NFC West Notebook: Ahmad Brooks benched himself; Fitzgerald sprains MCL
Arizona Cardinals
Michael Floyd re-emerges as Cardinals deep-threat. After a three-game stretch where he caught just five balls for 47 yards, Michael Floyd showed up early Sunday for the Cardinals, catching their only two scores.
Everyone was fooled by bizarre punt-return ruling. The officials got the call right, thankfully, and former head of officiating Mike Pereira retracted his criticism of the call, saying an obscure rule was used to help the Cardinals down the ball at the one.
Larry Fitzgerald sprains MCL, expects to play. The veteran wide receiver has a history of playing through injuries, but a Grade 2 MCL sprain may limit his action in the coming weeks.
St. Louis Rams
Humble Shaun Hill is humble. The Rams quarterback showed up to his postgame press conference in jeans and a flannel shirt. "He showed he had guts," teammate William Hayes said of his play.
Tre Mason is definitely the Rams' top running back. There are few lingering doubts about the Rams' backfield situation after a win over the Denver Broncos in which Mason had 29 carries.
Rams vs. Broncos recap. The Rams pulled off their stunning upset because the defense stepped up, pressuring Peyton Manning with Robert Quinn and Aaron Donald.
San Francisco 49ers
Ahmad Brooks benched himself in win over Giants. In another dysfunctional 49ers story, Ahmad Brooks took himself out of Sunday's game, upset by his diminished role.
49ers happy to have Aldon Smith back. After serving his nine-game suspension, Aldon Smith returned to the lineup and was able to put consistent pressure on Eli Manning after sitting the first quarter.
A breakdown of the 49ers' five interceptions. The 49ers were able to pick off Eli Manning five times: twice in the red zone and three times while attempting to target Rueben Randle.
Seattle Seahawks
Marshawn Lynch only speaks to one reporter. After the league threatened to fine Lynch $100,000 if he did not speak with reporters after Sunday's game, Lynch left the locker room but did call Mike Silver afterwards.
Tony Moeaki scores first TD since 2012. It's been a long road back to the NFL for Tony Moeaki, who has battled injuries but was recently signed by the Seahawks. He caught a touchdown against the team that drafted him Sunday.
Seahawks in must-win situation down the stretch. The Seahawks basically have to win this Sunday when they play the Arizona Cardinals to have any hope at the NFC West title or a playoff berth.