Aqib Talib is named the AFC Defensive Player of the Week

Talib led the Broncos with a season-high eight tackles (7 solo) to go along with one interception (4 yds.) and three passes defensed against the Chargers. He became the first NFL cornerback and just the fourth player overall this season to reach those statistical marks in a single game. Overall, Talib was targeted 7 times and allowed 4 receptions for 34 yards. His primary coverage responsibility was Malcom Floyd.

On his interception, the Broncos were in cover 2 with both corners playing about 8 yards off their targets. Talib stayed back, read the skinny post and undercut the route to make the interception. Rather than risk fumbling the ball on the return, Talib slid down shortly after gaining possession. Take a look at the play here:

Talib's +3.3 grade for the game (PFF) ties his season high which coincidentally also came against San Diego earlier in the season. On the year, Talib has been targeted 86 times, allowed 51 receptions for 555 yards (205 YAC). Though he has given up 4 touchdowns, Talib has not allowed a pass play longer than 39 yards. Aqib has 3 interceptions on the year to go along with 8 PD's. When targeting Aqib, opposing quarterbacks post just a 79.4 quarterback rating

This marks the 27th time a Broncos player has taken home AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors since it was initiated by the NFL in 1984. The last Broncos defender to receive the honor was cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie in Week 8 last season.

Congratulations to Aqib for his fantastic performance on Sunday, GO BRONCOS!!!