This is what Josh Allen, the quarterback for the Bills, and Lamar Jackson, the quarterback for the Ravens, said about their rivalry.

In the modern NFL, one of the most exciting aspects of the league is the high-caliber, dynamic quarterbacks who serve as the faces of their teams. Among these quarterbacks, two names stand out as true titans of the game: Josh Allen, the powerhouse signal-caller for the Buffalo Bills, and Lamar Jackson, the electrifying leader of the Baltimore Ravens. Both players are the cornerstone of their respective franchises and have already etched their names in NFL lore with incredible performances and remarkable skill sets.

The rivalry between Allen and Jackson is something that has captivated football fans over the years, particularly as both have ascended to elite status in the league. While their playing styles are different — Allen’s strong-arm and rocket-throwing ability compared to Jackson’s revolutionary dual-threat quarterbacking — they share a number of similarities. Both players are incredibly athletic, tough, and capable of making jaw-dropping plays that fans will remember for years to come.

The rivalry between Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson has blossomed not only because of their talent but also because of the underlying narratives surrounding them. As two quarterbacks who were drafted in the same class (2018) and who continue to lead their teams with the same level of ambition, it’s easy to understand why comparisons are made between the two. Their teams have faced off in high-stakes games, and both quarterbacks have come out victorious in different instances, making this rivalry all the more compelling.

However, beyond the X’s and O’s of their on-field battles, the way these two quarterbacks view each other — and the rivalry as a whole — sheds light on a broader, more respectful dynamic that defines their relationship. In recent interviews, both Allen and Jackson have opened up about how they view each other as competitors, friends, and how their rivalry fuels both their individual growths as players and the competitiveness of their respective teams.

Josh Allen’s Thoughts on Lamar Jackson and Their Rivalry

Josh Allen has quickly become one of the most recognizable quarterbacks in the NFL due to his cannon arm, ability to make plays with his legs, and leadership in Buffalo. His rise has been marked by an impressive progression from a raw talent to one of the league’s premier quarterbacks. The Buffalo Bills have gone from playoff contenders to Super Bowl hopefuls under his leadership, and Allen’s maturation as a quarterback has earned him respect not just in Buffalo but across the league.

In numerous interviews, Josh Allen has made it clear that he views Lamar Jackson as a fierce competitor, but one he respects deeply. The two quarterbacks have faced off a number of times, with the Bills and Ravens each claiming victories, but the mutual respect between them transcends any on-field rivalry. Allen has often praised Jackson’s unique skill set, acknowledging how difficult it is to prepare for someone who can change the course of a game with his legs, his arm, or his ability to improvise.

“I’ve always said Lamar is one of the most exciting players to watch,” Allen stated in a post-game interview after one of their matchups. “His ability to extend plays and make something out of nothing is incredible. He brings something to the table that no one else really does in this league. I respect him a lot as a player.”

For Allen, the rivalry with Jackson is more about the competitive nature of the NFL rather than personal animosity. “We’re both just trying to win games for our teams,” he continued. “It’s not about trying to one-up each other. At the end of the day, it’s about trying to bring a championship to our cities. The rivalry is fun, but we both know we’re trying to do what’s best for our teams and make them successful.”

Despite the immense pressure of being franchise quarterbacks in one of the most competitive leagues in the world, both players remain grounded in their perspective. Allen’s appreciation for Jackson goes beyond the realm of football. They both recognize the struggles that come with being the faces of their teams, dealing with the expectations placed on them, and managing the intense pressure from fans and media.

Allen also spoke on the broader impact Jackson has had on the position of quarterback. Jackson’s emergence as a dual-threat quarterback — capable of making plays with both his arm and his legs — has reshaped the perception of the position. Allen, too, has adopted a similar style of play, using his athleticism to make plays on the ground while showcasing his impressive arm talent. “Lamar was one of the guys who kind of showed that you could be a quarterback and still use your legs in a way that helps your team win,” Allen explained. “He’s helped to change the way people view the position, and I think that’s great for the game.”

Lamar Jackson’s Perspective on Facing Josh Allen

Lamar Jackson has also expressed immense respect for Josh Allen and their rivalry over the years. Like Allen, Jackson has been a transformative player at the quarterback position. Known for his speed, agility, and arm strength, Jackson redefined the way the NFL approaches dual-threat quarterbacks. His MVP-winning season in 2019 solidified his place among the NFL’s elite quarterbacks, and his ability to carry the Ravens to new heights has earned him recognition across the league.

Jackson has faced Allen multiple times, and each contest has added fuel to their growing rivalry. However, much like Allen, Jackson sees the rivalry as a healthy competition, not something driven by animosity. Jackson’s response to questions about Allen has consistently been filled with admiration. “Josh is a great quarterback, and the Bills are a great team,” Jackson said. “He’s a guy who can do everything. He can throw the ball far and make big-time throws. He’s big, strong, and he can run as well. We have a lot of similarities in that way, and I respect the way he plays the game.”

Jackson’s assessment of Allen also reflects a recognition of how both quarterbacks have evolved over the years. Just like Allen has adapted his game to include a more varied offensive approach — incorporating both his strong-arm and mobility — Jackson has refined his passing ability while continuing to maintain his dangerous running game. “When I came into the league, I was a guy who wanted to run the ball first, but I’ve worked hard on my passing,” Jackson said. “I’ve learned from guys like Josh who are so good at making all types of throws.”

Despite the competitive nature of their rivalry, Jackson stressed the importance of mutual respect in the quarterback fraternity. “At the end of the day, we’re all trying to get better,” Jackson said. “We want to keep pushing each other. It’s not about who’s better. It’s about raising the bar for the entire league.”

The Personal Rivalry and the Future of Both Teams

As both quarterbacks continue their careers, the future of their rivalry appears bright. The Bills and Ravens are likely to remain contenders in the AFC for years to come, and Allen and Jackson’s battles will continue to shape the course of both franchises. However, the importance of their rivalry goes beyond just their individual performances on the field. The way they push each other to be better is crucial not only for their development but also for the growth of their teams.

The Bills and Ravens each have championship aspirations, and both Allen and Jackson will be at the forefront of those pursuits. The quarterback position remains the most crucial in determining the success of NFL teams, and both Allen and Jackson are uniquely gifted in ways that challenge traditional perceptions of what a quarterback can be. The AFC is stacked with young quarterbacks who can lead their teams to greatness, but Allen and Jackson stand out as two of the most versatile and dangerous players in the league.

Looking ahead, both players know that the road to a Super Bowl is never easy. “We’ve both been through the ups and downs,” Allen said. “The playoffs are hard, and the competition only gets tougher. But that’s what makes it so much fun. We push each other to be the best.”

Jackson echoed similar sentiments: “I’ve been lucky to play in a league with guys like Josh. It helps you grow and be better. The competition drives you, but we’re all working towards the same goal.”