NFL: Week 3 Storylines

5.) Detroit Lions v Minnesota Vikings: For the second straight week, a game in which the Lions are playing is among the most interesting storylines. For the first time since 2007, Detroit starts out a season 2-0. This week, the Lions face their first divisional opponent in the Minnesota Vikings, led by the corpse of Donovon McNabb. The Lions are attempting to go 3-0 for the first time in 21(!) years, and it will come only if they can stop Adrian Peterson and the Vikings running game. A 3-0 start and a win in a divisional game will be huge for the Lions as they attempt to get back to the playoffs for the first time in this century (1999 was the last time the Lions got to the postseason). 

4.) New York Giants v Philadelphia Eagles: This game will be much more intriguing if Michael Vick starts at quarterback for the Eagles. However, due to a concussion suffered on Sunday nights in Atlanta, Vick’s status for this Sunday is currently listed as “unknown”. If Vick does not play, that will be huge for the Giants as they attempt to go 2-1 and 1-1 in the division. Last time the hated rivals faced off, Matt Dodge made the fatal mistake of punting to DeSean Jackson, who took the kick and returned it for a game winning touchdown at the end of the fourth quarter. Although this game is currently listed as the #4 most intriguing matchup of week three, if Michael Vick does play then this is another must-watch. 

3.) Buffalo v New England: The Buffalo Bills have been among the most unexpected 2-0 teams of the 2011 season. First, they demolished the Kansas City Chiefs in Kansas City. Then, they battled back in the second half to defeat the resurgent Oakland Raiders, 38-35, the game winning touchdown being thrown from Ryan Fitzpatrick to David Nelson within the final minute. Its still uncertain if Buffalo is a “good” team, but nonetheless a competitive performance against the high-flying Patriots would change alot of perceptions about the Bills. New England and Tom Brady look like the record setting team of 2007, but the defense can be scored upon, so look for big days from Fitzpatrick and the NFL’s leading rusher Fred Jackson. 

2.) Washington Redskins v Dallas Cowboys: This matchup used to be among the most talked about in sports. However, in recent years the Redskins and Cowboys have been mediocre at best. Now, the Redskins are 2-0 and at the top of the NFC East. The Cowboys are 1-1 and looking to ride the momentum following an overtime victory in San Francisco. If Tony Romo can stay healthy throughout the game, then this could be one of the best games of the young season. 

1.) Green Bay Packers v Chicago Bears: This matchup will always be among the most intriguing, even if both teams stink. Fortunately, both of these teams are among the best in the NFC this year. The defending champion Packers are 2-0 so far this season, while the Bears are 1-1 after falling to the Saints. However, the Bears do pose a true test for the Packers. If Jay Cutler can be given enough time in the pocket to disect the Green Bay secondary, then the Packers may be headed for their first loss since losing to the Patriots in week 15 of last season.