2014-2015 NFL Season MVP Candidate predictions

Dark Horse MVP: Cam Newton:

Since his record setting rookie season, Newton has played well, but never reached the expectations that people had for him. With almost no offensive weapons at wide receiver, this is Newton’s time to shine in Carolina. If Newton can stay healthy, I predict Newton and his feet to carry the Panthers to back to back NFC Championships, which no team has ever done in that conference.

MVP Candidate #5: Andrew Luck:

This is Luck’s third season as starter in Indy, and he has performed well consistently since that first year. With T.Y. Hilton becoming a bigger threat, and Reggie Wayne returning from a season ending injury, I predict Luck to produce big numbers and lead his team deep into the playoffs.

MVP Candidate #4: LeSean McCoy:

He led the league in almost every statistical category last season, and he does not seem to be slowing down. With DeSean Jackson now playing for an NFC East rival, and a young Jeremy Maclin preparing to become the number one wide receiver, McCoy will take on an even bigger role, and I predict that he will lead the league in rushing again this season.

MVP Candidate #3: Russell Wilson:

After becoming the shortest quarterback to win the Super Bowl, Wilson is feeling more confident than ever. As for his team, the Seahawks, they are just as good as last season. With Percy Harvin having a productive, and hopefully healthy season, and with Marshawn Lynch nearing the climax of his career, I plan on seeing an even better Russell Wilson playing this year as the Seahawks look to become back to back Super Bowl Champions.

MVP Candidate #2: Tom Brady:

2013 was a slow offensive year for Brady, as he was surrounded by young, raw players. With another offseason to train and mentor the Patriots young wide outs, I expect Brady to put up big numbers similar to those he put up from 2010 to 2012. On a side note, the Patriots defense is stronger now than ever. Don’t be surprised if Brady’s numbers go up solely because he gets more snaps due to the defense playing well.

MVP Candidate #1: Peyton Manning:

Last years winner by a mile (because he plays in Denver, but I digress). With offensive weapons galore surrounding him, look for Manning to have another huge year. Will he break the records he set last season? I doubt it, but Manning knows he is getting close to the end, so do not expect him to slow down in this year.

Down and Distance Contributor AJ Rupp @ajrupp