An NFC North rivalry boasts the game of the week as Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers face off against Jay Cutler and the Chicago Bears. While several other games on the week one slate are enticing match-ups, one in particular could use some creative personnel decisions to spice it up.
Early Games (1PM ET)
Dolphins at Falcons
My faith in the Falcons is as strong as my faith in Brad Lidge. Dolphins.
Broncos at Bengals
“Hard Knocks” made me a believer of the Bengals and Marvin Lewis. “Kiss-da-bab’y,” Broncos. Bengals.
Vikings at Browns
Brett Favre’s numbers: 215YDS, 1TD, 2INT. That’s enough to win, for now. Side note: I’m secretly hoping Eric Mangini pulls Bernie Kosar out of retirement to be his “top secret” QB in week one. Vikings.
Jaguars at Colts
After the Titan’s performance on Thursday, I wish I could have my AFC South predictions back. Nervous about this pick. Colts.
Lions at Saints
Drew Brees’ arm is good enough to win without banged-up running backs. High hopes for that young Lions offense though. Saints.
Cowboys at Buccaneers
Snoozefest. Who’s the Buccaneers QB again? Cowboys.
Eagles at Panthers
Philly’s D hasn’t clicked yet. Facing the league’s best RB tandem is not going to help. Here’s hoping Donovan McNabb can keep pace. Eagles.
Chiefs at Baltimore
Will Matt Cassel play? Brodie Croyle hopes so. He’s having nightmares about Terrell Suggs. Ravens.
Jets at Texans
Very confused as to why Jim Nantz and Phil Simms are calling this game instead of Jac/Indy. Are they aware Favre moved to Minnesota? Texans.
Game I’ll Watch: Eagles at Panthers
Game I’ll DVR: Jaguars at Colts
Afternoon Games (4:15PM ET)
Redskins at Giants
Any NFC East game is worth the price of admission. However, Giants games are more entertaining when Tom Coughlin’s cheeks are battling frostbite. Giants.
49ers at Cardinals
I’m excited to check out Patrick Willis and that defense, and to see if the Madden Curse brings down Larry Fitzgerald this week or waits a little longer. 49ers.
Rams at Seahawks
Are any division games more ignored than when two NFC West opponents square off? It’s justifiable, but fascinating nonetheless. Seahawks.
Game I’ll Watch: Duh, Redskins at Giants
Game I’ll DVR: “Bring it On” (On Starz)
Sunday Night (8PM ET)
Bears at Packers
Perhaps the most anticipated game of the week. I thoroughly enjoyed that street fight between the Titans and Steelers on Thursday, but it would be nice to see some fireworks. Packers.
Monday Night
7PM ET: Bills at Patriots
Everyone is eager to see the Golden Boy back on the field, I know I am. I only hope the Bills can keep it interesting because the (late) night cap could get ugly. Patriots.
10:15PM ET: Charges at Raiders
Yes, this will get ugly, both in the booth and on the field. Raiders’ only chance is to hire Tila Tequila as a cheerleader and put her behind San Diego’s bench. With Al Davis as the owner, this isn’t impossible. Chargers.
If I were Charles Barkley…
Each week I will make four picks (maybe more) and one over/under (because they’re too much fun not to have at least one). Current Record: 0 – 0 – 0
Picks
New York Jets at Houston Texans (-5)
Dallas Cowboys (-6) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Washington Redskins (+6.5) at New York Giants
Chicago Bears at Green Bay Packers (-4)
Over/Under
Denver Broncos at Cincinnati Bengals Over 42.5
(Lines as of 3:48PM ET, from bodog)