Alabama football continues its dominance over LSU, as Baltimore Ravens linebacker C.J. Mosley edged out Cincinnati’s running back Jeremy Hill for the AFC North’s Rookie of the Year on Jan. 29, 2015. Mosley anchored a defense that finished fourth in the National Football League against the run, allowing 88.3 yards per game.
Mosley led Baltimore in tackles (133), while totaling three sacks, eight passes defended and two interceptions. His 133 tackles led all rookies in 2014. Mosley was twice named NFL’s Defensive Player of the Month for his efforts. He helped the Ravens achieve a 10-6 season, resulting in a playoff berth.
Mosley recorded nine tackles in Baltimore’s 30-17 victory over Pittsburgh on AFC Wild Card Weekend. He registered 10 stops in Baltimore’s Divisional Playoff Game against New England, despite a heart-breaking 35-31 loss.
Mosley was the lone NFL player in 2014 with at least 125 tackles, three sacks and two interceptions. He was the first Ravens’ rookie to reach the Pro Bowl. Mosley earned his respect in the AFC North, but his eyes were fixed on the NFL’s Defensive Rookie of the Year Award.
He was looking to become the third Ravens’ rookie to win the award, joining Peter Boulware (1997) and Terrell Suggs (2003). The dream didn’t happen for Mosley. He finished second, behind St. Louis Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald.
