Sometimes the NFL's top plays on a Sunday come from people we wouldn't expect. They're the plays that make you ask, "Who was that?" These performances can change a player's career.

Here's a look at Week 13's unheralded ballers, starting with a small in stature, not impact, Bears rookie running back and a Packers big man's long TD and Lambeau Leap.

Tarik Cohen, RB, Chicago Bears

61-yard punt return TD in 15-14 loss to 49ers

What happened: The Bears hadn't had a rookie take a punt return to the crib since Devin Hester. Cohen pulled his best Hester impression, running backward 15 yards before finding a lane to the end zone.

Why it matters: Cohen is the first player with a passing TD, rushing TD, receiving TD and punt return TD since Terry Metcalf in 1975. He's the first rookie to complete that since Hall of Famer Gale Sayers in 1965. That's special company.

Dean Lowry, DE, Green Bay Packers

62-yard fumble return TD in 26-20 OT win over Bucs

What happened: Kenny Clark got a strip-sack of Jameis Winston, Lowry recovered and sprinted to the end zone for the TD. The 300-pound defensive end then made a Lambeau Leap, barely.

Why it matters: The Packers are still alive in the competitive NFC wild card as Aaron Rodgers prepares for a return. Lowry's TD played a big role in getting the Packers to OT, and the eventual win.

Eric Lee, DE, New England Patriots

1.5 sacks, 3 QB hits, two passes defended in 23-3 win over Bills

What happened: Lee, signed off the Bills’ practice squad in November, was thrust into an expanded role because starter Trey Flowers was out with a rib injury. He responded in a big way, helping make it a long day for the Bills QBs.

Why it matters: Lee's emergence will only help the Patriots' depth as they head into the playoffs. New England's defense was a big weakness earlier in the season, but it isn't anymore.

Kenyan Drake, RB, Miami Dolphins

23 carries for 120 yards, TD in 35-9 win over Broncos

What happened: Drake was handed the keys to the Dolphins' backfield and he made the most of it in the blowout win over the Broncos. Drake scored a 42-yard rushing touchdown.

Why it matters: The Dolphins stay in the mix of a bad AFC wild-card picture with the win. Miami hasn't played playoff-caliber football much this season, but is only one game back of a playoff spot.

Taysom Hill, QB, New Orleans Saints

Two special-teams tackles in 31-21 win over Panthers

What happened: The undrafted third-string QB out of BYU was active for the first time this season to play special teams and he made two tackles on the kickoff coverage team.

Why it matters: The Saints like Hill's potential as an eventual replacement for Drew Brees. Hill has been a tough player since his college days and it shows on his willingness to play special teams.

NFL Nation reporters Mike Reiss and Mike Triplett contributed to this story.