Spotlight Starters

Thursday September 6th began one of the best days of the year, or for the 20% of the population who doesn’t religiously watch: it’s the start of the NFL season. Of all the transitions made in this offseason and draft, there were many standout athletes in their first game. Here’s just five of the many players who really surpassed the presumptions about their performance.

1. Kirk Cousins

In past seasons, Kirk Cousins (QB) has been on backburner as a reliable quarterback in his years with the Redskins. In March, Cousins signed to play with the Minnesota Vikings and there was definite hope for success. Between their powerful defense, and notable receivers, Minnesota was opportune for Cousins. There have been games in the past where Kirk has shown he belongs in the League but has only a few games shown as a breakout player. It is clear that he has the fire and skill for the game after his latest game against San Francisco. Not only did the Vikings pull a 24-16 win, but Kirk Cousins completed 20/36 attempted with 2 passing touchdowns. Kirk worked alongside Stefon Diggs (WR), Dalvin Cook (RB), Kyle Rudolph (TE), and a tireless defense who all helped to move the Vikings offense and defense towards their win. Kirk Cousins stood out as an improved and fiery threat for future games. That being said and all credit to the owner of this video… You like that?

2. Adrian Peterson

The Redskins finally gave Adrian Peterson (RB), a chance and against his previous Cardinals team he totaled a 166 yard game. Of those yards 96 were rushing, the other 70 yards were from passes. It was refreshing to see Peterson on the field powering through Arizona’s defense despite criticism that his prime days were over. In interviews, Peterson gave massive credit to the offensive line during that game, but his own rushing strength is bringing the Redskins another ulterior asset. The Redskins with freshly traded quarterback, Alex Smith (QB), rolled through the Cardinals 24-6 with A.P. rushing for 1 TD. Besides his rushing ability, Peterson displayed even more as an offensive resource with those additional 70 yards. Next week the Redskins play the Indianapolis Colts who just came off a loss, so this could definitely be another win for A.P. and his Redskin team.

3. Ryan Fitzpatrick

After off the field incidents, Jameis Winston was suspended for three games and Ryan Fitzpatrick was thrown into the Buccaneers mix. The Buccaneers backup quarterback put on a notable performance against Drew Brees and the Saints. In a competitive and high-scoring game, Ryan Fitzpatrick made himself at home within Tampa Bay’s versatile offense. Even in comparison to Drew Brees, who is often esteemed as the most accurate quarterback in the NFL, Fitzpatrick put up more than respectable numbers. Fitzpatrick threw for 417 yards and 4 touchdowns, Brees for 439 yards and 3 touchdowns. Fitzpatrick took full advantage of his own legs, Mike Evans (WR) , and Desean Jackson (WR) which lead to their 48-40 win. Not to mention not a single interception was thrown by either quarterback; truly a transformation of the Buccaneers offense from past seasons. Next week will shape up to be an interesting game against the World Champion Philadelphia Eagles with backup quarterback, Nick Foles.

4. Khalil Mack

After what seemed to be a surprising move from the Raiders to the Chicago Bears, Khalil Mack (LB) lead a very powerful defense that just came up short 23-24 against the Greenbay Packers. Khalil intercepted one pass, one sack, and rained even more terror on the opposing Greenbay offense. Khalil Mack made the move from the Raiders to the Bears over contract requests that the Raiders refused to make. The Bears definitely picked up a valuable linebacker, Khalil’s presence on the field instills fears in the other team’s offense. Even though the Greenbay Packers won, the Bears defense was unquestionably improved upon this change. Khalil Mack made a heavy impact on the direction of the game after so many hits on the firm Packers offense. You can always count on Khalil Mack to get to the ball, strip the quarterback, and pummel through anyone to get it. Next Monday, the Chicago Bears play the Seattle Seahawks who are coming off of a loss. Khalil Mack is set to run through that weaker Seattle offense line if the line is unprepared for such a powerhouse player.

5. Saquon Barkley

The rookie from Penn State was drafted as the second overall pick for the New York Giants and the payoff is already showing. Saquon Barkley should have a record-setting season either close or surpassing Ezekiel Elliott’s rookie season. In his first game against a Jacksonville Jaguars defense, he ran for 106 yards and 1 touchdown. Not only did his performance intimidate the Jaguars defense, but after Barkley got a bounding first down, he stood up helmet to helmet with Jalen Ramsey. Jalen Ramsey being a prominent corner for the Jaguars but otherwise regarded as the league’s current instigator; Saquon Barkley sized up to Ramsey without hesitation. Saquon Barkley’s confidence is an addition to Odell Beckham’s so their combined talent and swagger of these receivers will bring up the team’s morale during games. While the Giants lost their first game 20-15, Barkley undeniably made an impression for the Jaguars and the other teams that may come face to face with this dominant rookie.

“Success isn’t owned, it’s leased. And rent is due everyday” -J.J. Watt