MVP – Drew Brees. I expect him to put up huge numbers again. That plus a division win should be enough to earn the guy a sympathy win here. He’s of course vulnerable to any of the big quarterbacks – most notably Tom Brady – or a running back like Adrian Peterson who could shoot the lights out.

Offensive rookie – Percy Harvin. I don’t like Harvin long term because I seriously question his versatility. It’s not an overwhelming offensive class this year, though, and Harvin is on a good team and will make some highlight reel plays.

Defensive rookie – Hard to pick against Aaron Curry. He has the buzz, he has freakish athleticism to rely upon, he’s in a system that needs hm to succeed this year, and he has a schedule that is favorable for him to make some big plays.

Coach of the year – It’s going to come down to a pair of Mikes in the NFC – McCarthy in Green Bay and Singletary in San Francisco. The Packers will have the better record, so I will go with McCarthy.

Offensive player of the year – If Brees wins MVP then I expect Peterson to win this one. No matter what Peterson is a good bet here.

Defensive player of the year – It’s a three man race in my mind. I think Jared Allen is sitting on a huge year in Minnesota, and I am very high on Patrick Willis in San Francisco. My choice, though, is Mario Williams. He has gotten better every single year he has played, and no guy deserves it more after the crap he took getting drafted ahead of Reggie Bush.

First coach fired – If it isn’t Marvin Lewis then there is no justice in this world.

First starting QB benched – I would have picked JaMarcus Russell if the Raiders hadn’t cut Jeff Garcia. As it is, the team is so bad and the coach so crazy that I think Brady Quinn will be on the bench by week five. Not that he will stay there or anything.