In this series, I aim to highlight one specific aspect of each week’s games, and without determining specific guardrails, there will be different approaches each time. These could either be specific players or matchups to watch, key injuries that could determine a game or coaching battles, but there are really endless possibilities. Week 1 marks the debut of newly acquired players in meaningful snaps, inevitably leading to overreactions. Personally, I have my eyes set on the Monday Night matchup between the Bills and the Jets, which will be the first battle test for the Jets with Aaron Rodgers at quarterback. Additionally, there are several other intriguing contests, including Giants vs. Cowboys, Chargers vs. Dolphins, and Browns vs. Bengals. Above all, the most important aspect is that football is finally back!
Chiefs vs. Lions (Thursday Night):
Chris Jones has been pursuing a new deal throughout the offseason, but he and the Chiefs haven’t been able to finalize the terms just yet. While I believe they will eventually come to an agreement, this game could potentially show how bad the Chiefs defensive line needs Jones. The Lions have one of the league’s premiere offensive line units, making it tough to apply pressure on Goff with Jones being off the field. Nevertheless, the Chiefs are still the clear favorite to start the season 1-0.
Giants vs. Cowboys (Sunday Night):
This might sound weird, but I am genuinely looking forward to watching cornerback Tre Hawkins. As a 6th round pick in the 2023 draft, he generated a lot of hype throughout training camp and is slated to step into a starting role right away. Hawkins faces a tough task going up against any of the Cowboys starting receiving trio, which consists of CeeDee Lamb, Brandin Cooks and Michael Gallup. Additionally, this matchup offers an exciting divisional showdown between two playoff-caliber teams in week 1.
Jets vs. Bills (Monday Night):
In this game I am going with the obvious choice, as I am excited to see Aaron Rodgers’ debut in New York. His receiving corps features two very familiar faces in Allen Lazard and Randall Cobb, which is why I believe he could be hitting the ground running. There are reports that he has already developed strong chemistry with Garrett Wilson, leading to me being optimistic that this offense will leave a strong first impression against a Bills’ defense that misses it’s star edge rusher in Von Miller.
Falcons vs. Panthers:
It’s not often that we witness rookie running backs making a game-changing impact in their first year, but Bijan Robinson might be the exception to that. He has the potential to become a top 3 running back in his rookie year. Robinson has landed in a dream scenario, playing in Arthur Smith’s run-heavy offense behind one of the better offensive lines in the league. This run game, as a whole, will be one of the most fun to watch all year long!
Ravens vs. Texans:
The Texans brought in two franchise-altering rookies in C.J. Stroud and Will Anderson, using substantial draft capital. As I said in the intro, Week one tends to lead to overreactions based on individual performances. Nevertheless, it’s still intriguing to get a first idea of the NFL readiness of these players in their debut. The Ravens aren’t an easy opponent, so this game will be a throw into the cold water for the young players.
Browns vs. Bengals:
This game marks the debut of the vastly improved Browns’ defensive line under new coordinator Jim Schwartz. Myles Garrett, Za’Darius Smith and Ogbo Okoronkwo form the best edge rushing trio in the NFL. Additionally, the interior group underwent some major upgrades itself. While the Bengals’ offensive line had its fair share of struggles over the last few seasons, the addition of Orlando Brown promises to elevate the protection for Joe Burrow. However, the absence of La’el Collins for at least four weeks could hurt the Bengals, as his replacement will likely be a significant weak link. This divisional matchup features two teams with high playoff aspirations, which should add a little intensity.
Colts vs. Jaguars:
Despite not playing in the 2022 season, Calvin Ridley looks every bit ready for this year. The Jags’ passing game looked very promising already, with Lawrence making strides and Kirk and Engram filling out significant roles. However, adding Ridley to the mix has the potential to elevate this offense to a whole new level. Considering that the Colts’ defensive backs are mostly young and unproven, Lawrence and the Jags could be getting this thing rolling pretty quickly. On a different note, I’m looking forward to Anthony Richardson’s regular-season debut. He might just be the most physically gifted quarterback the NFL has seen in recent memory.
Vikings vs. Buccaneers:
This might be the last chance for Baker Mayfield to revive his career in the NFL. The Bucs’ offense has some pieces in place for Mayfield to succeed with one of the leagues’ premiere young tackles in Wirfs and two highly skilled receivers in Evans and Godwin. When taking a look at Baker’s NFL career, you notice that he played his best football when the odds were stacked against him, which appears to be the case again this year. Facing a Vikings team with some question marks in the secondary may provide Mayfield the chance to regain some much-needed confidence to start the season.
Saints vs. Titans:
The new Saints quarterback, Derek Carr, is known for his struggles when facing pressure from opposing defensive lines. The Titans did a nice job of retaining and bringing in talent at the defensive line, which has been plagued by injuries in recent seasons. When this unit is at full strength, it ranks among the NFL’s best defensive lines and is poised to make life hell for Derek Carr and the Saints. Keep an eye on the Titans; they might surprise some people this year.
Steelers vs. 49ers:
Although Nick Bosa might not play in this game due to contract disputes, there is still an insane amount of talent on both teams’ defensive lines. The 49ers brought in the most sought-after defensive tackle of free agency in Javon Hargrave. Meanwhile, the Steelers drafted Keanu Benton, an intriguing young nose tackle, and inked Alex Highsmith to a substantial contract extension. Offensive linemen of both teams, not named Trent Williams, won’t be looking forward to this matchup.
Commanders vs. Cardinals:
While this year’s Cardinals roster might not feature a lot of exciting players, one name stuck out to me – Zaven Collins. Collins, who primarily played as an off-ball linebacker for Arizona, struggled in his first two season as an oversized player for the position. Jonathan Gannon had a lot of success with Haason Reddick, who followed a similar career trajectory, transitioning from an off-ball linebacker and blitzer to a full-time edge defender. Maybe a change of position is exactly what Collins and the Cardinals need to take something positive away from this season.
Bears vs. Packers:
The Bears have done a lot to make sure to provide Justin Fields with the best group of pass-catchers possible. In this matchup, I’m eager to see what strides Fields made in the offseason and how well he was able to build chemistry with DJ Moore already. While Fields is unquestionably a dynamic runner, he still needs to prove his ability to read defenses and consistently deliver accurate balls for the complete quarterback skillset. Despite the hype surrounding Fields, I believe this year is more of a “prove-it” season than people might think.
Broncos vs. Raiders:
While there may be some growing pains in week one, I believe we will gain insight into what went wrong for the Broncos last season. Whether it was just a disastrous performance by a first-year head coach or some of it had to do with regression on Russel Wilson’s side, will become obvious rather quickly. The Broncos done a lot in the offseason to improve Wilson’s protection, and now it’s up to him to prove that he can still cook in one of the league’s toughest divisions.
Chargers vs. Dolphins:
I believe the Chargers made one of the best hires from the offseason, by bringing in Kellen Moore. He has done a remarkable job in Dallas with Dak Prescott and I can’t really think of a reason that led to him being let go by the Cowboys. The Chargers present a dream scenario for any offensive coordinator, not only because of Herbert but also thanks to a fantastic group of weapons and some highly promising pieces on the offensive line. This Fangio-led Miami defense will serve as an excellent first test for the new Chargers playcaller.
Patriots vs. Eagles:
This matchup will once again feature a fierce battle in the trenches between the Eagles’ offensive line and Patriots’ defensive front. Currently, the Eagles unit might very well be the best in the league, while the Patriots are fielding one of their most talented units in years. I’m eager to see how Belichick will utilize his players, as he has a knack for deploying the right personnel at the right time. If you are a fan of line-play on any side of the ball, this is must-see TV for you.
Seahawks vs. Rams:
After trading away Jalen Ramsey, the Rams’ secondary doesn’t have a lot of bright spots left, facing what could be considered a rebuilding year. Their hopes rest on a lot of young players, many of whom were low draft picks or undrafted free agents, stepping into significant roles, especially at the cornerback position. These players will have their hands full, trying to contain one of the leagues most dangerous receiving trio, consisting of Metcalf, Lockett, and first-round rookie Smith-Njigba.
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