Three observations …

• Thursday was the first time a Bill Belichick-coached Patriots team won a game despite having more punts (11) than first downs (nine).

• Raiders quarterback Terrelle Pryor, who had 217 yards passing and 112 rushing in a near upset of the Colts, isn't a good enough passer to take full advantage of the read-option.

• Southern Cal, with 40, had the most players represented on last week's opening-day rosters. The Vikings have four: Matt Cassel, Rhett Ellison, Matt Kalil and Everson Griffen.

Two predictions …

• Eli Manning will surprise all of us again, upsetting older brother Peyton at home.

• The Browns, who are at Baltimore, will do their part in trying to make next week's Vikings home opener a battle of 0-2 teams.