and 5 INTs, he wields a 72.6 QBR, coupled with 185 rushing yards. While the Chiefs have seen a slower start, their 5-1 record in the AFC is testament to their mettle. Mahomes remains a force, completing 68.3% of his passes for 265.5 yards per game. Notably, he conquered every NFL team (except the Chiefs) and became the youngest QB to beat all 31 franchises. Mahomes' brilliance continues to set the league ablaze.

3. Christian McCaffrey

Christian McCaffrey is setting the NFL ablaze in 2023. With 553 rushing yards, 7 touchdowns, and 177 receiving yards with 2 touchdowns, he's a dual threat like no other.

His standout four-touchdown performance against the Cardinals in Week 4 catapulted him into serious MVP contention. McCaffrey's on a mission to be the first non-quarterback MVP since Adrian Peterson in 2012.

Week after week, he's found the end zone, a streak extending to 15 games, second-longest in NFL history. Even an oblique/rib injury couldn't slow him down in the Browns game.

In an offense loaded with talent, McCaffrey remains the focal point, accounting for over 135 scrimmage yards in half the games. With 133 touches and 110 carries, he's a powerhouse for the Niners.

In 2023, McCaffrey's proving he's not just a star, but an MVP-caliber force to be reckoned with.

4. Josh Allen

Josh Allen, the Buffalo Bills' dynamic quarterback, has left early-season doubts far behind. After a rocky start with three interceptions against the Jets in Week 1, the 27-year-old is now firmly in the MVP conversation.

Boasting impressive stats of 1,576 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions, Allen leads the league in completion percentage at a staggering 71.7%. His quarterback efficiency (measured by EPA/play) ranks third among his peers at 0.28, and he's tied for fifth in throws generating crucial first downs, with a notable count of 77.

One standout moment was Allen's spectacular performance against the Dolphins, where he threw for 320 yards, completing 84% of his passes. This masterclass earned him a perfect passer rating, a feat achieved by only 34 players since 2000. In Week 6, his second-half heroics against the Giants might not have garnered as much attention, but they were pivotal in securing Buffalo's hard-fought 14-9 victory, pushing the Bills to a 4-2 record.

In 2023, Allen's resurgence has been nothing short of spectacular, solidifying his place among the league's elite quarterbacks.

5. Jalen Hurts

Jalen Hurts, leading the charge for the Philadelphia Eagles, has navigated the twists and turns of the 2023 season. With 1,542 passing yards, 7 TDs, and 7 INTs, he's shown both promise and resilience.

A recent matchup against the Jets posed challenges, resulting in three interceptions. However, it's worth noting this is only the second time he's faced such a scenario in his NFL career.

Hurts is adapting to the Eagles' offensive shifts, guided by new coordinator Brian Johnson. This transition period may explain variances from his previous season's form.

Despite increased interceptions, Hurts remains a pivotal force, contributing to 85.7% of his team's offensive touchdowns. Remarkably, he leads in rushing touchdowns among quarterbacks with five. His red zone dominance is evident, accounting for 40.4% of his team's carries in this crucial zone.

Philadelphia ranks fifth in scoring, averaging 25.8 points per game, with Hurts as the driving force. The 25-year-old's 2023 journey is a tale of growth, adaptability, and unwavering determination.

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