2014 First Quarter Awards, Philip Rivers Early Season MVP
The first quarter of the NFL season has officially arrived. The great parody of the league has been quite prevalent this season. Many of the top teams are under performing, while teams such as the Arizona Cardinals surprised everyone, currently sitting at 3-0. In honor of the quarter mark arriving, here are my quarterly NFL awards.
Most Valuable Player – Philip Rivers – San Diego Chargers
If you thought last season was a fluke for Philip Rivers, then you are sadly mistaken. After silencing many critics in 2013′, Rivers has come back with an even stronger performance this year. Outside of the first half against the Cardinals, Rivers has been automatic. Nine touchdowns to just one interception with a career best 70.1 completion percentage has Rivers in the conversation for MVP, while putting the Chargers a top of the AFC West.
Offensive Player of the Year – DeMarco Murray – Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys decided to draft offensive lineman Zack Martin instead of Johnny Manziel with the 16th pick in last year’s draft. It’s clear; the Cowboys went in the right direction. They have arguably the best offensive line in the league, which, in turn has a direct impact on DeMarco Murray. Murray, who leads the league in rushing with 534 yards, has had a better year than expected, developing into a top-tier running back.
Defensive Player of the Year – J.J. Watt – Houston Texans
J.J Watt has been on a tear this year. Each week opposing offenses try to game plan around stopping him, but it’s clear, you can’t stop him, you can only hope to contain him. Week in and week out, Watt is constantly making game changing plays. From sacks, to touchdown receptions, to an eighty-yard pick six, Mr. Watt has turned into a great ball player.
Comeback Player of the Year – Julio Jones – Atlanta Falcons
After a hot start last season, Julio Jones fell victim to a foot injury, forcing him to miss eleven games. This season, Jones has returned to full health and has not missed a beat in his return. The NFL’s leading receiver has put together one heck of a first quarter, making highlight reel catches, playing a huge role in Atlanta having the number 1 passing offense.
Coach of the Year – Bruce Arians – Arizona Cardinals
Bruce Arians has done a tremendous job turning around the Arizona Cardinals. We knew this team had talent, but to say you expected them to be 3-0 might be a bit of a stretch. If they can keep this up, Coach Arians is a lock for Coach of the Year.
Offensive Rookie of the Year – Kelvin Benjamin – Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers have struggled to start the season. Offensively, they cant keep Cam Newton upright and defensively, they have taken a major step back. One bright spot has been Kelvin Benjamin. His 6’5 frame has quickly turned him into one of Newton’s favorite receivers. He leads the team in targets, with a total of 21 catches for 329 yards and three touchdowns.
Defensive Rookie of the Year – Kyle Fuller – Chicago Bears
With Tim Jennings tearing his bicep during a Sunday night matchup against the San Francisco 49ers, the Bears needed someone to step up in the secondary. So far, first round pick Kyle Fuller has been that guy. He has done a tremendous job in coverage, intercepting three passes, including a multi interception game against the Niners.
Biggest Surprise – Arizona Cardinals
Heading into the season, there weren’t too many people expecting the Arizona Cardinals to enter their bye week undefeated. Despite starting quarterback Carson Palmer missing the last two games due to injury, the Cards defense has bolted them to the top spot in the always tough NFC West.
Biggest Disappointment – New Orleans Saints
Along with their high-powered offense, the New Orleans Saints added to their defense, slapping them with the label as one of the most complete team’s in the NFL. Through their first four games, the Saints have not played as advertised. Defensively, they can’t stop anyone, currently allowing 27.5 points per game, putting themselves in a hole at 1-3.