NFL Dallas Cowboys

5 Reasons Why DeMarco Murray Should Win the NFL MVP

5 Reasons Why DeMarco Murray Should Win the NFL MVP

 DeMarco Murray of the Dallas Cowboys
Matthew Emmons - USA TODAY Sports

It's that time of year again when members of the media get together and decide who will become the 2014 NFL MVP. Unfortunately, only one exceptional athlete will receive this honor and so far, the lion's share has gone to quarterbacks in the past. Dallas Cowboys' DeMarco Murray could be the next running back since Adrian Peterson to receive this prestigious award.

Here are five reasons why Murray should win the NFL MVP title.

5. Intrinsic Qualities

Demarco Murray and Tony Romo
Matthew Emmons - USA TODAY Sport

5. Intrinsic Qualities

 Demarco Murray and Tony Romo
Matthew Emmons - USA TODAY Sport

While a player's intrinsic qualities are not necessarily examined when the Associated Press deliberates the MVP title, it is still an important aspect worth exploring. Murray has demonstrated a mental toughness that has influenced other players. His attitude and tenacity have gone far toward establishing the very identity of this organization. Head coach Jason Garret said of Murray, “(He) pervaded our whole football team and made us better."

4. Transformed the Cowboys' Offense

 Demarco Murray in the huddle with Dallas Cowboys
Matthew Emmons - USA TODAY Sport

4. Transformed the Cowboys' Offense

 Demarco Murray in the huddle with Dallas Cowboys
Matthew Emmons - USA TODAY Sport

Before the reemergence of Murray in 2013, the Cowboys' offense was considered a one-dimensional passing team. Dallas was forced to rely on quarterback Tony Romo to carry the team and win games. The success of DeMarco Murray changed all that. His emergence breathed life back into a dried up Cowboys' ground game and restored the offense reputation as one of the most feared teams in the league.

3. Continues Breaking Records

 Demarco Murray celebrating with game ball
Matthew Emmons - USA TODAY Sport

3. Continues Breaking Records

 DeMarco Murray celebrating with game ball
Matthew Emmons - USA TODAY Sport

Murray continues to set franchise and NFL records. At the beginning of last season, he broke the NFL record for most 100-yard consecutive games with eight straight 100-yard runs. He was also on pace toward breaking the most rushing yards in a single-season, however, he fell short by only 260 yards. Lastly, Murray snapped Emmett Smith's 1,773 yards’ franchise single-season rushing record.

2. By the Numbers

 DeMarco Murray against the Indianapolis Colts
Tim Heitman - USA TODAY Sports

2. By the Numbers

 DeMarco Murray against the Indianapolis Colts
Tim Heitman - USA TODAY Sports

Murray had a league and career high of 1,845 rushing yards and had a career best 392 rushing attempts. He established career highs with 57 receptions for 416 yards and 13 touchdowns. In the 2014 playoffs, Murray produced 44 carries for 198 yards and two touchdowns. The only negative to last season’s performance was his career high in fumbles (three) and fumbles lost (three).

1. The Most Dynamic Offensive Player

DeMarco Murray catches a pass from Tony Romo
Tim Heitman - USA TODAY Sports

1. The Most Dynamic Offensive Player

DeMarco Murray catches a pass from Tony Romo
Tim Heitman - USA TODAY Sports

When Dallas drafted Murray in 2011, they did not realize how versatile this power-house running back truly was. Over the past two seasons, Murray developed into a player who would and could beat you with his legs, hands and intellect. Murray possesses the strength and intelligence to break past the line of scrimmage, while having the speed and agility to outrun the fastest linebackers. He also matured into a key blocker.

James Forsythe is an NFL contributor at www.RantSports.com. You can Follow him on Twitter @9erJim , “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.

 

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