Carolina Panthers linebacker Thomas Davis has heaped praise on head coach Ron Rivera following his side's first post-season win since the 2005 campaign.
The Panthers rallied from 3-8-1 in their season to win their final four games and book their place in the playoffs.
Rivera's men continued their excellent run of form as they saw off the challenge of the Arizona Cardinals to reach the divisional round of the post-season for the second straight year.
Davis told reporters: "He has kept us together. The biggest thing about him is his style. I loved playing for coach [John] Fox, but Ron is a true players coach. He understands us inside and out."
The Panthers will play the Seattle Seahawks in the divisional round at CenturyLink Field.
