PETER KING'S 2011 AWARDS

A closer look at the players SI's pro football expert predicts will take home the hardware

MOST VALUABLE PLAYER AND OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

PHILIP RIVERSQB, CHARGERS

With Vincent Jackson and Antonio Gates back full time in 2011, Rivers could crush his '10 passing stats (4,710 yards, 30 TDs).

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

DEMARCUS WARELB, COWBOYS

The edge-rushing menace has twice led the NFL in sacks (20 in 2008 and 15½ in '10) and has 80 in his six-year career.

DEFENSIVE ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

VON MILLERLB, BRONCOS

Miller already has become a pass-rushing force for a defense that ranked last in yards and points allowed in 2010.

COACH OF THE YEAR

JIM SCHWARTZLIONS

He has taken Detroit from zero wins in 2008 to six in '10 and now has a roster with young talent on both sides of the ball.

COMEBACK PLAYER OF THE YEAR

ALBERT HAYNESWORTHDT, PATRIOTS

If coach Bill Belichick is able to motivate Haynesworth, few linemen are as unblockable as this 6' 6", 335-pound beast.

OFFENSIVE ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

ANDY DALTONQB, BENGALS

Smart and proven in the win column, the TCU product will have to learn on the job while Carson Palmer sits at home.

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Photograph by PETER READ MILLER

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Photograph by MIKE STONE/REUTERS

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RON CHENOY/US PRESSWIRE

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FRANK VICTORES/US PRESSWIRE

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DAMIAN STROHMEYER

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DAMIAN STROHMEYER