Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love faced heavy criticism earlier in the season, but an argument can be made that he has performed at an elite level, potentially outshining Kansas City Chiefs superstar Patrick Mahomes in the current season.
In the first 15 games of the 2023 season, Love has amassed 3,587 passing yards, 27 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions with a completion rate of 62.5 percent, earning a passer rating of 91.8. In comparison, Mahomes has accumulated 3,938 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions, completing 66.9 percent of his passes with a passer rating of 91.2.
While statistics alone shouldn’t be the sole basis for definitive conclusions, the striking similarity between the two players’ numbers, and Love’s slightly superior performance, cannot be easily dismissed. It’s worth noting that Love has achieved this without the presence of an All-Pro tight end like Travis Kelce.
The Packers May Have Another Star In The Making
To be fair to Mahomes, his receiving options outside of Kelce are limited. Although rookie wide receiver Rashee Rice has shown promise, the overall offensive arsenal for the two-time MVP is somewhat limited.
On the flip side, Love also lacks an abundance of weapons. His top receiver, Christian Watson, has been plagued by injuries and has struggled to meet expectations when on the field.
This doesn’t imply that Love surpasses Mahomes in skill, as Mahomes remains the better player. However, it raises the question of whether the criticism directed at Love during his challenging stretch earlier in the season was too harsh.
Love faced a tough period between Weeks 4 and 9, resulting in seven touchdowns and nine interceptions, with the Packers managing only one win in six games. However, since then, Love has showcased significant improvement, throwing 13 touchdowns and just one interception in the last six games, contributing to the Packers’ 4-2 record during that stretch.
In contrast, Mahomes has encountered recent struggles, with four consecutive games featuring at least one interception, and the Chiefs losing three of their last four matches.
While it’s too early to make any kind of final judgement on Jordan Love, it appears that the Packers may very well have another star in the making at the quarterback position.