Week 1 Risers and Fallers

Risers:

Danny Amendola (WR) – Without question, Amendola was the star of the game.  He followed up an off-season of swirling doubt with a gutsy game for the ages.  One game may not be enough to quell all of the doubts surrounding Welker 2.0, but there's not a fan in Patriots nation who didn't like Amendola's first impression.

Julian Edelman (WR) – Brady's "veteran" wide reciever came through big time, hauling in the game's two touchdown passes.  As someone who was constantly in Welker's shadow, Edelman took his opportunity to shine yesterday in the red zone.

Shane Vereen (RB) – Vereen had a monster game, taking the bulk of what would have been Danny Woodhead's snaps and churning up the field for some big yardage plays on a day when the Patriots' attacked lacked a vertical threat.

Stephen Gostkowski (K) – I had vision's of last season's Week 2 loss to the Cardinals in my head when Gostkowski lined up for the game winner.  This time his kick was true and straight for the win.

Kyle Arrington (DB) – While not always one of my personal favorite corners, Arrington was a disruptive force on Sunday, creating chaos and forcing turnovers.

Patriots Defense – As a whole, the unit only gave up one sustained scoring drive to Buffalo and forced two turnovers.  Their three-and-out stop late in the game was crucial to the Patriots' eventual comeback.

Fallers:

Stevan Ridley (RB) – Ball control continues to be an issue for Ridley, with his 2nd quarter fumble leading to a 74-yard Buffalo score being the most costly play of the day for New England.

Kenbrell Thompkins (WR) – After a much heralded preseason, Thompkins looked very much like a rookie, failing to truly capitalize on his 14 targets on Sunday.  At times he seemed out of sync with Brady and failed to keep two feet in on a crucial catch.

Offensive Line – Brady was constantly hurried and being hit all day on Sunday.  This had the typical look of a Patriots loss with Brady coming under heavy fire.  Thankfully, the Pats were able to pull out the game in the end.

Ryan Allen (P) – The rookie in his debut failed to look Mesko-esque, pulling a 19-yard punt on one occasion.  He also failed to display Mesko's trademark boot when the Pats were pinned deep in their own territory.