SB Nation's 2008 NFL Midseason Studs and Duds

So, BigBlueShoe, our Colts blogger, put together a ballot for the midseason studs and duds to date. Unfortunately I failed to get my vote in in time. However, I thought I'd post the results, and also throw out some of my own thoughts on studs and duds. I encourage everyone else to let us know your thoughts.

I'd probably have given the best head coach so far to Jeff Fisher. Given what he had to deal with in Vince Young going nutty and the fact that the Titans are undefeated makes it logical in my head.  Although Jim Zorn certainly isn't a bad choice.  Chris Johnson is a solid pick as best rookie, although guys like Matt Forte and Matt Ryan are in the mix as well.

Among the duds so far, I think Mike Nolan could have deserved some consideration, although the Jaguars at 3-5 are definitely underachieving more than the 49ers probably.  Among the midseason worst players, J.T. O'Sullivan obviously should get some consideration given all the turnovers and his eventual benching.

Clinton Portis is playing like an MVP right now.

The Studs

NFL Mid-Season MVP: Clinton Portis, Redskins

Comment from David the Falconer at The Falcoholic:

The homer in me wants to say Michael Turner, but he's done the majority of his damage against the league's weakest defenses. Portis has put the Redskins on his back and carried them 100 yards or more down the field most games, and for that he deserves my vote.

Best Player on Offense: Clinton Portis, Redskins

Comment from Skins Patrol at Hogs Haven:

He also has 150 yards receiving and has had his role increase with the injury to Ladell Betts Not everyone knows this, but Portis is the best pass protecting RB blocker in the league and is a big reason why Jason Campbell is playing well this season.

Best Players on Defense: Joey Porter, Dolphins

Comment from BigBlueShoe at Stampede Blue:

I thought this guy was DEAD. How the hell does he have 11.5 sacks and 3 forced fumbles? I mean Jeezus, it is only Week Nine and he has 11.5 friggin' sacks! The hell are they feeding them down there in Miami?

Best Rookie: Chris Johnson, Titans

Comment from cgolden at Revenge of the Birds:

No explanation needed. Just watch this kid play and it's obvious why he's truly special. Were we really questioning his status as a first round pick six months ago?

Best Coach: Jim Zorn, Redskins

Comment from WCG at Windy City Gridiron:

I hate doing this, but in that division the Redskins should have easily been the worst team.

Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio has seen better days.

The Duds

Mid-Season Worst Player: JaMarcus Russell, Raiders

Comment from Dave the Falconer at The Falcoholic:

Consider that this guy was the first overall pick in the draft. Then consider that he can't throw a pass without collapsing into a heap.

Mid-Season Worst Rookie: Vernon Gholston, Jets

Comment from cgolden at Revenge of the Birds:

He's learning a new position so this probably isn't fair but seven tackles in eight games for a top six pick is simply unacceptable. You'd think he could at least be a situational pass rusher.

Mid-Season Worst Coach: Jack Del Rio, Jaguars

Comment from Chris at Big Cat Country:

Can I vote for Del Rio and the Jaguars for every possible spot?