Nelson, Sproles shine in NFL season opener

KState alums Jordy Nelson and Darren Sproles each played significant roles for their respective teams in Thursday night’s Packers-Saints shootout in Green Bay. Sproles was targeted out of the backfield nine times, catching seven balls for 75 yards. His biggest contribution, however, came in the second quarter when he returned a Tim Masthay punt 72 yards for a touchdown. Nelson caught six passes for 77 yards including a three-yard TD midway through the first quarter. Both former ‘Cats look to be major cogs in high-powered offenses this season. Sproles had two rushing attempts to go along with the aforementioned nine targets, while Nelson was targeted eight times- tied with Greg Jennings for most looks among Packer pass-catchers. Green Bay’s goalline stuff of Saints rookie Mark Ingram on the game’s final play secured a 42-34 victory for the Pack.