NFL MVP 2011: Tight MVP Race Bound for Controversial Finish

The MVP votes are in, but when they are released, a great deal of controversy will come flooding out with them. Both Drew Brees and Aaron Rodgers enjoyed historic seasons, which means either as an MVP will not sit well with fans. 

This is not a thoroughbred race that is neck and neck, only to end in a photo-finish. We have seen the race run already, and it was breathtaking, historic even.

Brees and Rodgers delivered two performances that may never get equaled. If they do, it will be quite some time before they are done in the same season. 

No, the only way for a season of magic to end is in the mud of controversy. Both quarterbacks proved to be not nearly enough to get their team the Super Bowl, but that really shouldn't figure in anyway. The regular season is what it's all supposed to center on, and that is where the true marvels rest anyway. 

Drew Brees: The New Orleans Saints quarterback completed 71 percent of his passes in 2011. His 110.6 passer rating included 5,476 yards thrown and 46 touchdowns. 

This was finally the season that Dan Marino's 27-year-old record for single-season passing yardage would fall, and Brees would be the man to do it. When the Saints needed it, Brees lead them to a final three games of over 40 points, two of which saw Brees pass for an 80 percent completion rate. 

Aaron Rodgers: Forget the notion that 2010 was a flash in a very big pan, Rodgers is indeed the real deal and had just a historic year as Brees had. 

His 122.5 passer rating is now tops all time, and he very well may have finished above 5,000 yards had he actually played in the final game of the season. 

It all gets far more cloudy when you consider that Tom Brady had an amazing season of his own. There are three legitimate contenders in the MVP race, and the hope is that the voters at least pick one. 

While the controversy and discussion will be abundant, it is precisely these discussions that make sports great. 

One great performance will have to make way for another, and with that comes another great debate. This may be one of the best, like which hallowed baseball record will stand all-time. 

Decades from now, we will be arguing over how Rodgers or Brees was snubbed for the 2011 MVP award. 

Both delivered a magical season, but gave us one final parting gift, a discussion that will truly stand the test of time. 

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