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The NFL has reached its midway point. The sample size has grown large enough for fans to know which teams are contenders and which are pretenders. There is still plenty of football left in 2014, but here is how the playoff picture looks in the AFC through Week 9. Click here for the NFC.

One Seed: New England Patriots (7-2) - Bill Belichick and Tom Brady have made all us "experts" look silly since claiming them "finished" after the Week 4 blowout on Monday night. New England has won five straight since that night, outscoring opponents, 201-108. Tight end Rob Gronkowski is healthy and has reasserted himself as Brady's No. 1 target over that stretch, catching 36 balls for 516 yards and four touchdowns. When Gronkowski is rolling and demanding double-teams, it opens up space for the rest of the offense. There is no concern regarding Stevan Ridley's injury as Shane Vereen and Jonas Gray are poised to fill that void, but there is still a question mark surrounding the inexperienced offensive line. Even still, New England is the front-runner for home field advantage throughout the playoffs with its victory over Denver in Week 8.

Two Seed: Denver Broncos (6-2) - This team is arguably still the best in the league despite its mishap last Sunday. Denver's offense is short of its record-setting pace it set last year, but it is still in the top five in points per game, yards per game and passing yards per game. The running game hasn't kicked into full gear yet, but it has improved since Ronnie Hillman took over after Montee Ball suffered a groin injury. The defense is much, much better than a season ago with free agent additions DeMarcus Ware, Aqib Talib and draft pick Bradley Roby. The defense is the best in the league at stopping the run and is ranked seventh with 24 sacks. Denver will easily win the AFC West, the question is can it repeat as conference champions.

Three Seed: Pittsburgh Steelers (6-3) - There isn't a hotter offense in the conference. Ben Roethlisberger has thrown six touchdowns in each of the last two games, an NFL record. In the last three games, all victories, the offense is averaging over 41 points per game. It's no coincidence rookie wide receiver Martavis Bryant was activated at the start of the winning streak. The rookie has five touchdowns in his first three NFL games and with him and second-year wide receiver Markus Wheaton trending upwards, defenses can no longer double-team Antonio Brown. Much like the offense in the first six games, the defense was very inconsistent, but Dick LeBeau's group has also turned the corner. Pittsburgh has seven takeaways in the last three games, which is more than the unit had in the first six games combined. The Steelers play the Bengals twice in the last four weeks of the season, and those games will decide the division.

Four Seed: Indianapolis Colts (6-3) - Another very talented team, Indianapolis will end up as the fourth seed because of losses to Denver and Pittsburgh. The Colts, however, will have a shot to knock off the Patriots in Week 11 and unlike the games against the Broncos and Steelers, Indianapolis gets New England at home. Similar to the days with Peyton Manning, Andrew Luck is carrying the team. He leads the league with 3,085 passing yards and 26 touchdowns. Indianapolis also proved on Monday night their defense is a lot better with cornerback Vontae Davis in the lineup. He went down with a knee injury early in the Steelers lost, and the Colts went on to allow 522 passing yards and 51 points. Against the Giants with Davis back, Eli Manning barely completed 50 percent of his passes. With a weak schedule, the Colts have a chance to move up this list, but in order to be considered a real contender in the conference, they must beat New England at home.

Five Seed: Cincinnati Bengals (5-2-1) - The Bengals have the inside track to winning the tough AFC North as they swept the Ravens, but Cincinnati has yet to play either the Browns or Steelers. The Bengals have swept the Steelers just once this century and have swept the entire AFC North only once back in 2009. In order to accomplish those feats, Cincinnati will have to get healthy as arguably the team's three best players, A.J. Green, Giovani Bernard and Vontaze Burfict, have missed significant time this year. Green returned last week against Jacksonville, but Bernard and Burfict will likely sit out again and miss this Thursday night's game versus the Browns. Jeremy Hill replaced Bernard nicely in his first start with 154 yards on 24 carries against the Jaguars. Even when Bernard returns, Hill will remain an important part of the Bengals rushing attack that is ranked ninth in the league. Besides the four division games, Cincinnati has a tough road game in New Orleans Week 11, and then hosts Denver on Monday night right before the season finale in Pittsburgh.

Six Seed: Baltimore Ravens (5-4) - Quite honestly, Baltimore has been the most well-rounded, consistent team in the AFC North the first half of the season. The offensive line has made major improvements and has turned Joe Flacco back into a good quarterback. Fans also have to give this team credit for avoiding a collapse in light of the Ray Rice fiasco. Despite those great things, the Ravens are in last place. A couple balls didn't bounce their way in both games against Cincinnati, and then they lost twice on the road to Indianapolis and Pittsburgh. It doesn't really matter Baltimore is in last place at the moment, but what does matter is that 2-3 division record. In order to win the division, Baltimore is going to have to win it outright because they won't own any tiebreakers. After their bye week, the Ravens play at New Orleans, San Diego, and at Miami. If they can win two of those games, particularly the ones against San Diego and Miami, the Ravens will win at least 10 games and have the wild card tiebreak over the Chargers and Dolphins.

The NFL has reached its midway point. The NFC has three playoff teams from last season on the outside looking into the playoff picture. There is still plenty of football left, but is there enough time for those teams to make a run? Here's what the NFC playoffs picture looks like after Week 9. Click here for the AFC.

One Seed: Arizona Cardinals (7-1) - It's hard to believe the Arizona Cardinals are the only team left in the league with one loss, and that came on the road to the reigning AFC Champions when the Cardinals were resorted to playing rookie quarterback Logan Thomas for a good portion of the second half because of injuries. Arizona swept the entire NFC East, beating Philadelphia and Dallas the last two weeks. Nothing really pops out at you about this team on the stat sheet. The Cardinals are 28th in rushing and dead last in stopping the pass. Running back Andre Ellington's yards per carry is down from 5.5 his rookie season to 3.8 this year, and Larry Fitzgerald has caught just two touchdowns. But there isn't a more aggressive team in the NFL. Coach Bruce Arians runs a relentless vertical passing attack and no one blitzes more on defense. The players have bought into Arians' tactics and have responded. Two games against a desperate Seattle team will be tough, but keep in mind, the Cardinals are the only team to beat the Seahawks over the last 20 games in Seattle.

Two Seed: Green Bay Packers (5-3) - With Green Bay's three toughest games left on their schedule at home, it isn't unrealistic to see Aaron Rodgers and company run the table. They have won four of their last five, losing only in the loud Superdome. Rodgers has 14 touchdowns versus just two interceptions in the last five games. Randall Cobb and Jordy Nelson have been on fire during that stretch as well. Cobb has 452 yards and six touchdowns while Nelson has 386 yards and five touchdowns in those five games. After Chicago this week, Green Bay plays Philadelphia in a game that has huge implications for which team wins the second bye. If Rodgers is clicking on all cyclinders, Mark Sanchez will not be able to keep up. The other true test for the Packers will be the Patriots in Week 13. That game, along with the season finale against the current division-leading Lions, is at Lambeau Field. 

It is probably a surprise to many to leave the 6-2 Detroit Lions off this list as they have already beaten the Packers. Detroit, however, faces Miami and then visits the Cardinals and Patriots the next three weeks. Then, the Lions finish the season on the road the last two weeks at Chicago and Green Bay. Like last season, Detroit will falter again.

Three Seed: Philadelphia Eagles (6-2) - Two weeks ago, the Eagles were probably the best pick as Super Bowl favorites in the NFC, but two injuries in Week 9 will likely derail their season. Quarterback Nick Foles cracked his collar bone and is out at least six weeks while linebacker DeMeco Ryans torn his Achilles' tendon and is out for the season. Former Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez now has the keys to Chip Kelly's offense. With so many offensive weapons, Sanchez is capable of leading the Eagles to a division title. Receiver Jeremy Maclin has 790 yards and eight touchdowns this season, and behind a now healthy offensive line, running back LeSean McCoy has rushed for over 100 yards twice in the last three games. Actually, the Ryans' injury is probably more concerning for the Eagles' faithful. He had 45 tackles, four pass breakups and an interception through eight games. Without him, the Philadelphia run defense is softer and loses leadership in the middle. The Eagles face the Cowboys twice in the last five weeks of the season, which will decide the winner of the NFC East. 

Four Seed: New Orleans Saints (4-4) - There is no doubt the NFC South is the weakest division in the NFL, but it doesn't help the NFC South is matched up against the AFC North, perhaps the best division in the league. New Orleans has already lost to Cleveland, and after it welcomes the 49ers to the Superdome, the Saints face the Bengals, Ravens and Steelers in three straight weeks. These next three weeks before the Pittsburgh game, however, will be the Saints best chance to make a move in the standings because all three games are home. The Saints offfense has been better the last two weeks in large part to tight end Jimmy Graham, who has two touchdowns in those games. After that tough stretch, the Saints play three division opponents in the last four weeks. Drew Brees and the offense has moved the ball effective this season, so Brees and company just need to do a better job of taking care of the ball. The emergence of Mark Ingram is paying huge dividends. After never rushing for 100 yards in a game during his first three seasons, Ingram has posted back-to-back 100-yard contests.

Five Seed: Dallas Cowboys (6-3) - It is hard to believe the Cowboys are the most well put-together team in the league this season, but it could all fall apart because of one injury. Dallas is dedicated to running the ball behind perhaps the best offensive line in the league and controlling the time of possession has benefitted the defense. But without Tony Romo last week, the Cowboys did very little on offense. It is clear backup quarterback Brandon Weeden will not keep the Cowboys a contender in the NFC East let alone a Super Bowl contender. That means the offense will rely even more heavily on running back DeMarco Murray, who is already on pace for over 450 touches. It is difficult to believe Murray can handle an even bigger workload, and it is conceivable to think Murray will wear down by the end of the year. Dallas' season hinges on Romo returning under center and staying healthy.

Six Seed: Seattle Seahawks (5-3) - Seattle has quite a bit of work to do if it wants a shot at defending its title this January. Two of the following four: Eagles, Cowboys, Packers and Lions, will be in the wild card race not to mention the 49ers, who will get a lot of defensive players back from suspension and injury in the second half of the season. Even without Percy Harvin, Seattle has the tools to make a deep run. The Seahawks are fourth in rushing yards and rank in the top six in yards allowed, rushing yards allowed and receiving yards allowed per game. They also rank tenth in points allowed. The Seahawks problems are lack of takeaways and the abandonment Marshawn Lynch. In the team's three losses, Lynch has carried the ball on average just 11 times, and Seattle has just 10 takeaways, which limits the defense's big-play ability. Despite lackluster wins over Carolina and Oakland, Seattle controls its own destiny with two games against San Francisco and Arizona. They also play at Kansas City, at Philadelphia and then home versus the Rams, who upset the Seahawks in Week 7.

The NFL has reached its midway point. The sample size has grown large enough for fans to know which teams are contenders and which are pretenders. There is still plenty of football left in 2014, but here is how the playoff picture looks in the AFC through Week 9. Click here for the NFC.

One Seed: New England Patriots (7-2) - Bill Belichick and Tom Brady have made all us "experts" look silly since claiming them "finished" after the Week 4 blowout on Monday night. New England has won five straight since that night, outscoring opponents, 201-108. Tight end Rob Gronkowski is healthy and has reasserted himself as Brady's No. 1 target over that stretch, catching 36 balls for 516 yards and four touchdowns. When Gronkowski is rolling and demanding double-teams, it opens up space for the rest of the offense. There is no concern regarding Stevan Ridley's injury as Shane Vereen and Jonas Gray are poised to fill that void, but there is still a question mark surrounding the inexperienced offensive line. Even still, New England is the front-runner for home field advantage throughout the playoffs with its victory over Denver in Week 8.

Two Seed: Denver Broncos (6-2) - This team is arguably still the best in the league despite its mishap last Sunday. Denver's offense is short of its record-setting pace it set last year, but it is still in the top five in points per game, yards per game and passing yards per game. The running game hasn't kicked into full gear yet, but it has improved since Ronnie Hillman took over after Montee Ball suffered a groin injury. The defense is much, much better than a season ago with free agent additions DeMarcus Ware, Aqib Talib and draft pick Bradley Roby. The defense is the best in the league at stopping the run and is ranked seventh with 24 sacks. Denver will easily win the AFC West, the question is can it repeat as conference champions.

Three Seed: Pittsburgh Steelers (6-3) - There isn't a hotter offense in the conference. Ben Roethlisberger has thrown six touchdowns in each of the last two games, an NFL record. In the last three games, all victories, the offense is averaging over 41 points per game. It's no coincidence rookie wide receiver Martavis Bryant was activated at the start of the winning streak. The rookie has five touchdowns in his first three NFL games and with him and second-year wide receiver Markus Wheaton trending upwards, defenses can no longer double-team Antonio Brown. Much like the offense in the first six games, the defense was very inconsistent, but Dick LeBeau's group has also turned the corner. Pittsburgh has seven takeaways in the last three games, which is more than the unit had in the first six games combined. The Steelers play the Bengals twice in the last four weeks of the season, and those games will decide the division.

Four Seed: Indianapolis Colts (6-3) - Another very talented team, Indianapolis will end up as the fourth seed because of losses to Denver and Pittsburgh. The Colts, however, will have a shot to knock off the Patriots in Week 11 and unlike the games against the Broncos and Steelers, Indianapolis gets New England at home. Similar to the days with Peyton Manning, Andrew Luck is carrying the team. He leads the league with 3,085 passing yards and 26 touchdowns. Indianapolis also proved on Monday night their defense is a lot better with cornerback Vontae Davis in the lineup. He went down with a knee injury early in the Steelers lost, and the Colts went on to allow 522 passing yards and 51 points. Against the Giants with Davis back, Eli Manning barely completed 50 percent of his passes. With a weak schedule, the Colts have a chance to move up this list, but in order to be considered a real contender in the conference, they must beat New England at home.

Five Seed: Cincinnati Bengals (5-2-1) - The Bengals have the inside track to winning the tough AFC North as they swept the Ravens, but Cincinnati has yet to play either the Browns or Steelers. The Bengals have swept the Steelers just once this century and have swept the entire AFC North only once back in 2009. In order to accomplish those feats, Cincinnati will have to get healthy as arguably the team's three best players, A.J. Green, Giovani Bernard and Vontaze Burfict, have missed significant time this year. Green returned last week against Jacksonville, but Bernard and Burfict will likely sit out again and miss this Thursday night's game versus the Browns. Jeremy Hill replaced Bernard nicely in his first start with 154 yards on 24 carries against the Jaguars. Even when Bernard returns, Hill will remain an important part of the Bengals rushing attack that is ranked ninth in the league. Besides the four division games, Cincinnati has a tough road game in New Orleans Week 11, and then hosts Denver on Monday night right before the season finale in Pittsburgh.

Six Seed: Baltimore Ravens (5-4) - Quite honestly, Baltimore has been the most well-rounded, consistent team in the AFC North the first half of the season. The offensive line has made major improvements and has turned Joe Flacco back into a good quarterback. Fans also have to give this team credit for avoiding a collapse in light of the Ray Rice fiasco. Despite those great things, the Ravens are in last place. A couple balls didn't bounce their way in both games against Cincinnati, and then they lost twice on the road to Indianapolis and Pittsburgh. It doesn't really matter Baltimore is in last place at the moment, but what does matter is that 2-3 division record. In order to win the division, Baltimore is going to have to win it outright because they won't own any tiebreakers. After their bye week, the Ravens play at New Orleans, San Diego, and at Miami. If they can win two of those games, particularly the ones against San Diego and Miami, the Ravens will win at least 10 games and have the wild card tiebreak over the Chargers and Dolphins.

The NFL has reached its midway point. The NFC has three playoff teams from last season on the outside looking into the playoff picture. There is still plenty of football left, but is there enough time for those teams to make a run? Here's what the NFC playoffs picture looks like after Week 9. Click here for the AFC.

One Seed: Arizona Cardinals (7-1) - It's hard to believe the Arizona Cardinals are the only team left in the league with one loss, and that came on the road to the reigning AFC Champions when the Cardinals were resorted to playing rookie quarterback Logan Thomas for a good portion of the second half because of injuries. Arizona swept the entire NFC East, beating Philadelphia and Dallas the last two weeks. Nothing really pops out at you about this team on the stat sheet. The Cardinals are 28th in rushing and dead last in stopping the pass. Running back Andre Ellington's yards per carry is down from 5.5 his rookie season to 3.8 this year, and Larry Fitzgerald has caught just two touchdowns. But there isn't a more aggressive team in the NFL. Coach Bruce Arians runs a relentless vertical passing attack and no one blitzes more on defense. The players have bought into Arians' tactics and have responded. Two games against a desperate Seattle team will be tough, but keep in mind, the Cardinals are the only team to beat the Seahawks over the last 20 games in Seattle.

Two Seed: Green Bay Packers (5-3) - With Green Bay's three toughest games left on their schedule at home, it isn't unrealistic to see Aaron Rodgers and company run the table. They have won four of their last five, losing only in the loud Superdome. Rodgers has 14 touchdowns versus just two interceptions in the last five games. Randall Cobb and Jordy Nelson have been on fire during that stretch as well. Cobb has 452 yards and six touchdowns while Nelson has 386 yards and five touchdowns in those five games. After Chicago this week, Green Bay plays Philadelphia in a game that has huge implications for which team wins the second bye. If Rodgers is clicking on all cyclinders, Mark Sanchez will not be able to keep up. The other true test for the Packers will be the Patriots in Week 13. That game, along with the season finale against the current division-leading Lions, is at Lambeau Field. 

It is probably a surprise to many to leave the 6-2 Detroit Lions off this list as they have already beaten the Packers. Detroit, however, faces Miami and then visits the Cardinals and Patriots the next three weeks. Then, the Lions finish the season on the road the last two weeks at Chicago and Green Bay. Like last season, Detroit will falter again.

Three Seed: Philadelphia Eagles (6-2) - Two weeks ago, the Eagles were probably the best pick as Super Bowl favorites in the NFC, but two injuries in Week 9 will likely derail their season. Quarterback Nick Foles cracked his collar bone and is out at least six weeks while linebacker DeMeco Ryans torn his Achilles' tendon and is out for the season. Former Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez now has the keys to Chip Kelly's offense. With so many offensive weapons, Sanchez is capable of leading the Eagles to a division title. Receiver Jeremy Maclin has 790 yards and eight touchdowns this season, and behind a now healthy offensive line, running back LeSean McCoy has rushed for over 100 yards twice in the last three games. Actually, the Ryans' injury is probably more concerning for the Eagles' faithful. He had 45 tackles, four pass breakups and an interception through eight games. Without him, the Philadelphia run defense is softer and loses leadership in the middle. The Eagles face the Cowboys twice in the last five weeks of the season, which will decide the winner of the NFC East. 

Four Seed: New Orleans Saints (4-4) - There is no doubt the NFC South is the weakest division in the NFL, but it doesn't help the NFC South is matched up against the AFC North, perhaps the best division in the league. New Orleans has already lost to Cleveland, and after it welcomes the 49ers to the Superdome, the Saints face the Bengals, Ravens and Steelers in three straight weeks. These next three weeks before the Pittsburgh game, however, will be the Saints best chance to make a move in the standings because all three games are home. The Saints offfense has been better the last two weeks in large part to tight end Jimmy Graham, who has two touchdowns in those games. After that tough stretch, the Saints play three division opponents in the last four weeks. Drew Brees and the offense has moved the ball effective this season, so Brees and company just need to do a better job of taking care of the ball. The emergence of Mark Ingram is paying huge dividends. After never rushing for 100 yards in a game during his first three seasons, Ingram has posted back-to-back 100-yard contests.

Five Seed: Dallas Cowboys (6-3) - It is hard to believe the Cowboys are the most well put-together team in the league this season, but it could all fall apart because of one injury. Dallas is dedicated to running the ball behind perhaps the best offensive line in the league and controlling the time of possession has benefitted the defense. But without Tony Romo last week, the Cowboys did very little on offense. It is clear backup quarterback Brandon Weeden will not keep the Cowboys a contender in the NFC East let alone a Super Bowl contender. That means the offense will rely even more heavily on running back DeMarco Murray, who is already on pace for over 450 touches. It is difficult to believe Murray can handle an even bigger workload, and it is conceivable to think Murray will wear down by the end of the year. Dallas' season hinges on Romo returning under center and staying healthy.

Six Seed: Seattle Seahawks (5-3) - Seattle has quite a bit of work to do if it wants a shot at defending its title this January. Two of the following four: Eagles, Cowboys, Packers and Lions, will be in the wild card race not to mention the 49ers, who will get a lot of defensive players back from suspension and injury in the second half of the season. Even without Percy Harvin, Seattle has the tools to make a deep run. The Seahawks are fourth in rushing yards and rank in the top six in yards allowed, rushing yards allowed and receiving yards allowed per game. They also rank tenth in points allowed. The Seahawks problems are lack of takeaways and the abandonment Marshawn Lynch. In the team's three losses, Lynch has carried the ball on average just 11 times, and Seattle has just 10 takeaways, which limits the defense's big-play ability. Despite lackluster wins over Carolina and Oakland, Seattle controls its own destiny with two games against San Francisco and Arizona. They also play at Kansas City, at Philadelphia and then home versus the Rams, who upset the Seahawks in Week 7.

In his new book, the ex-Manchester United captain pulls no punches in his criticism of his former coach and club.

In his new book, the ex-Manchester United captain pulls no punches in his criticism of his former coach and club.

My MVP Rankings are not solely who should get the MVP if the season ended today. It takes in risk factors such as potential injuries, degree of difficult schedule, etc. These rankings are essentially my expectations for where the MVP voting will be at the end of the year. Please enjoy!

In a year where a running back is the current clear favorite for the award, you might say that a quarterback has little chance to steal the MVP from a guy that is on pace to shatter records. Highlight those words “on pace”. Demarco Murray is not going to stay upright with the number of carries he is getting. It just can’t happen.

The most carries by a running back in any season of the NFL is 416 by Larry Johnson in 2006. He added 41 receptions that year. Sick stats giving him nearly 2200 total yards and 19 scores! Only five times have running backs reached 400 carries in a year.

Murray is currently on pace for 478 total touches for 2450 yards and 16 scores (and nine lost fumbles). He would have a cake-walk to the MVP. But Murray’s health has always been an issue. In 2013 he missed two games and had two others with seven carries or less during an injured stretch. In 2011 he missed six games because of injury. So it is not a matter of IF, but WHEN, Demarco Murray gets hurt.

With that said, the league will turn its attention to a QB. Right now the list of potential QBs that could take the MVP should include Manning, Luck, Rivers, and Rodgers.

Each of this QBs lead teams currently 5-2 or better. Each has thrown at least 17 TDs. But there are certain stats that set each one apart.

Andrew Luck leads the league with 2331 yards through seven games. He is the only QB with a winning record currently on pace for 5,000 or more passing yards (5328 to be exact). His 21 TDs, including two rushing, is also first in the league. These are strong points. But he has many weaknesses too. He has needed 302 pass attempts to get to that total, and is completing under 66% of his passes, lowest among these four QBs. He also has seven interceptions on the year and a lost fumble.

Philip Rivers has looked very good this year. He has only three turnovers to go with 1961 passing yards and 17 scores. His 67.4% completion rate is 2^nd to Manning of the four. His yards per attempt at 8.53 is the best of the four. But he has also had the luxury of playing only two teams that rank better than 15^th in passing yards allowed including the Cardinals and Jaguars who rank 30^th and 31^st. Playing against a stronger defense like the Chiefs he finished with just over 200 yards, 2 scores, and an interception. Let’s see how the rest of his season plays out.

Peyton Manning is certainly the most well known QB in the game and he is definitely making a case for another MVP. He is averaging 308 passing yards per game and is on pace for 51 touchdowns! His 68.7% completion rate is the highest of the four as is his 118.2 QB rating. With that said, Denver still had 6 games against top 14 pass defenses including three games against top four teams. If Denver is able to win their games against the Chargers (week 8), Patriots (week 9), and chargers (week 15), I expect Manning will not even play in weeks 16 and 17 as Denver will have the top seed locked up. This will hurt Manning’s stats on the year.

Finally for all of those who are ready to R-E-L-A-X, enter Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers isn’t top 10 in passing yards in the league despite not having his bye yet. In fact he is 21^st in passing yards per game behind the likes of Austin Davis, Mike Glennon, and Bryan Hoyer! But what sets Rodgers apart is his perfection. He doesn’t have the yards because he doesn’t need to. Rodgers comes out so hot that he doesn’t even finish games. Twice this season he has sat out the entire fourth quarter of games and had limited pass attempts in the second half at all.

Rodgers has 18 touchdowns, but only one interception. He has nearly 200 pass attempts since throwing that sole INT. His QB rating is just behind Mannings at 117.3. And thanks to a much stronger conference, Rodgers will be playing til the final minute in week 17. In Rodgers first three outings he had only five scores. Since then he has 13 TDs in only four games. If he keeps up the pace set over the last four games, he would finish the season with 47 scores and one pick. Surely he will have a bad game and throw a pick or two, but his pace is amazing. If he leads the Packers to a 13-3 record with 45 scores and fewer than five picks, watch out.

With that all said, here are my current MVP rankings:

5. Luck

4. Rivers

3. Murray (even with injury)

2. Rodgers

1. Manning

In his new book, the ex-Manchester United captain pulls no punches in his criticism of his former coach and club.

My MVP Rankings are not solely who should get the MVP if the season ended today. It takes in risk factors such as potential injuries, degree of difficult schedule, etc. These rankings are essentially my expectations for where the MVP voting will be at the end of the year. Please enjoy!

In a year where a running back is the current clear favorite for the award, you might say that a quarterback has little chance to steal the MVP from a guy that is on pace to shatter records. Highlight those words “on pace”. Demarco Murray is not going to stay upright with the number of carries he is getting. It just can’t happen.

The most carries by a running back in any season of the NFL is 416 by Larry Johnson in 2006. He added 41 receptions that year. Sick stats giving him nearly 2200 total yards and 19 scores! Only five times have running backs reached 400 carries in a year.

Murray is currently on pace for 478 total touches for 2450 yards and 16 scores (and nine lost fumbles). He would have a cake-walk to the MVP. But Murray’s health has always been an issue. In 2013 he missed two games and had two others with seven carries or less during an injured stretch. In 2011 he missed six games because of injury. So it is not a matter of IF, but WHEN, Demarco Murray gets hurt.

With that said, the league will turn its attention to a QB. Right now the list of potential QBs that could take the MVP should include Manning, Luck, Rivers, and Rodgers.

Each of this QBs lead teams currently 5-2 or better. Each has thrown at least 17 TDs. But there are certain stats that set each one apart.

Andrew Luck leads the league with 2331 yards through seven games. He is the only QB with a winning record currently on pace for 5,000 or more passing yards (5328 to be exact). His 21 TDs, including two rushing, is also first in the league. These are strong points. But he has many weaknesses too. He has needed 302 pass attempts to get to that total, and is completing under 66% of his passes, lowest among these four QBs. He also has seven interceptions on the year and a lost fumble.

Philip Rivers has looked very good this year. He has only three turnovers to go with 1961 passing yards and 17 scores. His 67.4% completion rate is 2^nd to Manning of the four. His yards per attempt at 8.53 is the best of the four. But he has also had the luxury of playing only two teams that rank better than 15^th in passing yards allowed including the Cardinals and Jaguars who rank 30^th and 31^st. Playing against a stronger defense like the Chiefs he finished with just over 200 yards, 2 scores, and an interception. Let’s see how the rest of his season plays out.

Peyton Manning is certainly the most well known QB in the game and he is definitely making a case for another MVP. He is averaging 308 passing yards per game and is on pace for 51 touchdowns! His 68.7% completion rate is the highest of the four as is his 118.2 QB rating. With that said, Denver still had 6 games against top 14 pass defenses including three games against top four teams. If Denver is able to win their games against the Chargers (week 8), Patriots (week 9), and chargers (week 15), I expect Manning will not even play in weeks 16 and 17 as Denver will have the top seed locked up. This will hurt Manning’s stats on the year.

Finally for all of those who are ready to R-E-L-A-X, enter Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers isn’t top 10 in passing yards in the league despite not having his bye yet. In fact he is 21^st in passing yards per game behind the likes of Austin Davis, Mike Glennon, and Bryan Hoyer! But what sets Rodgers apart is his perfection. He doesn’t have the yards because he doesn’t need to. Rodgers comes out so hot that he doesn’t even finish games. Twice this season he has sat out the entire fourth quarter of games and had limited pass attempts in the second half at all.

Rodgers has 18 touchdowns, but only one interception. He has nearly 200 pass attempts since throwing that sole INT. His QB rating is just behind Mannings at 117.3. And thanks to a much stronger conference, Rodgers will be playing til the final minute in week 17. In Rodgers first three outings he had only five scores. Since then he has 13 TDs in only four games. If he keeps up the pace set over the last four games, he would finish the season with 47 scores and one pick. Surely he will have a bad game and throw a pick or two, but his pace is amazing. If he leads the Packers to a 13-3 record with 45 scores and fewer than five picks, watch out.

With that all said, here are my current MVP rankings:

5. Luck

4. Rivers

3. Murray (even with injury)

2. Rodgers

1. Manning

It's easy to lose sight of the fact that there are real people with real lives that contribute to this game we love. Between just getting caught up in the action on the field itself to all the off the field issues which are prevalent, we tend to forget that the men on the field are not robots, they are human beings with families, just like the rest of us.

Devon Still was selected in the 2nd round of the 2012 draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. He played for 4 years at Penn State, earning the 2011 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year award amongst many other accolades. Still played both the 2012 and 2013 seasons for the Bengals.

Earlier in 2014, Still's daughter, Leah Sari, was diagnosed with cancer. Understandably, Devon's focus completely shifted to caring for his child, saying "Sports is not more important than me being there while my daughter is fighting for her life." In addition to focusing on his daughter, Still was battling his own injuries through training camp and did not make the Bengals roster for 2014. Devon understood the decision, saying "I can't give Football 100% right now."

Certainly a tough decision, the Bengals have done everything they can to support Still and his family during this trying time. In fact, the outpouring of support from around the league and its fans has been overwhelming. While a lot of negativity has swirled around the league all year, this has truly been a moment where many have reminded us of some positive things. A few examples:

• The Bengals immediately offered him a spot on the practice squad so he could continue paying for his Daughter's treatment
• Cincinnati continued selling Still's jersey to raise awareness for pediatric cancer research, donating profits to Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.
• New Orleans Saints Head Coach Sean Payton personally purchased and donated 100 jerseys.
• During a SNF game at New England, the Patriots organized several tributes, including a video tribute for Leah and the Pats cheerleaders wearing Still's Bengals jersey. Patriots owner Robert Kraft also donated to the Hospital in Leah's name.
• A video Devon posted on Instagram of him speaking to his daughter pre-surgery went viral.
• Philadelphia Eagles Head Coach Chip Kelly sent flowers and gifts to Leah.
• An outpouring of support from fans on Twitter - #StillStrong.
• Still shaved his head and will only grow his hair back when Leah's does.

In addition to the above, the story has received enormous media attention. Still has shown incredible courage and heart, and provides a tremendous role model for parents, other players, and generally all of us. Still returned to the active roster for a game against the Atlanta Falcons, and has since recorded seven tackles. Leah underwent surgery to remove her tumor and continues to recover.

It's easy to lose sight of the fact that there are real people with real lives that contribute to this game we love. Between just getting caught up in the action on the field itself to all the off the field issues which are prevalent, we tend to forget that the men on the field are not robots, they are human beings with families, just like the rest of us.

Devon Still was selected in the 2nd round of the 2012 draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. He played for 4 years at Penn State, earning the 2011 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year award amongst many other accolades. Still played both the 2012 and 2013 seasons for the Bengals.

Earlier in 2014, Still's daughter, Leah Sari, was diagnosed with cancer. Understandably, Devon's focus completely shifted to caring for his child, saying "Sports is not more important than me being there while my daughter is fighting for her life." In addition to focusing on his daughter, Still was battling his own injuries through training camp and did not make the Bengals roster for 2014. Devon understood the decision, saying "I can't give Football 100% right now."

Certainly a tough decision, the Bengals have done everything they can to support Still and his family during this trying time. In fact, the outpouring of support from around the league and its fans has been overwhelming. While a lot of negativity has swirled around the league all year, this has truly been a moment where many have reminded us of some positive things. A few examples:

• The Bengals immediately offered him a spot on the practice squad so he could continue paying for his Daughter's treatment
• Cincinnati continued selling Still's jersey to raise awareness for pediatric cancer research, donating profits to Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.
• New Orleans Saints Head Coach Sean Payton personally purchased and donated 100 jerseys.
• During a SNF game at New England, the Patriots organized several tributes, including a video tribute for Leah and the Pats cheerleaders wearing Still's Bengals jersey. Patriots owner Robert Kraft also donated to the Hospital in Leah's name.
• A video Devon posted on Instagram of him speaking to his daughter pre-surgery went viral.
• Philadelphia Eagles Head Coach Chip Kelly sent flowers and gifts to Leah.
• An outpouring of support from fans on Twitter - #StillStrong.
• Still shaved his head and will only grow his hair back when Leah's does.

In addition to the above, the story has received enormous media attention. Still has shown incredible courage and heart, and provides a tremendous role model for parents, other players, and generally all of us. Still returned to the active roster for a game against the Atlanta Falcons, and has since recorded seven tackles. Leah underwent surgery to remove her tumor and continues to recover.

Well folks here we are again. Another crisp fall with college football every Saturday, hopefully your team is still giving you hope, and you can stay glued to the television on Saturdays. Unfortunately the same stories seem to arise every football season. Georgia star running back Todd Gurley has found himself in a predicament. Coach Mark Richt has decided to suspend Todd Gurley indefinitely for receiving cash for signing his autograph. Most thought Johnny Football was riding the pine in Cleveland... With Gurley sidelined, Abdullah might still have a chance at the Heisman. 

     After a dismal performance last week against the mighty Spartans of Michigan State, does Ameer Abdullah still have a legitimate chance at winning the illustrious Heisman trophy? The answer is yes, however the road to the Heisman for Abdullah will not be walk in the park. Abdullah currently leads the NCAA in rushing yards totaling 878 yards. The next closest back is Pittsburgh's James Connor with 874 yards.

    Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon is also in contention, however Wisconsin has already lost two games, and the Nebraska Wisconsin showdown in Madison on November 13 could decide if Gordon or Abdullah are worthy of the Heisman. 

  Abdullah's lack luster performance last week against Michigan State can be attributed Nebraska's atrocious offensive line play. However, Abdullah is a team leader, and it will be fascinating to see if Abdullah can show true leadership and get his boys playing big red pipe line football. Nebraska only has three Heisman trophy winners. And a fourth trophy would sure look nice in the enormous trophy case in Lincoln. Let's not forget that it was Abdullah who saved the day when Mcneese State came dangerously close to beating the Huskers. Some might say if it were not for Abdullah's theatrics, Nebraska head coach Bo Pelini might have been out of a job. 

    Here's hoping for a magical season, and maybe, just maybe number eight still has a little magic left in him.

Well folks here we are again. Another crisp fall with college football every Saturday, hopefully your team is still giving you hope, and you can stay glued to the television on Saturdays. Unfortunately the same stories seem to arise every football season. Georgia star running back Todd Gurley has found himself in a predicament. Coach Mark Richt has decided to suspend Todd Gurley indefinitely for receiving cash for signing his autograph. Most thought Johnny Football was riding the pine in Cleveland... With Gurley sidelined, Abdullah might still have a chance at the Heisman. 

     After a dismal performance last week against the mighty Spartans of Michigan State, does Ameer Abdullah still have a legitimate chance at winning the illustrious Heisman trophy? The answer is yes, however the road to the Heisman for Abdullah will not be walk in the park. Abdullah currently leads the NCAA in rushing yards totaling 878 yards. The next closest back is Pittsburgh's James Connor with 874 yards.

    Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon is also in contention, however Wisconsin has already lost two games, and the Nebraska Wisconsin showdown in Madison on November 13 could decide if Gordon or Abdullah are worthy of the Heisman. 

  Abdullah's lack luster performance last week against Michigan State can be attributed Nebraska's atrocious offensive line play. However, Abdullah is a team leader, and it will be fascinating to see if Abdullah can show true leadership and get his boys playing big red pipe line football. Nebraska only has three Heisman trophy winners. And a fourth trophy would sure look nice in the enormous trophy case in Lincoln. Let's not forget that it was Abdullah who saved the day when Mcneese State came dangerously close to beating the Huskers. Some might say if it were not for Abdullah's theatrics, Nebraska head coach Bo Pelini might have been out of a job. 

    Here's hoping for a magical season, and maybe, just maybe number eight still has a little magic left in him.

Well folks here we are again. Another crisp fall with college football every Saturday, hopefully your team is still giving you hope, and you can stay glued to the television on Saturdays. Unfortunately the same stories seem to arise every football season. Georgia star running back Todd Gurley has found himself in a predicament. Coach Mark Richt has decided to suspend Todd Gurley indefinitely for receiving cash for signing his autograph. Most thought Johnny Football was riding the pine in Cleveland... With Gurley sidelined, Abdullah might still have a chance at the Heisman. 

     After a dismal performance last week against the mighty Spartans of Michigan State, does Ameer Abdullah still have a legitimate chance at winning the illustrious Heisman trophy? The answer is yes, however the road to the Heisman for Abdullah will not be walk in the park. Abdullah currently leads the NCAA in rushing yards totaling 878 yards. The next closest back is Pittsburgh's James Connor with 874 yards.

    Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon is also in contention, however Wisconsin has already lost two games, and the Nebraska Wisconsin showdown in Madison on November 13 could decide if Gordon or Abdullah are worthy of the Heisman. 

  Abdullah's lack luster performance last week against Michigan State can be attributed Nebraska's atrocious offensive line play. However, Abdullah is a team leader, and it will be fascinating to see if Abdullah can show true leadership and get his boys playing big red pipe line football. Nebraska only has three Heisman trophy winners. And a fourth trophy would sure look nice in the enormous trophy case in Lincoln. Let's not forget that it was Abdullah who saved the day when Mcneese State came dangerously close to beating the Huskers. Some might say if it were not for Abdullah's theatrics, Nebraska head coach Bo Pelini might have been out of a job. 

    Here's hoping for a magical season, and maybe, just maybe number eight still has a little magic left in him.

Well folks here we are again. Another crisp fall with college football every Saturday, hopefully your team is still giving you hope, and you can stay glued to the television on Saturdays. Unfortunately the same stories seem to arise every football season. Georgia star running back Todd Gurley has found himself in a predicament. Coach Mark Richt has decided to suspend Todd Gurley indefinitely for receiving cash for signing his autograph. Most thought Johnny Football was riding the pine in Cleveland... With Gurley sidelined, Abdullah might still have a chance at the Heisman. 

     After a dismal performance last week against the mighty Spartans of Michigan State, does Ameer Abdullah still have a legitimate chance at winning the illustrious Heisman trophy? The answer is yes, however the road to the Heisman for Abdullah will not be walk in the park. Abdullah currently leads the NCAA in rushing yards totaling 878 yards. The next closest back is Pittsburgh's James Connor with 874 yards.

    Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon is also in contention, however Wisconsin has already lost two games, and the Nebraska Wisconsin showdown in Madison on November 13 could decide if Gordon or Abdullah are worthy of the Heisman. 

  Abdullah's lack luster performance last week against Michigan State can be attributed Nebraska's atrocious offensive line play. However, Abdullah is a team leader, and it will be fascinating to see if Abdullah can show true leadership and get his boys playing big red pipe line football. Nebraska only has three Heisman trophy winners. And a fourth trophy would sure look nice in the enormous trophy case in Lincoln. Let's not forget that it was Abdullah who saved the day when Mcneese State came dangerously close to beating the Huskers. Some might say if it were not for Abdullah's theatrics, Nebraska head coach Bo Pelini might have been out of a job. 

    Here's hoping for a magical season, and maybe, just maybe number eight still has a little magic left in him.