Peck's Picks: NFL Week One

BUFFALO (WIVB) - Each week here at wivb.com, as part of our football frenzy, I’ll give you my picks for the week’s upcoming NFL games. Sometimes, I’ll have a good idea about a game or a good feeling about a team. Other times, I’ll be guessing just like everyone else. It seems to me that the NFL has become even more unpredictable than ever before. Maybe its parity, maybe its better coaching and personnel decisions. I’ll try not to get hung up on picking a lot of upsets. Just remember, these picks are for entertainment only. I guarantee you, some weeks they’ll be for birdcage-lining only.  We’ll start each week with our thoughts on the Bills game.

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Bills vs. Dolphins: I think the Bills are better coached and will have a better plan each week. But I still think they’re 10 players away from being a really good team. The Dolphins are ahead of them. The addition of Brandon Marshall should open up the offense and make it easier for Chad Henne. They’re a tough team that plays good defense. The Bills, due to some unpredictability, should play well in this game and make it close. But the Dolphins are a better, more experienced squad. Winner: Miami.

Vikings vs. Saints: The celebratory atmosphere in the Big Easy should inspire the Saints. Missing Sidney Rice will hurt Brett Favre and so should the New Orleans pass rush. Winner: Saints

Lions vs. Bears: I like the Lions to make a good jump this year. They’ve got weapons on offense with Calvin Johnson and Jahvid Best. Matthew Stafford should be better. The Bears offensive line is shaky, and so is Jay Cutler. Winner: Lions.

Colts vs. Texans: Is this the year that the Texans leap into the playoffs? Their offense is great, and they appear to be a maturing team. The Colts are still terrific. But the emotion of a home opener should propel the Texans to finally beat the Colts. Winner: Texans

Broncos vs. Jaguars: I’m not sold on either team. Too many changes and missing parts in Denver. Too many questions in J-Ville. Broncos a bit better. Winner: Broncos.
Bengals vs. Patriots: I like the Bengals. Cedric Benson is really good, and should make life easier for Carson Palmer. The Pats secondary is young. I want to think that even with Brady, the Pats run of success may be coming to an end. Winner: Bengals.

Panthers vs. Giants: Last meeting between these two, December 2009: Carolina 41-9. This meeting, New York revenge. Winner: Giants.

Falcons vs. Steelers: I expect Atlanta to be a playoff team. Without Roethlisberger, I expect the Steelers to struggle. Winner: Falcons

Browns vs. Buccaneers: I can’t wait to see Buffalo’s Mike Williams start as a rookie. But his QB is banged up, and Jake Delhomme is a solid vet. Winner: Browns.
Raiders vs. Titans: I like the Raiders. They’re defense is good. Jason Campbell will solidify their offense. The world will be ready to try and stop Chris Johnson. Winner: Raiders.

Packers vs. Eagles: The Eagles will struggle a bit with the transition to Kevin Kolb. Green Bay is fantastic on offense and solid on defense. Winner: Packers.

Cardinals vs. Rams: Rookie QB Sam Bradford vs…..Derek Anderson? Wow. What a drop from Kurt Warner. Go with the opening game, home game emotion for St. Louis. Winner: Rams.

49ers vs. Seahawks: Pete Carroll has 26 new players, the most in the NFL. San Fran is getting close under Mike Singletary. Winner: 49ers.

Cowboys vs. Redskins: I really like the Wade Phillips boys. Lots of talent on offense and defense. Felix Jones will have a breakout year. Donovan McNabb is hobbled and still learning his new team, which has no good receiving threats. Winner: Cowboys.

Ravens vs. Jets: Are you sick of the Jets hype? I do like Rex “#@%*&%” Ryan and his bluster. But Sanchez is still not there, and the league will start to figure out the New York blitzes. Joe Flacco may be ready to bust out with weapons like Boldin and Houshmandzadeh. Winner: Ravens.

Chargers vs. Chiefs: Is this the year that San Diego finally gets to the Super Bowl? Yes. Winner: Chargers.