Though Charles Woodson likely would’ve rather won a Super Bowl this season, he earned the next best thing: AP Defensive Player of the Year.

The versatile cornerback tied for the league lead with nine interceptions, returning three for touchdowns, helping his Green Bay Packers become the second-best defense in the NFL.

In the 36-year history of the award, Woodson became just the second Green Bay player to win it, and the first since Reggie White in 1998. The 1997 Heisman Trophy winner also became the first cornerback to be named the top defensive player since Deion Sanders back in 1994.

As the Packers transitioned to a 3-4 defense under new coordinator Dom Capers, Woodson shined as cover cornerback, blitzer, run-stuffer and ballhawk. He had 63 unassisted tackles and 18 assists, 21 defended passes, four forced fumbles with one recovery, two sacks for 18 yards and three quarterback hits.

The Packers went 11-5 in the regular season after a 4-4 start, falling to the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC Wild Card matchup last Sunday, 51-45 in overtime. With Green Bay now out of the playoff picture, the Cards head to New Orleans this Saturday to take on the NFC-leading Saints, who are favored by a touchdown.

Meanwhile, the #2 Minnesota Vikings are 2.5-point favorites in this Sunday afternoon’s game against the Dallas Cowboys.