Offensive lineman Dalton Risner holds the family block, prepared to bolt out before the start of the K-State football game against Oklahoma State in Bill Snyder Family Stadium on Oct. 13, 2018. The Wildcats defeated the Cowboys 31-12. (Archive Photo by Meg Shearer | Collegian Media Group)
DJ Giddens, RB, Indianapolis Colts
The Indianapolis Colts dismantled the Miami Dolphins from the get-go, eventually winning the game 33-8. Because of this, rookie DJ Giddens saw the field more than most expected.
Giddens finished his NFL debut with 41 rushing yards on 12 attempts, laying a promising foundation to earn a bigger role as the year goes on.
Jacob Parrish, CB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Another former Wildcat made an impact in his debut game — Jacob Parrish. Parrish finished with five total tackles, three of which were solo tackles. His tackles tied for the most on the team.
Parrish’s highlight play came on a crucial third-down play, as he brought down Atlanta Falcons receiver Drake London for a two-yard loss. Tampa Bay won the game 23-20.
Cooper Beebe, C, Dallas Cowboys
With the first game of his second year in the books, Cooper Beebe showed solid growth. Beebe finished his night with zero sacks allowed and looked comfortable on the offensive line.
Run blocking was inconsistent last season, but Beebe and company provided constant run lanes against a tough Philadelphia Eagles defense. Although the Cowboys came up short, Beebe looks ready to take a big step forward as the year progresses.
Dalton Risner, LG, Cincinnati Bengals
Although his role wasn’t as big as others, Dalton Risner did well with the 24 total snaps he participated in. Risner allowed just one pressure as his veteran presence seemed to help the Bengals’ offensive line.
D.J. Reed, CB, Detroit Lions
In his debut with the Detroit Lions, D.J. Reed played every defensive snap. In those snaps, he recorded five total tackles, four of which were solo tackles. The Lions’ defense could not create much traction, and neither could the offense. As a result, the Lions lost to the Green Bay Packers 27-13.