Even though he didn't start for the first time in his NFL career, Cowboys outside linebacker DeMarcus Ware was named NFC defensive player of the week for his performance in the Cowboys' upset win over the Saints. Ware, who was playing with a sprained neck, finished with two sacks and two forced fumbles. He's the only player in the league who has had 10 or more sacks in the past four seasons and he now has 11 for the season.

Playing primarily in passing situations, Ware didn't let what had looked like a serious neck injury slow him down. He was relentless in racing past Saints left tackle Jermon Bushrod on several occassions. Several Cowboys players indicated that Ware's willingness to play through pain inspired the team. Now the Cowboys are once again in a position to control their own destiny as the playoffs approach.