NFL MVP race: Vick, Brady even (Ryan, White close behind)
Michael Vick had four touchdowns against Giants.
Matt Ryan is close to setting an NFL win record.
There are two games left in the NFL’s regular season. Other than finalizing the playoff field, the greatest debate seems to be: Who is the season’s MVP?
The way I see it, it’s a four-player race that’s still up for grabs. But right now, Tom Brady and Michael Vick are at the top, and I’ve got them even. The other two candidates: Matt Ryan and Roddy White of the Falcons.
I welcome your opinion. Also got a poll up.
Loading ...Just one thing: I was on Twitter last night and the rapper @BowWow turned moron when he Tweeted, “If @MikeVick dont get MVP the nfl and commisioner[sic] are [bleeping] racist. Who u kno can go to jail come out turn a franchise around and dominate.”
I will say this once: PLEASE let’s have a civil debate without getting into a race debate. I will grant you that a lot of folks probably hold a grudge against Vick for his past, but let’s remember that at one time he brought this city together like maybe no athlete ever has, and it wasn’t about race then. If, say, Brady wins the MVP, it’s not because the NFL and commissioner Roger Goodell are racist. Sorry, Bowwow.
OK, here are my four candidates, listed in order of preference, going into the last two weeks:
1.) TOM BRADY. New England (12-2) is tied with the Falcons for the best record in the NFL. The biggest reason is Brady. He hasn’t thrown an interception since the Patriots’ fifth game against Baltimore. That’s nine straight games (283 attempts) without a pick. He’s tied for the league lead in touchdowns (31), has the fewest interceptions (four) and the highest quarterback rating (109.9). There’s also this: He and the Patriots’ offense got better after they dumped Randy Moss. Brady made Deion Branch relevant again.
1a.) MICHAEL VICK. The New York Giants’ meltdown against Philadelphia Sunday notwithstanding, is there any quarterback in the league other than Vick who could’ve orchestrated that comeback? I don’t think so. He exuded leadership and was the ultimate weapon, throwing for 242 yards and three touchdowns and rushing for 130 and another score. Vick’s turnovers have picked up as he’s gotten more beat up as the season’s gone on. But if he can finish with two strong games against Minnesota and Dallas, he is MVP worthy. The biggest reason not to vote for Vick is he sat out three games and was knocked out early in another. But his body of work compensates for that.
3.) MATT RYAN. I’ve gone back and forth between Ryan and White as to who’s been more valuable this season. Right now, it’s a split vote. Ryan is closing in on an amazing achievement: He is 32-13 as a starter and with wins in the final two games can break Dan Marino’s record for most wins (33) in his first three seasons. But let’s focus on this year. Ryan’s been at his best when the game is on the line, leading several fourth-quarter comebacks. That defines a winner (and the Falcons have won eight straight and more than any team except the Patriots). Despite four interceptions in his last three games, Ryan is on the way to the best touchdown-interception ratio of his career (currently 25 to 9).
3a.) RODDY WHITE. There’s a tendency to lean toward the quarterback when picking an MVP. But White has had the best season of his career and he has made the Falcons a better offense and Ryan a better quarterback with his ability to make plays. White leads the NFL in receptions (106) and receiving yards (1,284), averaging nearly 92 yards per game. He was the reason the Falcons beat Baltimore (12 catches, 138 yards, two touchdowns) and Cincinnati (11, 201, 2). Some wondered if White was worth elite-level money when he got his last contract, but he has proven that he is. Without him, this Falcons’ offense becomes ordinary.
That’s my opinion. I welcome yours.
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593 comments Add your comment
Vick rules
December 21st, 2010
9:55 pm
Michael Turner is the MVP of the Falcons, so its laughable what Schultz tried to do there. However, no other QB does what Vick did in less than 8 minutes on Sunday. So face it Falcon fans, the last team you want to face in the playoffs is the one team that has consistently kicked the Falcons behinds for the past decade………oh, except that ONE time…but then again, the QB for the Falcons that ONE time, is the QB for the Eagles now. LOL
Najeh Davenpoop
December 21st, 2010
10:01 pm
“Furthermore, Brady has faced tougher competition over the course of the season. ”
Actually this is not entirely true. If you look at the games Vick has played in full vs. the games Brady has played in full, Brady’s opponents are only two or three wins better than Vick’s opponents. The difference between their strengths of schedule is small enough as to not be statistically significant.
Mike
December 21st, 2010
10:05 pm
Not sure that what Vicks shortcomings in Atlanta were should have anyhting to do with this year. When I look at contributions by different players for their teams it is hard to dismiss what Vick has done in Philly. Yes Kolb is a good QB, and with the receivers they have and McCoy in the back field, he would indeed have impressive stats. However Phiily’s O-line is terrible. Everyone saw what the Packers did in week one against Philly. Against teams that are able to put up consistent pass rushes such as NY Giants, and Indy….there is no way without Vick the Eagles win. Without Vick Philly is a decent team fighting for a wildcard birth. It is hard to argue against Brady, but I think Brady plays behind a line that gives him time, and allows him to make plays down the field. He does not have the weapons that Vick has, but in their system he does not need them. I think Ryan has played well this year, but not deserving a MVP, however I think he should be in the running for the probowl just behind Vick and Brees. Not saying he is not MVP material, just to me he is not the most valuable player in the league, not even on his team this year. Would love Roddy to get more mention than he has gotten. Since I have seen him play every week, and seen him take over games (Cincy and first one against Tampa). He has been targeted more than any other receiver in the NFL, ask Matt Ryan who he thinks the MVP is. He has not been as big the past few weeks, not that he is not playing as well, but Jenkins and HD 83 have stepped up and are playing better. I do not think Manning is in the running this year, he is great, but I am not sure that he deserves a nod over Vick, Brady, White, or for that matter even Rivers. San Diego may not make the playoffs, but if it were not for Rivers they would be fighting for a first overall pick in April. Everyone has been quick to point out Manning has lost Clark, Collie, B. White at times, and 3 of Indys top four RBs…but he has still had his premier receiver and his vertial threat. Someone mentioned Polamalu, and he definitely deserves mention. He took that game away from Atlanta in Pittsburgh. The interception of Ryan late in that game was not a bad throw, but more of a great play. Polamalu may be the smartest defensive player in the league. He is a master at disguising his blitzes, and coverages. I wish Vick all the best, and would be happy for him if he makes it back to the NFC championship game. I think what he did was terrible, but he paid his debt to society, grew up, and this year is not just one of the best QBs in the league, but one of its best players. I would be very happy to see him be voted league MVP, and I feel he is deserving of the honor. However in my heart, and I tend to be one of those to vote with my heart, I hope the league has recognized what Roddy has done for our team is deserving of some deep consideration for league MVP.
The Dogfighter Returns
December 21st, 2010
10:10 pm
Mike,
Matt Ryan is not in the conversation for Pro Bowl, Mr. Rogers in GB is better.
Roger
December 21st, 2010
10:18 pm
Let me take a guess, Michael Vick over Tom Brady. Could it be the same black vote that put Jason Heyward on the “All Star” team? I wish Michael Vick well, but this racist support of anything black/”gangsta” crap needs to stop. You people are your own worst enemies!
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
December 21st, 2010
10:30 pm
The Eagles have played 8 Prime Time games. They should just call Sunday Night In America……”Eagles Night”
Frozen Rope
December 21st, 2010
10:31 pm
Really JS,, go ahead
MV7 for MVP
December 21st, 2010
10:32 pm
@Matt “CHOKE” Ryan
Will you be on the blog monday when the Saints destroy the Falcons
Frozen Rope
December 21st, 2010
10:33 pm
I say bring on Michael Pick,,,no problem
MV7 for MVP
December 21st, 2010
10:35 pm
Lol @Frozen Rope, 31-17 and you want a encore
Frozen Rope
December 21st, 2010
10:37 pm
Bring It
MV7 for MVP
December 21st, 2010
10:39 pm
What defense will stop Vick???? Frozen Rope, I promise you Vick will go off at the Dome
Frozen Rope
December 21st, 2010
10:40 pm
We Shall See
Frozen Rope
December 21st, 2010
10:41 pm
We’re not worried about Vick DA,,, our next game is the Aints,, you should really pay attention..
MV7 for MVP
December 21st, 2010
10:42 pm
Lol wow great comeback idiot, We already know the Saints and Eagles have the Falcons number so you guys need to worry about New Orleans
Frozen Rope
December 21st, 2010
10:45 pm
Hey,, Thats Mr Idiot to you loser,,,hahahahahahaha
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
December 21st, 2010
10:45 pm
3-Weeks until Falcons annual vacation
Frozen Rope
December 21st, 2010
10:47 pm
Hey,, at some point you have to admit the Flacons are pretty good and might reach the Superbowel,, even without a deepthroat on their Rooster…
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
December 21st, 2010
10:47 pm
MV7 for MVP
December 21st, 2010
10:32 pm
@Matt “CHOKE” Ryan
Will you be on the blog monday when the Saints destroy the Falcons
__________________________________________________________
Wouldn’t miss it for the world!
MV7 for MVP
December 21st, 2010
10:49 pm
Matt “CHOKE” Ryan
December 21st, 2010
10:45 pm
3-Weeks until Falcons annual vacation
LMAO!!!
Frozen Rope
December 21st, 2010
10:49 pm
Even though Spoon is ijery proon and Jerry is a fist round bust
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
December 21st, 2010
10:50 pm
Frozen Rope is just like a chain smoker – he knows the results but still keeps puffing
Frozen Rope
December 21st, 2010
10:50 pm
Dude,, are you talking too yourself again,, wierd
MV7 for MVP
December 21st, 2010
10:50 pm
Frozen Rope
December 21st, 2010
10:47 pm
Hey,, at some point you have to admit the Flacons are pretty good and might reach the Superbowel,, even without a deepthroat on their Rooster…
Yea only in your dreams
Noodle Arm
December 21st, 2010
10:51 pm
Anyone wanna guess how many quick slants I will throw monday
Frozen Rope
December 21st, 2010
10:52 pm
Choke!! You’re a funny guy,,,loser
Falcons Fan
December 21st, 2010
10:52 pm
Who really gives a F**k? It’s who wins it all. Such a mute subject. The MVP will be who eventually wins it all!
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
December 21st, 2010
10:52 pm
How stupid do you have to be to play 5 years in college and still throw 22 picks in the 5th season
Noodle Arm
December 21st, 2010
10:53 pm
Falcons Fan get a life moron, its all about my handoffs and quick slants
Frozen Rope
December 21st, 2010
10:55 pm
Hey,, Quick Slants will take you down the field bro,, and eat up the clock,,, thats what the Flacons do,, they eat clock and wear a defense out,,, learn it,, love it, live it,,, Hahahahahahaa
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
December 21st, 2010
10:56 pm
Hey “Noodle Arm” do you perform any special weight training to heave those deep quick slants?
Jammy
December 21st, 2010
10:57 pm
To those who keep comparing Brady and Vicks passing numbers and saying Brady is hands down the MVP:
1. Those numbers are pretty close for someone who has missed 4 games
2. Brady will probably always have better passing stats, but vick has almost 3k passing yards AND 600 RUSHING YARDS WITH 9 TDS. He is doing it in more than one way.
3. Who had the Eagles being this good, with that lousy defense, after first hearing vick would get the start. No one.
4. MOST VALUABLE PLAYER- take the players out of the team and think about the end results. The eagles would be outside looking in on the playoffs, the Pats would be close because their defense has played great, and the falcons would be shit without either ryan or white… It should go Vick White Brady Ryan
Noodle Arm
December 21st, 2010
10:59 pm
@Matt “CHOKE” Ryan
I never go in the weight room because I am so weak and slow, and Vick is so strong and fast that I have to beat defenses with my brain, until I throw another pick
Frozen Rope
December 21st, 2010
10:59 pm
Matt Ryan is no Michael Vick,, Thank God!
Who Dat Nation
December 21st, 2010
11:00 pm
Monday cannot get here fast enough
Saints 45 Falcons 7
You heard it here first
Frozen Rope
December 21st, 2010
11:00 pm
12 and 2 Biatch
Noodle Arm
December 21st, 2010
11:01 pm
I need to work on my handoff technique in practice this week
Who Dat Nation
December 21st, 2010
11:03 pm
Frozen Rope
December 21st, 2010
11:00 pm
12 and 2 Biatch
SUPERBOWL CHAMPS LOSER
Frozen Rope
December 21st, 2010
11:04 pm
Enter your comments here
Frozen Rope
December 21st, 2010
11:05 pm
Congratulations
Frozen Rope
December 21st, 2010
11:05 pm
Loser
Who Dat Nation
December 21st, 2010
11:05 pm
Just make sure you are here monday night Frozen Dope
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
December 21st, 2010
11:09 pm
“Noodle Arm” how do you handoff so many times without any wear and tear?
Doesn’t it take some special conditioning?
Noodle Arm
December 21st, 2010
11:12 pm
.Matt “CHOKE” Ryan
I do arm exercises at night while I am in the bed, that is some great SPECIAL CONDITIONING, if you know what I mean
tim
December 21st, 2010
11:13 pm
the racial element has to do with white minds not accepting black people as leaders. michael vick is the mvp in my mind because of his remarkable comeback,and his stats back him up as nfl player of the year which is what the mvp is. all the uncle toms on television should watch themselves get patronized on television and realize whats going on
Ryan Supporter
December 21st, 2010
11:18 pm
Choke reminds me of a segull,all he does is eat crap and squak!
Ryan Supporter
December 21st, 2010
11:20 pm
Who dat nation—Get ready for a beat down,last year is in the past.
Who Dat Nation
December 21st, 2010
11:25 pm
Ryan Supporter
Beatdown by who?? Not the Dirty Birds, make sure you check my score real close for monday night
Ryan Supporter
December 21st, 2010
11:31 pm
who dat nation—let me give you a score 42-28 Falcons.Saints turn ball over 4 times!
Mike
December 21st, 2010
11:50 pm
Its is rediculous that people hav eto throw down the race card Tim. I am a white mind, but can see where a valid argument can be made for Vick or Brady. It is apparent how ignorant many people on this blog are on both sides. No one can make an educated or valid point, so they like to insult Ryan or Vick depending on which side of the line they are on. If want the “stats” to back it up, then go ahead and hand the MVP to Brady…he is the man with the best stats. I think MVP is muchg bigger than who has the best numbers however. Who contributes the most to thier teams success. Hey anyone could argue that Vick or Brady either one have a pretty good supporting cast, and if Ryan is so terrible than Roddy must be really good. Or how about Rivers or Polamalu. I think a great deal has to do with exposure, and many coaches, writers, and fans have had the privaledge to see Vick and Brady play. It seems to me htere are many that are pulling for Vick for no other reason than his race, and there are those who are rooting against him because of his race. However I think it would be ignorant for anyone to say all black people want him to win because he is black or all white people want him not to win because he is black. I can say as a true sports fan, who can look beyond the color of ones skin, and what they have accomplshed on the field..I can say Vick deserves the MVP…however he is not the only qualified candidate.
Oh and all you Ryan bashers, I hope none of you have ever classified yourselves as Falcons fans. I have been critical of him at times, but because right now he is leading the team I have loved since I was a kid I want him to do well.
The Dogfighter returns, I was not arguing that Ryan was better than Rodgers. There stats are very close actually. Ryan has more yardage, more TD’s, less interceptions than Rodgers. Rodgers has a better completion percentage and a better QB rating. Ryan makes a little quicker decisions than Rodgers, and Rodgers has better wheels than Ryan. They have about equal talent, and their level of competion is about the same this year. So it is hard to say that Ryan is “not” in the discussion for pro bowl. I can see where you would maybe give Rodgers the edge, but I do not see where anyone can come right out and say Ryan has not had a pro bowl type year.