NFL Week 4 Breakout Players: Justin Hunter Stalking Prey
By Erik Lambert
Aug 23, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falconsdefensive back Sean Baker (29) tackles Tennessee Titans wide receiver Justin Hunter (15) during the second half at the Georgia Dome. The Titans defeated the Falcons 24-17. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Quite a few names have gone through the first few NFL games quietly. Which of them are primed for a breakout in week 4?
Drew Brees – New Orleans Saints
Starting 0-2 and having a tough afternoon in the first win of the season can make a man used to winning frustrated. Drew Brees showed that last week, but his frustrations may be nearly at an end. His team is set to host a Dallas Cowboys team that just got done surrendering over 300 passing yards and three touchdowns to a third-string quarterback in St. Louis. Given how prone the Cowboys are to turnover, it should present the added bonus of extra possessions as well.
Matt Forte – Chicago Bears
With a makeshift offensive line in front of him and facing two of the best run defenses in the league, Matt Forte hasn’t been able to find a rhythm on the ground so far in 2014. That should change as the reeling Green Bay Packers come to town. Historically he has played very well against them and their defense is currently giving up 156 yards per game on the ground. Never mind his added threat as a pass catcher. Provided the Chicago Bears don’t fall too far behind, Forte is due for a big week.
Justin Hunter – Tennessee Titans
Plagued by quarterback inconsistency, receiver Justin Hunter has found it difficult at times to get going. Clearly he’s ready to take his talents to the next level but he may need help under center. Jake Locker is down with an injury, which means Charlie Whitehurst could get the start. He’s not exactly a franchise passer, but he’s a veteran who can have a big game in the right circumstances. Facing the 28th ranked Colts pass defense sounds like the kind of thing that could bring on such an event.
Khalil Mack – Oakland Raiders
He hasn’t played bad over the first three games of the year but Khalil Mack is still trying to get his first NFL impact play, and the Oakland Raiders would prefer it be a sack. That is a big reason they drafted him. The 5th overall pick should have plenty of opportunities against the Miami Dolphins who are still struggling to protect Ryan Tannehill. Collectively he has been sacked nine times. Mack would very much like to add to that total and should if he can get any sort of help from a hapless secondary.