Reeder's Take

   No surprise here, but defensive end Julius Peppers has been named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week for his effort against the Cardinals in which he had a sack, forced fumble and an interception return for a touchdown in Carolina’s 34-21 win.

It is Peppers’ third Defensive Player of the Week award. He also earned it in Week 10 last year with a three-sack, two-forced fumble day at Oakland and in Week 10 of the 2006 season, when he had three sacks and a fumble recovery in a Monday Night Football win over Tampa Bay.

Since the bye week, Peppers has six sacks, two forced fumbles and the interception return for a score.

Peppers credits familiarity with Ron Meeks’ defense as a key reason for the overall improved play of the defense.

“Everybody’s getting a little more familiar with the responsibilities in what we’re supposed to be doing, and it’s leading to a better performance by the group,” Peppers said.

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