The NFL is back, and even though we have only got through one week of games, there have already been several great games and performances. If the rest of the season goes along as week one did, we are in for an entertaining season.
This year, just like every year, countless eyes will be on the performances from the league’s most important position: the quarterbacks. In week one, these three signal-callers did not disappoint.
1) Kyler Murray (Arizona Cardinals)
Murray had a somewhat frustrating second year after an impressive rookie campaign that earned him AP Offensive Rookie of the Year Honors. He improved in most statistical categories, but his effectiveness and aggression were down in the last few weeks of the season due to a nagging shoulder injury. Partially because of his decrease in output as the season progressed, the Cardinals failed to make the playoffs, finishing 8-8.
If week one indicates what is to come, then Murray has left his injury woes in the past.
In the Cardinals’ season-opening game against the Tennessee Titans, Murray scored five total touchdowns (four passing, one rushing) and threw 289 yards in a 38-13 blowout win. He also finished the game with a stellar Quarterback Rating of 121.0.
If he keeps up this production, Murray could be a dark-horse MVP candidate by the end of the season.
2) Tom Brady (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
Somehow, at 44 years old, Tom Brady seems to be getting even better.
After an impressive season in 2020-2021 that culminated in a Tampa Bay Super Bowl win, Brady started the 2021-2022 campaign with a bang. Against the Cowboys, he threw for 379 yards and four touchdowns with a 64% completion percentage. He looked impressive throughout the contest, consistently finding open receivers and making throws that no man of his age should be able to make.
Brady did throw two interceptions, but neither was his fault. The first came off a dropped pass that running back Leonard Fournette tipped up into the air, and the second came on a last-second, first-half-ending Hail Mary.
To the chagrin of every team in the NFL not situated in Tampa, Tom Brady looks like he’s going to be around for a while longer.
3) Derek Carr (Las Vegas Raiders)
Derek Carr showed out in an insane Monday Night Football showdown against the Baltimore Ravens, leading his Raiders to a close overtime win.
Carr struggled in the first half but came alive in the fourth quarter and overtime, playing well when it mattered most. When it was all said and done, he had accumulated 435 passing yards and two touchdowns.
David Carr has picked up a reputation around the league as an average-at-best quarterback, but with performances like these, he could start turning that narrative on its head.
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