San Francisco 49ers: Why Aldon Smith Will Be Defensive Rookie of the Year

If the season ended today, Von Miller would be walking away with Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. The season doesn't end today though, and Aldon Smith has exploded onto the scene in his last few games, setting a blistering pace that makes him a lock for the award.

Don't look now, but Smith is on pace to not only snap the 49ers eight-year drought of not having a double-digit sack defender on roster, he's also on pace to break Jevon Kearse's rookie sack record of 14.5 sacks.

Miller has 6.0 sacks, 1/2 sack more than Smith's 5.5. Miller has 23 tackles, compared to Smith's eight. Miller has two forced fumbles, while Smith has one.

So what gives Smith the edge? Smith has 5.5 sacks and a forced fumble in his last three outings. He's taking on a far more crucial role and has justified his No. 7 overall selection.

As the season progresses, we can expect him to develop into more than a sack artist. Miller is already evolving into a true three-down linebacker in John Fox's 4-3 scheme. He's a bright spot on a less-than-stellar defense, while Smith is a piece of an outstanding defense.

Even so, Smith is finding ways to stand out. He's the best pass rusher on the team already, even though he isn't getting a ridiculous amount of snaps.

The 49ers are well on their way to winning the division. They've taken huge strides this season and Smith has been a huge part of it.

Smith also faces a much weaker schedule in upcoming weeks. The 49ers play the Rams twice (most sacks allowed), Seattle (tied for most sacks allowed), Pittsburgh (sixth-most sacks allowed) and the Cardinals twice (seventh-most sacks allowed).

Smith doesn't have to break the rookie sack record to attain Rookie of the Year honors, but with the soft schedule lying in front of him and his increased role in the defense, he'll bring the DROY award home.

With the DROY and coach of the year on roster, it's no wonder the 49ers have made such a drastic improvement from a season ago.