In week three, two early unbeatens face off at the Metrodome while numerous 0-2 teams try to avoid the near-insurmountable playoff climb out of the 0-3 hole. Let’s get started with this week’s Opening Drive!
Washington Redskins (1-1) at Detroit Lions (0-2)
I’m rooting for the Lions to avoid the longest regular season losing streak in league history (20 games). Why? So I can see the chaos that will undoubtedly ensue in Washington when the ‘Skins fall. Jim Zorn is already under pressure for his inept offense that barely put away the Rams last week.
San Francisco 49ers (2-0) at Minnesota Vikings (2-0)
One of these two hard-nosed squads will finally lose this week. Unfortunately, Niners QB Shaun Hill can’t put up enough points up to hang with Brett Favre, Adrian Peterson and the Vikings for very long. Mike Singletary’s defense needs to go above and beyond if they’re going to stay undefeated.
Atlanta Falcons (2-0) at New England Patriots (1-1)
Matt Ryan has a chance to prove he’s an elite quarterback this Sunday, and there’s no better way to do it than to out-duel Tom Brady. The Patriots are struggling on defense, but Wes Welker’s return to action should do wonders for Brady and their underneath passing attack.
Tennessee Titans (0-2) at New York Jets (2-0)
If the Titans can’t beat the Jets this weekend, you can cross off a consecutive AFC South division title. With their backs against the wall, I expect Jeff Fisher to have his team ready. Unfortunately, they’re playing a Jets team that could not be riding higher after beating their hated Patriot rivals. That defense won’t let Tennessee run rampant like Houston’s did.
Kansas City Chiefs (0-2) at Philadelphia Eagles (1-1)
Philly will sit Donovan McNabb for a second straight week, and maybe even receiver DeSean Jackson. Michael Vick will make his much bally-hooed regular season debut, but don’t expect fireworks. With their bye week next, the Eagles may try to get two weeks of rest for players for the price of only one game. Against the lowly Chiefs, that might be a good idea. Then again, it is the NFL.
New Orleans Saints (2-0) at Buffalo Bills (1-1)
How long can Buffalo’s defense keep it close? I think Drew Brees and the Saints will have a two touchdown lead by halftime. They’re just that good. T.O. has to be more ready for downfield throws than he was last week, because they’ll need every score they can get.
Indianapolis Colts (2-0) at Arizona Cardinals (1-1)
Can you say “shoot-out?” Peyton Manning versus Kurt Warner, suspect defense against suspect defense. Sunday night should be plenty exciting. Of course, now that I’ve said that, it’ll be a defensive struggle. Indy looks prime to stay unbeaten.
Carolina Panthers (0-2) at Dallas Cowboys (1-1)
I could care less who wins this game. Carolina at 0-3 and Dallas at 1-2 are simply fantastic storylines. Still, with Denver and Kansas City coming up for the Cowboys, they have time to right the ship. They could be 3-2 headed into their week 6 bye. But one can hope!
Be on the lookout for my in-depth Bears Gameday Preview! Thanks for reading!
Keywords: Adrian Peterson, Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Brett Favre, Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, Dallas Cowboys, DeSean Jackson, Detroit Lions, Donovan McNabb, Drew Brees, Indianapolis Colts, Jim Zorn, Joe Anello, Kansas City Chiefs, Kurt Warner, Matt Ryan, Michael Vick, Minnesota Vikings, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, NFL, Peyton Manning, Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers, Shaun Hill, Terrell Owens, Tom Brady, Tony Romo, Washington Redskins, Wes Welker
