NFL MVP 2012: Why Aaron Rodgers Is No Longer a Lock for MVP

The NFL MVP award is given to the player that brings the most value to their team, hence why it’s called most valuable player.  

While Aaron Rodgers was among the top three QBs statistically (4,643 yards, 68 percent completion rate, 45 TDs, six INTs), he left a lot to be desired.

The Super Bowl MVP of the previous year automatically has a leg up on the competition the next year and I think this was a huge factor in how people regarded Rodgers this season. Since the end of last year was so great and the team continued to win in 2011, it must all be because of the quarterback.

Let me emphasize that Rodgers had a great season, but was it MVP-worthy? Is it the Packers offensive system what made Rodgers look so good?

I know it’s only one game, but it has to be mentioned how great Matt Flynn was in his one start. The opponent (Detroit Lions) were still playing for something and Flynn terrorized them for 480 yards, six TDs and one INT.

The receiving corps in Green Bay is as deep and talented as any in the league and they were no doubt a big part of Rodgers’ success.

Then there is the season Drew Brees had.

With zero Pro Bowl receivers, Brees broke Dan Marino’s all-time passing record with 5,476 yards in addition to 46 touchdowns and 14 interceptions, while completing 71 percent of his passes. Sure, he played in one more game, but those numbers are significantly better aside from the interceptions. Rodgers lost four fumbles and Brees didn’t lose one, meaning Rodgers had 10 total turnovers and Brees had 14.  

Despite the extra 60 minutes, Rodgers took 12 more sacks than Brees, something that is not completely Rodgers' fault, but is still worth mentioning.

You take Brees off the Saints and there is no way in the world New Orleans goes to the playoffs. You take Rodgers off the Packers and I think a guy like Flynn can sneak them into the playoffs.

That’s what being the most valuable player means.

Sure Rodgers is great and he had the most memorable commercial of the NFL season, but he was riding last year’s success into this year and voters must remember that the award is for the 2011 regular season and not for the success he had in January/February of 2011.  

Brees broke the passing record and Brees did it with less.

Of course I wouldn’t be shocked to see Rodgers land the MVP; he has the numbers to earn the award in almost any other season.

But not with the season Brees had. He is the true MVP in my eyes. Just ask Marino.