So we have reached the end of the first quarter of the regular season, and there happens to be alot of surprise events so far. We have seen teams they were bad, play good. We have teams that were good, play bad. We have injuries all over the place hurting alot of NFL teams.
The biggest surprise so far this season has to be the play of the Detroit Lions and the Buffalo Bills, who would of thought both these teams would be playing as good as they are? I think it can be said the Lions have had the talent, and Mathew Stafford is finally healthy. Megatron is playing lights out so far, embarrassing defenders left and right. As for the Bills, Ryan Fitzpatrick is playing great, and Fred Jackson is proving why he is the captain of the offense.
On to the bad, the Colts never had a plan if Manning went down and we are certainly seeing that this year. But who would of thought that could be a good thing, with Andrew Luck being the next sure thing he can end up going to the Colts. Another team looking very bad is the "Dream" team in Philadelphia. After grabbing 2 top corners through free agency and trade, you would think they would have success and challenging the Packers this year. Well let's just say they aren't even challenging there own division being in the basement so far.
I would have to say the surprise rookies I've seen so far is Cam Newton, yes he was the first pick but everyone criticized his passing ability even me. He has led the Panthers and kept them in every game this year, even though they are 1-3. Von Miller also has been a exceptional pick, which most people believed he would be. I believe, not because I'm a Patriots fan, but Stevan Ridley could be a steal in this past draft. So far is has capitalized on his playing opportunities. I think he may overtake The Law Firm for starting running back in the near future.
Now on to the "where are they now" part of the draft. So with a 1st round pick usually that player is given high expectations. Robert Quinn, who was next in line behind Von Miller seems to be non existant with the Rams. Another player it seems to note be making any noise Jonathan Baldin. I'm surprised the Chiefs went WR here with Bowe, and not address secondary or linebacking core.
If I was to handout some of the top awards right now I would have options at every spot.
MVP- Tom Brady, he is on pace to pass for over 6,000 yards and more touchdowns then the 2007 year when he set the record for it. Wes Welker also is in the conversation with 40 receptions, and leading the league in receiving.
Comeback Player- Steve Smith, after a injury ridden year last season and not sure if he was going to be around in Carolina. Smith is 2nd in the league in receiving, and looks like he has a connection with rookie Cam Newton so far.
Surprise Player- Justin Babin, who is on a tear for the Eagles the only bright spot this year so far. Babin has 7 sacks so far, leading the league. If he keeps this up he can set a record for sacks in a season, but with Trent Cole being lost to injury, this could hurt his stock.
Disappointing Player- Chris Johnson, the so called "best" running back in the league has been nothing farther from it. After getting all that money in the offseason, Johnson has had one 100 yard game, and only averages 2.9 yards a carry and has no touchdowns.
Team on the rise- Houston Texans are for real, and that young defense has alot of playmakers on the team with Brian Cushing, Mario Williams, Demarco Ryans and newly drafted J.J. Watt. Look for the Texans to take the division IF they can manage the loss of Andre Johnson they will win the south.
Team on the fall- Pittsburg Steelers, who have a pile of injuries all over the field, include big Ben. There offensive line is been terrible, and now injured as well. Mendenhall is banged up, and I think the Ravens overtake the Steelers this year.
Leave your comments and thoughts, thanks!
