There is an old football coaching adage that holds that in the early part of a season, defenses are typically ahead of offensive units, in terms of cohesiveness, execution, etc. Not so in 2011. Whether due to the league’s modern four-game pre-season schedule, a lack of sound pass defense league-wide, or a solid group of Quarterbacks in today’s game, offensive football was the NFL’s Week 1 signature. Of the 32 starting Quarterback’s in this past weekend’s games, 14 of them threw for over 300 yards. Some notable performances:

Cam Newton - Carolina

Newton quieted some critics, as he made big throws and kept his team in the game on a day when the Panthers had no rushing attack to speak of. It’s clear the load Newton will be asked to carry will be enormous in 2011.

Kevin Kolb - Arizona

Although Kolb’s numbers do not grab attention in a week full of so many statistically impressive performances, the Cardinals QB provided stability to a team still searching for the post-Kurt Warner leader. Over 300 yards on less than 30 attempts is great efficiency, and Kolb found WRs on crossing routes for several key gains.

Tom Brady - New England

Decision-making and accuracy are keys to NFL QB success, and Brady gave a clinic in both Monday night. The prolific yardage grabs the headlines, but the timing and placement of many of Brady’s passes were the underlying reason for his – and the Patriots’ – success.

Chad Henne - Miami

There was a stretch of time in which Henne did not appear to be the Dolphins’ long-term answer at QB. Monday night he demonstrated an ability to make good decisions, stay in the pocket and deliver under pressure, and to accurately deliver the ball when flushed. Upstaged by an all-time great performance by Brady, but this game was a career milestone for Henne.

Matt Stafford - Detroit

Lost in Detroit’s poor performances the last couple of seasons has been the slow maturation of Matthew Stafford. Sunday’s win on the road vs. the Bucs was a big accomplishment for Stafford, and he did it with maximum efficiency.