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

Washington Redskins @ Houston Texans 1 PM Fox

Aug 28, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) prepares to throw the ball prior to the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

The match-up: Both of these team underachieved last season. Washington had to deal with the aftermath of Robert Griffin III’s injury while the Texans lost running back Arian Foster. Ultimately Gary Kubiak lost his job with the Texans and in his place is Bill O’Brien, the former Penn State head coach. O’Brien will run a better offense than Kubiak did however a quarterback is needed. Right now Ryan Fitzpatrick has to be that guy while Tom Savage learns and recently acquired Ryan Mallett continues to wait. Washington acquired DeSean Jackson and he will team with Pierre Garcon to form an offense that could bring this team back into the playoffs.

Why Washington will win: I truly believe Robert Griffin III will step up and have a good season. With Jackson now in the mix, he won’t have to do everything himself. He has Alfred Morris [2,888 yards and 20 touchdowns in two seasons] to run the ball and Garcon, while injury prone, has a wide receiver that will challenge him but also is capable of taking his place should another injury occur.

Why Houston will win: Houston can win this game because of O’Brien. O’Brien changed the culture and to an extent the stigma of Penn State. He learned how to succeed in the NFL thanks to Bill Belichick. If Andre Johnson can put the contract drama and demands aside and Arian Foster can run free then this team could do well. The Texans do need a second wide receiver that can consistently step up.

Final score: Redskins 30 Texans 20