(S24) - PT 3 - Midseason Mania

[GoonerBear]

After San Jose's Week 9 game against the Baltimore Hawks, how can you give Defensive Performance of the Year to anyone else except the rookie free safety Philip Stein? In that matchup, he notched two tackles, three interceptions, and ran one all the way back for a touchdown. In a game that ended 33-16, the math is clear - Stein's performance was otherworldly in its own right and accounted for the three-possession margin of victory. Taking a look at where he stands for Defensive Rookie of the Year, it's tough to call, though he played himself into a big advantage in the race - he stands tied for the league lead in interceptions with Dermot Lavelle, Jr. LiterallyJust A. Hexagon has the tackles lead among rookies, Tyron Shields isn't too far behind, though he hasn't got much else going for him and lots of tackles as a corner is going to hurt. He may also have to contend with Hingle McCringleberry, who leads rookies with 14 passes defended and has a good tackles pace at 60, plus three sacks and a pick from the LB position.

Stein has some stiff competition for Defensive Rookie, but playing out of his mind against the Hawks has got to make him a lock for Defensive Performance of the Year if you stop counting right now.

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