NFL MVP 2014-15: Updated Odds for Top Candidates and Predictions

While the final few weeks of the season will decide a lot when it comes to playoff standings, the battle for MVP is starting to wind down.

There are plenty of players at various positions having outstanding seasons, but one has stood above the rest in production, leadership and value to the team. This makes it no surprise the latest odds have Aaron Rodgers far ahead of the field.

Here is a complete look at the top names on the board with a breakdown of the top candidates for the sport's biggest individual award.

Rank	Name	Team	Odds*
8	Marshawn Lynch	Seattle Seahawks	33-1
7	Andrew Luck	Indianapolis Colts	33-1
6	Peyton Manning	Denver Broncos	14-1
5	LeVeon Bell	Pittsburgh Steelers	66-1
4	Tom Brady	New England Patriots	8-1

3. DeMarco Murray, RB, Dallas Cowboys (14-1)

The only reason DeMarco Murray isn't being talked about as often lately is that we have become almost bored with his incredible performances. His 179 rushing yards Thursday night almost seemed commonplace after his consistent success all year.

Clarence Hill of The Star-Telegram discusses the pace for the potential record-breaking season:

While the big numbers are great, the best part is the fact that he contributes every time he steps onto the field. Murray has topped 70 rushing yards in every game this season and has reached at least 100 yards in 11 of 13 games.

After seeing the Cowboys struggle the past few years behind a Tony Romo-led passing attack, relying on the run has helped Dallas get out to a 9-4 record and in contention for a division title.

Since you can't give an entire offensive line an MVP award, the man who is putting up the incredible numbers deserves the consideration. Murray has been outstanding all year and should be one of the favorites to win this prestigious award.

2. J.J. Watt, DE, Houston Texans (14-1)

USA TODAY Sports

For all the people tired of quarterbacks and other offensive players winning this award, J.J. Watt has become a legitimate option to represent all the overlooked defenders out there.

The Houston Texans are still in playoff contention at 7-6 thanks in large part to the play of Watt, who ranks third in the NFL with 14.5 sacks to go with nine batted passes, which leads all defensive linemen.

Additionally, Watt is the rare defensive player who makes an impact on the scoreboard with two defensive touchdowns to go with three receiving touchdowns on the year. For those keeping score at home, that's more receiving touchdowns than Larry Fitzgerald, Reggie Wayne, Vincent Jackson and more.

To make things even better, he refuses to campaign for votes, as he explained to Peter King of The Monday Morning Quarterback:

"

That’s for people like you to decide, not me. I can’t change any voters’ minds, and I don’t think I should try. I don’t care, actually. It doesn’t matter to me. It’s an award. If people vote for me, great. But to politic for it, no. Please vote for me? No. People who play don’t get to decide who wins, nor should they. I want to be deserving, but not because I politicked for it. My play on the field is all that should matter. Nothing else.

"

How can you not want to vote for this guy?

Watt is a difference-maker for the Texans on both sides of the ball, and he is as valuable as you can get for a player at his position.

1. Aaron Rodgers, QB, Green Bay Packers (1-4)

Mike Zarrilli/Getty Images

While everyone has their arguments over the most valuable player in the league, Aaron Rodgers is seemingly far ahead of the rest of the pack in this category.

The production throughout the quarterback's career has been undeniable, as NFL on ESPN noted before Monday's game:

ESPN's Jon Gruden also had high praise for the player:

"

"I think he's the best quarterback I've seen play in my lifetime" - Jon Gruden on Aaron Rodgers pic.twitter.com/Q9XCMvOUR6

— ESPN Monday Night (@ESPNMondayNight) December 8, 2014"

Ever since a 1-2 start, Rodgers has been in complete control for the Packers while being a calming force for the players and the fans.

With the best quarterback rating in the league, the Green Bay star should be able to take home this year's MVP award.

Odds via Oddschecker.

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