The 2009 NFL season really did start off with a ton of excitement this weekend as a number of old and new faces took to the gridiron wearing all new colors, jerseys and helmets. While every game and player had a big role in an eventful opening weekend, let’s take a quick look at some of the top moments that took place right here on WatchLiveNFL.
Brett Favre strolled onto the field with a lot excitement and controversy swirling around him. He shook off a bit of a rusty start and helped lead the Minnesota Vikings to a big opening week win, thanks in large part to help from star RB Adrian Peterson. Favre threw a 6 yard TD pass late in the game to seal a 34-20 game in which Peterson stole the show and ran for 180 yards and 3 TD’s. It was a good sign for the Vikings and a great sign for Favre, as he can relax and know that he doesn’t have to do everything, all the time, in order for the team to win.
The Green Bay Packers took another step in life with Favre as young Aaron Rodgers stepped up late and lead the team to an impressive 21-15 win over the Chicago Bears. Rodgers threw an impressive 50 yard TD with just one minute left in the game to Greg Jennings and ensured that the spotlight was taken right off of newcomer Jay Cutler.
In Philadelphia, all the news revolved around Michael Vick, even though he will not be allowed to play until week 4. However, Donovan McNabb proved why is the Eagles leader as he threw for 2 TD’s and ran for another one in a 38-10 beating of the Carolina Panthers. However McNabb later left the game with fractured ribs and it may look like the team will be relying on Vick much more than they imagined before.
In a day where the hype surrounded all star veterans, young rookie Mark Sanchez made an impact himself. He strode into his pro debut and threw for 272 yards and went 18 for 31 in passing to lead the New York Jets to a big 24-7 win over the Houston Texans. It was a big win under his belt and will help show the team and coach Rex Ryan that he is ready to lead the team to big things this year.
References:
Minnesota Vikings,
Aaron Rodgers,
Chicago Bears,
Michael Vick,
Donovan McNabb,
Carolina Panthers,
Mark Sanchez,
New York Jets,
Rex Ryan