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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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Dec 28, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Oakland Raiders outside linebacker Khalil Mack (52) leaves the field against the Denver Broncos in the third quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Raiders 47-14. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 28, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Oakland Raiders outside linebacker Khalil Mack (52) leaves the field against the Denver Broncos in the third quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Raiders 47-14. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /

Oakland Raiders at New Orleans Saints

This has a chance to be the most exciting game of opening week. In it are featured two high-powered offenses. The Saints led by old gun Drew Brees try to show young gun Derek Carr and his Raiders how real showtime football is done. Being in the Superdome is of course an important advantage but with so much talent and speed on both sides, it’s hard to imagine the defenses being able to keep up.

Notable Injuries:

Terron Armstead (NO) – The starting left tackle for the Saints has been dogged by an unknown injury since the start of training camp. Information on it hasn’t been forthcoming but Armstead insists he will be ready for the opener. Whether the problem resurfaces again during the game is unknown but this is a player New Orleans can’t afford to lose.

Key Matchup:

Zach Strief vs. Khalil Mack

The veteran right tackle has maintained a steadiness for the Saints the past couple season but he’s about to get tested in the biggest way. Oakland is convinced they have one of the top pass rushers in football now with Khalil Mack, who had 15 sacks in 2015. His confidence is sky high and that fast indoor track is tailor made for his talents assuming the Saints plan to throw a lot. That puts a ton of pressure on Strief, who struggled at times in preseason.

Prediction:  Saints win 30-27

Next: SD @ KC

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