Linebacker Ray Lewis and safety Ed Reed are gone from the defending champions. Six new starters, still talented but best time to play them is early.

On offense top-notch receiver Anquan Boldin was traded to San Francisco, and Dennis Pitta, who became a key weapon at tight end.

Manning threw for 4,659 yards and 37 touchdowns in 2012, but this year he'll have wide receiver Wes Welker, which should be a boost to an already potent offense. Welker is perfect for Manning and his hot reads.

Denver strong running game with Montee Ball, Knowshon Moreno, Ronnie Hillman, Jacob Hester and C.J. Anderson. Manning has a pretty good offensive line protecting him, especially at the two tackle spots with Ryan Clady and Orlando Franklin

Last season, Manning was sacked just 21 times. Only little brother Eli was sacked fewer times among regular NFL starting quarterbacks.

You know how boiler room touts claim to have scouts all over the country, blah, blah? Well in the most practical sense we do because there are so many quality websites covering the NFL from different angles.

Some proven opinions believe Montee Ball will be a breakout player. Among our Golden Rules is to listen to what the oddsmakers are saying and use their knowledge against them.

Making the defending Super Bowl champs a substantial underdog on opening night is a powerful statement. You will see tonight why.