Midseason awards: the NFL’s standout players in the first half of the season
Posted by The Skyliner on November 18th, 2009Cory Guinn
Copy Editor
The NFL season is already at the midway point, and it is time to hand out some mid-season awards. With rookies and veterans alike playing at the top of their games, the decisions for these awards were not easy. The following awards are my own picks for which players should receive the trophies at this point in the NFL season.
MVP: Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints and Peyton Manning, Indianapolis Colts (tie)
Each signal caller has led his team to an undefeated record, which speaks volumes of his leadership abilities. On talent alone, these two players are practically equal, which makes this decision even harder. To choose one player over the other would just not be fair. If either the Colts or Saints fade in the second half of the season, then one player may pull ahead of the other.
Offensive Player of the Year: Chris Johnson, Tennessee Titans
Johnson is stuck on one of the most disappointing teams in the league, but that has not slowed down his production. In only his second year in the league, Johnson leads all rushers with 1,091 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. He has also amassed 262 receiving yards with one touchdown. Johnson’s versatility as a receiver and runner make him one of the most valuable players in the NFL today.
Defensive Player of the Year: Jared Allen, Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings defense has been a main reason why this teams is playing so well. Allen is the leader of the defense, playing with passion on every play. He has totaled 34 tackles through eight games as well as a league-leading 10.5 sacks and three forced fumbles. Elvis Dummervil is a close second, but Allen is the undeniable leader of this Minnesota team.
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Percy Harvin, Minnesota Vikings
Harvin fell further in the draft than most expected, so it is safe to say that the Vikings got a steal when he fell into their lap. His speed and versatility allow him to be used in almost every facet of the offense. He has 422 receiving yards, 889 return yards, 46 rushing yards and five total touchdowns. If he continues to stay healthy, Harvin will be the unanimous Rookie of the Year at season’s end.
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Jairus Byrd, Buffalo Bills
Most NFL fans have never heard of Jairus Byrd simply because he plays for the Buffalo Bills. Byrd is a playmaking defensive back who has picked off eight passes in his first nine career games and is the lone bright spot on a dismal Buffalo team.
Most Improved Player: Cedric Benson, Cincinnati Bengals
Cedric Benson was a forgotten player just a few years ago, but since he signed with Cincinnati, he has broken out and made noise with his stellar play. Benson has rushed for more 100 yards four times this season, including twice against the powerful Ravens defense. In all, he has 859 rushing yards and a career-high six touchdowns in only nine games.
Tags: Fall 2009, Vol. 109 - Issue 10