Redskins midseason awards: Robert Griffin III making everyone around him better

It has been all Robert Griffin III for the Redskins. But with a weak secondary and little pass rush, they will finish with a losing record.

By John Keim

Nov 6, 2012 at 3:10 pm ET • 2 min read

Rookie QB Robert Griffin III has been the Redskins' offensive star in the first half of the season; he takes our 2012 midterm awards for both MVP and top rookie. (US Presswire)

After nine games, the Redskins (3-6) have seen enough to know that they have the right player at quarterback and plenty of questions on defense. That’s why, though the Redskins have headed in a new direction on offense, they’ve taken a bad turn on defense.

Here are our midseason awards along with a projection of where we think the Redskins will end up at the end of the season:

Offensive MVP -- QB Robert Griffin III: His legs and the zone read option turned the offense around. Griffin makes everyone around him better.

Defensive MVP -- DE Stephen Bowen: He has only half a sack but has been consistent and a big reason the Redskins have been solid vs. the run.

Rookie MVP -- QB Robert Griffin III: Considering he’s the offensive MVP, this is obvious. His poise and maturity are a major reason for his success.

Top assistant coach -- RB coach Bobby Turner: Mike Shanahan’s longtime assistant always gets the most from his backs. Alfred Morris has talent, but Turner has helped him develop.

Biggest disappointment -- WR Pierre Garcon: It’s not his fault, but Garcon has been injured since the first game. The Redskins need his speed, toughness and quickness on offense.

Biggest strength -- The run game: Griffin’s play fakes and running ability are enhanced by Morris’ vision and cutback game. Defenses can’t just key on Griffin.

Biggest weakness -- Pass defense: The Redskins get little pass rush and the secondary surrenders too many big plays. They are on pace to allow 57 pass plays of 20 yards or more, one fewer than last season when only four teams allowed more.

Projected final record -- 6-10

Playoffs? Are you kidding? Only three teams since 1990 have gone from 3-6 to the postseason.

One fact you may not know but should know: The Redskins are averaging 25.1 points per game, which would be their best showing since 1999, when they averaged 27.7 points and won the NFC East.

John Keim covers the Redskins for the Washington Examiner. Follow him on Twitter @CBSRedskins or @John_Keim.

Want to know who CBSSports.com says the MVP is? Check out our Midseason Awards.