The NFL season is just under two weeks away. Who will start at quarterback for the Steelers? Baker Mayfield has been named starter for the Panthers, but will that be enough for Carolina to stay afloat with a gauntlet of a schedule? Can the Patriots run their systematic scheme without having a clear offensive coordinator?
Here are some of the top storylines heading into the regular season.
Baker Mayfield’s New Home
Baker Mayfield has officially been named starting quarterback for the Carolina Panthers and his first test will be against the team who drafted him number one overall in 2018 and scorned him four years later. Can he play cool, calm and collected against the Browns? All eyes will be on him to see.
Tom Brady’s Time Off
How well will Tom Brady gel, make the calls at the line of scrimmage and get in synch with a new offensive lineman after missing multiple weeks of training camp due to family circumstances. The Saints have been a thorn in Brady’s side since his regime began in Tampa, and with the addition of All-Pro safety Tyrann Mathieu, did Brady make a mistake returning after initially retiring?
Dallas Cowboys’ Injuries
Dallas starting left tackle Tyron Smith is expected to miss the majority, if not the entire season, after tearing his hamstring during practice. There are many questions facing the Cowboys heading into week one. With injuries having decimated the receiving corps, who is a reputable option outside of Ceedee Lamb? Can Ezekiel Elliot stay healthy? Will Micah Parsons be the best and most impactful player on the entire roster?
New Orleans Saints as Favorites?
The Saints have arguably the best defense in the NFC and Michael Thomas’ return should not be underestimated. Add to that Tyrann Mathieu returning home alongside Marshon Lattimore, Marcus Maye, and Cameron Jordan on the interior and that should make the Saints a favorite to win the division.