The quarterback battle at the top of fantasy drafts has become one of the most intriguing storylines this summer. While experts debate whether Josh Allen or Lamar Jackson deserves the QB1 crown, users on PFSN’s Fantasy Mock Draft Simulator have cast their votes with their draft picks and created a clear favorite for the top fantasy quarterback.
Josh Allen’s Red Zone Dominance Sets Him Apart
The numbers tell a compelling story about why fantasy managers are gravitating toward Buffalo’s signal-caller. Allen has accumulated 34 rushing touchdowns over the past three seasons, surpassing Jackson’s career total of 33 rushing scores across seven NFL campaigns.
This touchdown production represents more than just impressive statistics; it highlights a fundamental difference in how these two elite quarterbacks operate near the goal line.
Rushing touchdowns carry extra weight in fantasy scoring, typically worth six points compared to four for passing scores in most leagues. Allen’s ability to punch in short-yardage situations has become a defining characteristic of his fantasy profile.
46 Minutes of Josh **MVP** Allen Highlights to start off your Friday the right way pic.twitter.com/1JSX9opUoq
— BillsMuse (@BillsMusee) February 7, 2025
When the Bills reach the red zone, offensive coordinator Joe Brady consistently turns to designed runs and RPOs that showcase Allen’s 6’5″ frame and mobility.
Jackson remains an explosive runner between the 20s, but Allen’s red zone usage creates a more predictable floor for fantasy production. This makes Allen’s weekly production more reliable as he does not hand the ball off to James Cook near the goal line as frequently as Jackson gives the ball to Derrick Henry.
Usage Patterns Reveal Buffalo’s Greater Reliance
The data reveals another key factor driving draft decisions: team dependency. Buffalo’s offensive system places greater responsibility on Allen’s shoulders compared to Baltimore’s approach with Jackson. This increased workload directly influenced last season’s MVP voting and continues to shape fantasy perspectives.
Jackson’s supporting cast includes a more balanced offensive attack. The Ravens utilize multiple weapons, from tight end Mark Andrews to running backs Henry and Justice Hill.
Baltimore’s defense also creates more favorable field position and scoring opportunities, potentially limiting Jackson’s need for high-volume passing in certain game scripts.
Conversely, the Bills lean heavily on Allen’s dual-threat capabilities. Buffalo’s receiving corps, while talented, depends more on Allen’s ability to extend plays and create magic outside the pocket. This system design naturally leads to higher usage rates and more fantasy-relevant touches.
Late-Season Performance Gap
Perhaps the most revealing aspect centers on seasonal splits. During Weeks 1-10 over the past two seasons, Jackson holds a slight edge with 22.1 points per game compared to Allen’s 21.1. However, the script flips during crunch time.
From Weeks 11-17, when playoff races intensify and fantasy championships are decided, Allen averages 27.1 points per game versus Jackson’s 24.7. This 2.4-point difference might seem modest, but it represents the margin between fantasy titles and disappointment.
Lamar Jackson QB Run Plays ✍🏼
• Split-Zone Bluff Read
• Power Read
• GT Counter Bash
• QB G-Lead
• Zone Read Triple Option
• GT Counter Read
• Double Split-Zone Bluff Read pic.twitter.com/HJbVSPPSwO— Jake Franklin Football (@JakeFranklinFB) March 7, 2025
The late-season surge reflects Buffalo’s traditional approach to December football. The Bills historically ramp up their offensive aggression as weather conditions deteriorate in Western New York. Allen’s arm strength and rushing ability become even more valuable assets when facing divisional rivals in challenging conditions.
The Ravens’ strong defense and running game allow them to manage Jackson’s workload more strategically, which benefits his long-term health but potentially limits fantasy upside.
Managers appear to value this late-season reliability over early-season consistency. They’re drafting Allen five picks ahead of Jackson are betting that December and January performances matter more than September statistics. Given Allen’s track record during championship weeks, that gamble looks increasingly wise.
