When this race started there were two guys who took all of our attention. The highlight reel performances of Cam Newton and impact plays of Von Miller set them apart from the class of 2011. Now, as the race gets into the final stretch, we’re seeing less of the highlight reel performances, and more and more of the impact plays.
Without being too smug – since many still disagree – there’s only been one week where Miller hasn’t led our Race for Rookie of the Year, and it’s nice that the praise is starting to flow that should have come so much sooner. He may be head-and-shoulders above the rest, but there are plenty of other performers catching our eye right now who, in any other year, would be in with a serious shot of winning these things.
Still, maybe that rookie wall will begin to slow Miller down soon …
1. [1] Von Miller, OLB, DEN, +43.4 (625 snaps)
No, that rating is not a typo. Miller has just been that good, making plays in every phase of the game. He used Thursday Night Football to enhance his credentials by making sure Mark Sanchez knew all about him. Now has an incredible 26 quarterback takedowns (sacks and QB hits).
2. [2] Cam Newton, QB, CAR, +28.2 (698 snaps)
Is the shine starting to wear off? Newton is still making plays but he’s more and more likely the development passer we were led to believe he would be.
3. [3] Tyron Smith, RT, DAL, +11.0 (680 snaps)
Our No. 2-ranked right tackle on the year, the big Cowboys lineman is earning every bit of praise that comes his way. Gave up a sack and nothing else against the Redskins, even if his run blocking was subpar.
4. [4] Andy Dalton, QB, CIN, +15.8 (665 snaps)
While the last two weeks have seen Dalton make some rookie throws, you have to admire how well he has done since becoming the Bengals' franchise QB. That won’t win him this race, but it bodes well for the future.
5. [5] Marcell Dareus, DT, BUF, +8.1 (437 snaps)
Dareus failed to make much of an impact against Miami in his third consecutive negatively-graded game. Take away big performances against the Giants and Redskins and you’re looking at a rather ‘meh’ rookie year. Keeps his spot because nobody seemed to want to take it from him.
6. [6] DeMarco Murray, HB, DAL, +8.9 (294 snaps)
After four weeks of looking like he could make anything happen, Murray looked far more pedestrian against Washington. It’s going to be interesting to see how he bounces back come Thanksgiving.
7. [8] Aldon Smith, OLB, SF, +10.5 (331 snaps)
Smith got plenty of playing time and responded with a sack, hit and two hurries – yet we weren’t quite as impressed as we were with his display against the Giants, and it’s been a long way since that Lions breakout game. Still enjoying a fine rookie year.
8. [9] A.J. Green, WR, CIN, +5.1 receiving (552 snaps)
Green missed time hurt but was really starting to make strides in this list. If he can return close to 100% then he’ll carry on moving up.
9. [7] Jurrell Casey, DT, TEN, +7.1 (408 snaps)
Atlanta can be a tricky team to play against and so it proved for Casey who easily had his worst game of the season. Failed to make any real impact after a string of impressive games.
10. [-] Richard Sherman, CB, SEA, +7.5 (382 snaps)
Gave up a touchdown to Brandon Lloyd (much like Joe Haden had the week prior), but continues to impress since being forced into action in Seattle. Record reads: four starts, four ‘grades in the green’ from the fifth-round pick.
Dropping Out
Denarius Moore, WR, OAK: With just two targets and one reception for 14 yards, Moore needs more opportunities to solidify a place in the Top 10.
Five to Watch
Torrey Smith, WR, BAL: Not the most refined of receivers but extremely effective.
Marcus Gilbert, RT, PIT: Went into his bye week knowing he’s a big reason for the Steelers' offensive line turning the corner.
Jabaal Sheard, DE, CLE: Had some joy against Guy Whimper but needs to do more over the course of a game to get back onto the main list.
Adrian Clayborn, DE, TB: Looked ready to beat down Marshall Newhouse all day but failed to really put him to the sword in an otherwise encouraging display.
J.J Watt, DE, HOU: More pressure on the Houston defense will mean they need more from Watt who has really helped toughen them up against the run.
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