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NFL awards: Matt Ryan, Adam Gase clean up

By Andrew Hammond

Nov 13, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) is tackled by Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Ross Cockrell (L) and free safety Mike Mitchell (23) during the third quarter at Heinz Field. Dallas won 35-30. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 13, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) is tackled by Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Ross Cockrell (L) and free safety Mike Mitchell (23) during the third quarter at Heinz Field. Dallas won 35-30. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 3, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Vic Beasley (44) reacts to a recovered fumble during the first quarter of a football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 3, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Vic Beasley (44) reacts to a recovered fumble during the first quarter of a football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /

NFL Defensive Player of the Year: Vic Beasley

It appeared that Von Miller would be winning this award in my eyes but it’s the consistency of Beasley that gives him the edge here. In 2016, Beasley led the league in sacks with 15.5 and was one of the more consistent pass-rushers in the NFL.

Beasley’s six forced fumbles was tied for the league lead, one thing may hurt Beasley and that’s his 39 tackles on the season. Miller along with the Raiders Kahlil Mack have more but none of them effected the game like Beasley did and for that, Beasley is your winner for 2016.

NFL Rookie of the Year: Ezekiel Elliott

I think Elliott will finish in the top five of the NFL MVP and possibly even higher, though he’ll split votes with Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. However, when it comes to the NFL’s Rookie of the Year, there is no contest. It’s Elliott.

With over 1,600 yards on the ground and 15 touchdowns. Zeke’s rookie season was truly one for the books. Although you may get a few challengers like Prescott, San Diego’s Joey Bosa and others you won’t see any of them taking Zeke’s trophy.

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