Jay Novacek

Cowboys at Browns
I really hope the Browns build on that great season they had last year. If their offense keeps up that nice run-pass balance, they’ll be tough to stop. You can’t rule them out.

Still, this is a tough matchup for them. I think the Cowboys are better are just about every position, especially in the kicking game.

The Cowboys will have to be more business-like this season to replicate their 2007 regular season. Even if they struggle at the start, they’ll be better by season’s end.

Pick: Cowboys

Panthers at Chargers
San Diego had as good of a chance to be in the Super Bowl as any team last season. Norv Turner’s been looking at those AFC championship game tapes and making tweaks here and there to ensure the Chargers don’t fall short this season.

If their defense holds up – particularly Shawne Merriman’s knee – they’ll have a chance at the Super Bowl.

Pick: Chargers

Cardinals at 49ers
I like that Arizona is going with Kurt Warner at quarterback instead of Matt Leinart. Warner gives the Cardinals their best chance to win because he sees the field and has two great receivers in Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald. As long as they protect him, he’ll pick defenses apart.

I like that they’re going with Warner. They can throw the ball. They have good receivers, protect Warner and he’ll throw the ball all over the place.

As for the 49ers, it’s too early to tell if they’ve improved. Holding out judgment on that one.

Pick: Cardinals

Bears at Colts
He may have missed the whole preseason, but Peyton Manning won’t miss a beat. That offense will still be one of the league’s best. Same goes for the defense.

Indianapolis’ ‘D’ flies all over the place, makes plays and ensures opponents don’t have any easy time passing or running the ball.

That’s bad news for the Bears. Their offense is still bad and their defense can only do so much.

Pick: Colts

Vikings at Packers
I know the Vikings are supposed to be an NFC contender this season. With that defense and Adrian Peterson, it’s easy to see why.

But this isn’t an easy game. They have to open on the road, at a division rival that was in the NFC championship game last season. That’s a brutal combination.

And right now, when you match up two teams with similar strengths and weaknesses, I’m going with the home team.

Special feature The older the better Some QBs get better with age, some do not NBCSports.com

Aaron Rodgers? He’s going to be just fine. He’s watched enough and is ready to go.

Pick: Packers

Broncos at Raiders
The Broncos have always been able to run the ball. If they get on a roll against Oakland, they’ll be tough to stop.

This is an important game for Denver, too. It’s the one team in the division that can push San Diego for the division title. If the Broncos stumble here, kiss that goodbye.

Pick: Broncos

MORE FROM NFL

NFL Section Front

Beware the big names PFT’s Picks: Chargers’ streak will end; Colts will lose PFT: Childress says he's not micromanaging Favre Trash Talk: Favre is starting to show his age PFT: Haley denies giving middle finger to fan PFT: Frye to start at QB for Raiders Freeney, Mathis among 6 Colts who sit out practice Celizic: No more free passes for Peyton   Pompei: Saints and Colts have taught NFL a lesson   PFT Daily: NFL's head case with concussions NFL Section Front   Add NFL headlines to your news reader: