If Steve Hauschka had made his game-winning field goal attempt last Sunday against Minnesota, the NFL world would be buzzing about the emergence of the next big NFL star, Ray Rice.

He has truly established himself as one of the most dangerous all-purpose backs. While a star at Rutgers, Rice was mostly recognized for his rushing prowess, carrying the ball 380 times for 2,012 yards in his senior season (2007).

That same year he only had 25 receptions for 239 yards. However, through the first six weeks this season, Rice has already surpassed his senior year receiving statistics with 33 receptions for 325 yards. If you throw in his 73 carries for 441 yards, you get the NFL's leader in total yards from scrimmage.

If it wasn't for Willis McGahee's goal-line touches in the first three games of the season, Rice would be mentioned as an MVP candidate. Rice's individual performance in the second half of last Sunday's Vikings game was truly remarkable. When the Ravens needed someone to step-up and make a play, Rice was up to the challenge.

If Rice continues at this pace, and begins to get more goal-line touches, don't be surprised is Rice is a top-five pick in most fantasy leagues next year. Not bad for a second-year running back out of Rutgers. --- RALPH TOTOONCHIE.