NFL Week 1 schedule: 5 best games to watch this week
We’ve reached football season, and with it a jam-packed NFL Week 1 schedule with a handful of terrific games to watch.
5. Seattle Seahawks at Indianapolis Colts
What are the Colts? Are they going to be better than the team which made the playoffs as an 11-5 unit last year, or a disappointment largely because Carson Wentz isn’t as good as Philip Rivers? Tough to say, but we’ll get a good look against the Seahawks. Seattle is a Super Bowl contender, led by quarterback Russell Wilson and receivers Tyler Lockett and D.K. Metcalf. Whoever wins get a quality victory.
4. Pittsburgh Steelers at Buffalo Bills
The Steelers have been somewhat forgotten this offseason. Ben Roethlisberger could be entering his last season, the offensive line got a makeover and the running game was given a jolt with first-round Najee Harris joining the squad. Is that enough to make Pittsburgh a playoff team once more? The Steelers open at Buffalo, with a Bills team that basically is running it back. Buffalo is expected to be a top-end title threat, and this is a nice test.
3. Dallas Cowboys at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The opening game of the season on Thursday night. Tom Brady and Co. set sail in pursuit of a second-straight title against the Cowboys, who come in without guard Zack Martin due to COVID protocols. Additionally, Dak Prescott is playing his first game since shattering his ankle in Week 5. What does Dallas’ offense look like to start the year, and how does a young defense deal with Brady and his weaponry?
2. Green Bay Packers at New Orleans Saints (in Jacksonville)
This has the potential to be fantastic. It’s the first time we have seen Aaron Rodgers suit up since the acrimony which dominated the summer. Rodgers has a weakened offensive line in front of him with left tackle David Bakhtiari still recovering from a torn ACL, while All-Pro center Corey Linsley left in free agency. How does the group hold up against a fierce Saints pass rush? Also, for New Orleans, what is Jameis Winston? The same guy, or something much better?
1. Cleveland Browns at Kansas City Chiefs
This has to be the best game. Cleveland lost to Kansas City in the AFC Divisionals last year, 22-17. Baker Mayfield comes into this tilt with Odell Beckham Jr. on the outside and a host of weapons around him. Meanwhile, the Chiefs rebuilt their offensive line and are aiming for a third consecutive Super Bowl appearance, and two titles in three years. Winning this one would be a nice start for both clubs.