NFL Week 1: Games to watch

By Dan Rodgers

Folks, that time of the year has finally arrived, NFL football is back!

Listed below are my three games to watch during the day. I'll also update how my fantasy teams are doing later on today.

Game 1

Bengals at Pats - This game is very intriguing to me and not just because I'm a Jets fan. This will be a big game for New England to prove that they haven't gone anywhere and are still the team to beat in the ACFE. The Bengals had a very good year last season with a powerful running game and a good defense. Carson Palmer is always dangerous and look for him to test his new toy (T.O.), but don't expect Cinci to stray too far from their running game. As for the Pats, a lot of people are writing them off and saying their defense isn't at all good. If the Pats can shut down the Bengals offense, it won't be a good sign for the rest of the AFC.

My Prediction: Bengals (+5) 24 Cheatriots 20

Game 2

Colts at Texans - This game five years ago would be a blowout. However, in recent seasons Houston has been slowly but surely improving. Last season was their first over the .500 mark, and I couldn't be happier for them. Peyton Manning looks to improve his record against the Texans to 16-1, and Houston looks to shock the football world by beating Manning. This could be the most important game in Texans history. They will be without Brian Cushing, due to suspension, and look for Manning to go after rookie CB Kareem Jackson. Schaub should have a good game, and look for surprisingly good numbers from Texan RB Arian Foster.

My Prediction: Texans (+2) 30 Colts 28

^Going for the upset pick here, more likely to happen is - Colts (-2) 30 Texans 24
Game 3

Packers at Eagles - A member of the Rodgers clan goes to work today. Aaron Rodgers should have a good day against what seems to be a weak Philly secondary. Look for Rodgers to eclipse the 300-yard mark with ease, and in doing so, Ryan Grant should have a good game. I'm very interested to see what Kolb can do in his first start. The Packers secondary got lit up to end their post-season run last year. Kolb will likely try to do the same considering his coach is Andy "I never run the ball" Reid. I don't see any reason why the Packers don't take this one handily.

My Prediction: Packers (-3) 34 Eagles 23


Should be a great first week since we have some intriguing matchups. Check back later for an update, fantasy update and SNF preview.

Rodgers That