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 12's unheralded ballers, starting with a backup quarterback getting revenge against his former team and an emerging receiver who might soon be worthy of the Pro Bowl votes he's campaigning for:
Blaine Gabbert, QB, Arizona Cardinals
Threw for 241 yards and 2 touchdowns in a 27-24 win against Jaguars
What happened: Gabbert got the start as the Cardinals were missing their top two quarterbacks because of injury, but they found a way to steal a win from the likely playoff-bound Jaguars. Gabbert led Arizona to a 13-0 lead, and his 52-yard fourth-quarter touchdown pass to Jaron Brown was huge.
Why it matters: There's nothing like a good dose of revenge. Gabbert, the 10th pick of the 2011 draft, spent his first three seasons in Jacksonville before being traded for a sixth-round pick, and he got to inflict some suffering with his good play Sunday.
Robby Anderson, WR, New York Jets
Six catches for 146 yards, 2 touchdowns in 35-27 loss to Panthers
What happened: Anderson had the catch of the week, nabbing a touchdown in the back of the end zone despite having two Panthers defenders all over him. He showed off his speed blowing past a defender on his other score.
Why it matters: Anderson, who got chewed out for campaigning for Pro Bowl votes, has played like a Pro Bowler over the past five weeks. Sunday was his fifth straight game with a touchdown. The yet-to-be-determined 2018 Jets quarterback already has one good weapon.
DaQuan Jones, DE, Tennessee Titans
Two sacks and another tackle for loss in 20-16 win against Colts
What happened: Jones set the tone for a relentless Titans front seven that had eight sacks against the Colts. Jones repeatedly beat his man in the pass and run game. He called his shot, too, telling defensive lineman Jurrell Casey before the game that he felt a good day coming.
Why it matters: The Titans' offense is struggling to figure it out, but strong play from Jones and the defense has been enough to win five of the past six. The Titans are leading the AFC South because of it.
Josh Reynolds, WR, Los Angeles Rams
Four catches for 37 yards, one touchdown in 26-20 win against Saints
What happened: Stepping in for the injured Robert Woods, Reynolds scored his first career touchdown. He had a solid day and required some attention that helped Cooper Kupp have a big day.
Why it matters: Reynolds had just one catch coming into Sunday's game. His successful day will likely lead to more opportunities even when Woods returns. As if the Rams needed more weapons.
Peyton Barber, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Two second-half rushing touchdowns in 34-20 loss to Falcons
What happened: Doug Martin left the game with a concussion, and Barber, one of his backups, showed up on the fantasy vulture radar by punching in two short touchdowns.
Why it matters: Barber is a second-year undrafted free agent who left college to provide for his mother, who has been unable to work because of health issues. It's good to see him get some rewards for his work on the field.
ESPN NFL Nation reporters Alden Gonzalez and Jenna Laine contributed to this story.