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2016 NFL Season: Picking The Week One Winners

By Erik Lambert

Feb 7, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) has his pass knocked down by Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller (58) during the fourth quarter in Super Bowl 50 at Levi
Feb 7, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) has his pass knocked down by Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller (58) during the fourth quarter in Super Bowl 50 at Levi /
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August 26, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) shakes hands with wide receiver Jordy Nelson (87) before the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi
August 26, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) shakes hands with wide receiver Jordy Nelson (87) before the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi /

Green Bay Packers at Jacksonville Jaguars

A case of a perennial contender paying a visit to a up-and-comer. The Green Bay Packers remain one of the best teams in the AFC. They have Aaron Rodgers, an assortment of weapons on offense and a well-coached, creative defense. No doubt the Jacksonville Jaguars are anxious to test their young, talented roster against the best. Blake Bortles finished 2015 with a flourish and receiver Allen Robinson is becoming a star. Can their retooled defense handle an MVP like Rodgers?

Notable Injuries:

Corey Linsley (GB) – A hamstring injury has dogged Packers center Corey Linsley for months. At last the team decided to make the tough decision and put him on the PUP list. They would rather he fully recover and take their chances with J.C. Tretter than have him play hurt. Whether this impacts them against an improved Jaguars defensive front will be seen.

Key Matchup:

Jalen Ramsey vs. Jordy Nelson

This will be the most interesting matchup for a number of reasons. First is the fact that Jordy Nelson will see regular season action for the first time since 2014 after tearing his ACL last year in preseason. He’ll be going against rookie 1st round pick Jalen Ramsey whom many hailed as one of the most talented defensive backs to come out of college in years. Either Nelson will have a few things to teach him or the rookie will take advantage of a rust factor.

Prediction:  Packers win 31-24

Next: MIA @ SEA

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