| 04 February 2012
Despite having one of the best passing seasons in NFL history and leading a moribund franchise to the post season for the first time in 12 seasons, Lions' quarterback Matthew Stafford had been left out in the cold when it came to post season accolades. The worst snub being missing out on the Pro Bowl...not that Stafford missed much, as it was the most embarrassing All-Star game, in any sport, in recent memory.
But there was one award Lions fans thought to be a near lock for the 3rd year player, NFL Comeback Player of the Year. But as deserving as Stafford was, it wasn't the slam dunk most believed it would be. The point was driven home when Rich Gannon was interviewed on Sirius/XM, and announced he voted for Niners quarterback Alex Smith.
My first response to Gannon's vote?
I automatically assume EVERY member of the media is a trol.
After hearing about Gannon's ridiculous vote, fans hoping for Stafford to receive some sort of acknowledgement for his breakout season prepared for another Detroit athlete to be ignored for his accomplishments by the national media.
They need not have worried.
Dave Birkett, Detroit Free Press:
Stafford was rewarded for his health and his amazing season Saturday when he was voted Associated Press comeback player of the year. He received 21 out of 50 possible votes.
Browns linebacker D’Qwell Jackson finished second with 15 votes, followed by 49ers quarterback Alex Smith and Panthers receiver Steve Smith.
Honestly, I'm surprised the voting was that close. Stafford was that dominant this season. Unfortunately, with the comeback player voting not really having any set standards, voters are left to interpet voting rules for themselves.
Dominant performances such as this against the Panthers became the norm
for Stafford after recovering from his fractured finger.
Regardless of the somewhat mixed voting results, I'm thrilled Stafford won. He deserved to be recognized some way, some how, for the best season long performance by a young quarterback since Dan Marino in 1984. Not a soul can say the award wasn't warranted.
I just hope Stafford isn't ever in contention for comeback player ever again.
Another Lion also won an award tonight, though it's, to be blunt, pretty damn lame.
Once again, Birkett of the Freep:
Lions receiver Calvin Johnson also was honored Saturday as the NFL.com Fantasy Player of the Year.
Uh...OK. Never heard of it, sounds awfully contrived and don't really care, but good on Megatron. (Johnson wasn't at the ceremony to accept his "award," which says it all as to it's true validity...none)
If you can't believe Lions players won honest to God NFL awards, and need to see it with your own eyes, NBC will be broadcasting the presentation on tape delay 9PM Saturday night.
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