Josh Norman's rise to elite-level cornerback has not been as sudden as we might think, but his performances this season embody the ascension of the 4-0 Carolina Panthers. Norman is not only providing big plays, he's giving a defense stacked with possibly the best linebacking corps in football a certain attitude they haven't had under Ron Rivera in years past. Just this past week, he told the officiating crew of the Panthers-Bucs game that he would do a ride the pony style celebration if he got a pick six.
The result?
Norman's pick six, his second this season and his fourth total interception in as many games, earned him defensive player of the week honors in the NFC.
In a week of big-time performances, Norman wasn't going to let himself be outshined.
Other award winners from this week...
NFC
Saints quarterback Drew Brees recovered nicely from a rather serious shoulder issue to torch the Dallas Cowboys in a tight 26-20 win last week. Brees went for 359 yards and a pair of touchdowns. He also completed more than 80 percent of his passes; a stunning development considering he was on the sidelines just a week ago.
Bears kicker Robbie Gould stood out amid a poor week for kickers. Despite duffing an extra point, he hit all three of his field goal attempts against the Raiders, helping the Bears earn their first victory of the 2015 season.
AFC
Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers certainly looks like he's found his rhythm. In a tight win over the Cleveland Browns, Rivers hit on three touchdown passes and went for 358 total yards through the air. He averaged more than 11 yards per completion.
Broncos safety T.J. Ward was a menacing pass rusher on Sunday and created a game-changing strip on Teddy Bridgewater that helped seal a win. Ward finished the game with two sacks and six tackles.
Ravens kicker Justin Tucker was the lone bright spot in a brutal Ravens victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. On a night that set NFL kicking back years, Tucker, quite possibly the best placekicker in football, nailed both of his extra points and all three of his field goal attempts.