The Bum's NFL Week # 2 Best Bets !

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NFL Spread Sheet: Over bettors win big in Week 1

The over went 12-3-1 as Week 1 surprisingly turned into a scoring bonanza.

The shortened offseason? Didn’t hurt offenses, as many had predicted.

Kicking off from the 35? That did lead to more touchbacks, 49 percent through Sunday’s games. But three were returned for touchdowns, tying a Week 1 record.

“The defenses and special teams just looked like a mess,” Las Vegas Hilton SuperBook manager Jay Kornegay told ***********. “This time of year, with a limited number of reps, usually defenses have the advantage. It certainly surprised us to see that kind of success on kickoffs and offense.”

Randall Cobb, Percy Harvin and Ted Ginn Jr. scored on returns of 108, 103 and 102 yards respectively. Today’s return men “are lightning bolts back there,” Kornegay said. “Even though they’re five yards deep, they’re taking it out.”

Ginn, Darren Sproles, Eric Decker and Patrick Peterson returned punts for touchdowns, too. And the Jets returned a blocked punt for a score. Nothing inflates scores faster than special teams touchdowns.

And how about those passing games? Everyone knows the NFL becomes more heavily a passing league each year, but this was ridiculous. Fourteen quarterbacks threw for at least 300 yards in Week 1; the last three opening weekends produced just 11 300-yard games.

And there were three 400-yard performances, two coming in New England’s 38-24 win in Miami. Thus we have a list of passing leaders no one could have projected: Tom Brady (517), Cam Newton (422), Drew Brees (419) and Chad Henne (416).

LIONS TRAIN KEEPS ROLLING

Do you realize Detroit has covered 10 straight, including preseason? The Lions are 9-1 SU in those games after Sunday’s convincing 27-20 win in Tampa Bay. It wasn’t just that Matthew Stafford was healthy and Calvin Johnson proved uncoverable, as usual. Detroit outrushed the Bucs 126 to 56.

Now the Lions host reeling Kansas City, which lost Pro Bowl safety Eric Berry for the year in an embarrassing 41-7 home loss to Buffalo.

The Lions went 7-1 ATS at Ford Field last season. The three times they were favored at home, the Lions covered by an average of 16 points.

Even with Detroit laying 8.5 against a division winner from a year ago, look for the public to be all over the Lions again.

TRENDS THAT DON'T END

With Green Bay’s 42-34 escape against New Orleans, Super Bowl champs improved to 8-1-2 ATS in subsequent openers.

Pittsburgh’s 35-7 loss in Baltimore dropped Super Bowl losers to 0-12 ATS in their following openers. The Steelers are still laying two touchdowns this week against Seattle.

After each of their four losses last year, the Steelers bounced back to cover, and did so by an average of 9.5 points.

MIXED bag for new coaches

The NFL has eight new head coaches, but only five are true rookies. Denver’s John Fox was a longtime boss in Carolina, and Dallas’ Jason Garrett and Minnesota’s Leslie Frazier served as interim head coaches last year.

The five real newcomers – Cleveland’s Pat Shurmur, Carolina’s Ron Rivera, Oakland’s Hue Jackson, Tennessee’s Mike Munchak and San Francisco’s Jim Harbaugh -- went 2-3 SU and ATS in Week 1.

If you include the other three, new coaches went 2-6 SU and 4-4 ATS.

Most improved D?

We don’t want to make too much of one game, especially one against the Manning-less Colts, but Houston’s defense could be the most improved. New coordinator Wade Phillips moved Mario Williams to OLB in the 3-4, and Williams responded with two sacks and three QB hurries.

Williams also forced Kerry Collins into an intentional grounding call. ILB Brian Cushing added a team-high seven tackles.

The 34-7 Texans win stayed under the total of 44 – a rarity amid the Week 1 scoring barrage.

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Top 5 NFL Trends

PHI ATL Over is 7-0-2 in ATL last 9 games following a SU loss of more than 14 points.

DAL SF Over is 8-0 in DAL last 8 games after allowing more than 250 yards passing in their previous game.

JAC NYJ Over is 7-0 in JAC last 7 games after allowing less than 90 yards rushing in their previous game.

KC DET DET are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 games following a S.U. win.

SD NE Over is 7-0 in NE last 7 games after allowing more than 350 total yards in their previous game.

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New York Jets A Stiff Test For Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jaguars have covered the spread the last six meetings with the Jets.
This Sunday in Week 2 action of the National Football League, the Jacksonville Jaguars will travel to MetLife Stadium to battle the New York Jets. It will be on the early game slate with a start time of 1:00 p.m. (ET).

The Jets are a big 9-point favorite currently on the Don Best odds screen, with the total set at 39½.

Life is OK in Jacksonville, for now. Following the release of quarterback David Garrard, Luke McCown looked solid in his first start with the Jaguars. The team picked up a division win against the Tennessee Titans in a game that should not have been as close as it was, shown by Tennessee’s 80-yard fluke touchdown.

Now the Jags face a much tougher test, and on the road at that.

The Jets are a team that has been to the AFC Championship for two years in a row, a game the Jaguars have not experienced since 1999. New York is also coming off of a more impressive victory, scoring 17 points in the fourth quarter to come from behind and beat the Dallas Cowboys in prime time last Sunday, 27-24.

When mentioning the Jets, the first thing that must come to mind is Rex Ryan and their defense. They may surrender some yards, as the Cowboys threw for 326 in the air, but the name of their game is pressure. Not to mention that they have the best cornerback in the league, Darrelle Revis, who came up with what turned out to be a game-winning interception in the final minute last week.

The best bet for the Jaguars to lessen that pressure is their best bet every week, running the ball. That does not only include Maurice Jones-Drew, either.

Backup RB Deji Karim, who took over that spot when Rashad Jennings was placed on IR, is a little known player with a lot of burst. He got a lot of action in Week 1 and may see the same this week as head coach Jack Del Rio has a “pitch count” for MoJo to keep things easy on his knee.

That is much to Jones-Drew’s dismay, but in a good way. He is a fierce competitor.

Speaking of which, the much criticized Mark Sanchez helped New York get another victory even while they could not run the ball. LaDainian Tomlinson looks great, however, as the coaching staff did a great job of keeping him fresh and utilizing him in the passing game.

Free agents look good so far for each team. Wide receiver Plaxico Burress caught a touchdown in the fourth quarter last week and is a height mismatch for any defensive back.

For the Jags, defensive end Matt Roth recorded a sack on the first play of the game. DBs Drew Coleman and Dwight Lowery came up big with a sack and interception, respectively. Keep in mind, those are two players who were New York Jets just recently. Del Rio will certainly pick their brains on anything he can get on facing Sanchez and New York’s ‘D.’

The Jags are a little banged up heading into Week 2. Pro Bowl tight end Marcedes Lewis, cornerback Derek Cox and defensive end Aaron Kampman are either questionable or doubtful for Sunday and did not practice Wednesday.

New York appears fairly healthy but Sanchez did undergo a concussion test after Sunday’s game which he did pass.

Last time these squads matched up, the Jags won on the road 24-22 in 2009. They won on a field goal following Jones-Drew kneeling at the 1-yard line, giving up a touchdown but allowing the winning kick to go off as time expired.

Jacksonville is 6-0 against the spread in their last six meetings with the Jets but 0-4 ATS in recent Week 2 games.

While emotions will not be as high a week removed from September 11th, Del Rio and Ryan are old friends and were members of the Baltimore Ravens’ staff together. Expect their teams to give everything they’ve got.

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Seattle Seahawks Big Dogs At Pittsburgh Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers (0-1) are likely to earn the distinction of being the highest priced favorite in the early going of the 2011 NFL regular season when hosting the Seattle Seahawks (0-1) Sunday.

Kickoff from Heinz Field is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. (ET) and will be televised on FOX.

The betting odds definitely look much different heading into Week 2 than the previous round, as three teams were released as double-digit favorites. Pittsburgh received top billing in being tabbed a 13 ½-point favorite. The Steelers have actually moved up a half-point or more in early wagering, while the total has risen from 38 to 40 ½.

Casual fans certainly expect the defending AFC champions to bounce back after a humiliating 35-7 loss to the Baltimore Ravens as 1-point road underdogs. The team was outgained by 73 yards and will begin the second week of the season with a minus-7 turnover differential.

It was surprising in many aspects, as the vaunted Steel Curtain defense allowed 170 rushing yards in the opener, which is exponentially higher than the 62.8 yards per game it surrendered in 2010.

Pittsburgh’s defense will remain confident due to blanking Seattle in the last regular-season meeting on Oct. 7, 2007, allowing just 144 yards of total offense in a 21-0 win as 5½-point home favorites.

Offensively, the Steelers have been forced to make a move on the offensive line, as starting right tackle Willie Colon tore his right triceps. It’s a devastating blow to a unit that showed little against Baltimore. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was under considerable pressure against the Ravens all afternoon, throwing three interceptions and losing two fumbles while being sacked.

He will not see that type of chaos in facing a Seahawks’ defense that failed to register a sack against the 49ers. Bettors will find that the Steelers are 11-4 ATS after suffering a straight-up loss of more than 14 points, while the ‘over’ is 8-3 in games following a setback.

Seattle continues to struggle away from CenturyLink Field and will enter a hostile environment with a 6-21 ATS mark as a road underdog. The Seahawks dropped a 33-17 contest to the San Francisco 49ers as 6-point road underdogs in Week 1, as a two-point game quickly changed due to allowing two special teams touchdowns in the fourth quarter.

Tarvaris Jackson completed 21-of-37 passes for two touchdowns and an interception for coach Pete Carroll after he won the starting quarterback job over backup Charlie Whitehurst during the preseason.

Seattle doesn’t possess the type of running game that can threaten Pittsburgh’s defense, gaining just 64 yards on 22 carries in San Francisco. Starting running back Marshawn Lynch needs to step up his performance in a big way if the team wants to avoid an 0-2 start to the season. The former Cal Bear hasn’t reached the century mark on the ground in a regular-season game in nearly three years.

The Seahawks have failed to cover in their last four games in Week 2, while the ‘over’ is 9-1 when playing after a SU loss of more than 14 points.

Weather forecasts are calling for partly cloudy skies and a game-time temperature in the upper-60s.

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San Diego Chargers Visit Nemesis Patriots

The Chargers are 18-6-3 in their last 27 games as road underdogs.
The San Diego Chargers meet their recent nemesis on Sunday afternoon when they travel 3,000 miles to meet quarterback Tom Brady and the New England Patriots.

This will be the featured game on CBS at 4:15 p.m. (ET) from Gillette Stadium. New England is a 7-point favorite on the Don Best odds screen after opening at 6 ½-points. Fireworks are expected with a 53 ½-point total, the highest of the week. The ‘over’ went a surprising 12-3-1 in Week 1.

The Chargers (1-0 straightup, 0-1 against the spread) had a gutty opening week win over Minnesota, 24-17 after trailing 17-7 at halftime. That was a game they probably would have lost in prior years, especially in September when they went 6-8 SU from 2007-2010.

San Diego did fail to ‘cover’ as 9-point favorites, making it 2-5 ATS in its last seven September contests.

Quarterback Philip Rivers had two interceptions inside the Minnesota 25-yard line, but excelled otherwise at 33-of-48 passing for 335 yards. The total yards advantage overall was 407-187, making Donovan McNabb (39 passing yards) almost wish he was back in Washington playing for Mike Shanahan.

Rivers is licking his chops thinking about a Patriots’ secondary that just allowed 416 passing yards to the very mediocre Chad Henne of Miami. Rivers hit eight different receivers last week and should get back slot receiver Patrick Crayton (ankle).

The Chargers’ running game struggled with 77 yards on 27 carries (2.9 average). Mike Tolbert injured his knee, but is listed as probable and will continue to split carries with second-year player Ryan Mathews. Tolbert scored all three Chargers TDs, two through the air.

Coach Norv Turner needs to keep the offense balanced and not get into shootout with Brady and company. His team was just 2-7 SU (1-7-1 ATS) last year when Rivers threw 30 or more passes, 7-0 SU and ATS when under that figure.

Turner will have to rely on newly signed kicker Nick Novak, with two-time Pro Bowler Nate Kaeding (knee) injured last week and out for the year. The 30-year-old Novak hasn’t been in the NFL since 2008.

New England (1-0 SU and ATS) has its home opener, but one less day of preparation after a 38-24 win as 7-point favorites at Miami. Brady set an MNF record with 517 passing yards, but the running game with BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Danny Woodhead was also respectable with 106 yards.

The 62 combined points scored went way ‘over’ the 46 ½-point total. The ‘over’ is 17-4 in New England’s last 21 games, scoring 32.4 PPG last year and allowing 19.6.

Brady used a no-huddle offense for large stretches, which wore down the Dolphins in their own warm climate. Expect it to be used a lot this week, with the ball also handed off to the backs from that formation.

Running the ball also could be effective with San Diego defensive end Luis Castillo (tibia) out around 12 weeks. The West Coasters surrendered 159 yards on the ground to Minny, 98 to superstar Adrian Peterson.

New England's defense is looking for improvement with new several new starters still adjusting. The defensive line should come along quickly with Albert Haynesworth, Shaun Ellis and Andre Carter. The secondary could still have problems with safety Josh Barrett a late replacement for the released Brandon Meriweather.

The Patriots were 8-0 SU (4-3-1 ATS) at home in the regular season last year, losing to the Jets there in the playoffs. They’re 13-4 ATS in their last 17 games as a home favorite between 3 ½-10 points.

The Chargers were 3-5 SU and 2-5-1 ATS on the road last year. However, they did finish 3-1 SU and 2-1-1 ATS away. They’re also 18-6-3 in their last 27 games as a road ‘dog.

New England has had recent success against San Diego, going 4-1 SU and 3-2 ATS, including two huge wins in the playoffs (2006 and 2007 seasons).

Brady has won all four battles with Rivers. The one win (30-10) by San Diego in 2008 was when New England’s golden boy was out for the year and replaced by Matt Cassel. The Pats won 23-20 at San Diego last year, with turnovers the big key.

The ‘under’ is 3-0 in the last three meetings with an average total points scored of 38.7.

Weather should be a beautiful fall afternoon in New England, sunny and in the low 60s.

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Improved Redskins Battle Arizona Cardinals

The Redskins are a 4-point favorite for Sunday’s matchup with Arizona.
September could be the launching pad for both the Arizona Cardinals (1-0) and Washington Redskins (1-0). But only one will still be taking reservations for their respective bandwagons after their 1:00 p.m. (ET) clash on Sunday just inside the D.C. Beltway at FedEx Field.

More than a few NFC East aficionados are beginning to pay closer attention to the 'Skins, who opened in impressive fashion last week in their 28-14 win over the Giants. The reasons include:

1) Experience. Eight offensive and seven defensive starters return from last season. Thus, schemes from coordinators Kyle Shanahan (offense) and Jim Haslett (defense) should begin to resonate better.

2) Distractions. Coach Mike Shanahan has rid the roster of divisive elements such as Albert Haynesworth, Clinton Portis and, if sources are to be believed, Donovan McNabb. Insiders suggest the clubhouse is a more serene and focused place this season.

3) Improved defense. While making mention of the second year running Haslett’s 3-4 schemes, it’s also worth noting the potential upgrades along the front seven that could not stop the run a year ago thanks partly to deficiencies at nose tackle, where Haynesworth’s indifference and Ma’ake Kemoeatu’s inabilities both earned them tickets out of town.

All of those elements worked positively in last week’s win over the Giants, especially the defense, which contributed a key TD when Purdue rookie DT Ryan Kerrigan intercepted a tipped Eli Manning pass and rumbled nine yards for the go-ahead score early in the third quarter. The Redskins also didn’t allow the G-Men to score in the second half and kept the New York runners mostly in check, limiting Ahmad Bradshaw and friends to 75 yards on the ground.

The X-factor in Washington remains QB Rex Grossman, but Shanahan’s track record with his signal-callers suggests the former Bear can at least provide serviceable leadership, which he did in the opener in a mistake-free effort in which he tossed for 305 yards, 2 TDs, and no picks.

The addition of versatile ex-Arizona RB Tim Hightower, who should be excited to face his old team this weekend, and emergence of TE Fred Davis (105 receiving yards last week) as consistent contributors are other positive developments.

The Cardinals are feeling pretty good about themselves, too, after their opening 28-21 win over Carolina. Especially new QB Kevin Kolb’s Arizona debut in which he passed for 309 yards and two long TDs of 70 (to Early Doucet) and 48 (to Jeff King) yards.

There are some concerns in the desert, however, about a rebuilt secondary that allowed the Panthers’ Cam Newton to set an NFL rookie record for first starts by passing for 422 yards last Sunday. Trades and injuries have forced LSU rookie CB Patrick Peterson into a lineup that might miss departed Pro Bowl CB Antonio Rodgers-Cromartie (sent to Philly in the Kolb trade) more than expected.

The Big Red stop unit is also adjusting to its third coordinator in four years, former Pittsburgh assistant Ray Horton. A Dick LeBeau disciple, Horton’s Steeler-like zone blitz schemes figure to be a work in progress until further notice.

Interestingly, Washington – priced as a 4-point favorite at most Las Vegas books – was not home chalk the entirety of 2010. Note that Arizona has struggled recently vs. the number on the road, dropping six of its last seven spread decisions away from Glendale last season, and now 2-9 vs. the number as a visitor since late 2009.

With the "total" at a reasonable 44 points, it’s also worth noting that the Cards are "over" 13-5-1 (including the Carolina opener) since the ’09 playoffs.

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NFL Notebook - Week 2

September 14, 2011

Forget the new NFL kickoff rule. Even with kickoffs moved back from the 35 to the 30, the over went 12-3-1 in Week 1.

I don't think it was one of those fluke weeks either.

The combination of lockout and new practice rules negatively impacted tackling more than pass protection.

I can still picture Matt Forte eluding Atlanta linebacker Sean Weatherspoon's missed tackle on his way to a 56-yard touchdown reception.

More overs than unders may not just be an opening week trend either.

The new rules have reduced padded and contact practice sessions. So tackling may not improve.

As for the new kickoff rule, there still were three kickoffs returned for touchdowns. San Francisco's Ted Ginn returned both a kickoff and punt back for a touchdown against Seattle.

Speaking of the Seahawks, their loss to the 49ers was their 17th in their last 21 road games. Of those 21 defeats, 20 have been by double-digits. No surprise that the line on Seattle-Pittsburgh keeps climbing higher and higher.

Carolina is another bad road team. The Panthers have dropped 12 of their past 13 away contests. Their only win during this span came against the Giants late in the 2009 season after New York had quit.

Thoughts on Tony Romo: Nice guy. Excellent quarterback for fantasy football purposes. But a loser in real football.

How bad is Arizona's defense? Cam Newton threw for 422 yards and two touchdowns against the Cardinals in his NFL debut. Newton completed just 42 percent of his throws during preseason. His top passing yardage mark at Auburn was 335 yards. He never passed for 400 yards either when he played for Blinn Junior College.

Tom Brady was the league's unanimous MVP last year. Aaron Rodgers may be the best quarterback. But no player is more valuable to his team than Peyton Manning. If there was any doubt about this it was erased by the performance of Kerry Collins and the Colts against Houston this past Sunday.

The Colts don't have the makeup to be a physical running team. Collins isn't comfortable in their system and is over-the-hill. That's a losing combination. If Manning returns next year, he just may find himself tutoring Andrew Luck.

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Week 2 Preview: Bears at Saints

CHICAGO BEARS (1-0)

at NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (0-1)


Kickoff: Sunday, 1:00 p.m. EDT
Line: New Orleans -6.5, Total: 47

If the Saints are going to rebound from a heartbreaking Week 1 loss, they’ll have to do it shorthanded when they host Chicago on Sunday.

WR Marques Colston (broken collarbone) is out, and slot receiver Lance Moore (groin) is questionable at best. It’s problematic, considering the Bears’ stout run defense and bend-don’t-break secondary. Chicago was 6-2 SU and 5-2-1 ATS on the road last year, and its front four could create further problems for Drew Brees against the Saints’ leaky offensive line. The Bears have won four in a row SU against the Saints (2-0-2 ATS) dating back to 2005 (though three of those games were at Chicago in December/Janaury). Perhaps most importantly for Chicago, QB Jay Cutler is coming off a strong Week 1 performance (22-of-32, 312 yards, 2 TD) in a 30-12 drubbing of Atlanta. The FoxSheets have a three-star trend working against the Saints as well, making CHICAGO the pick:

Play Against - Home teams (NEW ORLEANS) - off a road loss, in the first month of the season, after closing out last season with 2 or more straight losses. (97-48 since 1983, 66.9%, +44.2 units. Rating = 3*).

The Bears defense only surrendered a dozen points and forced three turnovers in Week 1, but they did allow Atlanta to gain 386 total yards on their home turf, including 7.9 yards per carry. They also have injuries to all three offensive signings from Dallas, as RB Marion Barber (calf), WR Roy Williams (groin) and WR Sam Hurd (ankle) are all questionable for Sunday’s game. Former Saints DE Charles Grant is still serving a suspension. The Bears have won three straight over New Orleans, but are 0-3-1 ATS at New Orleans since 1992.

The high-flying Saints figure to be just as potent on their fast surface in the Superdome as they were in Lambeau Field last Thursday. Brees threw for 419 yards and three scores against what figures to be a very good Green Bay defense. Unproven second-year WR Adrian Arrington is expected to see more targets with the injuries to Colston and Moore, but Brees never has any problems spreading the offense around. Defensively, the Saints were lit up for 399 yards in Green Bay, and top DE Will Smith will not play due to his suspension.

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Week 2 Preview: Jaguars at Jets

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS (1-0)

at NEW YORK JETS (1-0)


Kickoff: Sunday, 1:00 p.m. EDT
Line: New York -9, Total: 38.5

Rex Ryan and the Jets defense will be licking their chops when journeyman quarterback Luke McCown leads the Jaguars into the New Meadowlands on Sunday.

McCown, who was anointed the starter just a week before the season opener, was solid in Week 1, but that was against a very suspect Tennessee defense. He’ll have his hands full against Ryan’s exotic blitz schemes. The Jets also have an edge with playmakers in the passing game against a Jaguars pass defense that continues to struggle. QB Mark Sanchez threw for 335 yards (one short of his career-high) in their comeback win over Dallas in Week 1, and Jacksonville was torched by WR Kenny Britt in its opener. The Jaguars came to New York in 2009 and stole a 24-22 win against the Jets in Ryan’s first season as their head coach, but New York has the firepower to overwhelm the Jags this time around. NEW YORK is the pick to win and cover the hefty spread.

The FoxSheets have a three-star trend that works against Jacksonville and head coach Jack Del Rio:

Del Rio is 3-14 ATS (17.6%, -12.4 Units) in a road game where the total is between 38.5 and 42 points as the coach of JACKSONVILLE. The average score was JACKSONVILLE 19.2, OPPONENT 26.7 - (Rating = 3*).

McCown completed 17-of-24 passes for 175 yards against Tennessee, but his performance had a lot to do with his team establishing the ground game. The Jaguars amassed 163 rushing yards as Maurice Jones-Drew tallied 97 yards and a touchdown. Jacksonville’s defense was also tough, holding Titans star RB Chris Johnson to 24 yards on nine carries. On the injury front, the Jaguars have several concerns, mainly their tight-end situation. Both Zach Miller (knee) and Marcedes Lewis (calf) are questionable for Sunday’s game. And the team’s best pass rusher, Aaron Kampman, will miss his second straight contest with a knee injury.

The Jets look to snap a three-game losing skid (and six-game ATS slide) to Jacksonville, having not covered a regular-season game versus the Jags since 1996. Although Sanchez should have another successful day throwing the football, New York has to do a better job improving its ground game after a measly 45 yards on 16 carries in a fortunate 27-24 win over Dallas. However, the Jets had no problem stuffing the Cowboys rushing attack, holding them to 64 yards on 26 carries (2.5 YPC). Although CB Darrelle Revis has been bothered by hip and leg injuries, he will start on Sunday. There are no other significant injuries to the Jets roster. New York is a healthy 19-11 ATS (63%) versus AFC opponents since 2009.

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Week 2 Preview: Packers at Panthers

GREEN BAY PACKERS (1-0)

at CAROLINA PANTHERS (0-1)


Kickoff: Sunday, 1:00 p.m. EDT
Line: Green Bay -9, Total: 46

The Panthers gained some momentum despite a Week 1 road loss, but the Packers are poised to bring that to a halt when they visit Carolina on Sunday.

Coming off their season-opening Thursday night win over New Orleans, the Packers will be well-rested and ready. Green Bay was 8-4 ATS away from home last season, while the Panthers were just 2-6 ATS at home. Carolina was also 0-10 SU and 1-9 ATS against teams that finished 2010 with a winning record. While QB Cam Newton threw for 422 yards in his first career start, the Green Bay pass defense includes an elite pass rush and three outstanding cornerbacks, far superior to the undermanned defense Newton saw in Arizona. And the Carolina D will be shorthanded with LB Jon Beason, the leader of the unit, out for the year with a torn Achilles. The FoxSheets have a three-star trend working against Carolina and supporting GREEN BAY as the pick:

CAROLINA is 0-8 ATS (-8.8 Units) in September games over the last 3 seasons. The average score was CAROLINA 12.1, OPPONENT 25.9 - (Rating = 3*).

The Packers have three extra days of rest to get ready for this game. Reigning Super Bowl MVP Aaron Rodgers led Green Bay to a 42-34 win over New Orleans by throwing for 312 yards and three scores. The Pack also provided a solid ground game with 103 yards on 27 carries. The defense did not fare too well against Drew Brees and the Saints, surrendering nearly 400 passing yards. They’re in jeopardy of allowing another chunk of yardage through the air with CB Tramon Williams questionable with a shoulder injury. FS Nick Collins (wrist) is expected to play, but Green Bay’s defensive depth could suffer as DE Mike Neal (knee), LBs Frank Zombo (shoulder) and Vic So’oto (back) and CB Davon House (ankle) are all questionable.

Panthers QB Cam Newton made a loud NFL debut against Arizona, hooking up for 178 of his yards and both TD passes to Steve Smith. The ground game that was supposed to be much improved this year with Newton’s legs and a healthy DeAngelo Williams returning to the team, garnered a paltry 74 yards on 27 carries (2.7 YPC). In addition to Beason going on IR, the Panthers could be without CB Josh Thomas (thigh) and backups QB Jimmy Clausen (undisclosed) and WR Kealoha Pilares (ankle). The Panthers were 0-7 ATS after a road loss in 2010.

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Week 2 Preview: Cowboys at 49ers

DALLAS COWBOYS (0-1)

at SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (1-0)


Kickoff: Sunday, 4:05 p.m. EDT
Line: Dallas -3, Total: 43

The 49ers used special teams to clinch Jim Harbaugh’s coaching debut, but they’ll face a much tougher test when they host Dallas on Sunday.

The Cowboys offense is far more explosive than the Tarvaris Jackson-led Seattle team San Francisco hosted in its opener. The Seahawks didn’t threaten the Niners’ questionable defensive backfield. Meanwhile, the Cowboys, facing the Jets’ elite defense on the road in Week 1 and with top receiver Dez Bryant struggling with cramps, still rolled up a respectable 400 yards of offense. The 49ers needed two late kick-return touchdowns from Ted Ginn to pull away from Seattle, and their offense was as weak as advertised. They managed just 209 total yards against a soft Seahawks defense. San Fran has lost its past three matchups, SU and ATS, against non-division opponents. And the FoxSheets have a three-star trend working against the Niners, solidifying DALLAS as the pick:

Play Against - Any team (SAN FRANCISCO) - off a home win by 10 points or more against opponent after a road game where both teams scored 24 or more points. (24-5 over the last 5 seasons, 82.8%, +18.5 units. Rating = 3*).

Although Tony Romo ultimately cost his team the game with a poorly-thrown interception late in the fourth quarter, the beleaguered Dallas QB was still able to gain 342 yards through the air with two touchdowns. The rushing offense was an entirely different story though. Felix Jones, who has averaged well above five yards per carry in his career, was held to 2.6 YPC (17 rushes, 44 yards) against the Jets. The Cowboys are dinged up a little bit with WR Dez Bryant (bruised quad), WR Miles Austin (hamstring) and CB Mike Jenkins (shoulder sprain), but all three players are expected to suit up Sunday. CB Orlando Scandrick is not as fortunate, as his high ankle sprain will keep him out 3-to-4 weeks. These teams have split the past eight meetings 4-4 SU, with Dallas prevailing in the most recent matchup in 2008 by a score of 35-22.

San Francisco was not expected to employ a high-octane aerial assault this season, but its rushing attack was supposed to be above average with Frank Gore in the backfield. However, the 49ers gained only 2.7 YPC, tallying just 85 yards on 32 attempts. Gore was limited to 59 yards on 22 carries (2.7 YPC). QB Alex Smith only threw for 124 yards and no touchdowns, but he was an efficient 15-of-20 passing with zero interceptions. Another area of improvement needed is on third downs, where San Francisco was 1-for-12 against Seattle. FS Dashon Goldson (knee) did not play in Week 1, and is questionable to return for Sunday’s game. WR Michael Crabtree has been bothered by his left foot, which has undergone two recent surgeries, but will reportedly continue to play through the pain.

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Trending: NFL in September

In preparation of the NFL season getting underway this week, we took a look at how all 32 teams have fared both ATS and Over/Under in the month of September over the past five seasons. The Tennessee Titans boast the best ATS win percentage (69%), while the Miami Dolphins are bringing up the rear at 21%). Here is the complete list:
September ATS W-L Records
TENNESSEE 11-5 (69%)
GREEN BAY 11-6 (65%)
DALLAS 10-6 (63%)
INDIANAPOLIS 10-6 (63%)
NEW ORLEANS 10-6 (63%)
NY JETS 10-6 (63%)
CINCINNATI 9-6 (60%)
ATLANTA 10-7 (59%)
BUFFALO 10-7 (59%)
BALTIMORE 9-7 (56%)
NY GIANTS 9-7 (56%)
KANSAS CITY 8-7 (53%)
MINNESOTA 8-7 (53%)
SEATTLE 8-7 (53%)
PHILADELPHIA 9-8 (53%)
SAN FRANCISCO 9-8 (53%)
CHICAGO 8-8 (50%)
SAN DIEGO 8-8 (50%)
TAMPA BAY 8-8 (50%)
ARIZONA 8-9 (47%)
PITTSBURGH 8-9 (47%)
NEW ENGLAND 7-8 (47%)
CLEVELAND 7-9 (44%)
JACKSONVILLE 7-9 (44%)
OAKLAND 7-9 (44%)
WASHINGTON 6-8 (43%)
DETROIT 6-9 (40%)
HOUSTON 6-9 (40%)
DENVER 6-11 (35%)
ST LOUIS 5-12 (29%)
CAROLINA 4-12 (25%)
MIAMI 3-11 (21%)

Here are some additional numbers for individual teams that have shown high ATS percentages in certain situations in the month of September over the past five seasons:
Buffalo is 5-3 ATS (63%) vs. AFC East, including 3-1 (75%) vs. New England.
Carolina is 1-6 ATS (14%) at home.
Denver is 2-6 ATS (25%) at home.
Detroit is 2-6 ATS (25%) on the road.
Green Bay is 6-2 ATS (75%) as a favorite.
Houston is 1-4 ATS (20%) as a favorite.
Minnesota is 6-2 ATS (75%) as a favorite.
Oakland is 0-3 ATS (0%) as a favorite.
Pittsburgh is 1-4 ATS (20%) vs. AFC Central opponents.
Seattle is 1-5 ATS (17%) on the road, and 7-2 ATS (78%) at home.
Tennessee is 7-2 ATS (78%) as an underdog.

The Houston Texans are the leaders when it comes to hitting the OVER, doing so in 75% of their September games from 2006-2010. The St. Louis Rams have been the most consistent UNDER play at 71%. Here is how the entire league stacks up:

September ATS Over-Under Records
HOUSTON 12-4 (75%)
SAN DIEGO 11-4 (73%)
NY JETS 11-6 (65%)
OAKLAND 9-5 (64%)
NY GIANTS 10-6 (63%)
DALLAS 9-6 (60%)
NEW ORLEANS 9-6 (60%)
NEW ENGLAND 9-6 (60%)
GREEN BAY 10-7 (59%)
BALTIMORE 8-6 (57%)
DETROIT 9-7 (56%)
SEATTLE 8-7 (53%)
PHILADELPHIA 9-8 (53%)
CINCINNATI 8-8 (50%)
MIAMI 8-8 (50%)
BUFFALO 8-9 (47%)
TAMPA BAY 8-9 (47%)
ARIZONA 8-9 (47%)
PITTSBURGH 8-9 (47%)
DENVER 8-9 (47%)
SAN FRANCISCO 7-8 (47%)
TENNESSEE 7-9 (44%)
INDIANAPOLIS 7-9 (44%)
CHICAGO 7-9 (44%)
CLEVELAND 7-9 (44%)
JACKSONVILLE 7-9 (44%)
ATLANTA 7-10 (41%)
CAROLINA 7-10 (41%)
WASHINGTON 6-9 (40%)
KANSAS CITY 6-10 (38%)
MINNESOTA 5-11 (31%)
ST LOUIS 5-12 (29%)

A closer look at these numbers reveals the following:
Atlanta is 8-1 UNDER (89%) on the road, and 6-2 OVER (75%) at home.
Carolina is 6-2 UNDER (75%) at home.
Dallas is 4-0 OVER (100%) at home vs. NFC East opponents.
Houston is 9-1 OVER (90%) as an underdog.
Minnesota is 6-2 UNDER (75%) at home.
San Francisco is 6-2 UNDER (75%) at home, and 5-2 OVER (71%) on the road.
St. Louis is 8-1 UNDER (89%) on the road.

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Week 2 Tip Sheet

September 15, 2011

Week 1 of the NFL gave us few surprises as only three teams receiving three points or more won outright to start the season. Heading into Week 2, a handful of clubs are laying heavy lumber with five teams listed as touchdown or more favorites in the early games. Two of those squads, New Orleans and Pittsburgh, are looking for their first wins of the season as each returns home. We'll start at Heinz Field with a rematch of Super Bowl XL with Seattle making the cross-country trip.

Seahawks at Steelers (-14, 40 ½) - 1:00 PM EST

Pittsburgh turned the ball over seven times in a disappointing 35-7 defeat at rival Baltimore last Sunday, as the Steelers head back home as two-touchdown favorites over the Seahawks. Seattle hung around at San Francisco as the Seahawks trailed the Niners, 19-17 with less than five minutes remaining. However, a pair of Ted Ginn, Jr. special teams' touchdowns gave San Francisco the cover and dropped Seattle to 5-21 SU the last 26 games on the road.

If you're afraid to lay this number with the Steelers, take credence in the following trend. Seattle has failed to cover each of its last eight games as a road underdog of at least nine points, while allowing at least 31 points in each of those losses. The Steelers were 4-0 SU/ATS last season off a loss, as Mike Tomlin's club held three of those opponents to 10 points or less.

Bears at Saints (-7, 47 ½) - 1:00 PM EST

The Falcons closed at short favorites in Week 1 for the second straight season, but Chicago made sure to let the football world know that last year's run to the NFC Title game was no fluke. The Bears dominated Atlanta with a 30-12 blowout at Soldier Field, while keeping the Falcons' offense out of the end zone. Chicago heads to the Big Easy where it will be anything but against a New Orleans' team trying to get its defense on track after allowing 42 points in a season-opening loss at Green Bay.

The Saints are very pedestrian as a home favorite in the Sean Payton era with a 16-16 ATS record when laying points at the Superdome. New Orleans' powerful offense will be without wide receiver Marques Colston, who broke his collarbone in last week's loss at Green Bay. The Bears likely will have veteran linebacker Brian Urlacher in the lineup following the death of his mother earlier in the week. Lovie Smith's club owned a 4-1 ATS mark as a road underdog last season, even though two of those covers came in outright wins over Carolina and Miami.

Chiefs at Lions (-8, 45) - 1:00 PM EST

The last time Detroit was listed as a six-point favorite or more came back in 2006 as the Niners marched into Ford Field and beat the Lions, 19-13. We know the struggles of this franchise over the years, but some people believe this is finally the season where Detroit turns things around. The Lions led off 2011 with an impressive 27-20 victory at Tampa Bay, the third straight road win for Jim Schwartz's team since dropping 26 in a row away from the Motor City. The Chiefs invade Detroit this Sunday after getting embarrassed at home by the Bills, while losing standout safety Eric Berry for the season with a torn ACL.

Kansas City covered five of eight games as an underdog last season, while the embattled Todd Haley is 6-1 ATS his last seven off a loss against a non-division opponent. Meanwhile, the Lions are 5-2 ATS the previous seven home games off a road contest, including a 3-0 SU/ATS ledger as a favorite since December 2009.

Jaguars at Jets (-9, 39) - 1:00 PM EST

Both these teams are coming off close-shave victories at home last week, even though Jacksonville led from start to finish in its win over Tennessee. The Jets needed a late rally to stun the Cowboys, even though New York failed to cover as six-point home favorites. Under Rex Ryan, the Jets are below average when laying points at home with a 6-9 ATS record, including a 2-5 ATS mark as six-point 'chalk' or more.

With David Garrard released days before the season opener, Luke McCown threw for an economical 175 yards, while Maurice Jones-Drew scored the lone Jacksonville touchdown. The Jags are 0-4 ATS the last four Week 2 contests, while scoring 17 points or less in each of those games. On the Jets side, the 'over' is riding a 19-6 run since December 2009, even though a majority of those 'overs' came on the road.

Packers (-10, 47) at Panthers - 1:00 PM EST

Green Bay's offense is on fire after torching New Orleans for 42 points in the Week 1 opener (granted the Packers scored on a 108-yard kickoff return as well). The Pack hits the highway for a trip to Charlotte against top pick Cam Newton and the Panthers, who came up short in a 28-21 loss at Arizona. Newton threw for 422 yards in the defeat, while Carolina's offense showed signs of life after breaking the 20-point barrier only twice last season.

Carolina was not only awful from the straight-up perspective in 2010, but cashed just four times last season. The Panthers owned a 3-10 ATS mark as an underdog, while going 1-4 ATS when receiving points at Bank of America Stadium. The Packers have been solid on the road under Mike McCarthy with a 12-7 ATS mark as away favorites since 2007, including a 34-12 victory at Detroit as 11 ½-point 'chalk' on Thanksgiving in 2009.

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Week 2 NFL Preview Capsules

September 15, 2011

OPENING LINE - Saints by 61/2

RECORD VS. SPREAD - New Orleans 0-1; Chicago 1-0

SERIES RECORD - Bears lead 13-11

LAST MEETING - Bears beat Saints, 27-24 in OT, Dec. 11, 2008

LAST WEEK - Bears beat Falcons, 30-12; Saints lost to Packers, 42-34

BEARS OFFENSE - OVERALL (14), RUSH (17), PASS (11)

BEARS DEFENSE - OVERALL (22), RUSH (22), PASS (21)

SAINTS OFFENSE - OVERALL (3), RUSH (20), PASS (3)

SAINTS DEFENSE - OVERALL (25), RUSH (19), PASS (24)

STREAKS, STATS AND NOTES - Both quarterbacks threw for more than 300 yards last week, with Saints' Brees passing for 419 and Bears' Cutler passing for 312. ... Bears coach Lovie Smith 4-0 against Saints, including playoffs, and 3-0 against Saints coach Sean Payton, with all three wins over Payton coming in Chicago. ... In past four indoor starts, Cutler has completed 66.9 percent (81 of 121) of passes for 975 yards, with 10 TDs, 0 INTs. ... Bears RB Matt Forte grew up in suburban New Orleans and averaged school-record 99.2 yards rushing per game for Tulane, which plays home games in Superdome. ... Forte had 158 yards from scrimmage (90 receiving, 68 rushing), including 56-yard TD catch last week. ... Since joining Saints in 2006, Brees leads NFL in attempts (3,062), completions (2,052), yards (23,337) and TDs (158). ... RB and returner Darren Sproles had 250 total yards last week, including 92 yards and TD on punt returns, 76 yards on kick returns, 75 yards receiving and 7 yards rushing. ... In two career games vs. Bears, RB Pierre Thomas, a Chicago native, has 372 yards from scrimmage (192 rushing, 180 receiving) and 3 TDs (two receiving, one rushing). ... WR Devery Henderson had six catches for 100 yards, including a 29-yard TD last week. ... TE Jimmy Graham seeks fifth game in row with TD catch.

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OPENING LINE - Ravens by 6

RECORD VS. SPREAD - Baltimore 1-0; Tennessee 0-0-1

SERIES RECORD - Ravens lead 10-9

LAST MEETING - Ravens beat Titans 13-10, Jan. 1, 2009

LAST WEEK - Ravens beat Steelers 35-7, Titans lost to Jaguars 16-14

RAVENS OFFENSE - OVERALL (12), RUSH (3), PASS (20)

RAVENS DEFENSE - OVERALL (11), RUSH (18), PASS (16)

TITANS OFFENSE - OVERALL (25), RUSH (31), PASS (16)

TITANS DEFENSE - OVERALL (14), RUSH (27), PASS (7)

STREAKS, STATS AND NOTES - Ravens 9-2 when scoring 20 or more points since 2010. ... Ravens have won six of past seven vs AFC. ... Joe Flacco threw three TDs for sixth time in career last week, and Ravens are 5-1 in those games. ... Ravens 18-2 when Flacco has a 100 or better passer rating. ... Ray Rice had eighth 100-yard rushing game of career in opener. He's averaging 102 yards from scrimmage in his career. ... Ravens forced seven turnovers against Steelers. ... S Ed Reed (1,463) needs 20 yards off interception returns to pass Hall of Famer Rod Woodson (1,483) for most all-time. Reed has 12 games with at least two interceptions, most by player whose career started in Super Bowl era. ... Titans QB Matt Hasselbeck is 158 yards passing from 30,000 for career. In two games vs Ravens, Hasselbeck has thrown for 532 yards with seven TDs and two interceptions and a 107 passer rating. ... Chris Johnson averages 92.1 yards rushing in September, fifth-highest in month in NFL history. He averages 103 yards rushing per game at home. ... WR Kenny Britt had fifth 100-yard receiving game of career with 136 yards last week. ... WR Nate Washington one reception short of 200 for career. ... CB Jason McCourty had first career sack last week.

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OPENING LINE - Vikings by 3

RECORD VS. SPREAD - Tampa Bay 0-1; Minnesota 0-1

SERIES RECORD - Vikings lead 31-20

LAST MEETING - Buccaneers beat Vikings 19-13, Nov. 16, 2008

LAST WEEK - Buccaneers lost to Lions 27-20; Vikings lost to Chargers 24-17

BUCCANEERS OFFENSE - OVERALL (20T), RUSH (29), PASS (14)

BUCCANEERS DEFENSE - OVERALL (28), RUSH (23), PASS (25)

VIKINGS OFFENSE - OVERALL (32), RUSH (7), PASS (32)

VIKINGS DEFENSE - OVERALL (27), RUSH (12), PASS (28)

STREAKS, STATS AND NOTES - Buccaneers have beaten Vikings four straight times, with first win in streak coming in 2001, the last year they were in same division (old NFC Central. ... After gaining 15 yards on five rushes last week against Lions, Bucs RB LeGarrette Blount eager to make more of an impact. He had one carry after second half, when Bucs used hurry-up offense often. ... Buccaneers 28th out of 32 teams in yards rushing allowed last season. They gave up 125 yards on ground to Lions last week. Vikings RB Adrian Peterson will provide a tough test. He averaged more than 6 yards per carry last week vs Chargers. ... Bucs also let Lions drive at least 70 yards for scores last week. ... Bucs defensive line coach Keith Millard was star for Vikings in 1980s, even winning 1989 NFL Defensive Player of the Year award with 18 sacks. ... Home debut for new Vikings QB Donovan McNabb, who managed 39 yards passing last week. ... Peterson has averaged 110 yards rushing per September regular-season game in career (1,650 yards over 15 games), second-best mark in NFL history for those who played minimum of 10 games. Jim Brown is ahead of him - by less than one full yard per game. ... Under coach Brad Childress for last five seasons, Vikings usually were announced as a team to crowd before home games. This week, they'll return to individual player intros as they run out of tunnel.

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OPENING LINE - Lions by 81/2

RECORD VS. SPREAD - Kansas City 0-1; Detroit 1-0-0

SERIES RECORD - Chiefs lead 7-4

LAST MEETING - Lions beat Chiefs 25-20, Dec. 23, 2007

LAST WEEK - Chiefs lost to Bills 41-7, Lions beat Buccaneers 27-20

CHIEFS OFFENSE - OVERALL (30), RUSH (12), PASS (30)

CHIEFS DEFENSE - OVERALL (18), RUSH (27T), PASS (11)

LIONS OFFENSE - OVERALL (5), RUSH (10), PASS (8)

LIONS DEFENSE - OVERALL (12T), RUSH (4), PASS (19)

STREAKS, STATS AND NOTES - Detroit K Jason Hanson has played 296 games with Lions, tied with Bruce Matthews for most with one team in NFL history. ... Detroit's 2007 win over Kansas City was team's last before 19-game losing streak. ... Chiefs trying for sixth straight win over NFC opponents. ... Since start of 2008, Detroit WR Calvin Johnson has 31 receiving TDs, tied for most in NFL. He caught two against Tampa Bay last weekend ... Kansas City RB Jamaal Charles averaging 6.0 yards per carry through 48 career games. ... Detroit QB Matthew Stafford threw for 305 yards last weekend, joining Bobby Layne as only Lion to throw for at least 300 yards in Week 1. ... Since 2010, Kansas City LB Tamba Hali is second in NFL with 151/2 sacks, trailing DeMarcus Ware, who has 171/2. ... Since start of 2010, Detroit's Brandon Pettigrew has 75 catches, tied for third-most by TE. ... Lions DE Cliff Avril has 61/2 sacks in past six home games. ... Chiefs lost S Eric Berry to torn ACL in left knee in opening quarter vs Bills. ... Last weekend was Chiefs' most lopsided season-opening loss, and worst home loss since 45-0 defeat to Steelers 35 years ago. ... Lions have won five straight dating to last season.

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OPENING LINE - Jets by 10

RECORD VS. SPREAD - Jacksonville 0-0; New York 0-1

SERIES RECORD - Jaguars lead 6-3

LAST MEETING - Jaguars beat Jets 24-22, Nov. 15, 2009

LAST WEEK - Jaguars beat Titans 16-14; Jets beat Cowboys 27-24

JAGUARS OFFENSE - OVERALL (19), RUSH (5t), PASS (26)

JAGUARS DEFENSE - OVERALL (8), RUSH (2), PASS (17)

JETS OFFENSE - OVERALL (16), RUSH (30), PASS (7)

JETS DEFENSE - OVERALL (23), RUSH (5t), PASS (27)

STREAKS, STATS AND NOTES - Last time teams played, Josh Scobee kicked winning FG with no time left moments after Maurice Jones-Drew took knee at 1 to allow Jags to run out clock and complete late comeback. ... Jaguars trying to win first two games of season for seventh time, first since 2006. ... QB Luke McCown went 17 of 24 for 175 yards vs. Tennessee in first start for Jaguars and eighth of NFL career - first since 2007 while with Tampa Bay. McCown has never faced Jets. ... Jones-Drew looking for rushing TDs in each of first two games for first time in career. Had 97 yards and a score vs. Titans, but hasn't had rushing TD in road game since last time these teams met. Needs one receiving TD to tie Fred Taylor for most in franchise history by a running back, with eight. ... TE Marcedes Lewis needs 71 yards receiving to pass Reggie Williams (2,322) for fifth on franchise list, but uncertain if he'll play. Injured right calf in opener, sat out practice Wednesday. ... DE Aaron Kampman (right leg) won't play, CB Derek Cox (chest) doubtful. ... Game marks return of former Jets DBs Dwight Lowery and Drew Coleman. Lowery traded to Jags on Sept. 3; Coleman allowed to leave as free agent. Lowery sealed win with INT with 23 seconds left vs. Titans; Coleman tied for team lead with 7 tackles and had a sack. ... Jaguars defense held Titans RB Chris Johnson to 24 yards rushing. ... New York erased 14-point fourth-quarter deficit to beat Dallas, capped by Nick Folk's 50-yard field goal. ... Jets wearing blue throwback jerseys of New York Titans and are 4-1 in them. ... Jets had no penalties in opener, marking sixth time in franchise history they played penalty-free game - first since 2007. ... QB Mark Sanchez threw for 335 yards in opener, 1 yard shy of career high. It was also his third career 300-yard game. Sanchez was checked for concussion after being hit hard by Cowboys, but was fine. ... WR Plaxico Burress had four catches for 72 yards and a TD in first game since 2008, while with Giants, after serving 20 months in prison on gun charge. ... RB LaDainian Tomlinson, in second season with Jets, needs 243 yards rushing to pass Jerome Bettis (13,662) for fifth place on NFL career rushing list. Also 374 yards from scrimmage behind Barry Sanders (18,190) for fifth on career list. ... CB Darrelle Revis had INT late in opener that helped set up winning score. It was 15th INT of career, but first since Dec. 13, 2009, at Tampa Bay.

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OPENING LINE - Bills by 4

RECORD VS. SPREAD - Oakland 1-0; Bills 1-0

SERIES RECORD - Raiders lead 19-18

LAST MEETING - Bills beat Raiders 24-23, Sept. 21, 2008

LAST WEEK - Raiders beat Broncos 23-20; Bills beat Chiefs 41-7

RAIDERS OFFENSE - OVERALL (26), RUSH (2), PASS (31)

RAIDERS DEFENSE - OVERALL (10), RUSH (1), PASS (20)

BILLS OFFENSE - OVERALL (15), RUSH (5t), PASS (22)

BILLS DEFENSE - OVERALL (3), RUSH (21), PASS (3)

STREAKS, STATS AND NOTES - Hard times have befallen two original AFL franchises. Raiders have gone eight seasons without winning record, haven't made playoffs since 2002. Bills have one winning season, haven't made playoffs since 1999. ... Raiders attempt to turn around struggles against non-division rivals. After sweeping all six meetings against AFC West opponents last year, Oakland went 2-8 against rest of field. ... Raiders attempting to get off to 2-0 start for first time since 2002. ... RB Darren McFadden coming off eighth career 100-yard game. Raiders 6-2 when McFadden hits 100. ... DE Richard Seymour has seven career sacks against Bills, most against any opponent. All of them came during his first eight seasons with New England. ... Bills LB Shawne Merriman has 81/2 sacks against Oakland, most for him against any opponent - all came during his five-plus seasons with San Diego. ... Bills TE Scott Chandler coming off two TD performance against Chiefs. They were Chandler's first scores since 2006, when he was senior at Iowa, and match number of TDs Bills tight ends had combined over past two years. ... QB Ryan Fitzpatrick coming off four TD outing, his third in 11 starts with Buffalo. Bills QBs had four touchdowns passing in game only twice from 2003-'09. ... Bills forced Chiefs to punt times, matching last year's season-best in 14-12 win over Detroit in November.

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OPENING LINE - Redskins by 41/2

RECORD VS. SPREAD - Arizona 0-1; Washington 1-0

SERIES RECORD - Redskins lead 73-44-2

LAST MEETING - Redskins beat Cardinals 24-17, Sept. 21, 2008

LAST WEEK - Cardinals beat Panthers 28-21; Redskins beat Giants 28-14

CARDINALS OFFENSE - OVERALL (9), RUSH (15), PASS (10)

CARDINALS DEFENSE - OVERALL (29), RUSH (9), PASS (31)

REDSKINS OFFENSE - OVERALL (18), RUSH (23), PASS (15)

REDSKINS DEFENSE - OVERALL (12), RUSH (11), PASS (15)

STREAKS, STATS AND NOTES - Redskins have beaten Cardinals seven times in row. Arizona last won in 2000, when both were in NFC East. ... First-round draft picks scored go-ahead TDs last week in teams' respective victories: Cardinals' Patrick Peterson returned punt 89 yards; Redskins' Ryan Kerrigan ran back interception 9 yards. ... Arizona QB Kevin Kolb had NFL-high 149.3 fourth quarter passing rating last week. His 11.44 yards per pass attempt was tops in NFL. He had TD passes of 48 and 70 yards, matching total of 40-plus yard passes Cardinals completed in entire 2010 season. ... Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald needs two TD catches (65) to set franchise record ahead of Roy Green (66). ... Redskins RB Tim Hightower faces old team after being traded by Cardinals at end of lockout. He rushed for 1,733 yards and 23 TDs in three seasons with Arizona. He ran 25 times for 72 yards and a TD in Washington debut last week. ... Washington QB Rex Grossman looks to have three consecutive 300-yard games for first time in career. In only previous meeting vs Arizona, Grossman threw four INTs and had 10.2 rating with Chicago on Oct. 16, 2006. ... Redskins have thrown a TD pass in a franchise-record 17 straight games. ... Redskins secondary coach Bob Slowik coaching against his son, Cardinals defensive assistant Ryan Slowik.

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OPENING LINE - Steelers by 131/2

SERIES RECORD - Tied 8-8

LAST MEETING - Steelers beat Seahawks 21-0, Oct. 7, 2007

LAST WEEK - Seahawks lost to 49ers 33-17; Steelers lost to Ravens 35-7.

SEAHAWKS OFFENSE - OVERALL (29), RUSH (26), PASS (27)

SEAHAWKS DEFENSE - OVERALL (2), RUSH (15), PASS (4)

STEELERS OFFENSE - OVERALL (22), RUSH (25), PASS (17)

STEELERS DEFENSE - OVERALL (21), RUSH (30

STREAKS, STATS AND NOTES - Pittsburgh has won eight straight home openers and are 23-5 in last 28 games against NFC opponents. ... Steelers haven't started 0-2 since 2002. They finished 10-5-1 that season and made playoffs as wild card. ... Seahawks last started 0-2 in 2008 when they went 4-12. ... Pittsburgh QB Ben Roethlisberger's interception last week against Baltimore was first in 173 attempts, a career-best. ... Series even all-time, but Pittsburgh 6-2 at home against Seattle. Seahawks last win in Steel City was 29-10 on Sept. 26, 1999. ... Pittsburgh RB Rashard Mendenhall needs 78 yards rushing to pass former QB Kordell Stewart for 14th most yards in team history. ... Seahawks have second-youngest roster in league ... Seattle 20-13 in September games since 2001, fifth-best winning percentage (.606) in league. ... Bill Leavy, referee in Pittsburgh's 21-10 win over Seattle in 2006 Super Bowl, will work game. Leavy acknowledged making pair of bad calls in fourth quarter that adversely affected Seahawks. ... Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace has at least 100 yards receiving in his last five regular season games. ... Seattle coach Pete Carroll 1-1 against Steelers, both games coming while he coached New England in the late-1990s. ... Pittsburgh P Dan Sepulveda averaged 52.8 yards on four punts against Ravens, including career-best 64-yarder.

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GREEN BAY (1-0) At CAROLINA (0-1)

Sunday, 1 p.m., Fox

OPENING LINE - Packers by 10

RECORD VS. SPREAD - Carolina 0-1; Green Bay 1-0

SERIES RECORD - Packers lead 6-4

LAST MEETING - Packers defeated Panthers 35-31, Nov. 8, 2008

LAST WEEK - Packers defeated Saints 42-34; Panthers lost to Cardinals 28-21

PANTHERS OFFENSE - OVERALL (t-3), RUSH (t-23), PASS (2)

PANTHERS DEFENSE - OVERALL (24), RUSH (18), PASS (23)

PACKERS OFFENSE - OVERALL (8), RUSH (14), PASS (9)

PACKERS DEFENSE - OVERALL (t-29), RUSH (13), PASS (30)

STREAKS, STATS AND NOTES - In past 11 starts with 15-plus attempts (including playoffs), QB Aaron Rodgers has completed 257 of 362 (71 percent) for 3,271 yards with 28 TDs and 3 INTs for 121.2 rating. ... Rodgers became second player in NFL to throw 3 TDs in first quarter of season opener. ... Packers FB John Kuhn has seven TDs (4 rush, 3 receiving) in his past 8 games ... Packers WR Donald Drives has 9,656 receiving yards, tied with Hall of Famer James Lofton for most by Packer ... Packers WR Greg Jennings aims for third game in row with TD catch vs Carolina. He had seven catches for 89 yards and TD last week. Since start of 2007 (including playoffs), he has 43 receiving TDs, third most in NFL ... Packers rookie WR-KR Randall Cobb tied NFL record for longest KR-TD (108 yards) last week. He's second NFL rookie with TD catch (32 yards) and kick return TD in first game ... Packers CB Charles Woodson had forced fumble and recovery in last meeting. He holds franchise record with nine defensive TDs (eight INTs, one fumble recovery). Since start of 2006, his eight INT returns for TDs are most in NFL ... LB Erik Walder has four sacks in last two games ... Panthers No. 1 overall pick QB Cam Newton had 422 yards passing, most by rookie in NFL debut and tied for most by a rookie in a game. His 422 yards are fifth most by player to open season ... In past two games at home, RB Jonathan Stewart has rushed for 270 yards and aims for third in row at home with 130-plus rushing yards. In his past five games at home with 15 or more carries, Stewart has 624 rush yards (124.8 per game) and has 100-plus yards in all five contests ... RB DeAngelo Williams rushed for four TDs in his last meeting with Green Bay ... WR Steve Smith had eight catches for 178 yards and two TDs (77, 26 yards) last week. He had four catches for 105 yards in last meeting with Green Bay ... TE Jeremy Shockey has 513 receptions, seventh-most by tight end ... TE Greg Olsen had four catches for 78 yards in Carolina debut. ... DE Charles Johnson had 41/2 sacks in past five games at home ... CB Chris Gamble has 24 INTs and needs one more to tie CB Eric Davis for club record.

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OPENING LINE - Browns by 3

RECORD VS. SPREAD - Cleveland 0-1; Indianapolis 0-1

SERIES RECORD - Browns lead 15-14

LAST MEETING - Colts beat Browns 10-6, Nov. 30, 2008

LAST WEEK - Browns lost to Bengals 27-17; Colts lost to Texans 34-7

BROWNS OFFENSE - OVERALL (27), RUSH (19), PASS (21)

BROWNS DEFENSE - OVERALL (9), RUSH (24), PASS (5)

COLTS OFFENSE - OVERALL (28), RUSH (26), PASS (24)

COLTS DEFENSE - OVERALL (20), RUSH (29), PASS (14)

STREAKS, STATS AND NOTES - Browns have lost five straight in series and haven't beaten Colts during Peyton Manning era. ... Cleveland's last win over Indy was Sept. 25, 1994. ... Cleveland is making first trip to Lucas Oil Stadium and first trip to Indy in since Sept. 25, 2005. ... Peyton Hillis ranks seventh among AFC's top rushers with 67 yards but averaged just 3.4 yards per carry against Bengals. ... New kickoff rule hasn't affected Browns' Josh Cribbs, who averaged 30.3 yards per return in Week 1. Cribbs needs 6 yards to pass former Super Bowl MVP Desmond Howard for No. 7 on career list for yards on kickoff returns. ... LB D'Qwell Jackson tied for second in sacks after getting two vs. Bengals. ... Colts have not opened season with 0-2 record since 1998, Manning's rookie season. ... Indy has won seven of last eight home openers, losing only in 2008 - Lucas Oil Stadium's grand opening. ... Despite last week's ugly loss at Houston, Indy still has NFL's best September record (26-7, .788) since 2001. ... Only Baltimore (seven) produced more takeaways in Week 1 than Colts defense (three). ... Kerry Collins needs to play four more games to become 16th quarterback in league history with 200 games played. ... RB Joseph Addai needs two rushing TDs to crack the top five in franchise history. Addai has 38. ... WR Reggie Wayne ranks third in AFC with 106 yards receiving. ... Indy averaged 4.0 yards per carry in Week 1 after failing to average 4.0 since Super Bowl-winning season of 2006.

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OPENING LINE - Cowboys by 3

RECORD VS. SPREAD - Dallas 1-0; San Francisco 1-0

SERIES RECORD - 49ers lead 16-15-1

LAST MEETING - Cowboys beat 49ers 35-22, Nov. 23, 2008

COWBOYS OFFENSE - OVERALL (10), RUSH (26T), PASS (6)

COWBOYS DEFENSE - OVERALL (17), RUSH (3), PASS (26)

49ERS OFFENSE - OVERALL (31), RUSH (18), PASS (29)

49ERS DEFENSE - OVERALL (4), RUSH (5T), PASS (5T)

STREAKS, STATS AND NOTES - Dallas has won last two matchups. Dallas has faced San Francisco in six of its 14 NFC title games, its most against any opponent. Cowboys are 4-2 in those games. ... They come to Candlestick Park after blowing 14-point fourth-quarter lead in 27-24 loss to Jets last week. ... Dallas is 246-1-1 when leading by 14 points in fourth quarter, according to STATS LLC. ... Cowboys trying to avoid 0-2 start in consecutive seasons for first time since 2000-01. ... Dallas QB Tony Romo went 23 of 36 for 342 yards and two TDs but lost fumble that aided New York's comeback. ... San Francisco coach Jim Harbaugh became sixth 49ers coach to win season opener in first year - and fourth to do so at home. ... 49ers K David Akers, who booted four field goals in 33-17 season-opening win over Seattle, has scored 184 points against Dallas in his career - most by any player against Cowboys since 1950. ... Cowboys committed seven penalties in loss to Jets. ... Harbaugh wouldn't say why running game didn't work in Week 1, but will try to get RB Frank Gore more involved. Gore's 78 yards from scrimmage last week moved him into third place in club history with 8,775 yards. He trails WR Jerry Rice (19,572) and RB Roger Craig (11,506).

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OPENING LINE - Broncos by 6

RECORD VS. SPREAD - Cincinnati 1-0; Broncos 0-1

SERIES RECORD - Broncos lead 17-8

LAST MEETING - Broncos beat Bengals, 12-7, Sept. 13, 2009

LAST WEEK - Bengals beat Browns 27-17; Broncos lost to Raiders 23-20

BENGALS OFFENSE - OVERALL (24), RUSH (9), PASS (27T)

BENGALS DEFENSE - OVERALL (6), RUSH (14), PASS (12)

BRONCOS OFFENSE - OVERALL (23), RUSH (32), PASS (13)

BRONCOS DEFENSE - OVERALL (7), RUSH (31), PASS (2)

STREAKS, STATS AND NOTES - Bengals haven't won in Denver since 1975. ... Andy Dalton became first Bengals rookie QB to start an opener since Greg Cook in 1969. He hurt right wrist in game but is better. ... Bengals 11-2 when RB Cedric Benson runs for 100 yards as he did last week against Browns. ... WR A.J. Green, fourth overall pick in draft, had a 41-yard, game-winning TD catch in pro debut. ... LB Thomas Howard has three career interceptions against Broncos. ... Broncos could be without four key players who were hurt against Oakland: DE Elvis Dumervil (shoulder), WR Brandon Lloyd (groin), RB Knowshon Moreno (hamstring) and CB Champ Bailey (hamstring). They were already without MLB D.J. Williams (dislocated right elbow), who said this week he's not close to returning, and DT Marcus Thomas (chest). ... QB Kyle Orton threw for 304 yards in opener. ... Rookie Von Miller, second overall pick in draft, forced a fumble on first NFL snap but didn't get to QB after Dumervil aggravated left shoulder injury on Denver's fourth defensive snap and was limited to pass-rushing downs after that. ... S Brian Dawkins led Broncos with nine tackles against Oakland. He's third NFL player to play 16 seasons at safety. ... WR/PR Eric Decker totaled 181 yards last week, including 90-yard punt return for touchdown.

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OPENING LINE - Texans by 3

RECORD VS. SPREAD - Houston 1-0; Miami 0-1

SERIES RECORD - Texans lead 5-0

LAST MEETING - Texans beat Dolphins 27-20, Dec. 27, 2009

LAST WEEK - Texans beat Colts 34-7; Dolphins lost to Patriots 38-24

TEXANS OFFENSE - OVERALL (13), RUSH (4), PASS (19)

TEXANS DEFENSE - OVERALL (5), RUSH (5T), PASS (9)

DOLPHINS OFFENSE - OVERALL (2), RUSH (16), PASS (4)

DOLPHINS DEFENSE - OVERALL (32), RUSH (20), PASS (32)

STREAKS, STATS AND NOTES - While Texans are 5-0 against Miami, those games have been decided by total of 14 points. ... Texans QB Matt Schaub 4-0 against Dolphins. ... In four games against Miami, Andre Johnson has 30 catches for 426 yards and three scores. ... Johnson, a Miami native who played for Hurricanes, says he bought 150 tickets for friends and family. .. Texans set NFL record for most points in first half of season-opener when they took 34-0 lead over Colts. ... Texans' Brett Hartmann had six touchbacks on kickoffs last week, a franchise record and most in NFL in Week 1. ... Houston LB Mario Williams had two sacks in opener to increase career total to 50. ... Texans allowed Colts to convert 1 of 10 third or fourth downs. ... Miami in danger of starting 0-2 for fifth time in six years. ... Dolphins have lost 10 of their past 11 home games. ... Dolphins have gone 20 consecutive games without 100-yard rusher. ... Dolphins were 2 for 14 on third-down conversions Monday, but 4 for 5 on fourth down. ... Of New England's 517 yards passing against Miami, 238 came after catch. ... On Monday, Chad Henne became fourth QB in NFL history to throw for at least 400 yards and rush for at least 50 in same game. His 59 yards rushing is Miami QB record. ... Dolphins DE Jared Odrick says his interception was first ever, including Little League. ... Miami P Brandon Fields averaged 51.2 yards on six kicks in first game.

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OPENING LINE - Patriots by 7

RECORD VS. SPREAD - San Diego 0-1; New England 1-0

SERIES RECORD - Patriots lead 21-15-2

LAST MEETING - Patriots beat Chargers 23-20, Oct. 24, 2010

LAST WEEK - Chargers beat Vikings 24-17; Patriots beat Dolphins 38-24

CHARGERS OFFENSE - OVERALL (6), RUSH (21), PASS (5)

CHARGERS DEFENSE - OVERALL (1), RUSH (26), PASS (1)

PATRIOTS OFFENSE - OVERALL (1), RUSH (13), PASS (1)

PATRIOTS DEFENSE - OVERALL (31), RUSH (17), PASS (29)

STREAKS, STATS AND NOTES - Last time Patriots opened home season against San Diego, they won 38-14 in 2007. ... In season openers, Tom Brady threw for a Patriots record 517 yards, while Chargers held Vikings to 28 yards passing. ... In last meeting at Gillette Stadium, Patriots won the AFC title game over Chargers on Jan. 20, 2008. Two weeks later, New England lost to New York Giants in Super Bowl. ... Chargers QB Philip Rivers needs 4 yards passing to reach 20,000 for career. ... San Diego TE Antonio Gates needs five catches to pass Kellen Winslow for second most in club history with 542. Charlie Joiner leads with 586. ... Nick Novak makes debut as San Diego's kicker after Nate Kaeding suffered season-ending left knee injury on opening kickoff against Vikings. Novak also played with Washington, Arizona and Kansas City. ... San Diego's Norv Turner got 100th regular-season win as coach last Sunday. ... Brady tries to extend NFL regular-season record to 29 straight home wins. ... Victory over Chargers would make Bill Belichick second coach in NFL with three separate 10-game winning streaks in regular season. Don Shula is the other. ... Brady needs 207 yards passing to go ahead of Jim Kelly for 17th in NFL history, including playoffs. Kelly had 35,467. ... Patriots TEs Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski combined for 13 catches for 189 yards and 2 touchdowns against Miami. ... New England has won its last nine home openers.

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OPENING LINE - Eagles by 21/2

RECORD VS. SPREAD - Philadelphia 1-0; Atlanta 0-1

SERIES RECORD - Eagles lead 17-11-1

LAST MEETING - Eagles beat Falcons 31-17, Oct. 17, 2010

LAST WEEK - Eagles beat Rams 31-13; Falcons lost to Bears 30-12

EAGLES OFFENSE - OVERALL (7), RUSH (1), PASS (25)

EAGLES DEFENSE - OVERALL (16), RUSH (25), PASS (10)

FALCONS OFFENSE - OVERALL (11), RUSH (11), PASS (12)

FALCONS DEFENSE - OVERALL (19), RUSH (16), PASS (22)

STREAKS, STATS AND NOTES - Philadelphia QB Michael Vick facing former team for third time - first as starter - since serving federal prison sentence for dogfighting. Donovan McNabb started two years ago in Atlanta, and Kevin Kolb was still No. 1 quarterback for last year's meeting in Philadelphia. ... In 2009 game, Vick came off bench to run for one TD and pass for another in Eagles' 34-7 win. ... Mike Smith had 33-15 record in first three seasons as Falcons coach. Only NFL coaches with more wins going into fourth season are George Seifert (38-10 with San Francisco), Chuck Knox (34-8 with the Los Angeles Rams) and Barry Switzer (34-14 with Dallas Cowboys). ... Atlanta has been outscored 78-33 in last two games. Falcons closed last season with 48-21 playoff loss to Green Bay. ... Eagles going for first 2-0 start since 2004. ... RB LeSean McCoy had 95 of his 122 yards rushing in fourth quarter against Rams. ... Falcons had three turnovers in last week's loss to Bears. They didn't have more than two in any regular-season game a year ago. ... Atlanta TE Tony Gonzalez became NFL's active leader in receptions (1,074) with five-catch performance vs. Chicago. ... Both quarterbacks faced plenty of pressure in Week 1. Ryan sacked five times and took 11 hits. Vick went down three times, though he ran for 98 yards.

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OPENING LINE - Giants by 31/2

RECORD VS. SPREAD - St. Louis 0-1; New York 0-1

SERIES RECORD - Rams lead 26-14

LAST MEETING - Giants beat Rams 41-13, Sept. 14, 2008

LAST WEEK - Rams lost to Eagles 31-13; Giants lost to Redskins 28-14.

RAMS OFFENSE - OVERALL (17), RUSH (8), PASS (23)

RAMS DEFENSE - OVERALL (26), RUSH (32), PASS (8)

GIANTS OFFENSE - OVERALL (20T), RUSH (22), PASS (18)

GIANTS DEFENSE - OVERALL (15), RUSH (9T), PASS (18)

STREAKS, STATS AND NOTES - Game between two of NFL's most banged up teams pits Steve Spagnuolo, Giants defensive coordinator for 2008 Super Bowl champions, vs. old boss, Tom Coughlin. ... New York has won last four regular season meetings. ... Rams QB Sam Bradford (bruised right index finger) needs 300 yards passing to reach 4,000 for his career. ... RB Cadillac Williams, who had 91 yards vs. Eagles, needs to step up with starter Steven Jackson nursing an injured quad. ...WR Brandon Gibson led team with 50 yards on three catches. ... Also, CB Ron Bartell is out for year with two fractures in neck, WR Danny Amendola (dislocated left elbow) could be out several weeks and backup DE C.J. Ah You will undergo wrist surgery. ... Giants QB Eli Manning 2-0 vs. Rams with seven TDs and no interceptions. ... RB Ahamd Bradshaw has rushed for 290 yards and three TDs in three Monday night games. ...WR Hakeem Nicks, who hurt knee in season opener, has 16 catches for 204 yards and two TDs in last two Monday night games. ... DE Jason Pierre-Paul tied career-high with two sacks last week. ... Pro Bowl DE Justin Tuck hopes to play after missing opener with sore neck.

[StarDust Bum]

Green Bay Packers Take On Panthers In Carolina

The defending Super Bowl champion Green Bay Packers have never lost a road opener under head coach Mike McCarthy and will look to improve to 6-0 in that scenario when they visit the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. Meanwhile, the Panthers have lost six of their last seven home openers but showed some promise last Sunday at Arizona in a 28-21 season-opening loss.

Game time is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. (ET) with television coverage provided by FOX. Green Bay opened as 10 ½-point favorites according to the Don Best odds screen, but some action on Carolina has lowered the line to 9 ½ in some places. The total is also getting bet up, going from an opener of 43 to as high as 47 following each team’s impressive offensive performance last week.

The Panthers (0-1 straight up and against the spread) are hoping that rookie quarterback Cam Newton continues his strong play after he set an NFL record for most passing yards in a first start with 422 against the Cardinals. Newton threw two touchdown passes to wide receiver Steve Smith and also ran for another score, although he also tossed his first interception. The reigning Heisman Trophy winner completed just 40 percent of his passes in the preseason, making many NFL experts wonder how long it would take for him develop.

The Packers (1-0 SU and ATS) will try to slow Newton down defensively, but they struggled last Thursday in a 42-34 home win against New Orleans. Saints quarterback Drew Brees picked their secondary apart en route to 419 yards and three touchdowns before a last-minute rally fell just short as they were stopped at the goal line on the game’s final play.

Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers got off to a very fast start in the victory and was named NFC Offensive Player of the Week after throwing for 312 yards and three touchdowns - all in the first quarter - against New Orleans. Rodgers connected with 10 different receivers, including tight end Jermichael Finley, who had three catches for 53 yards in his first regular-season action back in the lineup since suffering a knee injury last October 10.

The teams have split four meetings since 2002, with the Packers going 3-1 ATS. The underdog has also covered three of the last four games between the teams, and the ‘over’ has cashed in the past three. Carolina is just 1-7 ATS in its last eight games against NFC opponents while Green Bay is 12-3-1 ATS in its past 16 games against teams with losing records.

The Panthers will be without middle linebacker Jon Beason, who tore his Achilles’ tendon against Arizona. Beason will miss the rest of the season, and he will be replaced by Dan Connor.

The weather forecast for Sunday in Charlotte calls for a mix of sun and clouds and a high temperature of 74 degrees.