Bill Barnwell Names Joe Burrow His NFL MVP Frontrunner

Barnwell points to Burrow's top passing numbers and a red-hot Bengals offense while warning that Cincinnati's weak running game could limit the MVP case.

Overview

ESPN analyst Bill Barnwell put Joe Burrow narrowly ahead in his November MVP projection, calling Burrow the best pure passer in football right now.
Through Week 9 Burrow ranked among the league leaders with about 2,386 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, a 74.0% completion rate, a 114.8 passer rating and a 79.5 QBR.
Multiple expert panels and betting markets have elevated Burrow into the front of the midseason MVP conversation, with several pundits and outlets listing him as a top choice.
Coverage notes a clear caveat: Cincinnati's ineffective running game has forced heavier passing loads on Burrow and is cited by analysts as a factor that could hurt his MVP case.
The next stretch of games, beginning with a test against the Pittsburgh Steelers, will shape Burrow's chances because AP MVP voters weigh sustained performance, team record and durability.