On the Rise, On the Fall Sep 9, 2008 | More

Welcome to the first edition of “On the Rise, On the Fall.” Throughout the season, I will discuss players whose stock is rising and others who are not having the same luck. I will avoid naming the obvious studs – Drew Brees, Brian Westbrook, etc – and will keep to players whose performance was not as foreseeable. Keep in mind that there has only been one week of play and do not over exaggerate. It’s a long season. With that in mind, let’s review some players from Week 1:

On the Rise

Jake Delhomme, QB, Panthers : No Steve Smith, no problem for Delhomme in Week 1. There were some questions regarding the health of Delhomme entering the season after he underwent surgery last year. He answered some of those questions Sunday, leading the Panthers to a hard-fought road victory in San Diego without one of the best receivers in the game, Steve Smith. When Smith comes back after Week 2, Carolina will only get better. They have an improved two-punch running game, two offseason acquisitions at receiver in Muhammad and Hackett, and a stout defense to keep the offense on the field.

Chris Johnson, RB, Titans : This man was getting a lot of love in the preseason, but who expected this type of opener from the rookie against one of the toughest defenses in the league? He started the game and carried the ball 15 times for 93 yards. In addition, he caught three balls for 34 yards and a TD. As a guy drafted later in your draft, he could emerge as a starter for your team as the season continues. He faces the Bengals in Week 2 and that has to get your blood flowing.

Patrick Crayton, WR, Cowboys : Not a big name, but he is the clear #2 WR in Dallas. Sure, Owens and Witten will get the looks before him, but when double teams crowd those stars, Romo will look for Crayton. He finished Sunday’s game with six catches for 82 yards, which is not too shabby for a WR 3. He is on arguably the best offense in the league and should get a good amount of targets each week.

Buffalo Bills, D/ST : The Bills went under the radar this offseason with #4 signing in New York and the Patriots coming off an ALMOST perfect season. Now with the Bills romp of the Seahawks and Brady being done for the season, the Bills have slowly crept into the light. Their special teams is enough of a reason for you to pick them up. They are probably on a good amount of waiver wires now, but won’t be for long.

(continue to page 2 for players On the Fall...)

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