These guys deserve full credit for a job half-done.(NFL)

The real hardware won't get distributed for a few months, but that doesn't stop me from citing a few people whose first half performances have caught my eye.

Offensive MVP: Steve McNair, QB, Titans, His numbers are amazing, particularly when you consider he has done it without the support of a decent running game. He is one of the few quarterbacks who have thrown downfield consistently.

Defensive MVP: Simeon Rice, DE, Bucs. Sacks, interceptions, forced fumbles, tackles--he has done it all. He shows up big every week.

Offensive rookie: Anquan Boldin, WR, Cardinals. He's averaging 14.8 yards a catch in an offense that has trouble moving the ball.

Defensive rookie: Pisa Tinoisamoa, LB, Rams. A starter from Day 1, he flies to the ball and makes plays, helping to turn a former team weakness into a strength.

Comeback player: Quincy Carter, QB, Cowboys. Some would argue that "comeback" is a misnomer because it's debatable whether he ever was a player. Whatever. He's a big reason Dallas leads the NFC East.

Biggest surprise: Dante Hall, KR/PR/WR, Chiefs. His talent was evident heading into the season, but no one could foresee kick returns for touchdowns in four straight games. He is a true difference maker.