NFL Opening Week: Predicting All 16 Games As Pro Football Returns

New York Giants @ Detroit Lions Monday 7:10 PM ESPN

Dec 16, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson (81) is unable to complete a pass while being pressured by Baltimore Ravens cornerback Jimmy Smith (22) during the fourth quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

The match-up: The New York Giants had a disappointing 7-9 season that left them out of playoff contention. Hoping to find an additional wide receiver to alleviate pressure from Victor Cruz [3,626 yards in four seasons] the Giants drafted Odell Beckham Jr. from LSU. Beckham Jr. had 2,340 yards in his three seasons with the team. Eli Manning for the second time in his career had more interceptions [27] than touchdowns [18] and hopes to change that this season. After a 7-9 2013 campaign, Jim Schwartz was fired and Jim Caldwell was hired in his place. Among the Lions free agent signings was wide receiver Golden Tate.

Why New York will win: The Giants will likely avoid last place this season because the Dallas Cowboys defense is that horrible. To win this game, Eli Manning will need to avoid being the 2013 version of himself. Last year was the odd year out. Also Defensive Coordinator Perry Fewell needs to find consistency. Players such as Jon Beason [676 career tackles] will fight every week.

Why Detroit will win: Detroit hired a secret weapon this year, Joe Lombardi who will serve as the team’s offensive coordinator. He previously served as quarterbacks coach for the New Orleans Saints from 2009-2013 and that bodes well for Matt Stafford [17,457 yards in five seasons]. I believe the Lions will run a Saints style of offense and that the Lions will be back in the playoffs. Oh and they have a guy named Calvin Johnson [9,328 receiving yards and 66 touchdowns in seven seasons].

Final score: Lions 31 Giants 10 Monday 10:20 PM ESPN