Week 1 previews:

Keys to victory for all 32 teams, plus predictions, Danny Sheridan’s lines, schedules and stats, Pages 10-17.

Thursday, 8:20 p.m. ET, Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia

TV: NBC

Danny Sheridan’s line: Eagles by 3 ⁄2

1

Falcons’ keys to victory

Offensive players such as Julio Jones, Tevin Coleman, Devonta Freeman and rookie WR Calvin Ridley give QB Matt Ryan explosive options. The offensive line moves well and will have the benefit of blocking the Eagles straight up, as Philly will be less likely to blitz aggressively with WR Jones capable of huge plays. Offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian seeks the run-pass harmony that can make Ryan so formidable. CBs Desmond Trufant and Robert Alford are capable of locking receivers down on the outside or in the slot. LBs Deion Jones and De’Vondre Campbell need to make tackles at the point of attack while edge rusher Vic Beasley will need to be on his game.

Eagles’ keys to victory

With QB Carson Wentz, who is coming off a knee injury, not quite ready to go, Nick Foles will start. Foles stepped in for Wentz last season and led the franchise to its first Super Bowl title, earning MVP honors. The offensive line should be able to push the Atlanta front around. On the outside, if WR Mike Wallace can win his battles, Nelson Agholor and Zach Ertz cab operate freely in space.

Who wins?

The defending Super Bowl champion Eagles ride their fired up crowd and a running game led by Jay Ajayi and Darren Sproles.

Eagles, 28-21