Photo credit: Shawn McCullough

By Daniel Dullum
Sports Radio Service
Sunday, January 28, 2018

Tennessee tight end Delanie Walker snared an 18-yard touchdown pass from Oakland quarterback Derek Carr with 1:31 to play, giving the AFC a 24-23 win over the NFC in Sunday’s Pro Bowl in rainy Orlando, Fla.

It was the second touchdown reception in the game for Walker, who was named offensive MVP. Walker caught four passes for 29 yards. He has a touchdown catch in each of his three Pro Bowl appearances.

Defensive honors went to Von Miller of Denver. Miller had three tackles, one sack, one pass deflection and ended the game with a strip-sack of Los Angeles Rams quarterback Jared Goff.

Carr completed 11 of 15 passes for 115 yards, including the game-winning pass to Walker on a post pattern.

Each of the three AFC quarterbacks, Carr, Smith and Ben Roethlisberger of the Pittsburgh Steelers, threw interceptions. The game had considerable sloppiness due to the heavy rain. Some fans left Camping World Stadium early, while others donned ponchos. The rain also prompted players on both teams to find protection for their cellphones.

The NFC had a 20-3 halftime lead, but the AFC responded with 14 points in the third quarter.

Early on, two Minnesota Vikings turned in big plays – Adam Thielen made a touchdown catch on the NFC’s opening possession, and Harrison returned an interception 79 yards for a TD.

Arizona cornerback Patrick Peterson had two interceptions, giving him five career all-star picks. AFC quarterbacks combined to throw three picks. Los Angeles Chargers cornerback Casey Howard picked off a pass by Seattle’s Russell Wilson.

Winner’s share was $64,000. Loser’s share $32,000.