NFL Pro Bowl 2016: 5 Takeaways From The Action
By Erik Lambert
The 2015 NFL Pro Bowl concluded with plenty of offensive fireworks and surprising moments. There was lots to take in from the action. Here are a few takeaways.
Michael Irvin continues to have edge of Jerry Rice
When they were in their primes as players, Michael Irvin and Jerry Rice with the biggest of rivals. For a time in the early 1990s, their two teams vied for the Super Bowl crown. Irvin often got the better of Rice in their meetings, winning two of the three NFC championship showdowns. Seems little has changed since, as Irvin claimed his second-straight Pro Bowl victory over Rice.
Allen Robinson validates late nod
Even fans outside of Jacksonville were stunned when the initial results for Pro Bowl voting came out and somehow wide receiver Allen Robinson wasn’t on it. The second-year man had 1,400 yards and 14 touchdowns in 2015. An absurd run of success for somebody 22-years old. Eventually he was added to the roster, and reminded everybody why by leading all receivers with 105 yards and a touchdown.
NaVorro Bowman caps his long-awaited comeback
Eric Berry is likely to win Comeback Player of the Year for his triumphant return from beating cancer, but the one man who could upset him is NaVorro Bowman. Some feared the linebacker was finished after his catastrophic knee injury two years ago in the NFC championship. He wastes no time proving the doubters wrong, going right back to the Pro Bowl and tying a ribbon on it with an interception.
Turnovers decide the outcome early
In assessing the 49-27 final score, the one word that best encapsulates the outcome would be turnovers. Quarterbacks for Team Rice threw a total of six interceptions on the afternoon. Team Irvin took full advantage, turning them into a jackpot of points that helped them pull away early. Inexperience may have had a lot to do with it as Derrick Carr (1st) and Tyrod Taylor (1st) threw five of the six.
Seahawks rule the day
Seems no matter where one looked, the Seattle Seahawks were well-represented. Russell Wilson tore the field up with 162 yards passing and three touchdowns. Bobby Wagner led all defenders with 10 tackles and Michael Bennett had the only sack of the game. Just another indication of how talented that team is.