WE THOUGHT HE LOOKED FAMILIAR
Cleveland QB Brian Hoyer started 28 games during his Michigan State career. The first came on Nov. 11, 2006, at Spartan Stadium against what turned out to be Glen Mason's final group of Gophers. Michigan State was 1-5 in the Big Ten and senior Drew Stanton was injured, so coach Mark Dantonio went with Hoyer, a sophomore. Hoyer completed 26 for 50 passes for 330 yards, which would stand as his highest single-game yardage total as a Spartan. Hoyer threw for a TD but also two interceptions, and the Gophers defeated Michigan State 31-18. The Gophers and the Spartans did not play in 2007 and 2008, Hoyer's two full seasons as a starter.
MANO-A-MANO
Vikings DE Jared Allen vs. Browns OT Joe Thomas
WHO WON?
In the battle of All-Pros, Allen was not credited with a tackle and had one quarterback hurry, meaning Thomas' reputation as the NFL's best left tackle is further solidified.
PLAY OF THE GAME
HEADS UP!
The Browns were leading 17-14 in the second quarter when they lined up for a 28-yard field goal. Tight end Jordan Cameron (84) hung out near the right sideline, and the Vikings didn't notice him. Holder Spencer Lanning (5) took the snap, and instead of spotting for kicker Billy Cundiff (8) he floated a pass to Cameron, who beat Vikings safety Jamarca Sanford (33) to the pylon for the surprising score.
THE QUOTE
"We had seen some footage of a team doing a similar play and they overthrew the receiver. I did not want to be that guy." — Lanning
