Rookie cornerback Trent McDuffie is the key to Kansas City’s Super Bowl hopes.
McDuffie’s outstanding ability as a man-to-man corner is huge for a Steve Spagnuolo-led defense that wants to pressure the QB.
1. Trent McDuffie — Chiefs, CB
The Washington Huskies product was flashing in Week 1 of the season, then missed the next six games due to injury sustained in the opening game of the season.
But when healthy, McDuffie has been about as close to a shutdown corner as you’ll find around the league. In three starts he’s allowed three catches on 17 targets.
That type of coverage is what the Chiefs will need as they look to pressure opposing AFC quarterbacks. McDuffie’s ability to hold up on an island could go a long way for K.C.
Trent McDuffie in his McDuffle today 🎒
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) November 13, 2022
2. Rachaad White — Bucs, RB
With starter Leonard Fournette somewhat ineffective in the run game, offensive coordinator Byron Leftwich turned to the backup White. And let’s just say the former Arizona State star didn’t disappoint, toting the mail for 105 yard on 22 rushes.
White also showed that burst and quickness that Fournette just doesn’t have with runs of 29 and 18 yards. He gives the Bucs run game a dimension it sorely lacked.
"He takes notes like a quarterback. He's a really smart kid who has an understanding and a feel for football which allows him to play the way that he plays."
🗣️: OC Byron Leftwich on @chaad_3 pic.twitter.com/uMj0Zdgr6K
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) August 24, 2022
3. Christian Watson — Packers, WR
When the Packers drafted the former NDSU star, it was believed he’d be the deep threat in the offense. After his Week 1 drop that would’ve been a 75-yard touchdown the rookie seemed to fall out of favor with QB Aaron Rodgers. Then injuries to other players ushered him back onto the field and making an impact.
Fast-forward to Sunday’s game against the Cowboys, where Watson broke out with four receptions for 107 yards and three touchdowns. Welcome to the NFL!
Rookie WR Christian Watson
Adds that vertical element to the GB pass game — with Aaron Rodgers identifying/throwing the 1-on-1s. pic.twitter.com/ltzuKcaYaf
— Matt Bowen (@MattBowen41) November 17, 2022
4. Dameon Pierce — Texans, RB
The Texans are in rebuild mode, but that hasn’t stopped them from playing hard weekly under head coach Lovie Smith. Pierce happens to be one of those players who continues to go out and get the job done, even in losses.
Last week he faced a stout Giants defense, Pierce had 17 carries for 94 yards, a 5.5 yards per carry average. He also caught two passes for 28 more yards, giving him another day of over 100 total yards.
5. Charles Cross — Seahawks, OT
Up against a good Buccaneers pass rush, the stalwart bookend tackle didn’t allow a single pressure in 42 snaps. His footwork and vice grips dominated Tampa Bay Bucs pass rushers all day in Germany.
Hawks head coach Pete Carroll has some promising young talent out in the Pacific Northwest.
