Cam Newton finished this season in prime Aaron Rodgers territory, where every week produced a new tool or feature to his game that amazed us.
Since Nov. 22, Newton has gone 143 of 224 for 1,800 yards, 20 touchdowns and one interception. And while his season finale, which brought the Panthers to 15-1 on the season, wasn't his best game, it was still superb. In a 38-10 win over the Bucs, Newton tied his season-best completion percentage (80.77), threw for almost 300 yards and added a pair of touchdowns (with another two coming on the ground). His passer rating of 139.3 was the second best mark he posted all season. Newton continues to amaze us just like Rodgers did in stretches throughout the last few years and has been without question the most obvious candidate for MVP.
Newton has been a candidate for Player of the Week almost every Wednesday this season. Yet again, he took it home for the fifth time this season.
Here are the other winners ...
NFC
Vikings DE Everson Griffen: Griffen dominated Aaron Rodgers' blind side in a 20-13 win over the Packers on Sunday and proved to be the difference maker after a strip-sack on Rodgers that led to a 55-yard touchdown return by Captain Munnerlyn. Griffen had six tackles and two sacks on the night in a game that clinched the division for Minnesota.
Seahawks WR/KR/PR Tyler Lockett: Lockett locked up Rookie of the Week honors for his performance against the Cardinals on Sunday, which produced a team record 139 yards on punt returns.
AFC
Broncos RB Ronnie Hillman: Hillman held the fort down for Denver while they made an epic change at quarterback. In a win over the Chargers, Hillman went for 117 yards on just 15 carries. He added a touchdown in the 27-20 win.
Chiefs LB D.J. Alexander: The Chiefs rookie linebacker blocked a Marquette King punt in the third quarter Sunday, resulting in a safety. The Chiefs are on a roll thanks to a different hero every week. This week, it was Alexander.
