Few people would argue that Patrick Mahomes is the best quarterback in the NFL, or at least one of the best.
On the other hand, as much as he’s improved, a lot of people don’t feel the same way about Brock Purdy.
Nevertheless, as crazy as it may seem, Purdy has actually been better than Mahomes this season, at least from a numbers standpoint.
That’s also according to NFL analyst David Lombardi, who gave the San Francisco 49ers a bit of an edge ahead of Sunday’s clash with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Lombardi dug deep into the numbers to make his case.
Pregame reading: Yes, Brock Purdy has been better than Patrick Mahomes this season https://t.co/tWowOvLJTs
— David Lombardi (@LombardiHimself) October 20, 2024
He talked about things like Purdy is currently PFF’s top-rated quarterback, whereas Mahomes is No. 9.
Purdy averages 10 air yards per attempt and 9.1 air yards per completion, both league-bests, all while Mahomes is currently last with 5.2 and 3.6 air yards, respectively.
He also talked about how a big chunk of Mahomes’ passes have been close to the line of scrimmage and his players are making most of their damage after the catch, whereas Purdy is slinging the football down the field.
At the end of the day, context also matters.
Purdy has more talent around him, and Mahomes is working his best with what’s at his disposal.
This hasn’t been Mahomes’ best season by any means, but he’s still Patrick Mahomes.
It’ll take a collective effort to pull off a win on Sunday, and everybody will have to do their part to beat a strong team like the Niners.
