Lamar Jackson won the NFL Most Valuable Player award in 2019, his second year in the league. Four years later, his success and that of his squad, the Baltimore Ravens, makes him a strong candidate to earn his second MVP trophy.

His performance during their Week 16 Monday Night Football game against the San Francisco 49ers solidifies his credentials to be regarded as the league's best player in 2023. Despite playing on the road against the National Football Conference's best team, he finished with 23 completions for 252 yards, two touchdowns, and zero interceptions.

In contrast, Brock Purdy, regarded as one of the top MVP candidates this season, struggled against the Ravens' defense. He threw four interceptions that Baltimore turned into two touchdowns and a field goal conversion. While Jackson clearly won the quarterback duel, he has been reliable for most of the season.

The former Louisville standout failed to convert a touchdown pass in only four of the Ravens' 15 games this season. He has also improved his touchdown-to-interception rate this season, compared to 13 picks in 2021 and seven interceptions in 12 games in 2022. Jackson has also established career-highs in completion percentage (66.3) and passing yards (3,357) with two regular season games left.

The run game is still a vital part of Baltimore's offense, as proven by his 786 rushing yards this season and their league-best 159.7 yards per game. However, he has delivered in the passing game when needed.

Baltimore's weapons on offense and their elite defense deserve massive credit for their success. But Jackson's comfort level with Todd Monken's system and his ability to extend drives benefit the entire squad.

While his number may not be as flashy as other quarterbacks, Lamar Jackson's MNF masterpiece should impart massive consideration about the legitimacy of his MVP-like campaign. The numbers don't lie, especially against their most formidable opponent this season.

-Lance Fernandez