With one week under everyone’s belt, one thing is for certain: ESPN does not know that people tinker with their lineups in the closing minutes before early kickoffs. That is the only explanation on why their servers were down on Sunday. On a brighter note, there were some excellent performances last week, but who is just a flash in the pan?
The Young Guns
Four quarterbacks made their debuts this week, and for various reasons, all showed positive signs. Most impressive would have to be Carson Wentz. Given this game should be taken with a grain of salt due to playing against a poor Cleveland defense, but still, he looked good. With two touchdowns and 278 yards he showed poise and stayed in the pocket, and we know what could happen if he takes off.
Trevor Siemian didn’t look to shabby either. Given, his numbers are not the best, but he passed the eye test. Throwing for 178 yards and a touchdown against a stout Panther team is good, but the two picks offer some worry. Still, if needed, could be a good pick up going against a battered Indianapolis secondary.
Jimmy G, as he is known in New England, did a good job stepping in for Tom Brady. Playing at Arizona is no small task, but Garoppolo did his job. The Patriots will be at home against Miami, which could end up being a tricky game.
While he didn’t get the W, Dak Prescott had some good looks. He seems to have a good connection with tight end Jason Witten, but the lack of production in the opponent’s half is worrying. No touchdowns is not good for any quarterback, but no interceptions is a positive, and show that his choice in pass is pretty good.
The Old Guys
Oh, Adrian Peterson. Nineteen rushes and only 31 yards, ouch. Did Tennessee stack the box against him? Yes, but has AP beaten teams in the past? Again, yes. He is getting old, but it is worth wondering what would happen if Sam Bradford was under center. Would teams respect the pass, give Peterson more space? Possibly, but keep AP under watch. Don’t sound the alarm bell yet, but this may be a year of digression for him.
Frank Gore put up six points this week, par for the course for him. He is getting up there in age, so how much can you really get out of him is a big question. He may offer something this week, but a trip to Denver is tricky. The Broncos gave up an average of 4.9 yards per carry against the Panthers, so it may be worth a risk.
The Big Performers
If you played the Vikings Defense this week, good for you. If you went against the Vikings Defense, ouch. A pair of touchdowns, including a 77-yard interception return, puts up huge numbers. The Packers will bring the Vikings back to Earth Sunday night. Worth the start? Yes, but expecting a 20 plus point week is not going to happen this week, or ever.
Drew Brees really likes Brandin Cooks and Willie Snead. The wide receivers each scored 20 plus points each, combining for three touchdowns and over 300 yards. Those numbers need some perspective, with Snead scoring a 98-yarder. Still, the Saints always like passing, and those two are two good picks going forward.