Quarterback
Matt Schaub – Schaub opens the season at home against the New York Jets, who look to have much improved defense under Rex Ryan. The Jets are going to put a lot of pressure on the Texans. Schaub is dealing with a sprained ankle, and with his injury history, I wouldn’t be surprised if he were knocked out of the game.
Running Backs
Chris Johnson – I know it’s tough to bench your #1 pick, but Johnson will have his work cut out for him facing the defending Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers should be fired up to defend their title at home. Johnson had a nice game against the Steelers at home last year (16 carries for 69 yards, TD), but playing in Pittsburgh is a different story.
Darren McFadden – Many are expecting Run DMC to make a big step forward in 2009. While I agree with them, I don’t see it happening this week. The Chargers’ defense was awful last year. They want to make a statement to the NFL that they’re back. The Chargers offense is so high-powered that the Raiders will likely being playing from behind, limiting the opportunities for McFadden to showcase his talents. Finally, it’s not clear how the Raiders are going to split up their carries. I’d look elsewhere for my RB2.
Wide Receiver
Dwayne Bowe – Kansas City is a mess. Facing Baltimore is no way for Todd Haley to get off to a fast start. Bowe will get plenty of Raven attention, and with either a injured Cassel or a backup QB under Center, I just don’t like Bowe’s prospects.
Braylon Edwards – Braylon is a guy that I expect to bounce back in 2009, but whoever wins the starting gig is going to be under heavy pressure. If Edwards still has a problem holding on to the football, it could be a long game for the former Wolverine.
