Peterson Rookie Of The Year Favorite
A poll in The Sporting News has named Vikings RB Adrian Peterson the favorite to win Offensive Rookie of the Year. Peterson, who is expected to split time with incumbent starter Chester Taylor, received 40% of the vote, easily out-pacing second-place finisher Calvin Johnson of Detroit (28%).
And what significance does this have? Probably none. However, it does at least give an idea of the expectations people hold for Peterson, and not just Viking fans (the poll included both Sporting News staff and readers). This guy is not considered a nice player who should help the Vikings offense – he’s considered a can’t-miss prospect who should immediately make this offense more dynamic. Unrealistic? Possibly. The Vikings, thankfully, will not have to over-burden Peterson at the start however. They still have Taylor, a more-than-effective back.
It seems on the surface that Peterson has landed in a perfect situation – he’s behind a solid run-blocking line, he has an established starter to develop behind and his coach has a run-first philosophy. Of course, the sticking point is the Vikings’ passing game – if it proves as feeble as last year, teams will key on whoever’s running the ball. It might be tough finding running room with eight men consistently in the box – which is why we should maybe all hold off on these lofty predictions for Mr. Peterson.
