NOTE: All Biggest Overreaction posts are just that, huge overreactions that could hold true but it's way too soon to make these statements with the utmost confidence and not coming out looking foolish by week one.
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| Photo via: Tim Fuller- USA TODAY SPORTS I wonder if there will be an overreaction or two about Johnny Manziel this week. |
Jets defeat Colts 13-10
Ok, so none of these scores mean diddly-poo but you can't really tell specific parts of stories without sharing the final result.
Rookie of the Game: Colts ILB Henoc Muamba (12 tackles, 10 solo) is a former #1 overall pick in the Canadian Football League who is looking to become the next Cameron Wake as a CFL all-star who becomes a star in the NFL. So far, so good as he was all over the field. Muamba finished in a two-way tie for first in the NFL in tackles this weekend. The 25-year old isn't a lock to make the team but, it's looking like he could lock his spot in with one more good game.
How about those first-rounders?: Indy did not have a first-round choice but 2013 first-round pick and OLB Bjoern Werner looks improved and ready to replace Robert Mathis (4-game suspension) short-term.
New York's defensive backfield was supposed to be improved with the selection of Safety Calvin Pryor and the progression of Cornerback Dee Milliner. That didn't last very long. Milliner did deflect two passes but then deflected further postseason play by injuring his ankle. Calvin Pryor just got cleared to play the Sunday after this game thanks to a concussion suffered in camp. With all of the injuries and below-average play, the Jets will struggle to keep their defense at the level they played last season.
Other Quick Notes: Didn't Matt Hasselbeck retire? apparently not. 2012's Mr. Irrelevant Chandler Harnish is stuck behind the soon-to-be 39-year old on the depth chart once again. Good job by un-drafted Jets rookie kicker Andrew Furney for draining a 51-yard field goal to win the game with under a minute left. He still won't beat Nick Folk. Finally, former-Pats Linebacker A.J. Edds showed why the preseason is still important as he lead the Jets in tackles, broke a finger on his left hand, and returned. Coaches will notice this impressive feat.
Biggest Overreaction: Chris Johnson (4 carries, 2 yards, 1 TD) isn't any better than the disappointing post-CJ2K Running Back we saw from 2011-13 in Tennessee.
Redskins defeat Patriots 23-6
Washington really needs to fix this team name issue. I feel uncomfortable typing it while also feeling weird typing "Washington professional football team".
Rookie of the Game: Patriots QB Jimmy Garoppolo (9/13-157-1-0) took advantage of the Ryan Mallett dumpster fire by leading the NFL in passing yards this first week of preseason ball and looked much more poised and confident than Mallett, Brian Hoyer, Rohan Davey, or any other Tom Brady back-up of the past who never got New England playing time (Matt Cassel started 15 games in 2008).
How about those first-rounders?: Former Florida Gator DT Dominique Easley was activated off the PUP-list and just began practicing on Monday for New England.
Washington traded their first-round pick to St. Louis as part of that wild Robert Griffin III trade and St. Louis got Tackle Greg Robinson.
Other Quick Notes: Pats Defensive End Michael Buchanan looked crazy good. Kai Forbath missed a field goal, giving some momentum for Zach Hocker to take over the kicking reigns with another Forbath miss. Pats Wide Receiver Brian Tyms had an impressive stat-line (5 rec. 119 yards, 1 TD) but has little-to-no shot of making the 53-man roster (Your move, Cleveland or Carolina). New England's offensive line had some issues and Washington 6th-rounder RB Lache Seastrunk out of Baylor combined with former USC RB Silas Redd for 108 yards on 21 carries. I like both of them A LOT and could see Evan Royster's job in jeopardy.
Biggest Overreaction: It's time for Washington to deal Kirk Cousins (9/13-103-1-0). Clearly, Colt McCoy (8/9-102-1-0) is solid enough to be a reliable #2 Quarterback behind RG3. In related news, New England won't find any trade partners for Ryan Mallett (5/12-55-0-0) so, they should cut him if Garoppolo continues to exceed early expectations.
Ravens defeat 49ers 23-3
Super Bowl 47 rematch featured a whole lot more Blaine Gabbert
Rookie of the Game: This was a game chock full of talented rookies. The best of the class of 2014 during this Thursday night game was former South Carolina Wide Receiver Bruce Ellington of the San Francisco 49ers. The fourth-rounder did everything right catching all three balls thrown his way and emerging as a potential return man with kick returns of 30 & 32 yards. If he can consistently put up these above-average numbers, he'll earn the return man duties and will push WR Steve Johnson off the roster next season.
How about those first-round picks?: ILB C.J. Mosley is already being lauded as a steal after amassing 7 tackles and a sack in his first preseason game. Of course, this is the overreaction blog and I 100,000% agree with this sentiment.
For San Francisco, Jimmie Ward also showed some skills by deflecting a pass, getting a tackle for a loss of yardage, and accumulating a second tackle. The man is on the 49ers defense so I'm sure he's a safe lock to turn into a decent player whether or not his preseason goes smoothly but this game didn't hurt his chances of starting opening day.
Other Quick Notes: Jim Harbaugh can fix any Quarterback... except Blaine Gabbert. San Francisco has already dumped the unknown entity of B.J. Daniels (on the rival Seahawks) and Redskins preseason superstar Colt McCoy so, those sort of looked like mistakes right now. Luckily, Josh Johnson has some experience and is Kaepernick-like in his mobility and ability to lead a rushing-heavy offense. The Ravens run blocking improved considerably with the additions of Center Jeremy Zuttah and the first full season out of former Jaguar Eugene Monroe.
Biggest Overreaction: 4th-round RB Lorenzo Taliaferro (13 carries, 71 yards) was a stud and has CLEARLY earned the starting job for weeks 1 & 2. Add him in all fantasy leagues immediately.
Chiefs defeat Bengals 41-39
What's that? Two teams actually put up big point totals in a preseason game? IMPOSSIBLE!
Rookie of the Game: Even though he got shaken up late in his appearance, Bengals first-round Cornerback Darqueze Dennard looked like the beast college football fans remember from the impressive Spartans defense last season. The transition to the NFL might not be too hard on this kid.
What about those first-round picks?: As mentioned above, CB Darqueze Dennard (4 tackles, 1 sack) is a lock to start in 2015 once some of the veteran corners finally decide to leave Cincinnati and will have a chance at passing Adam Jones on the depth chart.
Kansas City's DE/LB Dee Ford managed to hit the Quarterback twice and recorded two tackles in the teams win. It's unclear where Ford fits into the current line-up and he will definitely spend a year learning the Linebacker position behind Derrick Johnson, Tamba Hali, Justin Houston, and Joe Mays. He might not need it but with that Linebacking depth, Kansas City will take their time in developing the former BCS-champion.
Other Quick Notes: Kansas City's offensive line looked broken without Tackle Brandon Albert (now in Miami) and if this team suffers a major step-back (the way that I think they will), look for the O-Line to be a key reason why. Andy Dalton may have been overpaid but Jason Campbell does not show any inspiration as a potential future replacement thanks to two pick-sixes. De'Anthony Thomas did not lose any of his speed from his Oregon days. An 80-yard punt return touchdown locked up the role of return man for him and now all we have to see is him play offense to determine whether or not he can replace and maybe even replicate what Dexter McCluster (now with the Titans) gave to Kansas City. Travis Kelce is a super-sleeper in fantasy as he appears to be taking the starting Tight End job from veteran Anthony Fasano after a 69-yard touchdown catch. Chiefs Safety Steve Gregory retired after the game.
Biggest Overreaction: De'Anthony Thomas is worth picking in fantasy. Dude is legitimately Darren Sproles part deux.
Broncos defeat Seahawks 21-16
John Fox wasn't afraid of keeping his starters in for the entire first half of this super bowl re-match, if that's what you want to call this.
Rookie of the Game: Seahawks WR Paul Richardson (4-37-0, 5 targets) is the receiver with hands made of glue that Seattle needs if they want to win once Marshawn Lynch drops off and Russell Wilson evolves into a top 7 passer. The former Colorado standout had 83 catches for 1,343 yards and 10 scores his final season of college and should easily take the #2 receiving job once Percy Harvin eventually gets injured (Sorry Percy, you should just sit until the playoffs).
What about those first-round picks?: Seattle traded out of the first round but Denver kept pick #31 and took Ohio State Cornerback Bradley Roby. Roby's debut showed that he is capable of becoming an Antoine Winfield-type of corner with his four tackles as he brought down receivers with ease and showed very good awareness. I wouldn't be shocked to see him start alongside Aqib Talib ASAP.
Other Quick Notes: The Broncos offense is poised to look like they did in 2012 (since 2013 was an anomaly). An interesting battle to watch is who wins the #2 QB job in Seattle between veteran Travaris Jackson and former-Raider Terrelle Pryor. Undrafted Duke Running Back Juwan Thompson looked much better (6 carries, 59 yards, 1 TD) than he ever showed as a Blue Devil. I have no idea what that says about his NFL future, if anything. With Marshawn Lynch out, backup Christine Michael (7-16-1) didn't break out yet but, give it some time and we'll see whether or not he's ready for serious playing time. Broncos RB2 C.J. Anderson suffered a concussion, giving way to a solid game from Ronnie Hillman.
Biggest overreaction: Seattle's offensive line looked terrible! Stay away from Russell Wilson stock this year! Not even the most mobile of quarterbacks would be able to dodge the zero seconds of comfort this o-line gives.
Chargers defeat Cowboys 27-7
In a week where Jerry Jones is involved in a weird photo scandal, the Cowboys lackluster debut seems to be the least of his problems.
Rookie of the Game: 7th round Safety Ahmad Dixon out of Baylor was relied upon the other Cowboys for many (12) of the team's tackles thanks to plenty of other Dallas defenders whiffing on the tackles of many practice squad players. With Dallas having one of the worst defenses in NFL history last season and their defensive backfield being a large portion of why that's true, Dixon probably just locked in his roster spot and could earn a starting spot if none of the defensive players have improved.
What about those first-round picks?: Offensive Lineman Zack Martin didn't hear his name called a lot which is a good thing because that would mean penalties and penalties are a negative. The Cowboys will look to mold this former Tackle into an above-average Guard.
San Diego's Corner Jason Verrett is listed behind Shareece Wright on the team's depth chart and that was made evident by his not-starting this game. In fact, Verrett wasn't seen doing anything in this game. We'll be seeing a lot more of him in the upcoming three preseason games.
Other Quick Notes: There's a reason the Chargers gave RB Branden Oliver the #43 jersey (Darren Sproles old number). The undrafted Running Back out of Buffalo looked like Sproles re-incarnated with his size and speed. The one problem is that even with all the drooling the announcers did over his speed, he wasn't targeted once so he has yet to prove himself a complete prospect like Sproles. Tony Romo's back is still a problem (according to Dallas) and everyone's favorite red-headed shovel-passer, Brandon Weeden made his Cowboys debut as a starter. Undrafted Iowa Hawkeye Anthony Hitchens (8 tackles) impressed Dallas's coaching staff and with the Linebacking troubles this team has had, Hitchens should be closing in on the 53-man roster if he hasn't already made it in the coaches eyes. Chargers Linebacker Cordarro Law hit the QB twice with half a sack, a sleeper from the CFL who might make another team's roster if San Diego doesn't have the space.
Biggest Overreaction: Tony Romo isn't ready for Week 1! Panic Cowboy fans! He didn't play in the first preseason game so clearly this means something about his mid-30s back.
Falcons defeat Dolphins 16-10
The Dolphins had to sit out two backup QB's, carted off a Running Back, and starting Safety Reshad Jones was suspended for 4 games. Meanwhile, the Falcons are the Hard Knocks team on HBO and that's all you know about them.
Rookie of the Game: Steven Jackson's student, Devonta Freeman, showed Steven Jackson-like abilities with 107 total yards on 11 touches including his one 57-yard catch. Not only does Freeman sport S-Jax's dreadlocks, he also shares the ability to explode through and wear out a defense.
What about those first-round picks?: Falcons much-hyped Tackle Jake Matthews looked like a rookie. He got flagged for a holding penalty on a 76-yard touchdown run by Antone Smith and that wasn't his only penalty of the night. He'll play through the rookie struggles though as Atlanta will do anything to avoid starting Lamar Holmes ever again.
Dolphins Tackle Ja'Wuan James, who is also slated to start in week one, looked poised in pass protection but made mistakes in run-blocking. He's a project but one that the Dolphins feel safe starting.
Other Quick Notes: I don't know who Seth Lobato is but apparently he was Miami's only Quarterback after Matt Moore and Pat Devlin were announced as inactive for this game. He looked bad (14/28-124-0-0-1 fumble lost) and probably lost his chance at at least making the 75-man roster (before they cut down to 53 at the end of the month). Miami added Brady Quinn this week in some sort of tragic desperation move that's being promoted as "adding a veteran leader". Oklahoma Running Back Damien Williams injured his leg and had to be carted off for Miami but luckily avoided any serious damage as he returns to practice today after a less-than-stellar debut (6 rushes, 2 yards).
Biggest Overreaction: Why isn't Devonta Freeman starting already? He's clearly better than Steven Jackson even though we only saw Freeman play against a #2 defense.
Bills defeat Panthers 20-18
The Bills follow up their Hall of Fame game loss with a much better showing from E.J. Manuel & co.
Rookie of the Game: One catch, 29 yarder, diving grab, touchdown. This is all Kelvin Benjamin needed to do to prove himself to many nay-sayers. It doesn't automatically eliminate anybody's concerns about Benjamin's small collegiate sample size but it does make everyone feel better about his knee bruise that was whispered about in late-July. There's 90 people on most teams starting out the preseason and Doug Marrone and Ron Rivera wanted to give every one of the players on both squads equal playing time thus, eliminating any real chance for some unknowns to stand out.
What about those first-round picks?: Kelvin Benjamin did what he needed to do and hopefully the Panthers receiver gets caught up with Cam Newton once he's healthy so that us fantasy football owners can snatch him a round or two before everyone else wants to. He's either beast or bust.
On the other side, Bills receiver Sammy Watkins (3 catches, 21 yards, 4 targets) didn't show much other than reliability. That's a good thing that a developing young QB like E.J. Manuel needs in his supporting cast. I don't read a whole lot into any receivers' preseason unless they drop everything or look good coming off of an injury (In other words: Kelvin Benjamin).
Other Quick Notes: Sammy Watkins has been the most entertaining non-Manziel player in training camp. He'll be fun to watch in the regular season if he's ever open. Panthers kicker/punter, Jordan Gay, proved why the 33-yard extra point is an interesting idea by missing an extra point and adding some excitement to the game. Joe Webb and Derek Anderson are in a fun battle for the #2 QB job behind Cam Newton which, could become a very important role if the reports about his ankle aren't true and he isn't healed yet.
Biggest Overreaction: Bryce Brown is too good to ignore for another season, it's time to deal C.J. Spiller.
Jaguars defeat Buccaneers 16-10
I know that it's hard to take any of this seriously but why the hell is Josh McCown a starting Quarterback in 2014?
Rookie of the Game: Jaguars QB Blake Bortles.
What about those first-round picks?: BLAKE BORTLES. Everybody loves the way he played (7/11-117-0-0) in game one of the preseason. He'll definitely be a great change of pace from the long-running stretch of mediocrity that has been the Jags Quarterbacking situation. There's no way we can tell for sure whether or not he's ready as of this moment to start for Jacksonville but, it's looking good.
In Tampa, Wide Receiver Mike Evans was targeted twice with tremendously awful passes by McCown, receiving neither of them. Mike Evans isn't quite Alshon Jeffery or Brandon Marshall yet and Josh McCown needs to realize that and temper his expectations.
Other Quick Notes: What's the deal with Jacksonville's receiving corps minus frequently-suspended Justin Blackmon? I have no idea. Cecil Shorts and Penn State rookie Allen Robinson both sat out the game while Marqise Lee was nowhere to be found. This says even more positive things about the quarterbacks as they were stuck with #5 receivers on the depth chart or worse all game long. Tampa also sat down some detrimental players in their defensive backfield like Dashon Goldson and offseason acquisition Alterraun Verner (Can I start calling him "The burner" Verner?). Toby Gerhart was also inactive so the viewing public still doesn't know whether he's more than a back-up. Josh McCown put the slippery ball into the ground twice, losing one and threw a terrible pick-six over the head of Mike Evans which was physically impossible at Texas A&M. It's not an overreaction to say that I really don't like the Tampa QB situation. Jaguars Linebacker Nathan Stupar had a team-leading five tackles and a fumble recovery (thanks to McCown) so his chances at staying on the 53-man roster improve.
Biggest Overreaction: Doug Martin looked terrible (4 touches, 8 yards), his rookie year was an anomaly and 2013 was the true Doug Martin.
Saints defeat Rams 26-24
A missed extra point, a game-killing penalty, and Michael Sam's debut, this game had everything besides starting Quarterbacks.
Rookie of the Game: Brandin Cooks showed some highs (juking a defensive back on the way to a touchdown) and some lows (misread a route) but his statline (5-55-1) was to give him the rookie of the game in this contest.
What about those first-round picks?: Brandin Cooks showed a lot of potential and COULD start over Kenny Stills but I'm not fainting over him yet as Kenny Stills is still a huge talent that exploded in good match-ups last season. It'll take an entire preseason of games like this one for Cooks to gain enough trust as a target to put up numbers similar to Marques Colston.
St. Louis had the #2 (Tackle Greg Robinson) and #13 (Aaron Donald) picks in this year's draft. Robinson did not show up a lot but didn't get penalized which is an okay sign. Aaron Donald did not get a single tackle but looked great working alongside the best D-Line in football against New Orleans' fantastic offensive line.
Other Quick Notes: Mark Ingram is going to shock some people this season. He moved like Arian Foster did during his prime, crossing ends of the field, faking out the defense, stopping-and-going with ease. I would rather sneak in Mark Ingram late than spend a first-rounder on Doug Martin or a second on Foster. Michael Sam, by my eyes had a mixed performance, rushing the Quarterback twice, failing to sack him once with a bad reaction where he stepped away from the QB instead of going in for the sack. Ultimately, I don't see him making the team but, the practice squad is always an option. Saints Defensive Lineman Tyrunn Walker accumulated five solo tackles (6 total) with three tackles for losses and one sack. He was everywhere and the non-rookie of the game.
Biggest Overreaction: Khiry Robinson had two catches, he's the Darren Sproles-role in this offense. Go crazy, fantasy owners, go crazy.
Vikings defeat Raiders 10-6
Both rookie Quarterbacks underwhelm in low-scoring snorefest.
Rookie of the Game: Jerick McKinnon is the most quiet potential fantasy handcuff at the Running Back position this year. All he has to do is pass up the uninspiring Matt Asiata on the depth chart and not fumble. McKinnon impressed in his debut, carrying the ball 12 times for 45 yards. Matt Asiata finished with four touches for 15 yards. The team is very curious to see what they might have in McKinnon.
What about those first-rounders?: The lesser talked about of Minnesota's two first rounders is Linebacker Anthony Barr who they selected out of UCLA with the ninth overall selection in May's draft. Barr impressed in limited action, getting a tackle and contributing on a sack. Minnesota thinks they have something in this week one starter. QB Teddy Bridgewater (6/13-49-0-0, 1 fumble) was less impressive and showed why new head coach Mike Zimmer might want to start off his tenure with Matt Cassel starting for a few games.
Over in Oakland, much-hyped Outside Linebacker Khalil Mack made two tackles, including one for a loss in the first quarter as he got limited time since, like Barr, he's about to begin his career in the starting lineup. All starters typically get two to three full quarters of action around Week 3 of the preseason.
Other Quick Notes: Derek Carr is supposed to be the Raiders' next Quarterback-in-waiting but his first NFL preseason action against a second-string defense was lackluster at minimum (10/16-74-0-1). Oakland's offensive scheme appears to be a conservative short-passes approach as current starter Matt Schaub (3/7-21-0-0) and former Oakland starter Matt McGloin (11/18-90-0-0) had similar results minus the interception, thankfully. Raiders Running Back Darren McFadden burst through a massive hole created by the offensive line and carried the ball 23 yards before being tackled by the shoulders in an awkward landing that looked like it could have injured his collarbone. Thankfully for Oakland fans, it did not injure the fragile McFadden but, was his only carry of the night. Cordarrelle Patterson was Minnesota's leading receiver in this game which is probably a sign of things to come. Both kickers (Sebastian Janikowski and Blair Walsh) missed field goals and former-Bear Defensive End Corey Wootton got a sack for Minnesota in his Vikings debut while frequently-trucked Safety and ex-Eagle Kurt Coleman picked off Derek Carr for Minnesota.
Biggest Overreaction: The Raiders are screwed. Neither Matt Schaub nor Derek Carr are any good. James Jones was a waste of money. Jameis Winston for 2015!
Bears defeat Eagles 34-28
It all came down to 40-yard hail mary that was 10 yards short. Come on, Eagles.
Rookie of the Game: Undrafted Toledo Running Back David Fluellen had a 14-yard touchdown catch and a decent day rushing (6-25-0) to match Matthew Tucker's 2-touchdown, 1-fumble performance and make him a serious threat for the #3 RB job in Philly.
What about those first-rounders?: Philadelphia shocked everyone to the point of silence by selecting a Chip Kelly favorite in Linebacker Marcus Smith in the first round. He didn't detract any haters (we know how Philly is with their rookies) but, he did get a pass defended with his two tackles. Not too shabby for someone people thought they could get in the second or even third rounds.
Chicago took Cornerback Kyle Fuller and feels pretty good after watching him get involved on every aspect of defense and finishing with three tackles. If he didn't make those three tackles, it's possible the win could've gone to the Eagles.
Other Quick Notes: Josh Huff is fast. The rookie WR out of Oregon wasn't shining in the receiving game (1 catch out of 5 targets) but a kick-return touchdown reminded us why he's on the team. Nick Foles threw as many picks in this first preseason game (2) as he did in all of last regular season. Former Heisman-candidate and Quarterback Jordan Lynch (now a Bears Running Back) had 24 yards on 7 carries after going undrafted out of Illinois. Right now, I'd list his roster status as poor. "The Other" Tight End named Zach Miller got six receptions and two touchdowns in a surprising Bears debut which only tells people one thing and that's that Martellus Bennett will be an important fixture in this Marc Trestman-led offense.
Biggest Overreaction: The regression is in full-force with Nick Foles. Sell, SELL, SELLLL!!!!
Lions defeat Browns 13-12
Tyler Thigpen throws his way off the roster, making room for Rex Grossman.
Rookie of the Game: Johnny Manziel. -ESPN begins collectively seizing over the thought that someone else loves their beloved Manziel-
What about those first-round picks?: Browns Cornerback Justin Gilbert (groin injury) was inactive so, no word on whether or not he's the next Joe Haden. Lions tenth pick, Tight End Eric Ebron, caught one pass out of four targets and looked just okay in the blocking game. It's going to take both of these guys a while to fully prove themselves. Meanwhile, also belonging in the Biggest Overreaction category is JOHNNY FOOTBALL (7/11-63-0-0, 6 carries, 27 yards, 0 turnovers). New head coach Mike Pettine drew up some perfect rollouts and play-actions involving Manziel and Hoyer and Manziel excelled at his first test. GIVE HIM THE STARTING JOB CLEVELAND, YOU MUST!
Other Quick Notes: As solid as Brian Hoyer looked (6/14-92-0-0), he was less-than-phenomenal overall. Speaking of less-than-phenomenal, third string Quarterback Tyler Thigpen (3/12-38-0-1) threw his way off the team in the fourth quarter, forcing Cleveland to release him and sign Rex Grossman. The Browns wide receivers behind Nate Burleson, Josh Gordon, and Andrew Hawkins were awful, dropping a majority of the passes thrown their way. Lions Running Back George Winn is a no-name guy who had a big game, touching the ball nine times and gaining 62 yards. Winn doesn't have a lot of value but, looked like a Theo Riddick-type back. Clearly, Dan Orlovsky belongs nowhere near an NFL roster and Kellen Moore will win the #2 job behind Matt Stafford if nothing changes over the rest of the preseason.
Giants defeat Steelers 20-16
Big Ben and Dri Archer connect on one very long play and sit the rest of the game.
Rookie of the Game: Giants Running Back Kendall Gaskins (13 touches for 65 yards) out-shined the Hall of Fame game MVP Andre Williams, possibly earning himself a roster spot over Peyton Hillis in the process (emphasis on the "possibly").
What about those first-round picks?: Odell Beckham Jr. was a questionable choice in May by New York as it felt like a strange fit when so many other teams (Kansas City, Philly, Carolina) needed receivers that nobody imagined that the Giants would target the former-LSU Tiger. He was inactive for this game and adds another question mark onto his pile of question marks already on his plate.
Pittsburgh selected Linebacker Ryan Shazier, who was also inactive during this game thanks to a "boo boo".
Other Quick Notes: Former Toldeo Linebacker Dan Molls recorded a Steeler-high nine tackles out of nowhere. DT Damontre Moore continued his impressive preseason in this game and seems to have vastly improved on his rookie season. Curtis Painter completed all seven of his passes because it's the preseason.
Biggest Overreaction: Get ready for the Rashad Jennings breakout year! He looked awesome on his 73-yard touchdown run.
Titans over Packers 20-16
A large rainstorm cast havoc on every single Center and return-man.
Rookie of the Game: 4th-round Wyoming Cornerback Marqueston Huff recorded five tackles and one pass deflected in a worthy effort against Green Bay's passing attack. Huff is expected to be a backup but I'm sure they'll find a place in the starting lineup for him if he keeps exceeding expectations.
What about those first-round picks?: Ha Ha Clinton Dix impressed with his three tackles and one pass deflection in limited playing time. He's going to be a stud of a defender and possibly even as soon as this year.
Tennessee's Tackle Taylor Lewan's debut was un-noteworthy.
Other Quick Notes: Jarrett Bush has long been a mediocre corner on this Packers defense but showed some talent in a lot of playing time, recording a team-high eight tackles with ease. Another mediocre defensive player led Tennessee in tackles in Linebacker Patrick Bailey (6 tackles, 2 for loss, 1 sack). Fumblitis struck both teams as the field and ball were both soggy, leading to five Green Bay fumbles (two muffed punts by WR Davante Adams) and three Titans fumbles. I don't read a whole lot into preseason games with conditions like this one. Titans Kicker Maikon Bonani missed an extra-point (1/2 this weekend)
Biggest Overreaction: Bishop Sankey, who looked slow and uncoordinated, was a complete waste of a draft pick. I'm picking Shonn Greene in every fantasy league this year because while Shonn Greene might be awful, at least he isn't Bishop Sankey.
and finally...
Cardinals shut out the Texans 32-0
Carson Palmer showed us the good Carson Palmer as both starters played an entire half and it was clear which team is more ready for the 2014 season to begin.
Rookie of the Game: Arizona QB Logan Thomas (11/12-113-1-0) was an unknown entity until this game against Houston and despite Houston's lacking defensive backs, Thomas managed to show what his talent can lead to and that was a positive result in the 32-0 win.
What about those first-round picks?: #1 overall pick Jadeveon Clowney out of South Carolina didn't do a lot but when he did do something, he made it count. Clowney's only tackle was on a Running Back for a five-yard loss.
Cardinals new Safety Deone Bucannon (3 tackles, 2 solo) was a shocking first-round selection out of Washington State but impressed in his debut. I'm sure Arizona knew what they were doing taking this unknown-to-the-masses entity.
Other Quick Notes: The Texans blew up their running back staff after the game, cutting Andre Brown, Dennis Johnson, and Tim Cornett. They followed up those moves by signing veterans Ronnie Brown and William Powell. This was sort of surprising as Andre Brown was owned in 60% of ESPN fantasy leagues as a handcuff to Arian Foster. That role now belongs to Jonathan Grimes apparently. All three of Houston's Quarterbacks did nothing positive. Cardinals rookie receiver John Brown (5-87-0) and practice-squadder Brittan Golden (7-45-0) combined to make their cases for the roster in assisting an excellent passing game for Arizona. There's a lot of hype at Cardinals' camp around John Brown but I don't see him exploding onto the scene until Larry Fitzgerald leaves. Antonio Cromartie intercepted Ryan Fitzpatrick in their first games with their respective teams.
Biggest Overreaction: 2-14, here comes Houston again! Ryan Fitzpatrick looked awful and this team wants Jameis Winston next year. Maybe they'll tank? Yeahhh... they'll definitely tank.
All overreactions are somewhat sarcastic and final.
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