NFL Football is Back: Giants versus Cowboys in 2012 Season Opener

These teams played each other in the last game of the year. Of course, New York got to play four more because they won, and went all the way to a title. The Cowboys had an opportunity to win the NFC East but backed it up badly against both the Eagles and the Giants.

Which teams will show up? With the Giants, they are healthier than they were last year when they gave up over 400 points in the regular season. The Cowboys come in with their own health issue, but as of now, it looks like Jason Witten is going to pull off a all-time gritty moment and play.

Here are four things to look for on opening night:

Injured receivers, who steps up? Hakeem Nicks got in for a few plays in the final preseason game, and will play tonight. Miles Austin was limited, and Jason Witten is going to do a Kirk Gibson impersonation tonight. Who will be effective?

Giants Pass Rush: Jason Pierre-Paul and company terrorized Romo in the decisive final game. They were a catalyst for the playoff run. Dallas will have to figure out a way to neutralize the rush and get rid of the ball quickly.

Dallas Secondary Changes: How will Brandon Carr and Mo Claiborne hold up? A tough first test against Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks will give us an early look.

Cowboys on NBC: Dallas is 0-7 on NBC in their last 7 primetime games, and the defending Super Bowl Champion is 8-0 in these primetime openers. Breaking: really good teams tend to win at home straight up. Only a fool would take the Cowboys.

The Pick: Dallas +4

[photo via US Presswire]