NFL Rookie of the Year 2011: Why Andy Dalton Should Win Offensive ROY

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton is the best choice for the NFL offensive rookie of the year—even over Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton.

Even though Newton became the first rookie quarterback to throw for 4000 yards or more, Dalton took a terrible Bengals squad to the playoffs while competing in a division with elite teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens.

Dalton was a winner in college at TCU and brought that same mentality to the Bengals, a team that was in complete disarray following last season leading up to the NFL draft.

His veteran-like presence in the huddle really allowed his teammates to believe in him, and Dalton was not easily rattled like most rookie quarterbacks.

Dalton threw for 3,398 yards with 20 touchdowns and 13 interceptions this season, which is a fantastic stat line for a rookie player.

He also did not have many weapons at his disposal on offense. Other than rookie wide receiver A.J. Green, Dalton did not have any top-tier players to throw to.

Newton's Panthers may not have the talented defense Dalton's Bengals do, but Newton has a much better running game and an All-Pro-caliber receiver like Steve Smith.

The Bengals were also just 19th in the NFL in rushing, which means Dalton did not have a reliable running game to fall back on most games.

To be able to step into a franchise with a ton of problems and lead them to the playoffs with few playmakers and little help from the running game is remarkable.

This is why Dalton is the clear choice for 2011 NFL offensive rookie of the year.