The last time it looked like the Pro Bowl could be turning a corner away from its ever-mounting offensive explosions, Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Derrick Brooks was the game's MVP. That trend reversal didn't hold, as it turned out, but maybe it will this year, and Brooks could once again be the key.
Or, alternately, it could be the latest all-star Buccaneer linebacker who leads the way to a second straight hard-fought defensive struggle.
Brooks' got the MVP trophy (and the new car prize) in the 2006 Pro Bowl thanks to his decisive pick-six in the NFC's 23-17 win.