The Los Angeles Rams were crowned Super Bowl 56 Champions on Sunday after beating the Cincinnati Bengals. Cooper Kupp was a major catalyst in the game, which isn't really surprising after an amazing season where he set multiple receiving records and awards.
The Rams defeated the Bengals 23-20, with Kupp catching the go-ahead touchdown with 1:25 left in the game. His impact on the game was phenomenal, which earned him the Super Bowl MVP. Kupp made catch after catch on the final drive to put them in a position to win.
It was an outstanding performance all around for Los Angeles, spearheaded by Kupp and Matthew Stafford offensively.
With that said, here are three reasons that Rams wideout Cooper Kupp just finished off the best WR season of all time.
3. Cooper Kupp won the Triple Crown
Winning the Triple Crown is a challenging feat in the NFL, as there are so many talented receivers. In the regular season, Kupp had 145 receptions for 1,947 yards and 16 touchdowns. Kupp led the league in receptions, yards and touchdowns, which speaks volume on the efficiency he showcased throughout.
The 28-year-old became the fourth player in NFL history to accomplish this, joining Jerry Rice, Sterling Sharpe and Steve Smith. This exclusive achievement showcases how talented of a player he truly is.
2. Rams star Offensive Player of the Year
Kupp also came home with the Offensive Player of the Year honors. Although he has been a solid receiver throughout his career, he took his game to another level this 2021. The Rams' addition of Matthew Stafford has elevated their offensive production, especially Kupp's.
He quickly emerged as Stafford's top target, despite defenses locking in on him. His all-around game of route running, quickness and catching ability makes him tough to stop.
Even though Kupp had a fantastic season, it wasn't a guarantee that he would win Offensive Player of the Year. Jonathan Taylor had an excellent campaign for the Indianapolis Colts, almost carrying them to the postseason. This 2021, Taylor rushed for 1,811 yards and 18 touchdowns. He also had 40 receptions for 360 yards and two touchdowns.
It was between these two, but Kupp's triple crown and team record likely gave him the edge.
1. Super Bowl MVP
Although the aforementioned accolades are impressive, winning Super Bowl MVP is perhaps the top honor a player can receive. His play down the stretch of the game against the Bengals is what propelled the Rams to their Super Bowl victory.
Kupp finished the game with eight receptions for 92 yards and two touchdowns.
On the final drive, he rushed for seven yards and fourth down play, as well as four receptions for 39 yards and the go-ahead touchdown.
With Odell Beckham Jr. falling down due to injury, Kupp was relied upon even more by Stafford. There were many players deserving of the award, but Kupp's production is what led them to victory.
The Rams are primed to be in contention again next season, especially if Kupp continues to play at this level. He has emerged as one of the best receivers in the entire league, playing on the same level as a guy like Davante Adams. Kupp is now in the upper echelon of players in the entire NFL.
He is now getting recognition across the league after having the best wide receiver season of all time. Players have accomplished these feats in their careers, but doing it all in one season is a different story. Kupp's dominance should continue into next season following his record-breaking year.