Updated: November 19, 2025
- Drew Brees spent three weeks (after Week 11 to Week 14) as the 2018 NFL MVP favorite
- Patrick Mahomes is again the favorite, with two weeks left in the season
- If you're looking to bet Drew Brees to win MVP, there's one sports book you should be going to
Criteria for NFL MVP Selection
The MVP selection process considers several factors. Voters examine player statistics, like total yards and touchdowns. They also look at the player's impact on their team's performance. A candidate's ability to lead crucial game wins often influences voters. Consistent, standout performances can sway opinions, especially against tough opponents.
The 2018 NFL MVP award was supposed to go to either Tom Brady or Aaron Rodgers – that's at least what the opening odds said, anyways.
But here we are entering Week 16 with (realistically) only Patrick Mahomes and Drew Brees left standing. Sure, you can make a good argument for Philip Rivers, but it'll lose all credibility if the Chargers don't find a way to win the AFC West.
.@PatrickMahomes5 tossed his 44th and 45th TD passes of the season in the @Chiefs‘ Week 15 loss. #LACvsKC pic.twitter.com/sZPrzy048z
— NFL (@NFL) December 14, 2018
Mahomes looked to be in control of the award until a five-turnover game against the LA Rams in Week 11. Brees became the favorite when odds were released again, but he gave the title of favorite right back after a 13-10 loss to the Cowboys in which the pivot only managed 127 yards through the air.
The two are still neck-and-neck with two weeks to go. While it may not seem like a ton of football, a lot can change in that time.
Influence of Team Performance on MVP Odds
Team performance plays a significant role in MVP odds. The Saints' strong record and playoff positioning boost Brees' value. Similarly, the Chiefs' offensive power highlights Mahomes' significance. Team success contributes to a player's MVP chances, reflecting their contributions to winning games.
If you don't have any action on the award yet, let me help you find your best odds for each player.
Odds to Win 2018 NFL MVP
| Player | Odds at Bovada | Odds at BetOnline | Odds at MyBookie |
|---|---|---|---|
| Patrick Mahomes | -180 | -190 | -135 |
| Drew Brees | +125 | +180 | -110 |
*Odds taken 12/22
When NFL MVP odds re-opened following Week 15, BetOnline had Brees listed at +220.
Apparently I wasn't the only one who saw the value there, as the online sports betting site is now offering him at +180. It's still the best odds you'll find, though, across our top sportsbooks.
If you didn't jump on any of the plus-odds you could get with Mahomes from November 28th to December 5th, and still want to make a wager on him, MyBookie's -135 odds are the best you'll get. If
Mahomes is to win the award, these are likely the best odds you'll get the rest of the season. If Kansas City loses to Seattle this week and gives up the AFC West title, there's a good chance the voters side with Brees.
If Mahomes beats the Seahawks in Seattle, the award will likely be all wrapped up.
Recent Trends in MVP Winners
Recent MVP winners have mostly been quarterbacks, showcasing the role's importance. This trend reflects the MVP's value on game outcomes. Voters often favor QBs who lead successful seasons. In such contexts, Brees and Mahomes stand poised, fitting this enduring pattern.
Mahomes vs Brees
| 4,543* | Passing Yards | 3,666 |
| 45* | Passing TDs | 31 |
| 11 | INTs | 5 |
| 114.8 | Passer Rating | 116.8* |
| 0 | Games w/ <220 Passing Yds | 7 |
| 2 | Games w/ Passer Rtg <91 | 5 |
*Denotes a league-best
Both players seem to have hit a bit of a wall down the stretch. Mahomes' stats have gone from eye-popping to just very good. But Brees' have been average at best.
.@_DJack01 just returned the 2-point conversion 98 YARDS TO THE HOUSE!!!
?: #NOvsCAR on ESPN pic.twitter.com/gDnkWZyPcD
— NFL (@NFL) December 18, 2018
The Chiefs' pivot has still thrown for 620 yards and four TDs (one INT) over his last two games, with a passer rating of 98.8 in that time. The Saints' veteran QB has only thrown for 404 yards with 1 TD and 2 INTs in the last two weeks, good for a passer rating of 79.4.
Historical Performance of Brees and Mahomes
Drew Brees, a well-experienced player, has several NFL records, including passing yards. He's known for his precision and leadership. Mahomes, on the other hand, took the league by storm with his arm strength and agility.
Both brought unique strengths to their teams, making them strong MVP candidates.
The award is Mahomes' to lose. And I wouldn't bet on him imploding at this point. This kid is changing the game.
The post Brees MVP-Bettors Need to Head to BetOnline; Mahomes-Bettors to MyBookie appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.
Original source: https://www.sportsbettingdime.com/news/nfl/drew-brees-patrick-mahomes-mvp-bettors-betonline-mybookie/
