San Francisco left guard Mike Iupati (Idaho) is on pace in voting to start for the NFC in the 2013 Pro Bowl. Teammate Leonard Davis believes Iupati is deserving of the honor. “He’s got a chance to be the best guard in the league,” Davis told 49ers.com. Iupati will have his work cut out for him Sunday night, however, as he will face off against Patriots defensive lineman Vince Wilfork. “There’s something special about Wilfork,” Iupati said.

• The Seahawks’ special teams have been limiting big returns this season. They have yet to allow a return of more than 40 yards, which puts them in an elite group, along with the Bears and the Packers. Jeron Johnson (Boise State) deserves some of the credit for this success. Heath Farwell leads Seattle with 13 special teams tackles, but Johnson has also contributed in a big way with eight tackles of his own.

• Jets cornerback Kyle Wilson (Boise State) took some heat in the New York press after being drafted in the first round last season and underperforming early in his career. But coach Rex Ryan told ESPNNewYork.com last week that he’s done a good job stepping in for injured superstar Darrelle Revis. “This is the guy we signed up for when we drafted him,” Ryan said. Wilson already has matched his career high with 41 tackles.

• The Patriots won the game in a 42-14 blowout, but Texans defensive back Shiloh Keo (Idaho) recorded his first NFL interception late in the game on prime time Monday night.

• Mel Kiper Jr. ranks Utah Utes defensive tackle Star Lotulelei as the No. 3 overall 2013 NFL Draft prospect. If he does go that high, Lotulelei would join Panthers tackle Jordan Gross (Fruitland High) and 49ers QB Alex Smith as top 10 picks to come out of Utah.

Compiled by Chris Langrill, The Idaho Statesman