2011 has been the season of the QB. Whether it is first overall pick Cam Newton living up to the hype, or ex-Gator Tebow quieting his critics. There has been no shortage of focus on the talent and dramatics of a number of QB’s in the 2011 season, thankfully none of their last names begin with F and end with E. But, three QB’s have stood out among the rest: Rodgers, Brees, and Brady.
The Super Bowl Champion Green Bay Packers have quickly become the team to beat. Coming off a dramatic Super Bowl win, led by California native Aaron Rodgers, the Packers are muzzling their critics, proving that a repeat could very well be in the cards. Rodgers has thrown for 4,643 yards with a passer rating of 122.5. His touchdown total of 45 almost doubles that of the 2010 total when they hoisted the Lombardi trophy. With only one game left and one loss on the season, the Packers are a heavy favorite to be defending their title in Indianapolis in February. If Jennings and Starks are healthy come playoff time, that road might not be such a difficult one. At only 28 years old, with arguably the best arm in the league, Rodgers is on his way to a hall of fame career. Not bad for a guy who had to endure sitting on the bench behind Favre’s antics and constant flip-flopping for three seasons.
Five time pro-bowler Drew Brees is having another explosive year. He has thrown for 5,087 yards, becoming the all-time single season passing leader and has the most 300+ passing yards in a season. In 2011, he boasts a completion percentage of 71.5, better than both Brady and Rodgers. Chosen by San Diego in the second round of the 2001 draft, Brees has gone on to have a remarkable career. He does not look to be slowing down any time soon. The 2009 Super Bowl Champion New Orleans Saints led by Drew Brees may be the only road block standing in the way of a Packer return trip to the Super Bowl. The San Diego Chargers opted on taking a chance with Philip Rivers, while Miami signed Daunte Culpepper after the 2005 season due to the trepidation of Brees not being completely healthy. That is irony at its best, considering Culpepper didn’t even last an entire season with the Dolphins before undergoing surgery for a nagging knee problem. I bet the Chargers and Dolphins are ecstatic with their decision on doubting Drew Brees.
2011 has been another exceptional year for Tom Terrific. Brady has thrown for 4,897 yards, with still one game left to play in the regular season. The multiple record holder and three time Super Bowl winner has boasted a pretty impressive career and this year has not been to shabby. Just this past week, Brady became the only QB to throw for 36 or more touchdowns in three NFL seasons. Just a week before, Brady became just the 7th QB in the history of the NFL to have multiple seasons of 4,500+ passing yards. Brady could easily make an argument to be MVP every year except two of his 12 year career.
We won’t know who will be MVP until after the regular season. The last game of the season could be the final push that these three QB’s need to cement their MVP status. My prediction for MVP is Aaron Rodgers. Who do you think deserves the honors?
Aaron Rodgers, without a doubt.
Happy Holidays "Sports Chick!"
I couldn't agree with you more. Aaron Rogers has consistently had the best year, while playing on the best team. Drew has been on fire the last couple of weeks, unfortunately I don't think it will be enough. Tom, who happens to be my favorite quarterback, doesn't have a shot in hell this year. Good read, cous.