Todd Gurley had a terrific rookie season in 2015, rushing for 1,106 yards in just 13 games. He showed everything you want in a starting running back, from speed to strength to protecting the quarterback.

He took a huge step back in 2016, averaging an NFL-low 3.2 yards per carry on 278 attempts. There were questions about his ability to be a three-down back, struggling to find a rhythm in Jeff Fisher’s “middle school offense.”

All those concerns were put to rest this season thanks to his remarkable start, leading the NFL in yards from scrimmage with 1,502 and 11 total touchdowns. There really isn’t a comparison for his skill set, but Eagles defensive coordinator said he does remind him of Le’Veon Bell a bit.

That’s quite the compliment for Gurley, particularly after he struggled to showcase his ability as a receiver prior to this season. He already has more receiving yards in 2017 than he had in the previous two years combined, which is remarkable.

He’s definitely in the running for MVP, and he’s undoubtedly been the Rams’ most valuable player this season. Without him, there’s no chance they’d be 9-3 and vying for their first playoff berth since 2004.