LaDainian Tomlinson Named NFL's Offensive MVP

Probably the only thing this NFL season that didn't surprise anyone. LT accounted for 33 TDs (28 rushing, 3 receiving, 2 passing) on the year, broke the scoring record formerly held by Paul Hornung without the benefit of kicking FGs and XPs, and in general terrorized almost every single opponent he faced this year. In a season where the Chargers used Phillip Rivers, who had never started an NFL game before, and defenses geared up even more to shut him down without the threat of Drew Brees, he still couldn't be contained. He had a stretch of 10 games this year in which he accounted for 30 TDs, and had 8 straight games of multiple TDs. He led the NFL in rushing with 1815 yards.

The Chargers don't abuse him. He's only carried the ball 350 times twice in his career, which is somewhat of an upper benchmark number used to determine RB wear and tear. LT barely touches the ball in the preseason, if at all, which is something more teams should do with a prized RB considering the wear and tear they endure each season. There's no point in adding 20+ extra hits to your RB in games that don't matter, especially if they're familiar with the system. LT is especially adept at using his body lean to deflect hits, so you rarely see someone get a clean shot on him. This helps explain his unprecedented durability for someone who touches the ball so often each season. There is nothing he can't do, although I'm not sure how good of a blocker he is considering how often he's used as a receiver out of the backfield. I had the honor of watching Walter Payton while growing up, but LT is even more explosive and is a bigger threat in the passing game. We are currently witnessing the greatest all-around RB to ever play in the NFL, so enjoy him while he plays.

Fantasy Impact: If you had LT on your team this year, as I did on all 3 of mine, you probably did some serious damage in your league. His durability is unprecedented, but after 6 years of 400+ touches you start to wonder if he'll begin to show signs of wearing down. Regardless of that, he's so incredibly consistent from year to year that he'll be the unanimous #1 pick in fantasy leagues next year, although expectations should probably drop back down to ~1800 total yards and 12-16 TDs. Plus with Michael Turner around, owners have an outstanding handcuff who would provide great value if LT ever got hurt, and a quality backup RB is always good news to give the star RB a break during games. With Rivers' continued maturation, Gates' dominance at the TE position, and the emergence of Vincent Jackson, the Chargers offense should remain potent enough to give LT plenty of TD opportunities. Keep an eye on Cam Cameron's status this offseason as he's being rumored for the Cardinals and Falcons coaching vacancies. His departure wouldn't be great news for the offense as a whole as he's done a wonderful job with them the past several years.