The Stafford-Maye MVP Debate Gives Everyone Something to Get Mad About
The Ringer••sports
Key Points:
- The NFL MVP debate this season centers on veteran Matthew Stafford, who led in traditional stats like passing yards and touchdowns, versus young quarterback Drake Maye, who excelled in advanced efficiency metrics and led the Patriots to a strong record.
- Stafford overcame a degenerative back condition and led the Rams to a top offense despite a late-season collapse, while Maye posted top marks in metrics like EPA and QBR, benefiting from a comparatively easier schedule.
- Critics argue Stafford padded stats with goal-line touchdowns and benefited from a strong supporting cast, whereas Maye faced criticism for playing a soft schedule and taking many sacks, though he contributed significant rushing yards.
- Advanced stats adjusting for strength of schedule still favor Maye, but Stafford leads in
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