The NFL’s Divisional Round is packed with star-studded matchups, but few are as electrifying as the Baltimore Ravens versus the Buffalo Bills. Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen, two quarterbacks who have redefined the position, will lead their teams into Sunday night’s high-stakes playoff clash. The stakes are sky-high: a trip to the AFC Championship and the chance to prove which MVP-caliber QB reigns supreme.
The stakes are sky-high: a trip to the AFC Championship and the chance to prove which signal-caller reigns supreme. But for Jackson, this isn’t about narratives or media hype. When asked about his relationship with Allen, the Ravens QB didn’t mince words.
“I don’t really chill with people [in] the offseason, especially not other quarterbacks,” Jackson said. “Don’t get me wrong, there’s no problem or nothing like that, but we’re competing with each other. I’m trying to beat you; I’m not trying to be your friend.”
WATCH: A playful Lamar Jackson isn't trying to be friends with Josh Allen, or any quarterback.
— Morgan Adsit (@MorganAdsit) January 16, 2025
"I'm trying to beat you. I'm not trying to be your friend," Lamar Jackson today as he gets ready for Divisional Round at Buffalo. pic.twitter.com/cGFbthVj0U
Lamar Jackson doesn't want friends—he wants wins
Jackson’s comments reflect a mindset that’s fueled his rise to NFL stardom: focus and ferocity. While other quarterbacks might forge offseason friendships at charity events or social gatherings, Jackson keeps his distance, choosing preparation over pleasantries.
“When we’re older, we’ll probably laugh about it,” Jackson admitted. “But right now, it’s serious.”
Dawg: Lamar Jackson speaks on if he'll always be linked to Josh Allen since they're from the same draft class:
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) January 16, 2025
"Yeah, no doubt. When we're older, we'll probably laugh about it, but right now, it's serious. I ain't laughing with you, for real.
😤😤😤pic.twitter.com/rOPadWg5kc
This kind of competitive fire is what separates good players from great ones.
It’s not a knock on Allen—Jackson even praised his peer for his “uniqueness” and ability to “make any throw on the field.” But at the end of the day, Jackson isn’t here to be buddy-buddy. He’s here to win.
Despite the mutual respect, the history between Jackson and Allen adds extra intrigue to Sunday’s game. Their last playoff meeting in 2020 ended in heartbreak for Baltimore, with Jackson leaving the game due to a concussion and the Bills securing a 17-3 victory.
“Hell yes. Hell yes.” Jackson said when asked if that game still fuels him. “I just saw it. I just saw a little clip they always like to post they like to throw that out there that little interception return. Yes, that's all I'm going to say about that though.”
This rematch isn’t about closure—it’s about proving a point. Jackson, fresh off one of his best regular seasons, is locked in. With Derrick Henry behind him and a defense firing on all cylinders under defensive coordinator Zach Orr, the Ravens have the firepower to take down the Bills.
But for Jackson, the first step is clear: outdueling Allen.
When the clock hits zero Sunday night, only one quarterback will be one step closer to the Lombardi Trophy. For Lamar Jackson, that’s all the motivation he needs.