NFL Preseason Games: Must-See Week 2 Exhibition Matchups

The NFL preseason definitely lacks the buzz and excitement of the regular season, but that doesn't mean there aren't any must-see matchups before the calendar flips to September.

With the defending Super Bowl champions, the No. 2 overall pick in last spring's draft and the always-explosive Michael Vick all in action during Week 2, the preseason is proving worthy of our attention.

Without further ado, here are the can't-miss exhibition matchups in Week 2 of the 2012 NFL preseason. 

Saturday, August 18: New York Jets vs. New York Giants

The two Big Apple rivals will face off Saturday night in a rematch of last season's clash at MetLife Stadium. The Giants rolled through the Jets in Week 16, winning 29-14 to keep their playoff hopes alive and dash the Jets' postseason dreams.

Although that Christmas Eve 2011 matchup is long gone, the bitter memories of the defeat have no doubt stuck with many of the Jets' players, who will not treat Saturday night's game anything like a preseason tuneup.

Of course fans won't want to miss Tim Tebow, as he'll be promised several snaps under center.

Adding to the can't-miss drama is the fact that the Giants would love nothing more than to add to their rival's disappointment by sending them to a five-game losing streak, one that dates back to Week 15 of last season.

Saturday, August 18: Washington Redskins vs. Chicago Bears

Robert Griffin III taking on one of the NFL's best defensive units? Sign me up.

RGIII had a phenomenal start to his NFL career in Week 1 of the preseason against the Buffalo Bills. Fans will be watching in anticipation when he takes to the field in his encore performance on Saturday night at Soldier Field.

Meanwhile, Jay Cutler and the Chicago Bears have playoff potential this season, but will need to step their game up in order to survive a challenging NFC North division that boats the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions. 

Chicago's defense gave up 31 points in their season open against the Denver Broncos, and must tighten things up in Week 2 in preparation for a challenging 2012 regular season schedule.

Fans would be crazy to miss Cutler and wide receiver Brandon Marshall hooking up in the preseason as well. After all, that connection will undoubtedly be one of the more lethal ones this coming season. Marshall amassed more than 2,500 yards receiving and 13 touchdowns playing with Cutler in Denver in 2007 and 2008.

Monday, August 20: Philadelphia Eagles vs. New England Patriots

With the "Dream Team" drama of 2011 behind them, the 2012 Philadelphia Eagles, led by versatile quarterback Michael Vick, will continue their journey back to the playoffs against the reigning AFC champions on Monday Night Football. 

Although it is only a preseason edition of MNF, the first quarter promises to entertain with two Pro Bowl passers facing off in New England. Tom Brady will be sharp as always, and even more motivated to lead his Pats back to the promised land.

The Eagles and Patriots may not produce the drama they would if it were the regular season, but they will provide fans with the closest thing to a Super Bowl preview.

This matchup has star power, powerhouse franchises and the makings of a fine football game. I'd say that qualifies it as one of Week 2's must-see exhibition matchups.

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