The opening week of this NFL season is probably the best in recent memory. DEN started off the season with an upset over CAR, KC overcame a 21 point deficit to defeat SD, and the OAK-NO game was a classic shootout.
Here are the 5 takeaways I had from Week 1:
5. Broncos are Playoff Contenders
I was shocked when I watched the Broncos beat the Panthers on Thursday. The o-line blocked well against a tough Panthers’ defense, Trevor Siemian kept his composure throughout the game, and the Broncos’ defense did a great job of stopping the run, forcing the Panthers to become one dimensional. Despite the departures of Malik Jackson and Danny Trevathan, the defense looks like it will finish in the top 5. Siemian was the big question mark going into the season but this guy looks like he can lead this team to the playoffs with the help the Broncos’ defense.
4. David Johnson is a Top 5 RB
David Johnson is one of the most talented RBs in the NFL, its that simple. At 6’1 and for a back that weighs 225 lbs., Johnson has the agility, acceleration, and speed that you usually see from guys much smaller. He has the power to run defenders over, ability to fight for extra yards, and a nice stiff arm. To go along with his great running vision, Johnson is probably the best receiving RB. All of his skills were displayed on Sunday Night, there are not too many RBs I would choose over Johnson. I see why he was ranked as the top RB in Fantasy Football this season.
3. Jimmy G Will Get Paid
In his first career start Jimmy Garoppolo went 24 for 33, passed for 264 yds, and threw 1 TD against a great Cardinals’ defense. All he has to do is keep up the solid play for 3 more games until Tom Brady returns. We know that every year several teams will be looking for a starting QB whether its through the draft or free agency. By Jimmy G playing for the Patriots’ and backing up Brady, teams will be willing to give him a huge contract when he becomes a free agent in 2018.
2. Cowboys Will Lose Close Games
Despite having Rookie Dak Prescott at QB, I think the Cowboys will be able to put up points against the teams they play this season. Once Prescott finds his rhythm the offense will be fine. The problem is the defense, you cannot count on this defense in late game situations when the team needs a stop to get the ball back. Therefore Cowboys’ fans will experience a lot of stress this season.
1. Antonio Brown is the Best WR
Many people think Antonio Brown is the top WR in the league, others argue for Julio Jones or Odell Beckham Jr. After watching Brown torch Washington on Monday, I had no doubts that he is the best in the league. He had success against Josh Norman, did well in the slot, and embarrassed Bashaud Breeland. On third down and long situations everyone knows that Ben Roethlisberger will throw to Brown and its almost impossible to stop. He isn’t the most physically imposing WR but his route running, footwork, speed/quickness, agility and hands are top notch.
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