MINNEAPOLIS -- Through his season full of matchups with high-profile wide receivers, Minnesota Vikings cornerback Xavier Rhodes has built his own reputation as one of the league's ascendant shutdown corners. He spent most of Thursday evening locked in a physical duel with Dallas Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant, and after the two traded jerseys following the Cowboys' win, Bryant also gave Rhodes his respect.
"It was outstanding. That’s a hell of a football player,” Bryant said. “I knew coming into this game it was going to be a tough match. I had to be on my A-game because if I wasn’t, he can get the best of you.