Bears RB Jordan Howard, Panthers DT Star Lotulelei and Saints K Wil Lutz named NFC Players of Week 8

Running back Jordan Howard of the Chicago Bears, defensive tackle Star Loutlelei of the Carolina Panthers and kicker Wil Lutz of the New Orleans Saints are the NFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for games played the eighth week of the 2016 season (October 27, 30-31).

Howard, the fifth-round draft pick from Indiana, rushed for a career-high 153 yards and one touchdown on 26 carries and caught four passes for 49 yards. In the process, Howard became the first Bears rookie to produce more than 200 yards from scrimmage in a game since Hall of Fame running back Gale Sayers in 1965. Howard's 153 yards were the most by a Bears player since Oct. 2, 2011 when Matt Forte rushed for 205 yards in a 34-29 win over the Panthers at Soldier Field.

Lotulelei’s first sack caused quarterback Carson Palmer to fumble, leading to a 46-yard fumble return touchdown for linebacker Thomas Davis early in the first quarter. Lotulelei finished with six tackles. This is the first Player of the Week award for Lotulelei and the first one for the Panthers in 2016.

It's the second time this season Lutz has received the honor. The only other Saints rookies to win the honor twice in a season were punter Thomas Morstead and returner Reggie Bush. Lutz connected on field goals from 22, 53, 21 and 41 yards Sunday in the 25-20 Saints win.