Is Matt Ryan ultimately deserving of the MVP Award?
There is no question Matt Ryan is a front-runner for the honor.
The Falcon’s QB is coming off arguably the best season of his NFL career. He has managed to lead Atlanta to the NFC title game on Sunday despite a young defense starting four rookies. Matt Ryan’s impact on the Falcons over the years cannot be overstated. He now has the opportunity to truly be recognized around the entire country as an elite player.
In this his ninth season, most of Ryan’s number have never been better despite an unusual down season last year. Matt Ryan and Kyle Shanahan have really worked magic, leading to the highest scoring offense in the NFL. His 117.1 regular season passing rating is off the charts. A 69.9 completion percentage and 4,944 yards are career highs as well.
With the Falcons boasting this potent offense, Matt Ryan played an impressive game last week against Seattle. He threw for 338 yards and three touchdowns while leading Atlanta to a divisional playoff win over the Seahawks. The playoff issue has always been a topic about Matt, but with a big win in his back pocket, he will be full of confidence against Green Bay.
Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers perhaps the only things standing in his way.
The seasons Brady and Rodgers have put together are very impressive as well. Despite missing their first four games, Tom Brady has garnered impressive numbers while only throwing two regular season interceptions. Rodgers on the other hand absolutely turned on in the second half of the season. Aaron went 8-0 without throwing an INT until last weeks game at Dallas.
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All three quarterbacks have a legitimate case for the MVP trophy. However, it’s hard to reward Brady for his four game suspension while Ryan and Rodgers played every contest. His effort against Houston last week was also less than impressive, throwing two picks with a 47.4 completion percentage. In Rodgers case, looking at the full body of work, Matt Ryan has had a better season. He is deserving of the MVP award.