Week 1 gameday predictions

By MARK CRAIG, Star Tribune

Last update: September 7, 2008 - 9:08 AM

PLAYER MATCHUP OF THE WEEK

Jets QB Brett Favre vs. Dolphins secondary

Favre's Jets debut comes against a team that was 1-15 a year ago. But the word out of Miami is the Dolphins' secondary might be the strongest unit on the team with the exception of running back. Three of four starting defensive backs return from last year's fourth-ranked pass defense. The Dolphins' 32nd-ranked run defense also played a role in the high ranking in pass defense.

COACHING MATCHUP OF THE WEEK

Colts head coach Tony Dungy vs. Bears coach Lovie Smith

The old friends meet in a regular-season game for the first time since the Colts beat the Bears on a rainy night in Miami in Super Bowl XLI. For the first time in years, Dungy is concerned about his offense. QB Peyton Manning (knee) missed the entire preseason but is expected to play tonight. Smith, meanwhile, is hoping his defense, which is healthy again, can return to its Super Bowl XLI form.

HERO OF THE WEEK

Dolphins QB Chad Pennington

With all eyes on Favre, wouldn't it be typical of the unpredictable NFL if Pennington, the guy who got ousted from in New York to make room for Favre, stole the show? It should be steamy and near 90 degrees in Miami today. The Jets have lost four consecutive September games in Miami dating back to 1994.

MARK CRAIG