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3 must see NFL debut matchups to watch in Week 1 schedule

By Loyal Ricks Jr

NFL Power Rankings, Aaron Rodgers: Russell Wilson #3 of the Denver Broncos attempts a pass during the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at Empower Field At Mile High on January 08, 2023 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)
NFL Power Rankings, Aaron Rodgers: Russell Wilson #3 of the Denver Broncos attempts a pass during the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at Empower Field At Mile High on January 08, 2023 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images) /
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There’s a lot to explore, but you don’t want to miss these NFL debut matchups.

DENVER, COLORADO – AUGUST 26: Running back Tyler Badie #36 of the Denver Broncos celebrates after a touchdown against the Los Angeles Rams in the fourth quarter of the preseason game at Empower Field at Mile High on August 26, 2023 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
DENVER, COLORADO – AUGUST 26: Running back Tyler Badie #36 of the Denver Broncos celebrates after a touchdown against the Los Angeles Rams in the fourth quarter of the preseason game at Empower Field at Mile High on August 26, 2023 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images) /

NFL Opening Week Debut Matchup

#3: Las Vegas Raiders @ Denver Broncos 4:25 PM

A victory against a division rival would be a great way for Sean Payton to restart his coaching career. General Manager George Paton hired the former New Orleans Saints Head Coach after a disastrous 2022 season. It was clear the Broncos fell short of expectations. Their blockbuster pre-season trade returned unfruitful – leaving Payton to remold the franchise. Sunday’s matchup will let fans see if the former Super Bowl-winning coach can refocus a group that squandered an opportunity.

Dave Zeigler’s front office had a busy off-season. They did not waste time finding a new home for their former four-time pro-bowler. It was time for Derek Carr to find greener pastures, and the Raiders dealt him to the highest bidder. Carr soon became the newest member of the Saints, and the Raiders became determined to sign a veteran gunslinger. They eventually agreed to a 3-year $72,750,000 deal. His leadership skills are in question, but many believe Jimmy G can get the job done in Las Vegas.

NFL Opening Week Debut Matchup

#2: Jacksonville Jaguars @ Indianapolis Colts 1:00 PM

Rookie debuts are special. They indicate new beginnings for both the player and the organization. Chris Ballard believes his franchise is heading in the right direction. The Indianapolis Colts exchanged their first-round draft pick for Anthony Richard – a dual-threat quarterback from the University of Florida. His hard work in the off-season was enough to impress his coaching staff. Fans anticipate his career start despite Jonathan Taylor’s absence.

Developing a winning franchise begins with the quarterback position. The Colts and the Jaguars are two franchises experimenting with their versions of a franchise quarterback. A successful season could result in a divisional title. It could also eventually lead to a playoff berth. An unsuccessful campaign will send front offices to the drawing board with tough questions to answer following the season.

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