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Giovani Bernard wins Pepsi Next NFL Rookie of the Week

Bernard wins the first NFL award after his week three performance against the Green Bay Packers.

Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Cincinnati Bengals running back Giovani Bernard was named Pepsi Next NFL rookie of the week for his performance against the Green Bay Packers. The Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Week aware is a fan vote with the winner named every Friday afternoon. Bernard posted 99 yards from scrimmage (50 yards rushing) and scored a first-quarter touchdown to give Cincinnati an early 7-0 lead.

Benard beat out four other nominees:

  • Justin Hunter, Tennessee Titans: Hunter caught one pass for 34 yards, but it was the game-winning touchdown in the final minute of the Titans' 20-17 defeat of the San Diego Chargers.
  • Geno Smith, New York Jets: Smith passed for 331 yards and two touchdowns in the Jets' defeat of the Buffalo Bills.
  • Ziggy Ansah, Detroit Lions: Ansah collected two sacks, seven tackles and one forced fumble in the Lions' 27-20 victory against the Washington Redskins.
  • Barkevious Mingo, Cleveland Browns: Mingo posted four tackles and one sack in the Browns' 31-27 victory over the Minnesota Vikings.