Who Were the NFL’s Hottest Week 1 Performers?
Beginning with last Thursday's shootout between the Packers and Saints to the last play of the Monday night games, the NFL season kicked off with a bang. Most of America exhaled when the lockout ended and football returned. Now our Sunday and Monday nights are back to normal.
Below are three players that stood out during the regular season's first week.
Tom Brady
New England Patriots, QB
I am pretty sure almost every man alive dreams of switching lives with this guy. Brady was, by far, the best signal caller of Week 1, throwing for 517 yards, four touchdowns and finishing with a 121.6 QB Rating. The highlight had to be the 99-yard touchdown pass to Wes Welker.
Did I mention this guy is married to a super model and has three Super Bowl Rings?
If you can afford a Brady rookie card or autograph, all of them are great. Given his career credentials, they will likely never significantly decrease in value. Watch for fake in-person Brady autographs as these seem to be more readily available than any other player in the league.
Also, if you have a time machine I would like to borrow it to go back to the year 2000 and start my Tom Brady personal collection.
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LeSean McCoy
Philadelphia Eagles, RB
LeSean McCoy has benefited from Andy Reid's West Coast Offense. McCoy scored a pair of touchdowns on Sunday, one on the ground and the other through the air. His 8.1 yards per rush is longer than most completed passes in the league.
McCoy's card values are heating up. He was featured in all 2009 products including several gorgeous Exquisite, National Treasures and SP Authentic patch autographs that have parts of the Reebok or the Eagles logos.
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Cam Newton
Carolina Panthers, QB
The Heisman Trophy winning, National Champion, first overall pick, Cam Newton continues to amaze on the football field. Newton blew away everyone's expectations, throwing for 422 yards, including two touchdowns and rushing for one more. Thoughts of him becoming the next Jamarcus Russell should be erased for the time being.
Personally I think he's going to become a serviceable NFL quarterback as long as he matures, keeps his confidence up and shows that he can be a leader on the field. He will be tested this season as Carolina has a difficult schedule. It starts this week against Green Bay. With Newton you have to remember he has only played one complete season at the top NCAA level.
As a number one pick, Newton's cards are pricey. Both Panini and Topps have released several autographed rookies, with plenty more on the way. Although not official rookie cards, I prefer the Upper Deck issues with Newton in his Auburn jersey. That way, if Newton does bust in the NFL, he is a Heisman Trophy winner who won a National Championship.
Week 1 was a great start to what should become a very exciting season. Check back next week for the best players of Week 2.
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