NFL Schedule Week 1: Previewing The Top Ten Most Intriguing Player Matchups
The 2010 NFL regular season is finally underway, and after months of prolonged wait, it's time to analyze the upcoming games.
In Week 1, there are numerous important contests, and specifically several critical player battles.
Therefore, here are my thoughts previewing the top ten intriguing matchups of the week.
Darrelle Revis Vs. Anquan Boldin
1 of 10
In a much-anticipated Monday Night game featuring two potential Super Bowl contenders, the Baltimore Ravens will travel to New York to take on the Jets.
The most interesting matchup, in my opinion, is cornerback Darrelle Revis vs. Anquan Boldin.
Revis is returning from a 36-day contract holdout, and this is ultimately one of his first few days with the team in seven months.
It'll be interesting to see if he can play at 100 percent and shut down one of the league's top wideouts.
Julius Peppers Vs. Jeff Backus
2 of 10
During the offseason, the Chicago Bears signed defensive end Julius Peppers to a record-breaking deal with the hope that he would be the elite pass rusher that they've lacked for years.
His first test: beat the inconsistent Jeff Backus.
Many have criticized the Detroit Lions for not drafting a left tackle, especially considering they have to face Jared Allen, Clay Matthews, and Peppers each twice a year.
However, the Lions' coaching staff has repeatedly stated their confidence in Backus.
This Sunday, we'll see how right they were.
Chris Johnson Vs. Raiders Front Seven
3 of 10
The NFL's reigning rushing champon vs. a defense that's ranked in the bottom four in rush defense over the past four seasons.
This should be an easy matchup for Chris Johnson. Right?
Well, if history repeats itself as it often does, Johnson is expected to have a down year. Furthermore, some are wondering how the new contract that he signed will affect his play. We should get a glimpse of both of those issues with his Week 1 performance.
On the flip side, the Oakland Raiders have invested a heavy amount in their front seven and we'll find out whether or not it pays off.
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Mario Williams Vs. Peyton Manning
4 of 10
Attempting to stop Peyton Manning and the Colts offense is one of the most difficult tasks in football.
At the same time, don't lose hope. Generating an effective pass rush has demonstrated to be a great method to containing aerial attacks.
That being the case, Pro Bowl defensive end Mario Williams will be responsible for doing so against the Colts.
Troy Polamalu Vs. Falcons Offense
5 of 10
In the NFL today, there are a select few players who have a unique, unparalleled impact on their respective teams and one of them is Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu.
While sidelined with a knee injury, his absence on their defense was clearly felt.
I'm intrigued to see how he bounces back against a prolific Falcons offense.
Terrell Owens Vs. Randy Moss
6 of 10
Matchups including two big-name players such as Manning vs. Brady or CJ vs. AP are always fun to watch. This week, Terrell Owens and Randy Moss, two of the greatest receivers of all time, face off.
Both are motivated to prove to the world that they're still able to play at a high level despite their age, and they'll have an opportunity to do so in this game.
DeMarcus Ware Vs. Trent Williams
7 of 10
As I referenced earlier, getting pressure on the opposing quarterback is an integral key to success and DeMarcus Ware, one of the most dominant players in the league, is the best in the business at his craft.
This week, he will be responsible for getting after Donovan McNabb, and the only player in his way is rookie left tackle Trent Williams.
Williams was drafted with the fourth overall selection in this year's draft with the notion that he'd be able to protect their prized possession's blind side. His first challenge may just be his toughest.
Tim Tebow Vs. Jags Fans
8 of 10
Heading into the draft, Jacksonville Jaguars fans were pleading the organization to draft former Florida star quarterback Tim Tebow. Instead, the Jags questionably reached for Tyson Alualu while Tebow went to the Denver Broncos.
Since then, Tebow has dominated the headlines and many are anticipating his regular season debut.
While it's still uncertain how, or even if, he will be utilized it'll be interesting to see how he's greeted in Jacksonville and how they react to his possible impact.
Sam Bradford Vs. Cardinals Defense
9 of 10
When the St. Louis Rams invested the No. 1 overall pick along with $50 milion guaranteed in quarterback Sam Bradford, he knew there was tremendous pressure to help a franchise that only managed to win six games in the past three years.
After being named the starter, the football world will closely be watching his performance.
His first challenge will be against an Arizona Cardinals defense that also has its own added pressures. With the losses of Karlos Dansby and Antrel Rolle, others will have to step up.
Moreover, they can no longer rely on an explosive offense to compensate for their mediocrity.
So, who will beat the pressure and come out on top?
Saints Offensive Line Vs. Vikings Defensive Line
10 of 10
It's widely considered that games are won in the trenches.
In the rematch of last year's NFC Conference Championship, the winner may be determined by whether the Vikings defensive line can overpower the Saints or vice versa.
Note: I realize the Saints won this game 14-9. In fact here is my article with my observations on their victory.
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