If you are an NFL fan, there have been many memorable 2012 season moments. If you are rooting on your favorite team, a fantasy football fanatic, or into sports betting, the season has provided much excitement.
Perhaps the most discussed topic has been the dispute between the referees and the league office. While both sides struggled to resolve their labor issues, replacement officials were brought in to work games. Many had no experience on this level, often coming from high school and Division II or III. The inexperience came to a head in a Week 3 Monday night game between Seattle and Green Bay. Seattle QB Russell Wilson threw a “Hail Mary” pass into the end zone, and replays showed the Green Bay defensive back with possession of the ball. However, officials ruled it to be a Seattle touchdown, giving the Seahawks a much-disputed victory, and those Green Bay fans into sports betting a sleepless night.
As usual, quarterbacks have provided many memorable moments of the season so far. Saints QB Drew Brees set a new NFL record by throwing a touchdown pass in his 48th consecutive game, breaking Johnny Unitas’ long-held mark. Green Bay QB Aaron Rodgers had a great game in Week 6, throwing for 338 yards and 6 touchdowns with no interceptions against the Houston Texans.
The emergence of the rookie quarterbacks has also been a big story this season. The top two picks in the draft, Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III, have had stellar rookie seasons to date. Luck has led the Indianapolis Colts to a winning record and in the hunt for a wild-card berth, while RG III has had many scintillating moments with the Redskins, including a wild opening-day victory over New Orleans.
Not to be outdone, a running back has emerged as a big surprise this season. Tampa Bay RB Doug Martin exploded onto the scene with a 251 yard, 4 TD game against the Oakland Raiders, giving fantasy team owners a new name to consider. With the season only half over, there will be many more great moments to come.