Sam Darnold Leads Super Bowl MVP Voting: How the Process Works
As the football world gears up for Super Bowl 60, all eyes are on the race for the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold has emerged as the favorite, reflecting his vital role in the team’s success. This Super Bowl will take place in Santa Clara, California, where Darnold and his teammates aim for glory against the New England Patriots.
Favorites for Super Bowl MVP
According to BetMGM Sportsbook, the leading candidates for the MVP award include:
- Sam Darnold (Seahawks QB): +115
- Drake Maye (Patriots QB): +230
- Jaxon Smith-Njigba (Seahawks WR): +500
- Kenneth Walker III (Seahawks RB): +700
- Rhamondre Stevenson (Patriots RB): +3000
- Rashid Shaheed (Seahawks WR): +3300
- Stefon Diggs (Patriots WR): +5000
Historically, quarterbacks have dominated the Super Bowl MVP awards, taking home the honor in 34 of the 59 games. Darnold’s position as the starting quarterback for a favored team substantiates his front-runner status.
Understanding the MVP Voting Process
The process of selecting the Super Bowl MVP involves both a fan vote and a panel of media members. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Fans contribute 20% of the total vote via NFL.com.
- 16 media members account for the remaining 80% of the vote.
- Media votes are collected around the two-minute warning of the game.
- Panel members may select players from both teams, but only the chosen player from the winning team counts.
- They can also adjust their selection based on significant late-game plays.
This unique system ensures a comprehensive and fair evaluation of the players’ performances during the high-stakes game.
As Super Bowl 60 approaches, fans and analysts alike will watch closely, eager to see who emerges as the MVP. Sam Darnold’s performance will be pivotal, potentially securing his place in Super Bowl history.