Historic Performance vs. Jets
Maye's Week 17 dominance against the Jets was his best as a pro, with 256 yards and 5 TDs on pinpoint accuracy. He boosted his league-leading completion rate to 71.5% and has now thrown for 250+ yards in 12 of 16 games, with multiple TDs in 11.
This win marked New England's first 13-win season since 2017, positioning them for a potential 14-3 finish and AFC top seed. Maye's mobility added value, outshining Stafford in rushing stats (-2 yards for Stafford vs. Maye's 409).
Analysts note his timeliness: playing peak football in December, much like past MVP winners who elevated late-season team success.
Major Shift in MVP Odds
Betting markets reacted swiftly, with Maye surging past Stafford mid-game before settling at +185 (35.1% implied probability). Stafford holds -220 (68.8%), but Maye's superior stats in completion, YPA, rating, and record (13-3 vs. 11-4) fuel the debate.
To claim MVP, Maye must win out against the Jets (already done) and Dolphins while Denver stumbles. His national TV spotlight against Baltimore amplified visibility, unlike final weeks' matchups.
Contenders like Josh Allen (+2500) and Trevor Lawrence (+3500) lurk, but Maye's consistency edges them out for most of the season.
Path to MVP Victory
Nearly 4,000 passing yards, elite QBR, and a Patriots team atop the AFC define Maye's case. Head-to-head, he tops Stafford in key metrics, playing his best when stakes are highest.
Week 18's Dolphins game is pivotal; a win plus Broncos loss locks the No. 1 seed, mirroring 2017's last AFC topper. Maye's growth from rookie to MVP contender underscores his impact.
While Stafford's experience looms, Maye's youth, stats, and team carry make him a live threat as voters weigh final results.