The Patriots announced on Wednesday that kicker Stephen Gostkowski has been named AFC Special Teams Player of the Week by the NFL. Gostkowski earned the honors with his performance in the Patriots’ 27-17 victory over the Miami Dolphins last Sunday.
Gostkowski was a perfect four-of-four on field goals against Miami (30,
38, 34 and 40 yards), tying his career high with four successful kicks
in a game. He also
kicked three of his six kickoffs into the end zone with two going for
touchbacks to help limit Miami’s dangerous kickoff returner Ted Ginn,
Jr.
The award marks the fourth time in 2009, and the third straight game, that the
Patriots have been honored with an AFC Player of the Week award. Quarterback Tom
Brady was named AFC Offensive Player of the Week following Week 1 and
Week 6. Safety Brandon Meriweather was named AFC Defensive Player of the
Week following Week 7.
Gostkowski is second in the NFL with 73 points after posting an NFL-best 148
points last season. It is the first time that Gostkowski has earned the honor, though he was named Special Teams Player of the Month for October last season.
