Who's Hot Who's Not

WHO'S Hot

London Fletcher
The Washington linebacker's interception, TD return and game-high 13 tackles against Arizona is just the latest. Last year the Redskins were 31st in defense. Now, after landing Fletcher as their leader, they're at No. 4. Defensive end Phillip Daniels: "That's our difference maker."

Trent Edwards
The 92nd pick of this year's draft, a QB who went 0--7 at Stanford last season, Edwards is now officially the Buffalo Bills' starter; he beat the ornery Ravens on Sunday. So what's he got? "Poise and pocket presence," says QBs coach Turk Schonert.

Surging Nalbandian
He can seem cavalier—"Tennis is a profession, not an obsession," he said last year—but David Nalbandian can play. He picked off second-ranked Rafael Nadal and third-ranked Novak Djokovic before beating No. 1 himself, Roger Federer, to win the Madrid Masters.

Ray Emery
He's back on board! Senators goalie (he splits the job with Martin Gerber) led Ottawa to a 4--1 win in his first game since June's finals (wrist surgery). The Sens are 8--1.

WHO'S Not

Daunte Culpepper
That glorious Raiders debut (two passing TDs, three rushing versus Miami) feels long ago. Since then Culpepper has gone 0--2, been sacked seven times and thrown three picks—one that sealed Sunday's loss to K.C. "I wish I could have it back," said Culpepper, who may be headed to the bench.

Up-front Texans
Despite a defensive line with three first-round draft picks, Houston's got a problem getting to the QB—just 12 sacks on the year. "We got who we got," said pass rusher N.D. Kalu (right) after a 38--36 loss to Tennessee. "We need to look in the mirror."

Former Saints
Kicker Morten Andersen (13 years a Saint) and receiver Joe Horn (seven) were in New Orleans on Sunday—as Falcons. First came boos, then a loss. "Brutal," said Andersen to the Times-Picayune, describing the fans. Said Horn, "In their heart they still love me."

Chris Smelley
This stinks! South Carolina quarterback (he splits the job with Blake Mitchell) threw two interceptions in an upset loss to Vanderbilt. The Gamecocks (6--2) fell to No. 15.