After an endless pre-season, the National Football League games begin in earnest.  The opener is a Thursday night special and it features the defending Super Bowl champions, the Pittsburgh Steelers, against the Tennessee Titans, a feared long-time rival.  There is no love lost between these two foes.  While Pittsburgh Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger had his share of legal issues this offseason, the Tennessee club had its share of tragedy.

Former Titan QB Steve McNair, a local Memphis, TN hero, was shot to death by a woman he had befriended, and the town and team continue to mourn his loss.  Another loss suffered by the Titans in the offseason was losing nose tackle Albert Hainesworth to the Washington Redskins.

Steve Fisher, the Titans Head Coach, is renowned for his ability to coach and motivate his players.  He has a huge challenge in front of him, and the success of the Titans this year could very well rest in how he is able to unite his team.

For starters, we’ll wager $100 on each game listed, and add two $50 parlays.  Here are our predictions for week one.

Titans (+5) over the Steelers – There’s something to be said about a team on a mission.  The Steelers might win the game in overtime on a field goal, but it’s too early in the season for Roethlisberger to be sharp against a defense as strong as the Titans.

Jets (+ 4 ½) over the Texans – The Texans are expected to be a much improved team, but so do the Jets.  Mark Sanchez, the Jets rookie QB, appears to be the real deal.  Take the Jets and the points on the road.

Giants (-9) over the Redskins – The giants are still fuming over the way the season ended for them last year.  Take the Giants in a route over a clueless Redskin team.

Atlanta (-4) over the Dolphins – Matt Ryan will have a big game, and the Falcons will cruise to an easy victory over Miami, who used up all its good luck last year.

Carolina (+1) over the Eagles – This is the toughest game on the board to predict, so we’ll meet the challenge.  Carolina’s big running backs will wear down the Eagle defense in the final quarter in the September heat in North Carolina to win by a field goal.  Take the Panthers.

Denver (4 ½) over Cincinnati – Denver is not going to be as bad as everyone is predicting.  Plus, how can Cincy be favoured over anyone?  Take the Broncos and the points in the league opener.

Other games:

Baltimore (-10 1/2) over Kansas City

San Francisco (+6 ½) over Arizona

Seattle (-7 ½) over St. Louis

3- Team Parlay – Titans, Carolina and Seattle

Monday Night:

Parlay the Patriots and Raiders with the NY Giants

Good luck to all sportsbook betting investors.  I’ll be back in week 3 to win some more money for you.  Support your favourite online sportsbook gambling parlour!