First Place – Carlos Avila Gonzalez, San Francisco Chronicle, “Can't Catch Me!” Arizona Cardinals at San Francisco 49ers, Dec. 30, 2012.
Second Place – Jim Davis, Boston Globe, “Hawkeyed,” New England Patriots at Seattle Seahawks, Oct. 14, 2012
Third Place – Matt May, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, “Relentless Pressure,” Kansas City Chiefs at Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Oct. 14, 2012.
Honorable Mention – Matt Detrich, Indianapolis Star, “By A Nose,” Indianapolis Colts at Houston Texans, Dec. 16, 2012.
Honorable Mention – Rick Wood, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, “Facemask,” Green Bay Packers at St. Louis Rams, Oct. 21, 2012.
Honorable Mention – Andrew Harnik, Washington Times, “End Zone Dive,” Cincinnati Bengals at Washington Redskins, Sept. 23, 2012.
Honorable Mention – Brian Peterson, Minneapolis Star Tribune, “MVP Adrian Peterson,” Minnesota Vikings at Washington Redskins, Oct. 14, 2012.
Honorable Mention – Bob Leverone, The Associated Press, “Stiff Move,” New York Giants at Carolina Panthers, Sept. 20, 2012.
Honorable Mention – Pouya Dianat, Sports Illustrated, no title, San Francisco 49ers at Atlanta Falcons, Jan. 20, 2013, NFC Championship Game.
Honorable Mention – Ric Tapia, NFL.com, “Edwards Grab,” Seattle Seahawks at San Francisco 49ers, Oct. 18, 2012.