September 24, 2007, 8:04 PM

Engel Eye: Week 3

Share
Engel By Scott Engel
ESPN.com
Archive
Every week in the Engel Eye, I'll take a look at some key performances from Sunday. We'll determine which players are ones to keep watching, and I'll pinpoint emerging trends.

Outstanding Adrian: Kelly Holcomb didn't add much to Minnesota's offense Sunday, and the Vikings lost to an equally mediocre Chiefs team. But Adrian Peterson continued to be the team's one shining offensive star, delivering another quality performance (25 carries for 102 yards, three catches for 48 yards). He also scored on an 11-yard run. Minnesota boasted no other weapons of note, and Kansas City's defense was channeled to contain Peterson. Yet he continued to roll up yards, hitting holes with authority, slipping through tacklers' grasps and working hard for extra yardage. Peterson's combination of excellent vision, speed and elusiveness makes him tough for any defense to handle. He also is emerging as more of a receiving threat than expected.

Peterson is performing well enough to be considered a must-start as a No. 2 fantasy back right now. Plug him into your lineup and lock him in there. He's living up to all expectations so far and will continue to post fine numbers even when Chester Taylor returns. The presence of Taylor will only serve to ensure that Peterson does not get overworked and will be less of a risk to get injured.

To continue reading this article you must be an Insider