Repeat Performance

Shelby in pursuit of Luck

Two ProUtes had nearly identical performances in the first two weeks: Alex Smith and Derrick Shelby. Alex had the same number of completions (21) on two more attempts (36), and the same number of touchdown passes (2). He had fifty more yards (223) passing, and a game-high 57 yards rushing against Dallas. He took more sacks (4), but he didn't fumble (he is still turnover-free). His rating was 0.6 higher (95). His total numbers improved over week one, so he ought to repeat as ProUte of the Week, right?

Not so fast - let's look at Shelby's stats first. He had another sack and forced another fumble; he also had a tackle and an assist against the Colts.

Any general manager would take consistent quarterback play over a defensive end for an entire season, and Alex's performance had a larger impact on the outcome of the game than Shelby's. Quarterbacks will always have an advantage over defensive players - particularly when that quarterback is a former #1 pick and the defensive end went undrafted.

That's what tips week two in Shelby's favor; not only did he make the team, he's making impact plays. For that Derrick Shelby is our ProUte of Week Two!