NFL Preseason Week 1: Keys For Saturday Games
By Erik Lambert
Jul 26, 2014; Latrobe, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Martavis Bryant (10) pulls in a pass in drills during training camp at Saint Vincent College. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
The final games of the first week of NFL preseason take place on Saturday. What are some of the hot storylines to watch for?
Cleveland Browns at Detroit Lions
The quarterbacks will be under the microscope for this contest. Of course almost everybody will be watching the battle that unfolds between Brian Hoyer and Johnny Manziel for the Cleveland Browns starting position. At the same time, the Detroit Lions are anxious to get their first look at Matthew Stafford who is now under the tutelage of Jim Caldwell. Other NFL notes: how Golden Tate and Eric Ebron mesh on the field with Calvin Johnson and also how the Browns receiver depth looks without Josh Gordon.
Pittsburgh Steelers at New York Giants
Having already played in the Hall of Fame game, it’s not likely the New York Giants will play their starters very long, if at all. So the primary focus will be on the Pittsburgh Steelers who hope to unveil some new offensive weapons such at the speedy Dri Archer and 6’4″ giant Martavis Bryant. Also of note is how new inside linebacker Ryan Shazier does in his first game action at what is a new position.
Green Bay Packers at Tennessee Titans
Having already lost one of his offensive linemen and wide receivers to season ending injuries, don’t expect to see Aaron Rodgers on the field too long. If anything he will play long enough for the Tennessee Titans to test their new 3-4 defense under coordinator Ray Horton. The Green Bay Packers would love to get rookie receiver Davante Adams some work but it will be how Ken Whisenhunt progresses with quarterback Jake Locker that is the story of this NFL preseason tilt.