During Barry Sanders final season with the Lions, I wrote a column questioning whether Lions fans and media took him for granted. He was so good, so consistent that if he didn’t run for 100 yards he was having a bad day. His moves alone were worth the price of admission.

Do you think that might happen with defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh? He’s been so good as a rookie, that perhaps if he doesn’t get a sack per game next season heads will be shaking. It’s usually quite different on the defensive side of the ball. But Suh stands out.

For fans who saw him move bodies around in the middle for 16 games this season, his post-season honors should be no surprise. But remember he’s a member of the Lions who have not been to the playoffs since 1999. Often times players on losing teams are overlooked. Can you say Calvin Johnson?

That’s what makes Suh’s honors so significant. Remember he’s the only rookie starter named to the Pro Bowl and the only rookie on AP’s All-Pro team.

He could have another honor coming his way on Feb. 4 when the AP will names its defensive and offensive rookies of the year.

Suh should be in the mix with Patriots cornerback Devin McCourty and Cleveland Browns cornerback Joe Haden.

The AP awards will be spread throughout the week leading up to Super Bowl XLV in Dallas. They will be announced at 7 p.m. each night on NFL Total Access on the NFL Network. The season’s MVP will be announced during the pre-game show on Super Bowl Sunday.

Suh should have a good chance to pick up this hardware too. If he doesn’t we’ll be a little surprised, not that we’re taking anything for granted.

(Follow me on Twitter @PaulaPasche.)