Start – Andrew Luck, QB, Colts

Last season, Luck was solid at home, going 7-1 during the 2012 regular season. Luck has a favorable matchup in Week 1, facing an Oakland defense that is only returning two starters from the 2012 season. Oakland’s defense in 2012 was ranked towards the bottom in pass defense, and combined with the inexperience throughout the Oakland defensive unit; expect the vertical passing game of the Colts to look in Week-8 form for Week 1.

Sit – Phillip Rivers, QB, Chargers

For the past few seasons, Rivers has had plenty of problems turning the ball over. He faces a monstrous Texans defense led by All-Pro DE J.J Watt that thrives on forcing turnovers, so this is an incredibly unfavorable matchup for Rivers. Rivers’ receiving core is also hurting, and he already lost WR Danario Alexander for the season. Expect Rivers to have a lot of problems with wide receiver chemistry, protecting the ball and leading his team to a probable thumping against an elite defense.

Start – DeMarco Murray, RB, Cowboys

Murray was extremely effective in 2012 before being hit with an ACL injury mid-season. Against a Giants defense that has had problems stopping the run the past three seasons, Murray should have a very impressive return to the field for the Cowboys. Last season, against the Giants during Week 1, Murray ran for 131 yards, averaging 6.6 yards per rush. The Cowboys frequently involve Murray with their passing game, so expect great success for Murray against a Giants defense still trying to find their identity.

Sit – Chris Johnson, RB, Titans

Johnson has looked great in the preseason, and may take the step forward to returning to the All-Pro running back he was a few years ago. However, he won’t look good this week as he faces a Steelers defense that thrives on stopping the run. Plus, traveling to Pittsburgh is never easy, and with an offensive line that is still developing, it’ll be too steep of a hill to climb during Week 1.

Start – Danny Amendola, WR, Patriots

Amendola returns to the field with a new team, new quarterback, and new opportunity to win. Against a Bills secondary that is hurting, with injuries to Jairus Byrd and Stephon Gilmore, this secondary is both inexperienced and ineffective. Tom Brady will find Amendola early and often this week and exploit that weakness, so starting Amendola is more than just a safe pick.

Sit – Steve Smith, WR, Panthers

Smith will face perhaps his toughest test of the season against Seattle’s “Legion of Boom” defensive secondary. Smith will likely be matched with All-Pro Corner Richard Sherman most of the game, and you should expect the younger Sherman to win what should be a battle of two phenomenal athletes.