Why New Orleans QB Tyler Shough Will Win Rookie Of The Year

Everyone wrote off the New Orleans Saints before this season even started. Midway through the year, they were just 1-8, and looked like they were spiraling towards a single-win season. But then, things started to turn around when rookie quarterback Tyler Shough took the reigns.

While the team only managed six wins all season, Shough was the man under center for five of them. While putting together a half season with over 2,000 yards and double-digit touchdowns.

Did Tyler Shough Save the Saints Season?

It wasn't just luck that got them those wins either. You look at the impact Shough had on the field, and it is clear he was the spark the offense desperately needed. He stabilized a rocking ship, and gave fans across Louisiana something to actually cheer for on Sundays again.

Sure, the numbers are nice...but watching how the players (including veterans) responded to Shough on the field, he looked like a leader. Something that it feels like the Saints have been missing since Drew Brees stepped away.

The Numbers Don't Lie for Shough

When you break down the stats, it is even more impressive considering he only started half the season. We are talking about 2,384 passing yards and 10 touchdowns in a shortened timeframe. If you put that into a full season, that's a 4,768 yard season...which would have led the NFL (Matthew Stafford led the NFL with 4,707 yards).

If you take his 10 touchdown passes and double those for a season, his 20 would have been the most for rookie QBs. The #1 overall pick, Tennessee Titans QB Cam Ward started the whole season and threw for 15 touchdowns. New York Giants rookie QB Jaxson Dart was a hot name during the season, but he also only tallied 15 touchdown passes.

Most rookies struggle to find that kind of consistency even with a full year of reps. Shough came in cold, and put up numbers that rival guys who played all 17 games. That kind of production is exactly why he is even in the running for the award right now.

Why the Quarterback Position Matters More

Its arguable that quarterback is the most important position on the field, but there's one place that its not arguable...NFL award season. The MVP award has basically become the 'best QB award', which means we can expect the voters to treat this award the same way.

While other rookies had good years, Shough was the most consistent signal-caller in the class once he got his shot. You can't ignore the difficulty of playing QB in the NFL compared to other skill positions.

The betting markets are shifting, and while some receivers are favored, the value Shough brought to New Orleans is undeniable. If the award is about value and impact, the trophy belongs in Louisiana.