2012 NFL season

American football season March 2026 the American football season in the United States the Gaelic football season in Ireland 2012 National Football League (Ireland) November 2013 2012 September 5 – December 30, 2012 January 5, 2013 Baltimore Ravens San Francisco 49ers Atlanta Falcons Baltimore Ravens New England Patriots XLVII February 3, 2013 Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana January 27, 2013 Aloha Stadium, Honolulu, Hawaii The 2012 NFL season was the 93rd season of the National Football League (NFL) and the 47th of the Super Bowl era. It began on Wednesday, September 5, 2012, with the defending Super Bowl XLVI champion New York Giants falling to the Dallas Cowboys in the 2012 NFL Kickoff game at MetLife Stadium, and ended with Super Bowl XLVII, the league's championship game, on Sunday, February 3, 2013, at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, with the Jim Harbaugh-coached San Francisco 49ers facing the John Harbaugh-coached Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens won the game 34–31, which marked the first time two brothers were head coaches for opposing teams in the championship game. Referee labor dispute 2012 NFL referee lockout In 2005, the NFL and NFL Referees Association (NFLRA) agreed to a contract that would last through the 2011 season. In 2011, the officials' union had planned to use a contract clause to reopen negotiations a year early, but this failed to occur due to the 2011 NFL lockout.https://www.usatoday.com/sports/nfl/story/2012/09/25/timeline-for-nfl-replacement-officials/57841924/1 USA Today Timeline for NFL replacement officials – USATODAY.com September 25, 2012 September 26, 2012 August 23, 2017 https://web.archive.org/web/20120926212735/http://www.usatoday.com/sports/nfl/story/2012/09/25/timeline-for-nfl-replacement-officials/57841924/1 live By June 2012, the league and the officials' union had not yet come to terms on a new collective bargaining agreement, thus failing to resolve the labor dispute. The main issues between the union and the league were changes to the retirement plan, salaries, and personnel. On June 4, 2012, the NFL announced it would begin hiring replacement officials.NFL officials: Quality of games could suffer with replacement officials http://www.latimes.com/sports/football/nfl/la-sp-nfl-referees-20120719,0,4619781.story Sam Farmer Los Angeles Times July 18, 2012 July 18, 2012 July 19, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120719164425/http://www.latimes.com/sports/football/nfl/la-sp-nfl-referees-20120719,0,4619781.story live https://www.espn.com/chicago/nfl/story/_/id/8314433/nfl-use-replacement-officials-start-regular-season NFL to use replacement refs ESPN August 29, 2012 August 29, 2012 March 4, 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160304051157/http://espn.go.com/chicago/nfl/story/_/id/8314433/nfl-use-replacement-officials-start-regular-season live On September 26, 2012, an agreement was reached to end the lockout after increasing criticism of the NFL and the performance of the replacement officials.gregaiello Greg Aiello 251168381112307712 27 September 2012 Pleased to report that an agreement has been reached with the NFL Referees Association. Details to follow.http://news.blogs.cnn.com/2012/09/26/nfl-refs-agree-to-contract/ NFL, refs agree to contract – This Just In – CNN.com Blogs News.blogs.cnn.com September 26, 2012 September 28, 2012 September 29, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120929060311/http://news.blogs.cnn.com/2012/09/26/nfl-refs-agree-to-contract/ dead The contentious nature of the replacement officials' decision at the end of the Green Bay Packers–Seattle Seahawks game two days earlier was widely considered to have been the tipping point that finally led to an agreement.Battista Judy N.F.L. Reaches Labor Deal With Referees September 27, 2012 The New York Times https://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/27/sports/football/nfl-and-referees-reach-labor-deal.html?ref=sports&_r=0 September 27, 2012 December 20, 2013 https://web.archive.org/web/20131220093631/http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/27/sports/football/nfl-and-referees-reach-labor-deal.html?ref=sports&_r=0 live NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell acknowledged that the game "may have pushed the parties further along" in negotiations.Officials get standing ovation September 28, 2012 Associated Press ESPN.com https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/8433384/officials-get-standing-ovation-fans-baltimore-ravens-cleveland-browns-game September 28, 2012 September 29, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120929054731/http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/8433384/officials-get-standing-ovation-fans-baltimore-ravens-cleveland-browns-game live Player movement The 2012 NFL League year and trading period began at 4pm EST on March 13 2012, which marked the start of the league's free agency period. The per-team salary cap was set at US$120,600,000, marginally increased from US$120,000,000 the previous year.https://www.nfl.com/news/questions-and-answers-for-2012-free-agency-09000d5d82787135 Questions and answers for 2012 free agency NFL.com May 30, 2020 August 10, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20200810193857/https://www.nfl.com/news/questions-and-answers-for-2012-free-agency-09000d5d82787135 live Free agency Notable players to change teams during free agency included: Quarterbacks Jason Campbell (Oakland to Chicago), Matt Flynn (Green Bay to Seattle), Chad Henne (Miami to Jacksonville), Peyton Manning (Indianapolis to Denver) and Kyle Orton (Kansas City to Dallas) Running backs Cedric Benson (Cincinnati to Green Bay), Michael Bush (Oakland to Chicago) and BenJarvus Green-Ellis (New England to Cincinnati) Fullbacks Le'Ron McClain (Kansas City to San Diego) and Mike Tolbert (San Diego to Carolina) Wide receivers Pierre Garcon (Indianapolis to Washington), Vincent Jackson (San Diego to Tampa Bay), Jacoby Jones (Houston to Baltimore), Brandon Lloyd (St. Louis to New England), Mario Manningham (New York Giants to San Francisco), Robert Meachem (New Orleans to San Diego), Laurent Robinson (Dallas to Jacksonville) and Eddie Royal (Denver to San Diego) Tight ends Martellus Bennett (Dallas to New York Giants), Kevin Boss (Oakland to Kansas City), John Carlson (Seattle to Minnesota), Dallas Clark (Indianapolis to Tampa Bay) and Jacob Tamme (Indianapolis to Denver) Offensive tackles Demetress Bell (Buffalo to Philadelphia) and Eric Winston (Houston to Kansas City) Guards Mike Brisiel (Houston to Oakland), Ben Grubbs (Baltimore to New Orleans), Steve Hutchinson (Minnesota to Tennessee) and Carl Nicks (New Orleans to Tampa Bay) Centers Jeff Saturday (Indianapolis to Green Bay) and Scott Wells (Green Bay to St. Louis) Defensive ends Mark Anderson (New England to Buffalo), Mario Williams (Houston to Buffalo) and Kamerion Wimbley (Oakland to Tennessee) Defensive tackles Brodrick Bunkley (Denver to New Orleans), Kendall Langford (Miami to St. Louis) and Cory Redding (Baltimore to Indianapolis) Linebackers David Hawthorne (Seattle to New Orleans), Jarret Johnson (Baltimore to San Diego) and Curtis Lofton (Atlanta to New Orleans) Cornerbacks Ronald Bartell (St. Louis to Oakland), Brandon Carr (Kansas City to Dallas), Cortland Finnegan (Tennessee to St. Louis), Richard Marshall (Arizona to Miami), Tracy Porter (New Orleans to Denver), Stanford Routt (Oakland to Kansas City) and Eric Wright (Detroit to Tampa Bay) Safeties Mike Adams (Cleveland to Denver) and LaRon Landry (Washington to New York Jets). Trades The following notable trades were made during the 2012 league year: March 14: Miami traded WR Brandon Marshall to Chicago in exchange for third-round selections in the 2012 and 2013 drafts. https://www.nfl.com/news/dolphins-ship-wr-marshall-to-bears-in-blockbuster-trade-09000d5d82791ddb Dolphins ship WR Marshall to Bears in blockbuster trade NFL.com May 30, 2020 June 27, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120627040016/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d82791ddb/article/dolphins-ship-wr-marshall-to-bears-in-blockbuster-trade live March 21: Houston traded LB DeMeco Ryans and their third-round selection to Philadelphia for their third- and fourth-round selections in the 2012 draft.https://www.nfl.com/news/eagles-steal-demeco-ryans-in-surprising-trade-09000d5d827bd972 Eagles steal DeMeco Ryans in surprising trade NFL.com May 30, 2020 August 8, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210808170327/https://www.nfl.com/news/eagles-steal-demeco-ryans-in-surprising-trade-09000d5d827bd972 live March 26: Denver traded QB Tim Tebow and their seventh-round selection to New York Jets in exchange for fourth- and sixth-round selections. https://www.nfl.com/news/broncos-trade-tim-tebow-to-jets-jaguars-miss-out-on-bid-09000d5d827c664b Broncos trade Tim Tebow to Jets; Jaguars miss out on bid NFL.com May 30, 2020 August 9, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210809152954/https://www.nfl.com/news/broncos-trade-tim-tebow-to-jets-jaguars-miss-out-on-bid-09000d5d827c664b live April 12: Cincinnati traded LB Keith Rivers to New York Giants in exchange for a fifth-round selection. https://www.nfl.com/news/giants-trade-for-lb-keith-rivers-becomes-official-09000d5d828436a9 Giants' trade for LB Keith Rivers becomes official NFL.com May 30, 2020 August 10, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20200810193418/https://www.nfl.com/news/giants-trade-for-lb-keith-rivers-becomes-official-09000d5d828436a9 live April 26: Philadelphia traded CB Asante Samuel to Atlanta in exchange for a seventh-round selection. https://www.nfl.com/news/asante-samuel-traded-from-eagles-to-falcons-takes-3-year-deal-09000d5d8289665e Asante Samuel traded from Eagles to Falcons, takes 3-year deal NFL.com May 30, 2020 August 11, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210811144833/https://www.nfl.com/news/asante-samuel-traded-from-eagles-to-falcons-takes-3-year-deal-09000d5d8289665e live August 27: Miami traded CB Vontae Davis to Indianapolis in exchange for a second-round selection and a conditional sixth-round selection in 2013. https://www.nfl.com/news/dolphins-trade-vontae-davis-to-colts-for-draft-picks-0ap1000000055044 Dolphins trade Vontae Davis to Colts for draft picks NFL.com May 30, 2020 August 29, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120829001808/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000055044/article/dolphins-to-trade-vontae-davis-to-colt-for-draft-pick live November 1: Tampa Bay traded CB Aqib Talib and a seventh-round selection to New England for a fourth-round selection.https://www.nfl.com/news/buccaneers-trade-aqib-talib-to-patriots-for-draft-pick-0ap1000000088693 Buccaneers trade Aqib Talib to Patriots for draft pick NFL.com May 30, 2020 June 10, 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210610144455/https://www.nfl.com/news/buccaneers-trade-aqib-talib-to-patriots-for-draft-pick-0ap1000000088693 live Draft The 2012 NFL draft was held from April 26 to 28, 2012 at New York City's Radio City Music Hall.gregaiello Greg Aiello 144023198504194048 6 December 2011 Correct. In NYC. RT @IIWIISkinsBlog: @nfl can I get confirmation the draft will be held Apr. 26-28th? Looking forward to it already. With the first pick, the Indianapolis Colts selected quarterback Andrew Luck from Stanford. Referee change Bill Vinovich returned to the field as a substitute referee, working several games during the season. He was originally promoted to referee in 2004, but had to leave the field in 2007 because of a heart condition. During his recovery, he served as a replay official. Rule changes The following rule changes have been approved by the competition committee for the 2012 season: The Replay Booth can initiate replay reviews on turnover plays at any time during the game, similar to a change made in the 2011 season regarding booth reviews on scoring plays outside of the final 2:00 of the game or in overtime. The penalty for throwing a challenge flag immediately after such "unchallengable" plays was also modified: in addition to the 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, the Replay Booth will automatically rule that the call will stand without initiating a replay review.https://archive.today/20130116162828/http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-falcons-blog/2012/11/18/atlanta-falcons-smith-admits-to-challenge-flag-blunder/?cxntfid=blogs_atlanta_falcons_blog Smith admits to challenge flag blunderhttp://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/11/22/the-red-flag-rule-has-to-go/ The red-flag-no-review rule has to go November 22, 2012 November 26, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121126143816/http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/11/22/the-red-flag-rule-has-to-go/ live This part of the rule was repealed prior to the 2013 season. Instant Replay is also expanded to include the following situations A Ruling of "runner out of Bounds" when there is a Fumble and a recovery following that fumble A Ruling of "incomplete Forward Pass" when there is a Backward Pass and a recovery following the backward passhttp://static.nfl.com/static/content/public/image/rulebook/pdfs/2_2012_Rules_Changes.pdf 2012 Rule changes October 12, 2012 September 3, 2013 https://web.archive.org/web/20130903013332/http://static.nfl.com/static/content/public/image/rulebook/pdfs/2_2012_Rules_Changes.pdf dead The penalty for 12 men on the field (not in the huddle) is changed from a live-ball foul to a dead-ball foul, with the whistle being blown if the defense has 12 men on the field and the "snap is imminent". Adding anyone who is subject to a crack-back block to the list of defenseless players.NFL passes overtime rules to reflect postseason, all turnovers now reviewed. CBS Sports. Retrieved March 28, 2012. Last names on uniforms can now include generational suffixes such as Roman numerals (in the case of Robert Griffin III), Junior (Jr.), and Senior (Sr.) designations.Robert Griffin III will be first NFL player with Roman Numerals on his jersey https://web.archive.org/web/20140420221634/https://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/robert-griffin-iii-first-nfl-player-roman-numerals-142030622.html April 20, 2014 . Yahoo!. Retrieved May 24, 2012. Officials no longer could wear white knickers with their uniforms. The full length black pants with a white stripe down the side, worn for cold weather games since 2006, became mandatory for all games. The overtime rules in the playoffs (adopted for the 2010 season) would be extended to the pre-season and regular season. Instead of a straight sudden death, the game will not immediately end if the team that receives the ball first scores a field goal on its first possession (they can still win the game if they score a touchdown and the game will end if the defense scores a safety). Instead, the other team gets a possession. If the second team on offense then scores a touchdown, it is declared the winner. If the score is tied after both teams had a possession, whether both teams kicked a field goal or neither team scored, then it goes to sudden death. If the score remains tied at the end of overtime, the game ends in a tie. The first regular season game that the new overtime rules were used was a Week 1 contest between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Minnesota Vikings. Minnesota took the opening kickoff of overtime and scored on a field goal, then stopped Jacksonville on fourth down. The first regular season game where both teams scored a field goal on their respective first possessions of overtime was the Week 11 game between the Jaguars and the Houston Texans. The Texans then won the game, becoming the first NFL team to score twice in overtime under the new format. Other changes On August 30, 2012, the owners and NFLPA agreed to the following changes regarding player movement:https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/8317517/nflpa-agrees-new-ir-trade-deadline-changes NFLPA approves rule changes Espn.go.com August 30, 2012 September 19, 2012 August 24, 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190824161406/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/8317517/nflpa-agrees-new-ir-trade-deadline-changes live The trade deadline has been set as the Tuesday following week 8 of the season. Previously, the trade deadline was the Tuesday following week 6. The deadline was moved back another two days to November 1 due to potential complications regarding Hurricane Sandy as league offices were closed due to the storm.https://sports.yahoo.com/news/nfl-moves-trade-deadline-thursday-181413251--nfl.html NFL moves trade deadline to Thursday Yahoo! Sports October 29, 2012 October 29, 2012 November 1, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121101024307/http://sports.yahoo.com/news/nfl-moves-trade-deadline-thursday-181413251--nfl.html dead Teams may designate one player who had been placed on injured reserve prior to the start of the season to return to the 53-man roster later in the season and play. That player is eligible to return to practice after week 6 and to play after week 8. Regular season Late doubleheader kickoff time change The league announced on June 28 that all late Sunday doubleheader games will be moved ten minutes later from 4:15 p.m. ET to 4:25 p.m. Late games broadcast on the single game network will still remain at 4:05 p.m. The league cited 44 early games from the 2009 to 2011 seasons in which part of the audience had to be switched immediately to the kickoff of their home team's doubleheader game, and thus miss the end of the first game.http://nflcommunications.com/2012/06/28/nfl-shifts-cbs-fox-late-doubleheader-kickoff-times-to-ensure-more-football-for-fans/ NFL shifts CBS & FOX late doubleheader kickoff times to ensure more football for fans NFL June 28, 2012 June 28, 2012 dead https://archive.today/20130130043423/http://nflcommunications.com/2012/06/28/nfl-shifts-cbs-fox-late-doubleheader-kickoff-times-to-ensure-more-football-for-fans/ January 30, 2013 mdy-all The late Dallas Thanksgiving game's kickoff time was also moved from 4:15 p.m. ET to 4:30 p.m. ET. The 4:15 p.m. late doubleheader kickoff time dates back to the 1998 season when the NFL moved it from 4:05 p.m. for the same reason. Matchups As per the NFL's scheduling formula, the intraconference and interconference matchups were:2012 Opponents Determined http://nfllabor.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/2012-opponents-determined.pdf NFL January 23, 2012 January 2, 2012 September 4, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120904140017/http://nfllabor.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/2012-opponents-determined.pdf live 48% Intraconference AFC East vs. AFC South AFC North vs. AFC West NFC East vs. NFC South NFC North vs. NFC West 48% Interconference AFC East vs. NFC West AFC North vs. NFC East AFC South vs. NFC North AFC West vs. NFC South Other highlights Highlights of the 2012 schedule include: NFL Kickoff Game: The 2012 regular season began on Wednesday, September 5, as the defending Super Bowl XLVI champion New York Giants hosted the Dallas Cowboys, and the Cowboys beat the Giants 24–17. The game was moved from its usual Thursday slot to avoid conflict with the last day of the Democratic National Convention. More Thursday night games: On February 3, 2012, commissioner Roger Goodell announced that the number of Thursday night games on the NFL Network will increase from eight to 13 games from weeks 2 through 15, excluding Week 12 (the Thanksgiving night game will now air on NBC).February 3, 2012 Every team will have a primetime game in 2012...NFL network to air 13 thursday night games in 2012 Eagles All Day http://slumz.boxden.com/f16/every-team-will-have-primetime-game-2012-nfl-network-air-13-thursday-night-games-2012-a-1698651/ April 14, 2012 February 5, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120205042854/http://slumz.boxden.com/f16/every-team-will-have-primetime-game-2012-nfl-network-air-13-thursday-night-games-2012-a-1698651/ live This will ensure that every team will have at least one prime time game.https://www.nfl.com/news/goodell-all-teams-to-go-prime-time-in-new-thursday-night-slate-09000d5d82692011 Goodell: All teams to go prime time in new Thursday night slate NFL.com February 3, 2012 February 3, 2012 August 5, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20200805062142/https://www.nfl.com/news/goodell-all-teams-to-go-prime-time-in-new-thursday-night-slate-09000d5d82692011 live International Series: The 2012 International Series game featured the St. Louis Rams hosting the New England Patriots on October 28, at 1:00 p.m. EDT (5:00 p.m. GMT) on CBS, at the permanent International Series home—Wembley Stadium in London, England.NFL UK. ST. LOUIS RAMS TO HOST REGULAR-SEASON GAME IN UNITED KINGDOM IN EACH OF NEXT THREE YEARS https://web.archive.org/web/20120123002535/http://www.nfluk.com/opinions/articles/rams-3-year-commitment-uk-0 January 23, 2012 NFLUK.com, January 20, 2012. The Patriots won the game 45–7. Though the league had originally promised to add a second game in Ireland,Fahey, Cian (January 28, 2011). Croke Park Director addresses the NFL's visit to Ireland https://web.archive.org/web/20111220080825/http://www.irishcentral.com/story/sport/sports-central/croke-park-director-addresses-the-nfls-visit-to-ireland-114817144.html December 20, 2011 . Irish Central. Retrieved August 3, 2011. Scotlandhttp://edinburghnews.scotsman.com/murrayfieldstadium/Murrayfield-is-game-for-NFL.3943437.jp Murrayfield is game for NFL Scotsman.com September 4, 2012 or Waleshttp://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/american_football/8047096.stm BBC News NFL ponders second UK game option May 13, 2009 August 15, 2009 December 15, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20090815131425/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/other_sports/american_football/8047096.stm live beginning in 2012,Goodell: Some NFL teams could be London regulars https://web.archive.org/web/20190922003336/http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/F/FBN_NFL_IN_LONDON_GOODELL?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT September 22, 2019 . Associated Press. Retrieved October 26, 2011. the league canceled the game, citing the 2012 Summer Olympics in London as a conflict (the league canceled a second International Series game in 2010 as well, citing the ongoing negotiations of the collective bargaining agreement). This was to be the first of three consecutive International Series appearances for the Rams, but the Rams announced they would no longer take part in the 2013 and 2014 editions due to fan backlash in St. Louis;https://www.nfl.com/news/st-louis-rams-will-not-play-in-london-2013-2014-0ap2000000049232 St. Louis Rams will not play in London 2013, 2014 NFL.com August 13, 2012 August 10, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20200810201923/https://www.nfl.com/news/st-louis-rams-will-not-play-in-london-2013-2014-0ap2000000049232 live beginning in 2013, the Jacksonville Jaguars will serve as the permanent International Series tenant instead. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/8286397/report-jacksonville-jaguars-play-multiple-home-games-london-starting-2013 Report: Jags to play games in London August 21, 2012 ESPN ESPN Associated Press August 21, 2012 March 3, 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160303180842/http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/8286397/report-jacksonville-jaguars-play-multiple-home-games-london-starting-2013 live Redskins Rule: The last Washington Redskins home game before the 2012 presidential election took place on November 4 against the Carolina Panthers. According to the "Redskins Rule", because the Redskins lost that game 21–13, the incumbent president was forecast to lose his bid for re-election on Election Day. In the end, the Redskins Rule failed to come to fruition. Thanksgiving Day games: Three games were played on Thursday, November 22. The two traditional Thanksgiving games saw the Houston Texans defeat the Detroit Lions, 34–31 in overtime; followed by the Washington Redskins defeating their longtime division rivals, the Dallas Cowboys, 38–31. In the prime-time Thanksgiving game, which for the first time aired on NBC, the New England Patriots defeated the New York Jets 49–19. The Patriots scored 35 points in the second quarter, including a return of the "Butt Fumble" for a touchdown. Prior to 2012, the prime-time Thanksgiving game aired on NFL Network. Bills Toronto Series. The fifth and, under current contract, final regular-season game of the series, which saw the Buffalo Bills play in Toronto's Rogers Centre, featured the Bills hosting the Seattle Seahawks on December 16. The Seahawks defeated the Bills 50–17. Due to a re-emergence of late-season attendance problems at Ralph Wilson Stadium, the Toronto Series will return to its original timing after the end of the 2012 CFL season. Although a preseason game was originally going to be played in 2012 as part of the series, it was canceled due to a lack of available dates at the Rogers Centre.Preseason game in TO moves to Ralph https://web.archive.org/web/20120223215233/http://www.wivb.com/dpp/sports/bills_and_nfl/preseason-game-in-to-moves-to-ralph February 23, 2012 . WIVB-TV. Retrieved February 21, 2012. Christmas Eve: Christmas Eve fell on a Monday in 2012. Since the NFL usually avoids scheduling games on the night of Christmas Eve, the ESPN Monday Night game for that week was instead played on Saturday, December 22, between the Atlanta Falcons and the Detroit Lions. It was the only Saturday game played during the 2012 regular season and the Falcons won the game 31–18. This also prevented a conflict with ESPN also covering the college football bowl game, the Hawaii Bowl which was played on December 24. Playoffs: The last regular season games were held on Sunday, December 30. The playoffs started on Saturday, January 5, 2013 and the conference championship games were held on Sunday, January 20; the NFC Championship was played at 3:00 p.m. EST on Fox, and the AFC Championship followed at 6:30 p.m. EST on CBS. Super Bowl XLVII, the league's championship game, was on February 3 at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana, and was televised on CBS with kickoff around 6:20 p.m. EST. Pre-game programming began that morning with CBS News Sunday Morning and Face the Nation being Super Bowl-centric followed by "official" pregame programming. The Pro Football Hall of Fame Game was played August 5 and featured a match-up between the Arizona Cardinals and the New Orleans Saints. The Saints last appeared in the game in 2007; former Saints offensive tackle Willie Roaf was inducted as part of the Hall of Fame ceremonies. The Cardinals played there for the first time since 1986, when the franchise was still located in St. Louis. As with the originally announced 2011 game, this matchup broke from the game's usual tradition of featuring two teams from opposing conferences (the 2011 Hall of Fame Game would've featured the Chicago Bears and St. Louis Rams, but the game was canceled due to the 2011 NFL lockout).http://www.profootballhof.com/enshrinement/2012/2/29/cardinals-vs-saints-in-2012-hall-of-fame-game/ Individual Tickets & Festival Fan Packages Profootballhof.com April 26, 2012 dead https://archive.today/20120910140505/http://www.profootballhof.com/enshrinement/2012/2/29/cardinals-vs-saints-in-2012-hall-of-fame-game/ September 10, 2012 mdy The game, normally airing on NBC, instead aired this season on NFL Network due to NBC airing the 2012 Summer Olympics, as it had done in 2007. The Saints defeated the Cardinals, 17–10. The remainder of the 2012 preseason matchups were revealed on April 4.http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d82815357/article/nfl-preseason-schedule-opens-with-cardinalssaints-on-aug-5?module=HP11_headline_stack https://web.archive.org/web/20120407164627/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d82815357/article/nfl-preseason-schedule-opens-with-cardinalssaints-on-aug-5?module=HP11_headline_stack dead April 7, 2012 NFL preseason schedule opens with Cardinals-Saints on Aug. 5 NFL.com April 26, 2012 The November 11 game between the San Francisco 49ers and the St. Louis Rams ended in a rare tied game, with each team scoring 24 points, none in the overtime period. Prior to this, the last tie game had been in 2008.https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=321111025 NFC West rivals Rams, 49ers play to NFL's first tie since 2008 ESPN November 11, 2012 November 23, 2012 August 8, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20200808215254/https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=321111025 live The 2013 Pro Bowl was held in Hawaii on January 27, 2013, after New Orleans was briefly considered as a site.The Pro Bowl returns for another season in Hawaii; game set for Jan. 27. cbssports.com. Retrieved May 30, 2012. Originally, the NFL delayed announcing a date or venue for the game, and even considered eliminating the game altogether due to the NFL's displeasure with the quality of play in the 2012 Pro Bowl.Associated Press (February 5, 2012). Goodell: NFL could drop Pro Bowl. SI.com. Retrieved April 21, 2012. Scheduling changes The following games were rescheduled by the NFL using flexible scheduling to promote what the NFL deems to be its best games, typically because of their playoff implications: Week 11: The Indianapolis–New England game was moved from 1:00 p.m. EST to 4:25 p.m. EST.http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000090840/article/nfl-moves-week-11-start-time-of-coltspatriots-contest https://web.archive.org/web/20121108033722/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000090840/article/nfl-moves-week-11-start-time-of-coltspatriots-contest dead November 8, 2012 Indianapolis Colts-New England Patriots kickoff flexed NFL.com November 5, 2012 Week 16: The San Francisco–Seattle game, originally scheduled at 4:25 p.m. EST on Fox, was flexed into the 8:20 p.m. EST time slot on NBC Sunday Night Football. The San Diego–New York Jets game, originally scheduled at that time and network, was moved back to the 1:00 p.m. EST time slot on CBS, while the New York Giants–Baltimore game was moved from 1:00 p.m. EST to 4:25 p.m. EST.https://www.nfl.com/news/niners-seahawks-week-16-game-flexed-to-snf-0ap1000000108773 Niners-Seahawks' Week 16 game flexed to 'SNF' NFL.com Rosenthal, Gregg December 10, 2012 December 10, 2012 August 7, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20200807143404/https://www.nfl.com/news/niners-seahawks-week-16-game-flexed-to-snf-0ap1000000108773 live Week 17: The Dallas–Washington game, originally scheduled at 1:00 p.m. EST, was selected as the final Sunday Night Football game, which for the second consecutive season decided the NFC East division champion. The Miami–New England and Green Bay–Minnesota games were moved from 1:00 p.m. EST to 4:25 p.m. EST.http://nflcommunications.com/2012/12/23/week-17-flexible-scheduling-2/ Week 17 Flexible Scheduling NFL December 23, 2012 December 23, 2012 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20121224232312/http://nflcommunications.com/2012/12/23/week-17-flexible-scheduling-2/ December 24, 2012 mdy-all Regular season standings Division Conference Postseason 2012–13 NFL playoffs Denver Broncos West New England Patriots East Houston Texans South Baltimore Ravens North Indianapolis Colts Cincinnati Bengals Atlanta Falcons South San Francisco 49ers West Green Bay Packers North Washington Redskins East Seattle Seahawks Minnesota Vikings 2012 Playoffs bracket Controversies Saints bounty scandal New Orleans Saints bounty scandal In 2012, the New Orleans Saints were discovered to have run a "slush fund" under former defensive coordinator Gregg Williams, that paid out bonuses, called "bounties", to purposely injure offensive players that the Saints were playing against. The system was known to have operated during Williams's time in BuffaloTim Graham http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/bills-nfl/article747663.ece Bills bounty system under Williams alleged – Bills & NFL The Buffalo News July 21, 2012 March 5, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120305231203/http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/bills-nfl/article747663.ece live and Washington.https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/redskins/washington-redskins-offered-bounties-for-big-hits-under-former-assistant-coach-gregg-williams/2012/03/02/gIQAH0RlnR_story.html The Washington Post Mark Maske Stats, scores and schedules March 4, 2012 June 27, 2017 August 23, 2017 https://web.archive.org/web/20170627185724/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/redskins/washington-redskins-offered-bounties-for-big-hits-under-former-assistant-coach-gregg-williams/2012/03/02/gIQAH0RlnR_story.html live Rumors started in 2009 during the Saints Super Bowl XLIV run in the 2009 NFC Championship game against the Vikings, where the Saints defense was allegedly trying to hurt Vikings quarterback Brett Favre.Silverman Steve https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ycn-11050204 'Bountygate' Details Get Uglier by the Moment – NFL – Yahoo! Sports Sports.yahoo.com July 21, 2012 March 8, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120308055039/http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ycn-11050204 dead Seifert Kevin https://www.espn.com/blog/nfcnorth/post/_/id/39041/saints-shots-at-brett-favre-were-no-secret Saints' shots at Brett Favre were no secret March 5, 2012 Espn.go.com July 21, 2012 Other than the Vikings, the Saints also allegedly targeted Chicago BearsWright Michael C. https://www.espn.com/blog/chicago/bears/post/_/id/4675326/bears-wonder-if-saints-targeted-them Bears wonder if Saints targeted them Espn.go.com January 2, 2010 July 21, 2012 March 6, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120306181410/http://espn.go.com/blog/chicago/bears/post/_/id/4675326/bears-wonder-if-saints-targeted-them live and Carolina PanthersYasinskas Pat https://www.espn.com/blog/nfcsouth/post/_/id/32684/nfl-saints-targeted-cam-newton NFL: Saints targeted Cam Newton March 21, 2012 Espn.go.com July 21, 2012 players, and the program became even more notorious in the 2011 NFL Divisional Playoff Game against the San Francisco 49ers, when filmmaker Sean Pamphilon released audio tapes of Williams telling his players to injure a select group of 49ers, with one of them being running back Kendall Hunter, and to knock him out, as well as going after Kyle Williams because of his history of concussions. Williams also told them to injure Vernon Davis' ankles and tear wide receiver Michael Crabtree's ACL. According to Pamphilon, Williams also appeared to put a bounty on quarterback Alex Smith after he told his men to hit Smith in the chin, "then he rubs his thumb against his index and middle fingers – the cash sign – and says, I got the first one. I got the first one. Go get it. Go lay that [expletive] out."https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=Anw9sHdXItbteN7R4ozB1Qg5nYcB?slug=ms-silver_gregg_williams_speech_saints_49ers_bounty_040412 Source: Gregg Williams instructed Saints during speech to injure Niners offensive players Silver Michael Yahoo! Sports April 5, 2012 April 8, 2012 April 19, 2014 https://web.archive.org/web/20120408005924/http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ms-silver_gregg_williams_speech_saints_49ers_bounty_040412 live Ultimately, Goodell handed down one of the harshest penalties in league history, by suspending Williams indefinitely, head coach Sean Payton for the entire 2012 season, interim head coach Joe Vitt for the first 6 games, and general manager Mickey Loomis for 8 games.NFL bans Saints' Payton a year for 'bounties'; Williams out, too https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-bans-saints-payton-a-year-for-bounties-williams-out-too-09000d5d827c0dd9 NFL.com June 4, 2024 December 23, 2018 https://web.archive.org/web/20181223065842/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d827c0dd9/article/nfl-suspends-saints-coach-payton-for-one-year-without-pay?module=HP11_breaking_news live Saints linebacker Jonathan Vilma was also suspended for the season, as well as defensive linemen Anthony Hargrove and Will Smith for 8 and 4 games, respectively. Former Saints and current Cleveland Browns linebacker Scott Fujita was also suspended for 3 games.https://sports.yahoo.com/news/jonathan-vilma-suspended-entire-season-170017552.html Jonathan Vilma: Suspended for Entire Season – Yahoo! Sports Sports.yahoo.com May 2, 2012 July 21, 2012 February 16, 2013 https://web.archive.org/web/20130216182556/http://sports.yahoo.com/news/jonathan-vilma-suspended-entire-season-170017552.html dead The player's suspensions were later thrown out on appeal.https://www.nfl.com/news/saints-player-bounty-suspensions-overturned-on-appeal-0ap1000000059459 Saints player bounty suspensions overturned on appeal NFL.com September 22, 2012 November 11, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20201111204513/https://www.nfl.com/news/saints-player-bounty-suspensions-overturned-on-appeal-0ap1000000059459 live Chargers Stickum During the Monday Night Football game on October 15 between the San Diego Chargers and the Denver Broncos, officials checked the hands of Chargers players, under the suspicion that players were using Stickum or a similar banned adhesive on players' towels to gain a competitive edge.Gehlken Michael Chargers don't expect cheating accusations to stick http://www.nctimes.com/sports/football/professional/nfl/chargers/chargers-don-t-expect-cheating-accusations-to-stick/article_cf37b621-1813-56ca-86b5-b79e984249cb.html www.nctimes.com December 27, 2012 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20121228093017/http://www.nctimes.com/sports/football/professional/nfl/chargers/chargers-don-t-expect-cheating-accusations-to-stick/article_cf37b621-1813-56ca-86b5-b79e984249cb.html December 28, 2012 mdy-all Chargers' head coach Norv Turner strenuously denied the accusations. The towels were revealed to have Gorilla Gold Grip Enhancer.Williamson Bill https://www.espn.com/blog/afcwest/post/_/id/50885/chargers-cleared-in-towelgate Chargers cleared in Towelgate ESPN November 7, 2012 December 31, 2012 November 10, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121110083520/http://espn.go.com/blog/afcwest/post/_/id/50885/chargers-cleared-in-towelgate live The Chargers were fined $20,000 by the NFL for failing to immediately surrender team towels when requested, but were cleared of illegal substance use.Lamport-Stokes Mark Chargers fined $20,000 after 'Stickum' towel inquiry https://www.chicagotribune.com/2012/11/07/chargers-fined-20000-after-stickum-towel-inquiry/ www.chicagotribune.com December 27, 2012 November 7, 2012 June 24, 2025 https://web.archive.org/web/20250624090823/https://www.chicagotribune.com/2012/11/07/chargers-fined-20000-after-stickum-towel-inquiry/ live Gorilla Gold was subsequently banned from use by the NFL. League averages There were a total of 11,651 points scored during the 2012 NFL regular season. The average points scored among all the teams in the NFL was 22.8 points per game. The New England Patriots had the highest point differential, scoring an average of 14.1 points more than their opponents. The Kansas City Chiefs had the lowest point differential scoring an average of 13.4 points less than their opponents. Records Jason Hanson set the record for most consecutive seasons with one team. He has been the kicker for the Detroit Lions for 21 seasons.Esteban Posted: 10/09/2012 http://www.totalprosports.com/2012/10/09/12-nfl-records-held-by-active-players/#11 12 NFL Records Held by Active Players October 9, 2012 Total Pro Sports October 27, 2012 October 16, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121016025908/http://www.totalprosports.com/2012/10/09/12-nfl-records-held-by-active-players/#11 dead Ed Reed of the Baltimore Ravens broke Rod Woodson's record for interception return yardage in a week one game against the Cincinnati Bengals. He is now the all-time leader in interception return yards with 1,541.NFL.com. Published: September 11, 2012 http://blogs.nfl.com/2012/09/11/ed-reed-robert-griffin-iii-set-nfl-records-in-week-1/ Ed Reed, Robert Griffin III set NFL records in week 1 September 25, 2012 September 15, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120915022332/http://blogs.nfl.com/2012/09/11/ed-reed-robert-griffin-iii-set-nfl-records-in-week-1/ live Robert Griffin III became the only player in NFL history to pass for 300+ yards and 2 touchdowns without throwing an interception in his first start. David Akers tied the NFL record for longest field goal (63 yards).Schilken Chuck http://www.latimes.com/sports/sportsnow/la-sp-sn-david-akers-video-20120910,0,7336688.story David Akers makes history with 63-yard field goal [Video Los Angeles Times September 10, 2012 September 19, 2012 September 17, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120917005949/http://www.latimes.com/sports/sportsnow/la-sp-sn-david-akers-video-20120910,0,7336688.story live Peyton Manning joined Dan Marino and Brett Favre as the only players to throw at least 400 touchdowns.Greenberg Chris http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/09/09/peyton-manning-touchdown-demaryius-thomas-400_n_1869493.html Peyton Manning Touchdown: Broncos' QB Tosses 400th Career TD In Denver Debut (VIDEO) Huffingtonpost.com September 9, 2012 September 19, 2012 September 15, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120915183719/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/09/09/peyton-manning-touchdown-demaryius-thomas-400_n_1869493.html live Week 1 set a record for being the highest scoring opening week in NFL history. The new record of 791 points is 3 points higher than the 2002 record. Five teams scored more than 40 points, also the most in NFL history.NFL.com. Published: September 11, 2012 https://www.nfl.com/news/week-1-highest-scoring-kickoff-week-in-nfl-history-0ap1000000061040 Highest scoring Kickoff week in history September 26, 2012 August 6, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20200806142600/https://www.nfl.com/news/week-1-highest-scoring-kickoff-week-in-nfl-history-0ap1000000061040 live NFL sets record with 20 teams at 1–1.NFL.com. Published: September 17, 2012 https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-sets-record-with-20-teams-at-1-1-including-patriots-0ap1000000063482 NFL sets record with 20 teams at 1–1, including Patriots NFL.com September 25, 2012 August 10, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20200810002402/https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-sets-record-with-20-teams-at-1-1-including-patriots-0ap1000000063482 live Drew Brees' record streak of consecutive games with 300 plus yards passing ended at 9 games in a week 3 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. His streak began in week 10 of the 2011 season.Elias Sports Bureau http://static.nfl.com/static/content/public/image/history/pdfs/Records/All_Time_Records_Indiv_2011.pdf Passing all time records NFL.com November 3, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20111026234049/http://static.nfl.com/static/content/public/image/history/pdfs/Records/All_Time_Records_Indiv_2011.pdf October 26, 2011 deadPro football reference.com https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/nor/2012.htm 2012 New Orleans Saints Pro football reference.com November 3, 2012 May 15, 2024 https://web.archive.org/web/20240515085520/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/nor/2012.htm live Danny Amendola of the St. Louis Rams had 12 receptions in the first half of the week two game vs. Washington to tie the NFL record for most receptions in the first half set by the Indianapolis Colts' Reggie Wayne in 2007.NFL.com. Published: September 16, 2012 http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000062777/article/danny-amendola-ties-nfl-record-for-firsthalf-receptions https://web.archive.org/web/20120918121419/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000062777/article/danny-amendola-ties-nfl-record-for-firsthalf-receptions dead September 18, 2012 Danny Amendola ties NFL record for first-half receptions NFL.com September 25, 2012 The Tennessee Titans scored a record five touchdowns of 60-plus yards in one game (1 punt return, 2 pass plays, 1 kickoff return, 1 fumble return) against the Detroit Lions in week 3.pro-football-reference.com. Posted: September 24, 2012 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201209230oti.htm Detroit Lions vs. Tenn. Titans boxscore pro-football-reference.com September 25, 2012 April 12, 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190412172109/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201209230oti.htm live Michigan Live. Posted: September 24, 2012 http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2012/09/detroit_lions_set_nfl_record_f.html Detroit Lions set NFL record for longest touchdown plays allowed September 24, 2012 M live media group September 25, 2012 September 26, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120926040214/http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2012/09/detroit_lions_set_nfl_record_f.html live The week 3 game between the New England Patriots and Baltimore Ravens produced an NFL record 13 first downs via penalties. Of the 13, New England was awarded 8 and Baltimore 5.Rant Sports Posted: September 25, 2012 http://www.rantsports.com/nfl/2012/09/24/baltimore-ravensnew-england-patriots-week-3-recap/ Baltimore Ravens/New England Patriots Week 3 Recap RantSports September 25, 2012 July 28, 2013 https://web.archive.org/web/20130728114905/http://www.rantsports.com/nfl/2012/09/24/baltimore-ravensnew-england-patriots-week-3-recap/ dead In week 4, Rams rookie kicker Greg Zuerlein became the first player in league history to make kicks from 50-plus and 60-plus yards in the same game.Nick Wagoner Posted: September 30, 2012 http://www.stlouisrams.com/news-and-events/article-1/Zuerlein-Boots-Way-into-Record-Books/0ea86c8f-de66-4f9c-8b22-1a70b32d94f1 Zuerlein Boots Way into Record Books St. Louis Rams October 28, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121104045552/http://www.stlouisrams.com/news-and-events/article-1/Zuerlein-Boots-Way-into-Record-Books/0ea86c8f-de66-4f9c-8b22-1a70b32d94f1 November 4, 2012 dead mdy-all Drew Brees' record of 48 consecutive games with a touchdown pass in week 5 vs. San Diego (the first team Brees played for) broke Johnny Unitas' record that had stood since 1960.NFL.com Posted: 10/07/2012 https://www.nfl.com/news/drew-brees-breaks-johnny-unitas-td-pass-record-0ap1000000078087 Drew Brees breaks Johnny Unitas' touchdown record NFL October 7, 2012 September 19, 2024 https://web.archive.org/web/20240919072630/https://www.nfl.com/news/drew-brees-breaks-johnny-unitas-td-pass-record-0ap1000000078087 live The streak ended at 54 games in week thirteen against the Atlanta Falcons.NFL.com Posted: November 29, 2012 http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2012112900/2012/REG13/saints@falcons#menu=highlights&tab=recap Game Center Saints vs. Falcons NFL.com November 29, 2012 November 30, 2012 November 30, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121130034835/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2012112900/2012/REG13/saints@falcons?#menu=highlights&tab=recap livehttps://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/nor/2012.htm 2012 New Orleans Saints Statistics & Players Pro-Football-Reference.com November 23, 2012 May 15, 2024 https://web.archive.org/web/20240515085520/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/nor/2012.htm live Charles Tillman and Lance Briggs set a new record by intercepting a pass for a touchdown in both Week 4 and Week 5. They became the first pair of teammates in NFL history to each return an interception for a touchdown in consecutive games.Jensen Sean http://blogs.suntimes.com/bears/2012/10/charles_tillman_and_lance_brig.html Charles Tillman and Lance Briggs enter NFL history books together Chicago Sun-Times October 8, 2012 October 12, 2012 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20121015002843/http://blogs.suntimes.com/bears/2012/10/charles_tillman_and_lance_brig.html October 15, 2012 mdy In week five the San Francisco 49ers became the first team in NFL history with 300 yards passing and 300 yards rushing vs. the Buffalo Bills.https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=321007025 49ers gain franchise-record 621 yards in blowout of Bills ESPN October 7, 2012 November 23, 2012 September 20, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20200920005125/https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=321007025 live Chris Johnson of the Tennessee Titans ran for an 83-yard touchdown in the first quarter of the Titans' win over the Buffalo Bills to become the first player in NFL history with four 80-plus yard touchdown runs in a career.Pro football Hall of Fame Posted: October 22, 2012 http://www.profootballhof.com/history/2012/10/22/NFL-80-yard-TD-run-leaders/ Johnson runs to Canton Hall of Fame October 22, 2012 October 27, 2012 October 28, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121028034225/http://www.profootballhof.com/history/2012/10/22/NFL-80-yard-TD-run-leaders/ live The Kansas City Chiefs set a record of seven consecutive games without holding a lead, previously set by the 1929 Buffalo Bisons.Sessler, Marc (November 1, 2012). Kansas City Chiefs tie 83-year-old mark of shame https://web.archive.org/web/20231210164436/https://www.nfl.com/news/kansas-city-chiefs-tie-83-year-old-mark-of-shame-0ap1000000088637 December 10, 2023 . NFL.com. Retrieved August 14, 2013. Week 8: New England gained over 350 yards of total offense for the 17th straight game, breaking an NFL record set by the Rams in 1999–2000.Associated Press Posted: October 28, 2012 http://www.nwitimes.com/sports/football/professional/nfl-roundup/article_5106f5ee-699e-5e9a-bb39-9971b280a451.html?comment_form=true NFL Roundup nwi.com October 28, 2012 October 29, 2012 November 25, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20201125223133/https://www.nwitimes.com/sports/football/professional/nfl-roundup/article_5106f5ee-699e-5e9a-bb39-9971b280a451.html?comment_form=true live By allowing 530 yards by the Broncos in week eight, the New Orleans Saints became the first team to allow 400-plus yards in seven games in a row since 1950, which is as far back as STATS LLC can search its NFL database.CBS Sports.com Posted: October 28, 2012 http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/gametracker/recap/NFL_20121028_NO@DEN/broncos-34-saints-14 Peyton helps Broncos shred Saints CBS Sports.com October 28, 2012 October 30, 2012 January 2, 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150102211424/http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/gametracker/recap/NFL_20121028_NO@DEN/broncos-34-saints-14 live Record ended at ten games through week 11.https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/nor/2012.htm 2012 Saints season Pro football reference.com November 22, 2012 May 15, 2024 https://web.archive.org/web/20240515085520/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/nor/2012.htm live In week 8, Jason Witten of the Cowboys caught 18 passes against the Giants. This set a new NFL record for catches in a game by a tight end, and was the third most in a single game by any player in NFL history.Jimmy Burch and Charean Williams http://www.star-telegram.com/2012/10/28/4370312/cowboys-notes-witten-sets-records.html Cowboys notes: Witten sets records with 18 catches Star Telegram October 28, 2012 October 30, 2012 Through week eight Peyton Manning has increased his record of most regular season games with 300 plus yards passing to 68 games.Associated Press https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/redskins/nfl-capsule-broncos-at-bengals/2012/11/01/72ee4b0a-245f-11e2-92f8-7f9c4daf276a_story.htmll NFL Capsule: Broncos at Bengals The Washington Post November 1, 2012 November 3, 2012 June 2021 medicmedic Andrew Luck broke the NFL's single-game rookie record when he threw for 433 yards to lead the Indianapolis Colts past the Miami Dolphins.NFL.com http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2012110407/2012/REG9/dolphins@colts#menu=highlights&tab=recap Game Center Dolphins Colts NFL.com November 4, 2012 November 4, 2012 November 3, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121103205231/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2012110407/2012/REG9/dolphins@colts?#menu=highlights&tab=recap live Chicago became the first team in NFL history to record a touchdown pass, a touchdown run, an interception return for a touchdown, and a blocked kick/punt for a score in the same quarter in their week 9 game against the Tennessee Titans.https://www.nfl.com/news/chicago-bears-win-big-gain-steam-in-nfc-playoff-race-0ap1000000089598 Chicago Bears win big, gain steam in NFC playoff race National Football League November 4, 2012 November 4, 2012 November 6, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121106090601/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000089598/article/chicago-bears-win-big-gain-steam-in-nfc-playoff-race live Charles Tillman became the first player in the NFL to force four fumbles in one game since the stat became tracked in 1991. Doug Martin became the first player in league history to record touchdown runs of 70-plus, 65-plus, and 45-plus yards in a single game.https://www.nfl.com/news/doug-martin-shatters-tampa-bay-buccaneers-records-0ap1000000090087 Doug Martin shatters Tampa Bay Buccaneers' records National Football League November 4, 2012 November 4, 2012 November 6, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121106013009/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000090087/article/doug-martin-shatters-tampa-bay-buccaneers-records live He joined Denver's Mike Anderson as the only players in league history with at least 250 rushing yards and four touchdowns in a game.http://lasvegas.cbslocal.com/2012/11/06/nfl-rookies-break-records-on-sunday-of-upsets/ NFL Rookies Break Records On Sunday Of Upsets « CBS Las Vegas Lasvegas.cbslocal.com November 6, 2012 November 23, 2012 November 16, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121116010137/http://lasvegas.cbslocal.com/2012/11/06/nfl-rookies-break-records-on-sunday-of-upsets/ live Jacoby Jones of the Ravens became the first player in league history with two career kickoff returns of at least 105 yards. He returned one for 108 yards against Dallas; he followed it up a few weeks later when he returned one for 105 yards against Oakland, simultaneously tying the record for longest kickoff return on the former return.CBS Sports Posted: October 14, 2012 http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/blog/eye-on-football/20563422/jacoby-jones-ties-nfl-record-with-108-yard-kickoff-return Jones ties return record CBS October 14, 2012 October 27, 2012https://www.espn.com/blog/nflnation/tag/_/name/2012-week-10-rapid-reaction ESPN Rapid Reaction: Steelers 16, Chiefs 13 (OT) November 12, 2012 November 16, 2012 July 18, 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190718152725/https://www.espn.com/blog/nflnation/tag/_/name/2012-week-10-rapid-reaction live Andrew Luck set the rookie record with six games of at least 300 yards passing.Watch Indianapolis Colts vs. New England Patriots http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2012111806/2012/REG11/colts@patriots#menu=highlights&tab=recap&recap=fullstory NFL November 18, 2012 Leon Washington of the Seahawks returned a kickoff for a touchdown for the eighth time to tie the NFL career record.Game recap Seattle vs. Miami http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2012112507/2012/REG12/seahawks@dolphins#menu=highlights&tab=recap NFL.com November 25, 2012 November 25, 2012 November 24, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121124114506/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2012112507/2012/REG12/seahawks@dolphins#menu=highlights&tab=recap live Calvin Johnson of the Lions broke the NFL season receiving yards record against the Falcons on December 22.https://www.nfl.com/news/calvin-johnson-sets-single-season-receiving-yards-record-0ap1000000115024 Calvin Johnson sets single-season receiving yards record National Football League December 22, 2012 December 22, 2012 December 31, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121231014551/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000115024/article/calvin-johnson-sets-singleseason-receiving-yards-record live Blair Walsh broke the NFL single season record for most field goals made in a season of over 50 yards on December 23 against the Texans.https://www.nfl.com/news/blair-walsh-sets-nfl-record-for-50-yard-plus-field-goals-0ap1000000115304 Blair Walsh sets NFL record for 50-yard-plus field goals National Football League December 23, 2012 December 23, 2012 August 6, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20200806143114/https://www.nfl.com/news/blair-walsh-sets-nfl-record-for-50-yard-plus-field-goals-0ap1000000115304 live Placekicker Kai Forbath of the Redskins set a new NFL record with 17 consecutive field goals to start a career.http://www.profootballhof.com/history/2012/12/27/washington-redskins-kai-forbath-ball-at-football-hall-of-fame/ Redskins rookie record Pro football hall of fame December 27, 2012 August 17, 2013 January 1, 2013 https://web.archive.org/web/20130101053120/http://www.profootballhof.com/history/2012/12/27/washington-redskins-kai-forbath-ball-at-football-hall-of-fame/ dead Andrew Luck broke the rookie record for passing yards in a season on December 23.Copeland Kareem https://www.nfl.com/news/andrew-luck-sets-nfl-rookie-passing-record-colts-win-0ap1000000115307 Andrew Luck sets NFL rookie passing record; Colts win National Football League December 23, 2012 December 23, 2012 June 7, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20200607080449/https://www.nfl.com/news/andrew-luck-sets-nfl-rookie-passing-record-colts-win-0ap1000000115307 live Jason Witten broke the NFL single season record for catches by a tight end on December 23.Associated Press https://www.nfl.com/news/dallas-cowboys-jason-witten-breaks-record-for-te-catches-0ap1000000115373 Dallas Cowboys' Jason Witten breaks record for TE catches National Football League December 23, 2012 December 23, 2012 November 23, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20201123172352/https://www.nfl.com/news/dallas-cowboys-jason-witten-breaks-record-for-te-catches-0ap1000000115373 live Adrian Peterson became the seventh player in NFL history to rush for 2,000 yards in a single season by rushing for 199 yards in Week 17, bringing his season total to 2,097 rushing yards. This also brings him just nine yards short of breaking Eric Dickerson's record set in 1984 and gives him the all-time second best single season record for rushing yards.https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/8794141/adrian-peterson-minnesota-vikings-becomes-seventh-player-nfl-history-rush-2000-yards Adrian Peterson just misses record ESPN December 31, 2012 January 9, 2013 July 20, 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190720182009/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/8794141/adrian-peterson-minnesota-vikings-becomes-seventh-player-nfl-history-rush-2000-yards live Russell Wilson tied Peyton Manning's rookie record for touchdown passes in a single season with 26.https://www.nfl.com/news/russell-wilson-ties-peyton-manning-record-for-rookie-td-passes-0ap1000000119431 Russell Wilson ties Peyton Manning record for rookie TD passes NFL.com December 30, 2012 January 9, 2013 August 4, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20200804203242/https://www.nfl.com/news/russell-wilson-ties-peyton-manning-record-for-rookie-td-passes-0ap1000000119431 live The New England Patriots gained an NFL record 444 first downs.Game Notes: Patriots v Dolphins http://www.patriots.com/news/article-1/Game-Notes-Patriots-vs-Dolphins/9a3b8dd3-1e02-493f-8524-a6ae938b5731 New England Patriots December 31, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20130102163632/http://www.patriots.com/news/article-1/Game-Notes-Patriots-vs-Dolphins/9a3b8dd3-1e02-493f-8524-a6ae938b5731 January 2, 2013 dead mdy-all The 2012 regular season set the NFL record for total points scored in a season with 11,651; the 22.8 points-per-game for each team is also the highest since the AFL-NFL merger.http://www.nfl.com/photoessays/0ap1000000123840/mindblowing-stats-for-the-divisional-playoffs Mind-blowing stats for the divisional playoffs National Football League January 8, 2013 January 9, 2013 January 10, 2013 https://web.archive.org/web/20130110030155/http://www.nfl.com/photoessays/0ap1000000123840/mindblowing-stats-for-the-divisional-playoffs live The Minnesota Vikings set the NFL record for most playoff losses with 27. The Minnesota Vikings broke the NFL record for most road playoff losses with 16. The New England Patriots tied the St. Louis Rams' record set from 1999 to 2001 for the most consecutive seasons scoring 500 or more points with three. Robert Griffin III set a passer rating of 102.4, to break Ben Roethlisberger's record for the highest rating by a rookie. Most home playoff games won: 20, San Francisco 49ers Colin Kaepernick set record for most rushing yards by a quarterback in a single game, with 181 yards.Colin Kaepernick sets QB rushing mark as Niners oust Packers January 12, 2013 ESPN.com https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=330112025 January 14, 2013 January 13, 2013 https://web.archive.org/web/20130113132938/http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=330112025 live Tom Brady set the record for most playoff games won with 17.Wilner Barry https://sports.yahoo.com/news/patriots-beat-texans-41-28-005952610--nfl.html Patriots beat Texans 41–28, Ravens up next Yahoo! Sports January 13, 2013 January 13, 2013 January 16, 2013 https://web.archive.org/web/20130116121801/http://sports.yahoo.com/news/patriots-beat-texans-41-28-005952610--nfl.html dead Most conference championship games played starting quarterback (tie): 7, Tom Brady Russell Wilson set a rookie record for passing yards in a playoff game : 385. Joe Flacco tied Joe Montana's record for most touchdown passes (11) without an interception in a postseason Regular season statistical leaders Individualhttp://www.nfl.com/stats/player NFL Stats: Player NFL.com December 12, 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20090111214603/http://www.nfl.com/stats/player January 11, 2009 live mdy Scoring leader Stephen Gostkowski, New England (153)Most field goals made Blair Walsh, Minnesota (35 FGs)Touchdowns Arian Foster, Houston (17 TDs)Rushing Adrian Peterson, Minnesota (2,097 yards)Passing yards Drew Brees, New Orleans (5,177 yards)Passing touchdowns Drew Brees, New Orleans (43 TDs)Passer rating Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay (108.0 rating)Pass receptions Calvin Johnson, Detroit (122 catches)Pass receiving yards Calvin Johnson, Detroit (1,964 yards)Combined tackles Luke Kuechly, Carolina (165 tackles)Interceptions Tim Jennings, Chicago (9)Punting Dave Zastudil, Arizona (4,783 yards, 47.2 average yards)Sacks J. J. Watt, Houston (20.5) Awards All-Pro Team 2012 All-Pro Team OffenseQuarterbackPeyton Manning (Denver)Running backAdrian Peterson (Minnesota)Marshawn Lynch (Seattle)FullbackVonta Leach (Baltimore)Wide receiverCalvin Johnson (Detroit)Brandon Marshall (Chicago)Tight endTony Gonzalez (Atlanta)Offensive tackleDuane Brown (Houston)Ryan Clady (Denver)Offensive guardMike Iupati (San Francisco)Jahri Evans (New Orleans)CenterMax Unger (Seattle)DefenseDefensive endJ. J. Watt (Houston)Cameron Wake (Miami)Defensive tackleGeno Atkins (Cincinnati)Vince Wilfork (New England)Outside linebackerVon Miller (Denver)Aldon Smith (San Francisco)Inside linebackerPatrick Willis (San Francisco)NaVorro Bowman (San Francisco)CornerbackRichard Sherman (Seattle)Charles Tillman (Chicago)SafetyEarl Thomas (Seattle)Dashon Goldson (San Francisco) Special teamsKickerBlair Walsh (Minnesota)PunterAndy Lee (San Francisco)Kick returnerJacoby Jones (Baltimore) Players of the Week/Month The following were named the top performers during the 2012 season: Week/MonthOffensivePlayer of the Week/MonthDefensivePlayer of the Week/MonthSpecial TeamsPlayer of the Week/MonthAFCNFCAFCNFCAFCNFC1Joe Flacco(Ravens)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/09/12/flacco-wins-afc-offensive-player-of-the-week Flacco wins AFC Offensive Player of the Week Pro Football Weekly September 12, 2012 October 10, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120921233910/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/09/12/flacco-wins-afc-offensive-player-of-the-week September 21, 2012 dead mdy-all Robert Griffin III(Redskins)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/09/12/rg3-gets-nfc-player-of-the-week-honors RG3 gets NFC Player of the Week honors Pro Football Weekly September 12, 2012 October 10, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120921235723/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/09/12/rg3-gets-nfc-player-of-the-week-honors September 21, 2012 dead mdy-all Tracy Porter(Broncos)Ronde Barber(Buccaneers)Jeremy Kerley(Jets)Blair Walsh(Vikings)2Reggie Bush(Dolphins)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/09/19/bush-watt-honored-as-afc-players-of-the-week Bush, Watt honored as AFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly September 19, 2012 October 10, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121011004938/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/09/19/bush-watt-honored-as-afc-players-of-the-week October 11, 2012 dead mdy-all Hakeem Nicks(Giants)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/09/19/nicks-campbell-masthay-named-nfc-players-of-the-we Nicks, Campbell, Masthay named NFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly September 19, 2012 October 10, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121010230416/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/09/19/nicks-campbell-masthay-named-nfc-players-of-the-we October 10, 2012 dead mdy-all J. J. Watt(Texans)Calais Campbell(Cardinals)Adam Jones(Bengals)Tim Masthay(Packers)3Jamaal Charles(Chiefs)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/09/26/charles-johnson-reynaud-named-afc-players-of-the-w Charles, Johnson, Reynaud named AFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly September 26, 2012 October 10, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20160131155707/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/09/26/charles-johnson-reynaud-named-afc-players-of-the-w January 31, 2016 dead mdy-all Larry Fitzgerald(Cardinals)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/09/26/fitzgerald-clemons-tynes-named-nfc-players-of-the Fitzgerald, Clemons, Tynes named NFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly September 26, 2012 October 10, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20160131155707/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/09/26/fitzgerald-clemons-tynes-named-nfc-players-of-the January 31, 2016 dead mdy-all Michael Johnson(Bengals)Chris Clemons(Seahawks)Darius Reynaud(Titans)Lawrence Tynes(Giants)4Tom Brady(Patriots)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/03/brady-butler-prater-named-afc-players-of-the-week Brady, Butler, Prater named AFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly October 3, 2012 October 10, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20160131155707/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/03/brady-butler-prater-named-afc-players-of-the-week January 31, 2016 dead mdy-all Aaron Rodgers(Packers)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/03/rodgers-willis-zuerlein-named-nfc-players-of-the-w Rodgers, Willis, Zuerlein named NFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly October 3, 2012 October 10, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20160131155707/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/03/rodgers-willis-zuerlein-named-nfc-players-of-the-w January 31, 2016 dead mdy-all Donald Butler(Chargers)Patrick Willis(49ers)Matt Prater(Broncos)Greg Zuerlein(Rams)Sept.A. J. Green(Bengals)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/04/watt-green-ryan-among-nfls-players-of-the-month Watt, Green, Ryan among NFL's Players of the Month Pro Football Weekly October 4, 2012 October 10, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20160131155707/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/04/watt-green-ryan-among-nfls-players-of-the-month January 31, 2016 dead mdy-all Matt Ryan(Falcons)J. J. Watt(Texans)Tim Jennings(Bears)Darius Reynaud(Titans)Percy Harvin(Vikings)5Reggie Wayne(Colts)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/10/wayne-starks-suisham-named-afc-players-of-the-week Wayne, Starks, Suisham named AFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly October 10, 2012 October 10, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20160131155707/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/10/wayne-starks-suisham-named-afc-players-of-the-week January 31, 2016 dead mdy-all Drew Brees(Saints)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/10/brees-tillman-hekker-named-nfc-players-of-the-week Brees, Tillman, Hekker named NFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly October 10, 2012 October 10, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20160131155707/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/10/brees-tillman-hekker-named-nfc-players-of-the-week January 31, 2016 dead mdy-all Randy Starks(Dolphins)Charles Tillman(Bears)Shaun Suisham(Steelers)John Hekker(Rams)6Peyton Manning(Broncos)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/17/manning-byrd-jones-named-afc-players-of-the-week Manning, Byrd, Jones named AFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly October 17, 2012 October 17, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121225104812/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/17/manning-byrd-jones-named-afc-players-of-the-week December 25, 2012 dead mdy-all Aaron Rodgers(Packers)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/17/rodgers-rolle-hanson-named-nfc-players-of-the-week Rodgers, Rolle, Hanson named NFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly October 17, 2012 October 17, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20160131155707/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/17/rodgers-rolle-hanson-named-nfc-players-of-the-week January 31, 2016 dead mdy-all Jairus Byrd(Bills)Antrel Rolle(Giants)Jacoby Jones(Ravens)Jason Hanson(Lions)7Chris Johnson(Titans)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/24/johnson-houston-mccourty-named-afc-players-of-the Johnson, Houston, McCourty named AFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly October 24, 2012 October 24, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20160131155707/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/24/johnson-houston-mccourty-named-afc-players-of-the January 31, 2016 dead mdy-all Adrian Peterson(Vikings)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/24/peterson-tillman-lee-named-nfc-players-of-the-week Peterson, Tillman, Lee named NFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly October 24, 2012 October 24, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20160131155707/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/24/peterson-tillman-lee-named-nfc-players-of-the-week January 31, 2016 dead mdy-all Lamarr Houston(Raiders)Charles Tillman(Bears)Devin McCourty(Patriots)Andy Lee(49ers)8Tom Brady(Patriots)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/31/brady-woodyard-vernon-named-afc-players-of-the-wee Brady, Woodyard, Vernon named AFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly October 31, 2012 October 31, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121102083941/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/31/brady-woodyard-vernon-named-afc-players-of-the-wee November 2, 2012 dead mdy-all Alex Smith(49ers)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/31/smith-brown-house-named-nfc-players-of-the-week Smith, Brown, House named NFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly October 31, 2012 October 31, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121102084012/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/10/31/smith-brown-house-named-nfc-players-of-the-week November 2, 2012 dead mdy-all Wesley Woodyard(Broncos)Stevie Brown(Giants)Olivier Vernon(Dolphins)Davon House(Packers)Oct. Peyton Manning(Broncos)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/01/rodgers-manning-named-players-of-the-month Rodgers, Manning named Players of the Month Pro Football Weekly November 1, 2012 November 1, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20160131155707/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/01/rodgers-manning-named-players-of-the-month January 31, 2016 dead mdy-all Aaron Rodgers(Packers) Cameron Wake(Dolphins) Charles Tillman(Bears) Sebastian Janikowski(Raiders) Lawrence Tynes(Giants)9Andrew Luck(Colts)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/07/luck-taylor-holliday-named-afc-players-of-the-week Luck, Taylor, Holliday named AFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly November 7, 2012 November 9, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121112223634/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/07/luck-taylor-holliday-named-afc-players-of-the-week November 12, 2012 dead mdy-all Doug Martin(Buccaneers)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/07/martin-urlacher-mcmanis-named-nfc-players-of-the-w Martin, Urlacher, McManis named NFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly November 7, 2012 November 9, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121112222003/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/07/martin-urlacher-mcmanis-named-nfc-players-of-the-w November 12, 2012 dead mdy-all Ike Taylor(Steelers)Brian Urlacher(Bears)Trindon Holliday(Broncos)Sherrick McManis(Bears)10Andy Dalton(Bengals)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/14/dalton-butler-jones-named-afc-players-of-the-week Dalton, Butler, Jones named AFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly November 14, 2012 November 15, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121116163303/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/14/dalton-butler-jones-named-afc-players-of-the-week November 16, 2012 dead mdy-all Jimmy Graham(Saints)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/14/graham-sherman-harris-named-nfc-players-of-the-wee Graham, Sherman, Harris named NFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly November 14, 2012 November 15, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121116163324/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/14/graham-sherman-harris-named-nfc-players-of-the-wee November 16, 2012 dead mdy-all Darius Butler(Colts)Richard Sherman(Seahawks)Jacoby Jones(Ravens)Dwayne Harris(Cowboys)11Matt Schaub(Texans)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/21/schaub-miller-mckelvin-named-afc-players-of-the-we https://archive.today/20130131202913/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/21/schaub-miller-mckelvin-named-afc-players-of-the-we dead January 31, 2013 Schaub, Miller, McKelvin named AFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly November 21, 2012 Robert Griffin III(Redskins)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/21/rg3-smith-bailey-named-nfc-players-of-the-week https://archive.today/20130201042737/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/21/rg3-smith-bailey-named-nfc-players-of-the-week dead February 1, 2013 RG3, Smith, Bailey named NFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly November 21, 2012 Von Miller(Broncos)Aldon Smith(49ers)Leodis McKelvin(Bills)Dan Bailey(Cowboys)12Ray Rice(Ravens)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/28/rice-jackson-hilton-named-afc-players-of-the-week Rice, Jackson, Hilton named AFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly November 28, 2012 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20121130173720/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/28/rice-jackson-hilton-named-afc-players-of-the-week November 30, 2012 mdy-all Cam Newton(Panthers)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/28/newton-jenkins-washington-named-nfc-players-of-the Newton, Jenkins, Washington named NFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly November 28, 2012 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20121130173715/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/28/newton-jenkins-washington-named-nfc-players-of-the November 30, 2012 mdy-all D'Qwell Jackson(Browns)Janoris Jenkins(Rams)T. Y. Hilton(Colts)Leon Washington(Seahawks)Nov.Andre Johnson(Texans)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/29/second-year-olbs-smith-miller-among-nfls-players-o https://archive.today/20130131181120/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/29/second-year-olbs-smith-miller-among-nfls-players-o dead January 31, 2013 Second-year OLBs Smith, Miller among NFL's Players of the Month Pro Football Weekly November 29, 2012 Calvin Johnson(Lions)Von Miller(Broncos)Aldon Smith(49ers)Jacoby Jones(Ravens)Dekoda Watson(Buccaneers)13Brady Quinn(Chiefs)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/12/05/quinn-dunlap-suisham-named-afc-players-of-the-week https://archive.today/20130131214105/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/12/05/quinn-dunlap-suisham-named-afc-players-of-the-week dead January 31, 2013 Quinn, Dunlap, Suisham named AFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly December 5, 2012 Russell Wilson(Seahawks)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/12/05/wilson-moore-zuerlein-named-nfc-players-of-the-wee https://archive.today/20130131224310/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/12/05/wilson-moore-zuerlein-named-nfc-players-of-the-wee dead January 31, 2013 Wilson, Moore, Zuerlein named NFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly December 5, 2012 Carlos Dunlap(Bengals)William Moore(Falcons)Shaun Suisham(Steelers)Greg Zuerlein(Rams)14Tom Brady(Patriots)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/12/12/brady-vaughn-benjamin-named-afc-players-of-the-wee https://archive.today/20130201032052/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/12/12/brady-vaughn-benjamin-named-afc-players-of-the-wee dead February 1, 2013 Brady, Vaughn, Benjamin named AFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly December 12, 2012 Adrian Peterson(Vikings)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/12/12/peterson-kuechly-wilson-named-nfc-players-of-the-w https://archive.today/20130131205622/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/12/12/peterson-kuechly-wilson-named-nfc-players-of-the-w dead January 31, 2013 Peterson, Kuechly, Wilson named NFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly December 12, 2012 Cassius Vaughn(Colts)Luke Kuechly(Panthers)Travis Benjamin(Browns)David Wilson(Giants)15Knowshon Moreno(Broncos)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/12/19/moreno-watt-janikowski-named-afc-players-of-the-we https://archive.today/20130131232154/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/12/19/moreno-watt-janikowski-named-afc-players-of-the-we dead January 31, 2013 Moreno, Watt, Janikowski named AFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly December 19, 2012 Colin Kaepernick(49ers)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/12/19/kaepernick-carr-walsh-named-nfc-players-of-the-wee https://archive.today/20130131175722/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/12/19/kaepernick-carr-walsh-named-nfc-players-of-the-wee dead January 31, 2013 Kaepernick, Carr, Walsh named NFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly December 19, 2012 J. J. Watt(Texans)Brandon Carr(Cowboys)Sebastian Janikowski(Raiders)Blair Walsh(Vikings)16Ray Rice(Ravens)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/12/27/rice-atkins-spurlock-named-afc-players-of-the-week https://archive.today/20130208165830/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/12/27/rice-atkins-spurlock-named-afc-players-of-the-week dead February 8, 2013 Rice, Atkins, Spurlock named AFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly December 27, 2012 Matt Ryan(Falcons)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/12/27/ryan-peppers-bryant-named-nfc-players-fo-the-week https://archive.today/20130201032255/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/12/27/ryan-peppers-bryant-named-nfc-players-fo-the-week dead February 1, 2013 Ryan, Peppers, Bryant named NFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly December 27, 2012 Geno Atkins(Bengals)Julius Peppers(Bears)Micheal Spurlock(Chargers)Red Bryant(Seahawks)17Peyton Manning(Broncos)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2013/01/02/manning-davis-reynaud-named-afc-players-of-the-wee Manning, Davis, Reynaud named AFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly January 2, 2013 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20130105050603/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2013/01/02/manning-davis-reynaud-named-afc-players-of-the-wee January 5, 2013 mdy-all Alfred Morris(Redskins)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2013/01/02/morris-brown-walsh-named-nfc-players-of-the-week https://archive.today/20130201053554/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2013/01/02/morris-brown-walsh-named-nfc-players-of-the-week dead February 1, 2013 Morris, Brown, Walsh named NFC Players of the Week Pro Football Weekly January 2, 2013 Vontae Davis(Colts)Stevie Brown(Giants)Darius Reynaud(Titans)Blair Walsh(Vikings)Dec.Peyton Manning(Broncos)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2013/01/03/peterson-manning-among-players-of-the-month https://archive.today/20130220115125/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2013/01/03/peterson-manning-among-players-of-the-month dead February 20, 2013 Peterson, Manning among Players of the Month Pro Football Weekly January 3, 2013 Adrian Peterson(Vikings)J. J. Watt(Texans)London Fletcher(Redskins)Josh Brown(Bengals)Blair Walsh(Vikings) WeekFedEx AirPlayer of the Weekhttp://www.nfl.com/voting/players-air-and-ground/2012/REG/17 FedEx Air and Ground Players of the Week NFL October 9, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20130201003523/http://www.nfl.com/voting/players-air-and-ground/2012/REG/17 February 1, 2013 dead mdy (Quarterbacks)FedEx GroundPlayer of the Week(Running Backs)Pepsi MaxRookie of the Weekhttp://www.nfl.com/voting/rookies/2012/REG/17 Pepsi Max Rookie of the Week NFL October 9, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20130201001640/http://www.nfl.com/voting/rookies/2012/REG/17 February 1, 2013 dead mdy 1Robert Griffin III(Redskins)C. J. Spiller(Bills)Robert Griffin III(Redskins)2Eli Manning(Giants)Reggie Bush(Dolphins)Trent Richardson(Browns)3Joe Flacco(Ravens)Jamaal Charles(Chiefs)Andrew Luck(Colts)4Tom Brady(Patriots)Brandon Bolden(Patriots)Robert Griffin III(Redskins)5Alex Smith(49ers)Ahmad Bradshaw(Giants)Andrew Luck(Colts)6Aaron Rodgers(Packers)Shonn Greene(Jets)Robert Griffin III(Redskins)7Drew Brees(Saints)Chris Johnson(Titans)Alfred Morris(Redskins)8Tom Brady(Patriots)Doug Martin(Buccaneers)Andrew Luck(Colts)9Andrew Luck(Colts)Doug Martin(Buccaneers)Doug Martin(Buccaneers)10Joe Flacco(Ravens)Adrian Peterson(Vikings)Russell Wilson(Seahawks)11Matt Schaub(Texans)Doug Martin(Buccaneers)Robert Griffin III(Redskins)12Robert Griffin III(Redskins)Arian Foster(Texans)Robert Griffin III(Redskins)13Russell Wilson(Seahawks)Adrian Peterson(Vikings)Robert Griffin III(Redskins)14Tom Brady(Patriots)Adrian Peterson(Vikings)Alfred Morris(Redskins)15Matt Ryan(Falcons)Knowshon Moreno(Broncos)Kirk Cousins(Redskins)16Aaron Rodgers(Packers)Jamaal Charles(Chiefs)Robert Griffin III(Redskins)17Peyton Manning(Broncos)Alfred Morris(Redskins)Alfred Morris(Redskins) MonthRookie of the MonthOffensiveDefensiveSept.Robert Griffin III(Redskins)Graziano Dan https://www.espn.com/blog/nfceast/post/_/id/43924/robert-griffin-iii-offensive-rookie-of-month Robert Griffin III, Offensive Rookie of Month ESPN.com October 4, 2012 October 9, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121006235847/http://espn.go.com/blog/nfceast/post/_/id/43924/robert-griffin-iii-offensive-rookie-of-month October 6, 2012 live mdy Chandler Jones(Patriots)Rodak Mike https://www.espn.com/blog/boston/new-england-patriots/post/_/id/4731454/jones-is-nfl-defensive-rookie-of-month Jones is NFL Defensive Rookie of Month ESPN.com October 4, 2012 October 9, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121007004855/http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/new-england-patriots/post/_/id/4731454/jones-is-nfl-defensive-rookie-of-month October 7, 2012 live mdy Oct.Doug Martin(Buccaneers)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/01/bucs-rb-martin-packers-cb-hayward-named-rookies-of Bucs RB Martin, Packers CB Hayward named Rookies of the Month Pro Football Weekly November 1, 2012 November 9, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20160131155707/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/01/bucs-rb-martin-packers-cb-hayward-named-rookies-of January 31, 2016 dead mdy-all Casey Hayward(Packers)Nov.Robert Griffin III(Redskins)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/29/redskins-qb-griffin-bucs-lb-david-named-rookies-of https://archive.today/20130131182714/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/11/29/redskins-qb-griffin-bucs-lb-david-named-rookies-of dead January 31, 2013 Redskins QB Griffin, Bucs LB David named Rookies of the Month Pro Football Weekly November 29, 2012 Lavonte David(Buccaneers)Dec.Russell Wilson(Seahawks)http://www.profootballweekly.com/2013/01/03/wilson-kuechly-named-rookies-of-the-month https://archive.today/20130220114932/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2013/01/03/wilson-kuechly-named-rookies-of-the-month dead February 20, 2013 Wilson, Kuechly named Rookies of the Month Pro Football Weekly January 3, 2013 Luke Kuechly(Panthers) Season awards 2nd NFL Honors The 2nd NFL Honors, saluting the best players and plays from 2012 season, was held at the Mahalia Jackson Theater in New Orleans, Louisiana on February 2, 2013.https://www.nfl.com/news/alec-baldwin-to-host-2nd-annual-nfl-honors-super-bowl-eve-0ap1000000123753 Alec Baldwin to host '2nd Annual NFL Honors' Super Bowl Eve NFL.com January 8, 2013 January 20, 2013 June 7, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20200607075934/https://www.nfl.com/news/alec-baldwin-to-host-2nd-annual-nfl-honors-super-bowl-eve-0ap1000000123753 live Award Winner Position Team AP Most Valuable Player Adrian Peterson Running back Minnesota Vikings AP Offensive Player of the Year Adrian Peterson Running back Minnesota Vikings AP Defensive Player of the Year J. J. Watt Defensive end Houston Texans AP Coach of the Year Bruce Arians Head coach Indianapolis Colts AP Offensive Rookie of the Year Robert Griffin III Quarterback Washington Redskins AP Defensive Rookie of the Year Luke Kuechly Linebacker Carolina Panthers AP Comeback Player of the Year Peyton Manning Quarterback Denver Broncos Pepsi Rookie of the Year Russell Wilson Quarterback Seattle Seahawks Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Jason Witten Tight end Dallas Cowboys PFWA NFL Executive of the Year Ryan Grigson General manager Indianapolis Colts Super Bowl Most Valuable Player Joe Flacco Quarterback Baltimore Ravens Team superlatives Offense Most points scored: New England, 557 (34.8 PPG) Fewest points scored: Kansas City, 211 (13.2 PPG) Most total offensive yards: New England, 6,846 Fewest total offensive yards: Arizona, 4,209 Most total passing yards: New Orleans, 4,997 Fewest total passing yards: Kansas City, 2,713 Most rushing yards: Washington, 2,709 Fewest rushing yards: Arizona, 1,204 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2012/ Pro-Football-Reference.com: 2012 NFL Standings, Team & Offensive Statistics March 29, 2018 March 31, 2018 https://web.archive.org/web/20180331155338/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2012/ live Defense Fewest points allowed: Seattle, 245 (15.3 PPG) Most points allowed: Tennessee, 471 (29.4 PPG) Fewest total yards allowed (defense): Pittsburgh, 4,413 Most total yards allowed (defense): New Orleans, 7,042 Fewest passing yards allowed: Pittsburgh, 2,963 Most passing yards allowed (defense): Tampa Bay, 4,758 Fewest rushing yards allowed (defense): Tampa Bay, 1,320 Most rushing yards allowed (defense): New Orleans, 2,361 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2012/opp.htm Pro-Football-Reference.com: 2012 NFL Opposition & Defensive Statistics March 29, 2018 July 24, 2018 https://web.archive.org/web/20180724213307/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2012/opp.htm live Head coach/front office changes Head coach Pre-season changes Team: 2011 head coach:at start of season 2011 interim head coach: 2012 replacement: Reason for leaving: Notes Jacksonville Jaguars Jack Del Rio Mel Tucker Mike MularkeyFired Del Rio was fired after compiling a 69–73 (.486) record (including postseason games) in 8¾ seasons as head coach; the team has not made the playoffs since 2007. Del Rio was fired at the same time that Wayne Weaver, the owner of the Jaguars, announced his intentions to sell the team to Pakistani-American automotive parts builder Shahid Khan.https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/7293624/jacksonville-jaguars-fire-longtime-coach-jack-del-rio-sell-team Jaguars sack Jack Del Rio, will sell team ESPN November 29, 2011 November 29, 2010 May 24, 2017 https://web.archive.org/web/20170524231632/http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/7293624/jacksonville-jaguars-fire-longtime-coach-jack-del-rio-sell-team live Del Rio later became defensive coordinator of the Denver Broncos. Mularkey, previously the head coach of the Buffalo Bills from 2004 to 2005, had most recently been offensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons. Tucker remains on the Jaguars staff. Kansas City Chiefs Todd Haley Romeo Crennel Haley compiled a 19–27 (.413) record, including one postseason loss, in nearly 3 seasons with the Chiefs. Team ownership cited inconsistent play and a lack of progress in their decision; Haley was also cited for an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty in what turned out to be his final game. In 2012, he became offensive coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Crennel was the defensive coordinator for the Chiefs when he was promoted, and had previously served as head coach of the Cleveland Browns from 2005 to 2008. Miami Dolphins Tony Sparano Todd Bowles Joe Philbin Sparano compiled a 29–33 (.468) record, including one postseason loss, in nearly 4 seasons with the Dolphins. Ongoing speculation regarding Sparano's future in Miami prompted Dolphins owner Stephen Ross to dismiss Sparano prior to the end of the season instead of letting the speculation become a further distraction. Sparano then became offensive coordinator of the New York Jets; Bowles joined the staff of the Philadelphia Eagles. The Dolphins intended on hiring someone from outside the organization in the 2012 offseasonJackson, Barry (December 12, 2011). Miami Dolphins fire coach Tony Sparano. Miami Herald. Retrieved December 12, 2011. and followed through on that intent by hiring Philbin, the former offensive coordinator of the Green Bay Packers.St. Louis RamsSteve SpagnuoloJeff Fisher Spagnuolo compiled a 10–38 (.213) record in three seasons as head coach of the Rams, including a 1–15 record in 2009 and a 2–14 record in 2011. He and general manager Billy Devaney were dismissed concurrently on January 2. Spagnuolo joined the staff of the New Orleans Saints as defensive coordinator. Fisher, who had spent the previous season out of football, had coached the Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans franchise from 1994 to 2010.Tampa Bay BuccaneersRaheem MorrisGreg Schiano Morris compiled a 17–31 (.354) record in three seasons as head coach of the Buccaneers and ended the 2011 season with a ten-game losing streak. He subsequently became defensive backs coach for the Washington Redskins. Schiano had spent the previous 11 seasons in college football, as head coach of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights football team, a team he eventually returned to as head coach 8 years later.Oakland RaidersHue JacksonDennis Allen Jackson compiled an 8–8 (.500) record in his lone season as the Raiders' head coach, but set a league record for penalties. After the death of longtime owner Al Davis, the Raiders hired a new general manager Reggie McKenzie, who then decided to hire his own coaching staff. Subsequently, Jackson was dismissed from the team. As of 2012, Jackson serves as an assistant with the Cincinnati Bengals. Allen had previously served as the defensive coordinator of the Denver Broncos.Indianapolis ColtsJim CaldwellChuck Pagano Caldwell was fired after compiling a 28–24 (.538) record (including postseason games) in three seasons as head coach; the team suffered through a 2–14 record in 2011, in which quarterback Peyton Manning sat out the whole season while recovering from multiple neck surgeries. This record was the worst in the league and brought Caldwell's firing as well as that of 15-year general manager Bill Polian, and virtually every skill position player on the offensive side of the ball (including every quarterback on the roster). Caldwell then joined the Baltimore Ravens as quarterbacks coach. Pagano had previously served as the defensive coordinator of the Ravens.New Orleans SaintsSean PaytonJoe Vitt, Aaron KromerSuspendedPayton was suspended on March 21, 2012 for the 2012 season (starting April 1 and concluding with Super Bowl XLVII) for his role in the New Orleans Saints bounty scandal, in which players would be rewarded under the table for injury-causing hits. Vitt and general manager Mickey Loomis were also suspended, for six and eight games respectively, and Gregg Williams, the defensive coordinator at the time who allegedly oversaw the bounties, was banned indefinitely from the league (at the time of the ban Williams was the defensive coordinator of the St. Louis Rams). Vitt served as head coach through training camp and the preseason, at which point he began serving his six-game suspension and Kromer (the team's offensive line coach) took over as interim coach until Vitt's suspension ended.https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/7806938/joe-vitt-tabbed-coach-new-orleans-saints-sean-payton-absence Joe Vitt to coach New Orleans Saints Espn.go.com April 13, 2012 April 26, 2012 September 9, 2017 https://web.archive.org/web/20170909095156/http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/7806938/joe-vitt-tabbed-coach-new-orleans-saints-sean-payton-absence live In-season The following head coaches were replaced in-season: Team: 2012 head coach: Interim head coach: Reason for leaving: Notes Indianapolis Colts Chuck Pagano Bruce Arians Medical leave Pagano was diagnosed with leukemia four weeks into the regular season, forcing him to take an indefinite medical leave of absence, while Arians, the Colts' offensive coordinator, took his place. Pagano returned to the team in Week 17 and coached the Colts in their playoff game vs. the Ravens. Front office Offseason Team Position 2011 office holderat start of season Interim office holder Reason for leaving 2012 replacement NotesChicago BearsGMJerry AngeloFiredPhil Emery Phil Emery (American football) Angelo was fired by the Bears on January 3, 2012. The reason for his firing was due to a combination of poor drafting and questionable free agent signings, with the team stating they wanted to "close a talent gap" to stay competitive with the rival Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions in the NFC North. He left with a 95-81 record as the Bears' general manager. After his hiring on January 26, 2012, Bears chairman George McCaskey told Emery that though head coach Lovie Smith's contract ran through 2013, and that Smith would be head coach in 2012, Emery would have the ability to make a change at the position after the end of the 2012 season.https://www.espn.com/chicago/nfl/story/_/id/8207205/chicago-bears-phil-emery-free-decide-lovie-smith-2012 Lovie Smith safe through 2012 Espn.go.com July 27, 2012 August 1, 2012 January 9, 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190109062127/http://www.espn.com/chicago/nfl/story/_/id/8207205/chicago-bears-phil-emery-free-decide-lovie-smith-2012 live Denver BroncosGMJohn Elway/Brian XandersXanders firedJohn Elway The Broncos parted ways with Xanders on May 7, 2012.https://www.nfl.com/news/broncos-gm-brian-xanders-part-ways-09000d5d828ef82d Broncos, GM Brian Xanders part ways nfl.com May 7, 2012 August 1, 2012 November 23, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20201123024011/https://www.nfl.com/news/broncos-gm-brian-xanders-part-ways-09000d5d828ef82d live Elway was named general manager and executive vice president of football operations of the Broncos on January 5, 2011, with the final say in all football matters. Xanders, who had been the Broncos' general manager for the past two seasons, was initially retained to serve in an advisory role to Elway. With Xanders' firing, Elway fully assumes the role of general manager, giving him complete control over the Broncos' football operations.Indianapolis ColtsGMChris PolianFiredRyan Grigson The team suffered through a 2–14 record in 2011, in which quarterback Peyton Manning sat out the whole season while recovering from multiple neck surgeries. This record was the worst in the league and brought the firing of general manager Chris Polian as well as that of his father, long-time general manager and team president Bill Polian, head coach Jim Caldwell, and virtually every skill position player on the offensive side of the ball (including every quarterback on the roster).Oakland RaidersGMAl DavisHue Jackson (de facto)Replaced, then FiredReggie McKenzie Reggie McKenzie (linebacker) McKenzie was hired as general manager of the Oakland Raiders on January 5, 2012, replacing then-head coach Hue Jackson, who had gained control following the death of longtime owner Al Davis on October 8, 2011, at the age of 82. Former Raiders coach John Madden recommended McKenzie to new acting owner Mark Davis, who hired McKenzie after an interview conducted jointly by Davis and Madden. Jackson was fired by McKenzie five days later.Philadelphia EaglesPresidentJoe BannerReplacedDon Smolenski Smolenski was promoted to team president on June 7, 2012, replacing Joe Banner, who moved into a new role as strategic advisor to owner Jeffrey Lurie.San Francisco 49ersPresidentJed YorkReplacedGideon Yu 49ers principal owner and CEO Jed York hired former YouTube and Facebook Chief Financial Officer Gideon Yu to replace him in his role as team president on Feb 10, 2012.https://www.49ers.com/news/49ers-name-yu-president-co-owner-6932652 49ers Name Yu President & Co-Owner February 10, 2012 49ers.com live https://web.archive.org/web/20190920130007/https://www.49ers.com/news/49ers-name-yu-president-co-owner-6932652 September 20, 2019 St. Louis RamsGMBilly DevaneyFiredLes Snead Devaney was fired at the end of the 2011 season after a 10–38 record as GM. The Rams announced the hiring of Atlanta Falcons director of player personnel Les Snead on February 10, 2012.Tennessee TitansGMMike ReinfeldtPromotedRuston Webster Reinfeldt was promoted to senior executive vice president and chief operating officer, and vice president of player personnel Ruston Webster was then promoted to GM. In-season Team Position Departing office holder Reason for leaving Interim replacement NotesCarolina PanthersGMMarty HurneyFiredBrandon Beane Hurney was fired as general manager on October 22nd, 2012, after the team started 1–5. Director of football operations Brandon Beane served as GM in an interim capacity following Hurney's dismissal.http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2013/01/09/3775378/bio-panthers-general-manager-dave.html https://archive.today/20130628214606/http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2013/01/09/3775378/bio-panthers-general-manager-dave.html dead June 28, 2013 Bio: Panthers general manager Dave Gettleman January 9, 2013 The Charlotte Observer April 12, 2013 Cleveland BrownsPresidentMike HolmgrenFiredJoe Banner On October 16, 2012, new Browns owner Jimmy Haslam announced that Holmgren would leave the team at the end of the 2012 season.Marc Sessler https://www.nfl.com/news/mike-holmgren-to-exit-at-the-end-of-browns-season-0ap1000000081125 Mike Holmgren to exit at the end of Browns season National Football League October 16, 2012 October 25, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20201025060734/https://www.nfl.com/news/mike-holmgren-to-exit-at-the-end-of-browns-season-0ap1000000081125 live Uniforms Nike became the official uniform provider for the NFL, succeeding Reebok, which had a decade-long partnership in that capacity. On April 3, Nike unveiled the new uniforms for all 32 teams.http://www.nfl.com/photos/09000d5d8280d850?module=HP11_hot_topics#id:09000d5d8280d924 Photos – NFL, NIKE Unveil New Uniforms Nfl.com April 26, 2012 April 28, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120428023655/http://www.nfl.com/photos/09000d5d8280d850?module=HP11_hot_topics#id:09000d5d8280d924 live https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-nike-roll-out-new-uniforms-for-all-32-teams-09000d5d8280d110 news: NFL, Nike roll out new uniforms for all 32 teams Nfl.com April 3, 2012 April 26, 2012 August 4, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20200804202611/https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-nike-roll-out-new-uniforms-for-all-32-teams-09000d5d8280d110 live Cosmetically, the new jerseys did not show drastic differences save for the aforementioned changes to the Seattle Seahawks' uniforms.http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8280e4ae/article/nike-saves-biggest-changes-for-neighboring-seahawks?module=HP11_headline_stack https://web.archive.org/web/20120406052814/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8280e4ae/article/nike-saves-biggest-changes-for-neighboring-seahawks?module=HP11_headline_stack dead April 6, 2012 news: Nike saves biggest changes for neighboring Seahawks Nfl.com April 3, 2012 April 26, 2012 The Carolina Panthers unveiled an updated logo and word mark in late January 2012,Panthers introduce refined logo http://www.panthers.com/news/article-2/Panthers-introduce-refined-logo/22b44075-6ab5-477d-ac6d-7d29733deea0 panthers.com January 29, 2012 January 29, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20160131155706/http://www.panthers.com/news/article-2/Panthers-introduce-refined-logo/22b44075-6ab5-477d-ac6d-7d29733deea0 January 31, 2016 dead mdy-all though it has been reported that the actual uniforms will not be altered at the present time.Panther's uniform will not change in 2012 https://scottfowlerobs.blogspot.com/2012/01/panther-uniforms-wont-change-in-2012.html Scott Fowler January 31, 2012 February 2, 2012 February 3, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120203110757/http://scottfowlerobs.blogspot.com/2012/01/panther-uniforms-wont-change-in-2012.html live The Denver Broncos switched their primary home jersey color from navy blue to orange. The orange jerseys that served as the team's alternate colored jersey from 2002 to 2011 became the primary home jersey, while the navy blue jerseys that served as the team's primary home jersey from 1997 to 2011 switched to the alternate designation. The change was made due to overwhelming popularity with fans, who clamored for the team to return to wearing orange at home, which was the team's predominant home jersey color from 1962 to 1996.Klis, Mike NFL approves Broncos' switch back to orange uniforms http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_19031069 denverpost.com October 3, 2011 October 3, 2011 October 5, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20111005043133/http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_19031069 live The Houston Texans celebrated 10 years as a franchise by wearing an anniversary patch throughout the season.Houston Texans Texans to celebrate 10th anniversary throughout 2012 http://www.houstontexans.com/news/article-2/Texans-to-celebrate-10th-anniversary-throughout-2012/14ef642d-84a1-4c5c-a7d1-5d3af5d7fcd9 houstontexans.com February 16, 2012 March 3, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120218233633/http://www.houstontexans.com/news/article-2/Texans-to-celebrate-10th-anniversary-throughout-2012/14ef642d-84a1-4c5c-a7d1-5d3af5d7fcd9 February 18, 2012 dead mdy-all The Jacksonville Jaguars switched their primary home jersey color from teal to black, beginning with their Week 5 (October 7, 2012) game against the Chicago Bears.Clinton Michael September 27, 2012 Jaguars switching to black as primary jersey http://www.bizjournals.com/jacksonville/news/2012/09/27/jaguars-switching-to-black-as-primary.html September 27, 2012 bizjournals.com October 2, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121002064757/http://www.bizjournals.com/jacksonville/news/2012/09/27/jaguars-switching-to-black-as-primary.html live The Kansas City Chiefs debuted captains' patches to their uniforms for the first time in the Week 10 (November 12, 2012) game against Pittsburgh. The patches would remain through the rest of the season but were removed in 2013. The Pittsburgh Steelers unveiled a new throwback uniform in April 2012, which was worn in games against the Washington Redskins and the Baltimore Ravens.http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10/29/steelers-uniforms-stripes-photos-redskins_n_2038140.html Steelers Uniforms: Are Pittsburgh's Throwback Bumblebee Jerseys The Worst? (PHOTOS) The Huffington Post October 29, 2012 November 5, 2012 Michael Klopman November 3, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121103005211/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10/29/steelers-uniforms-stripes-photos-redskins_n_2038140.html live The uniforms, based on the 1934 Pittsburgh Pirates (the predecessors to the Steelers), feature broad black and Aztec gold horizontal stripes across the jerseys and socks, reminiscent of bumblebees and prison uniforms.Hensley Jamison https://www.espn.com/blog/afcnorth/post/_/id/46124/thumbs-down-to-steelers-throwback-jerseys Thumbs down to Steelers throwback jerseys Espn.go.com January 2, 2011 April 26, 2012 October 14, 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20191014120529/https://www.espn.com/blog/afcnorth/post/_/id/46124/thumbs-down-to-steelers-throwback-jerseys live The Seattle Seahawks replaced Seahawk blue with College Navy as the color of their primary uniforms. Their new uniforms consist of a navy blue jersey as their primary home jersey, a white jersey as their primary away jersey, and a wolf grey jersey as an alternate. The Seahawks have three pairs of pants: navy blue with action green feather trim, white with navy blue feather trim, and wolf grey with navy blue feather trim. Each pair of pants, as well as the collar of the jerseys, feature 12 feathers, in honor of the fans, who refer to themselves as the '12th Man'. The Seahawks also tweaked their logo, by changing the lower left stripe from light blue to grey.New Seahawks Uniforms Coming in 2012, Says Team President http://www.pigskinbuzz.com/new-seahawks-uniforms-coming-in-2012-says-team-president-1268 pigskinbuzz.com May 24, 2011 February 2, 2012 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20120102122817/http://www.pigskinbuzz.com/new-seahawks-uniforms-coming-in-2012-says-team-president-1268 January 2, 2012 mdy-all The Washington Redskins wore throwback uniforms to celebrate their 80th anniversaryhttp://www.wtop.com/41/2860810/Blog-Redskins-unveil-throwback-uniforms-for-80th-anniversary Blog: Redskins unveil throwback uniforms for 80th anniversary WTOP.com May 25, 2010 August 9, 2012 July 28, 2013 https://web.archive.org/web/20130728124059/http://www.wtop.com/41/2860810/Blog-Redskins-unveil-throwback-uniforms-for-80th-anniversary live http://content.usatoday.com/communities/thehuddle/post/2012/05/redskins-commemorating-80th-season-with-throwback-uniforms/1 Redskins commemorating 80th season with throwback uniforms Content.usatoday.com May 10, 2012 August 9, 2012 May 12, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120512094506/http://content.usatoday.com/communities/thehuddle/post/2012/05/redskins-commemorating-80th-season-with-throwback-uniforms/1 live in their game against the Panthers.http://www.washingtontimes.com/blog/redskins-watch/2012/nov/1/redskins-throwback-jerseys-chance-connect-history/ Redskins throwback jerseys a chance to 'connect with history' The Washington Times November 1, 2012 November 5, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121105040128/http://www.washingtontimes.com/blog/redskins-watch/2012/nov/1/redskins-throwback-jerseys-chance-connect-history/ November 5, 2012 dead mdy-all The Baltimore Ravens dedicated their season to former owner and founder Art Modell, who died on September 6, 2012.Ravens Dedicate Season To Art Modell https://web.archive.org/web/20121014124740/http://www.baltimoreravens.com/news/article-1/Ravens-Dedicate-Season-To-Art-Modell/c9cf8c8d-9469-4303-bd5a-b7343eda6241 October 14, 2012 , by Ryan Mink. BaltimoreRavens.com. Retrieved on November 28, 2012. On Week 1, all team members wore an "Art" decal on their helmets, and for the rest of their season, they wore an "Art" patch on the left side of their jerseys. During the 2012 Pro Bowl, Nike debuted new team color specific cleats and new team specific Vapor Jet gloves. Similar to gloves worn at the collegiate level, the Vapor Jet gloves feature individual team colors and team logos on the glove palms.usnikefootball Nike Football 163750424678113280 29 January 2012 Some of the best players in the game will be in these at the Pro Bowl. Which team has the cleanest cleats?Nike Unveils NFL Vapor Jet Gloves for 2012 Pro Bowl http://www.solecollector.com/niketraining/?p=6831 solecollector.com January 28, 2011 February 2, 2012 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20120202041429/http://www.solecollector.com/niketraining/?p=6831 February 2, 2012 mdy-all The Carolina Panthers' new jersey has the phrase "KEEP POUNDING" inside the collar which commemorates former Panther Sam Mills' battle with cancer. Nike's new jerseys also introduced what the company calls a "body-contoured fit".https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10000872396390444592404578032580348686340 The NFL's 300-Pound Fashion Victims Wall Street Journal October 5, 2012 October 10, 2012 February 10, 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150210102730/http://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10000872396390444592404578032580348686340 live However, several players, primarily heavier players such as offensive linemen, reported that the new, tighter-fitting uniforms made them "look fat". Introduced in Week 5 after the end of the referee lockout, the new referee uniform used the NFL's "Orbit" font that the league uses in its branding and marketing.https://www.espn.com/blog/playbook/fandom/post/_/id/12642/nfl-tweaks-referee-uniforms-again NFL tweaks referee uniforms ... again Paul Lukas ESPN.com October 5, 2012 October 8, 2012 November 9, 2018 https://web.archive.org/web/20181109061055/http://www.espn.com/blog/playbook/fandom/post/_/id/12642/nfl-tweaks-referee-uniforms-again live During Weeks 14 and 15, all teams wore a commemorative patch celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.http://www.profootballhof.com/history/2012/12/4/NFL-to-celebrate-Football-Hall-of-Fame-Anniversary/ NFL to celebrate Hall's 50th Anniversary Pro Football Hall of Fame December 4, 2012 December 9, 2012 December 9, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121209021114/http://www.profootballhof.com/history/2012/12/4/NFL-to-celebrate-Football-Hall-of-Fame-Anniversary/ dead Media changes This was the seventh season under the television contracts with the league's television partners. On December 14, 2011, the NFL announced that it had extended all of its broadcasting contracts through 2022. There were some changes to the contracts, with the most immediate change in 2012 being the Thanksgiving night game being promoted from NFL Network's Thursday Night Football package to NBC's Sunday Night Football package.https://www.newsday.com/sports/media/nfl-renews-lucrative-tv-deals-t44030 https://web.archive.org/web/20131110235834/http://www.newsday.com/sports/media/nfl-renews-lucrative-tv-deals-1.3389953 live November 10, 2013 NFL renews lucrative TV deals Newsday Neil Best December 14, 2011 December 15, 2011 CBS continued to primarily televise AFC afternoon away games, Fox airing NFC afternoon away games, and ESPN broadcasting Monday Night Football games. ESPN made a cut to its Monday Night Football broadcasts, removing Ron Jaworski from the broadcast booth and moving to a two-man announcing crew; Mike Tirico will continue on play-by-play while Jon Gruden continues as the sole color commentator.Pergament, Alan (February 15, 2012). Smash is a Buffalo hit, Luck gets praise, Jaworski off MNF in new deal. Stilltalkintv.com. Retrieved February 16, 2012. Archived February 18, 2012. One year prior, the network had switched from two sideline reporters to one. The 2013 Pro Bowl was televised by NBC; although the game was normally assigned to the Super Bowl's broadcaster, CBS declined.http://nflcommunications.com/2012/05/30/aloha-2013-pro-bowl-to-be-played-in-hawaii-on-nbc-week-before-super-bowl-xlvii/ Aloha! 2013 Pro Bowl to be Played in Hawaii on NBC Week Before Super Bowl XLVII NFL May 30, 2012 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20120604011223/http://nflcommunications.com/2012/05/30/aloha-2013-pro-bowl-to-be-played-in-hawaii-on-nbc-week-before-super-bowl-xlvii/ June 4, 2012 mdy-all The NFL authorized a new rule loosening the league's blackout restrictions during the 2012 offseason. For the first time in NFL history, the new rule no longer requires a stadium to be sold out to televise a game; instead, teams were allowed to set a benchmark anywhere from 85 to 100 percent of the stadium's non-premium seats. Any seats sold beyond that benchmark will be subject to heavier revenue sharing.Report: NFL team owners get more flexibility on blackouts https://web.archive.org/web/20120702124011/http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/article929095.ece July 2, 2012 . The Buffalo News. Retrieved June 30, 2012. Four clubs opted to set the lower TV threshold: the Miami Dolphins, the Minnesota Vikings, the Oakland Raiders, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/08/16/rams-wont-say-whether-theyre-taking-advantage-of-new-blackout-rule/ Rams won't say whether they're taking advantage of new blackout rule ProFootballTalk August 16, 2012 August 17, 2012 August 22, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120822070252/http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/08/16/rams-wont-say-whether-theyre-taking-advantage-of-new-blackout-rule/ live At least four other teams expressly refused to lower their threshold; one case, that of the Buffalo Bills, was particularly controversial, as Buffalo congressman Brian Higgins had lobbied for the loosening of the blackout restrictions only for the Bills to rebuff his efforts, saying such a move would threaten the team's revenue.http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/bills-nfl/article1003559.ece The Buffalo News: "Bills aren't alone on blackout policy", August 14, 2012. November 30, 2012 August 16, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120816211616/http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/bills-nfl/article1003559.ece live https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052702303561504577495083707417526 Game Changer: NFL Scrambles to Fill Seats Wall Street Journal Kevin Clark July 2, 2012 August 17, 2012 December 28, 2014 https://web.archive.org/web/20141228043134/http://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052702303561504577495083707417526 live References Specific references General references Official 2013 National Football League Record & Fact Book 2013 National Football League New York 978-1-603-20980-9 https://archive.org/details/official2013nati0000unse Zimmer John Marini Matt October 11, 2013 PDF dead registration https://web.archive.org/web/20131012044938/http://seahawksmedia.com/RecFactBook/FactBook2013.pdf October 12, 2013 National Football League 2012