Alabama Football: Tide Players In The NFL

September 09, 2012; Kansas City, MO, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) is tackled by Kansas City Chiefs defensive back Travis Daniels (34) in the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. The Falcons won 40-24. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-US PRESSWIRE

Julio Jones – the NFL’s next great wide receiver – is ready for prime time

"Jones warrants inflated expectations. He began turning heads in 2006 as a high school junior, and drew interest from the kinds of schools you see at the top of the BCS standings. He finally committed to Alabama, and made an immediate impact. Just months after leaving Foley (Ala.) High School, he was starting for the Crimson Tide. He’d go on to win SEC Freshman of the Year for his 58-reception, 924-yard debut season. The next year, he’d play an integral role in Alabama’s national championship."

Trent Richardson has his first huge day in the NFL

"Cleveland’s rookie had his breakout against Cincinnati. He scored his first career touchdown on a 32-yard run in the second quarter and had his first 100-yard rushing game – and neither of those accomplishments was his most impressive highlight of the day."

Marcell Dareus Provides Emotional Spark for Buffalo Bills in Win over Chiefs

"As the crowd erupted, Dareus’ celebration of the sack with his teammates was an emotional one. Players surrounded him, and the fans cheered the play in a tone and volume different than any other normal action on the field."

Seahawks G James Carpenter slowing working way back after severe knee injury

"Carpenter still isn’t close to taking the field for the Seahawks just yet. He’s been limited in practice this week while getting his first football-related work in nearly 10 months. While his teammates are getting ready to begin the season against division rival Arizona on Sunday, Carpenter is essentially just beginning his training camp."

Ex-teammates Kirkpatrick, Richardson hoping Tide turns

"“It’s just pretty much making sure this doesn’t get to us mentally,” said Kirkpatrick on what they discuss now. “It’s just staying focused and just knowing what we have at task and what our goals are.”"

Courtney Upshaw said he’s ready to start if needed

"“I’m always ready and waiting on my turn. If it’s my turn this coming game, I’ve got to prove that once I get that starting position by going out and making plays.”"

Pierre Thomas Trumps Mark Ingram In Fantasy

"To be fair, Thomas did break off a big 48-yard run in this game to skew the stats a little bit. Ingram saw more carries and he should be able to hold some form of fantasy value as long as he can keep that kind of clip."

Ryans’ experience will serve him well this week

"“When I was watching Monday night, that’s what it reminded me of,” Ryans said. “They were trying to run that Peyton Manning-type of Indy style. It was not as fast tempo as Peyton does it, but you could tell that’s the kind of mentality they’re trying to get to.”"