Three NFC players that had major impacts on the playoff race in Week 16 walked away with hardware for their efforts.
Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers won the NFC offensive player of the week award for the second time this month for his 404-yard, four touchdown masterpiece against the Giants. No quarterback in NFL history has thrown for at least three scores with no picks more times within three seasons of his first start.
Vikings cornerback Antoine Winfield helped put a hurting on Michael Vick Tuesday night with his blitzes and coverage ability. He won the NFC defensive player of the week award. Winfield, who has won the regular season award twice in Minnesota, had nine tackles, two sacks, and a fumble return touchdown.
Frequently maligned Redskins kicker Graham Gano won a measure of vindication by earning the NFC special teams player of the week award. Gano kicked his third overtime field goal of the year, which tied an NFL record. He made a pair of touch kicks in swirling winds and had a nice day on kickoffs as well.
Maybe it really was the holder’s fault a few weeks ago.