Boom or Bust: Week 1 predictions

By foxsports
Published

Every week in the NFL we have big-time booms. And for every boom, there's a bust.

So starting today, our late-week Schein Nine will go into the crystal ball for the week, boom or bust style.



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1. The Giants and Redskins will combine for 40 points.

This is a huge bust. I firmly believe in Washington's defense this year. Albert Haynesworth is more than a Daniel Snyder big-name free agent in the Deion Sanders or Bruce Smith category. He's a great, difference-making defensive tackle who changes the game. The Giants' passing attack is a major work-in-progress. While I firmly believe in Eli Manning, Brandon Jacobs and the Giants' incredible offensive line, questions at wide receiver and playing against the Washington defense will hold the Giants' offense back on Sunday.

The Giants' defense should suffocate Washington's right side of the offensive line. I like Jason Campbell, but the Giants' pass rush will be too much. And I think Clinton Portis will be held in check by the Giants' incredible rotation up front.

2. The Packers' new defense is ready for the Bears' new offense.

Call it a boom. Those close to the Packers can see a noticeable change in the way cornerbacks Al Harris and Charles Woodson are playing in the preseason. And Dom Capers is going to dial up the pressure against the very beatable Chicago offensive line. As much as I love Jay Cutler, I think he's good for a pick or two against Green Bay's incredible cornerback combination. I don't think the Bears' average receiving corps is ready for primetime quite yet.

3. Willie Parker will be the difference-maker for Pittsburgh against the Titans.

Parker is playing for respect, a new contract and job security with former first-rounder Rashard Mendenhall breathing down his neck. Coach Mike Tomlin tells us that Parker is his starting running back. It sounds good on the radio, but Parker is going to have to prove it again on the field to be relied upon.