The 3SS Young Players to Build a Team Around Team
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by Ssj3alucard
Here are a few of the guys that have really stepped up on their individual teams to make a difference three weeks into the season:
Barrett Ruud, MLB, Bucs
I've liked Ruud for a long time now. He was been stuck behind less talented veterans who were favorites of defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin. Does the name Shelton Quarles inspire you? Me Neither. Ruud is currently leading the NFL in tackles and is making plays all over the field just like a cover-2 MLB is supposed too. He is a solid tackler in space; He Never misses his mark.
Justin Tuck, DE, Giants
Anyone who has watched the last couple of Giants games can't help but be impressed by the mysterious 3rd end from Notre Dame. For all the talk of Kiwanuka moving to LB, and Michael Strahan's hold out, It's Tuck who is leading the pass rush. He has 2 sacks and 12 tackles. He's being held off the field right now by the two starting ends, Strahan and Umenyiora, but Steve Spagnuolo is finding a way to get him on the field, and it's paying dividends.
Brandon Marshall, WR, Broncos
Marshall has already been nicknamed Mini-TO. He has excellent size and can create mismatches against smaller DBs. He also can run after the catch and is an excellent red zone target. Add to that a fantastic chemistry with Jay Culter, There aren't many young receivers better than Marshall right now.
Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings
I didn't think that he would be making this kind of impact this quickly. Although he is a little banged up this week, he has shown the ability to take an average play and make it spectacular. If he can stay healthy, (which is a giant sized IF) he can become the next great back. He needs to work on his pass protection and his hands out of the backfield, but having Chester Taylor mentor him should help out with that.
Patrick Willis, MLB, 49ers
I can't say enough about the way that he has played. He has become a big hitter in the middle of a great defense. The crazy part about this that I wouldn't know any of this if Jason was the crazy ass he is, since he makes me watch Niners games. Willis needs to improve his pursuit, he has a dirty little tendency to overrun his target, much like the rest of his defense.
