The 2014 Pro Bowl was filled with competitiveness and highlight plays, made by All-Star players, including Kansas City Chiefs LB Derrick Johnson, who was named the game's defensive MVP.
"DJ" was playing on Team Rice, alongside fellow Chiefs teammates Alex Smith, Dexter McCluster and Brandon Flowers, facing Team Rice, which included Chiefs players Dontari Poe, Tamba Hali, Eric Berry, Justin Houston, Branden Albert and team captain Jamaal Charles.
If there was any question that the Pro Bowl wouldn't be competitive, the naysayers weren't aware of the Chiefs, who compete in everything they do, including "DJ".
Early in the first quarter, Johnson met Chiefs RB Jamaal Charles near the line of scrimmage and dropped him in his tracks. The former Texas Longhorns enjoyed a smile after the hit, but it was clear the game was seen as no joke by either side.
"DJ" continued to make plays throughout the game, including the forced fumble he caused against Washington Redskins RB Alfred Morris, which was recovered by Team Rice. The game's defensive MVP finished with eight tackles, one assist and the forced fumble.
After the game, Derrick spoke with NFL Network reporter Aditi Kinkhabwala, describing the team win and his performance.
His fellow Chiefs teammates, on both sides, didn't disappoint either.
For Team Rice:
Alex Smith - led the fourth quarter comeback, finishing 9-22 for 116 yards, with 1 TD and 1 INT.
Dexter McCluster - finished with five punt returns (11.0 avg.), with the longest return being 26 yards, as well as one receptions for two yards.
Brandon Flowers - finished the game with two tackles.
For Team Sanders:
Jamaal Charles - 5 carries for 43 yards, long run of 17 yards.
Dontari Poe - Ended with a near pick-six, coming off his interception of Chargers QB Philip Rivers.
Tamba Hali - finished with two tackles.
Branden Albert - provided constant protection up-front, including at right tackle.
Eric Berry - finished with four tackles and one INT.
The game ended in favor of Team Rice, when Alex Smith handed off to Carolina Panthers FB Mike Tolbert, who converted the two-point conversion for the 22-21 victory.
