By Tim Graham
As if opening day wasn't exciting in itself, Sunday's game between the Buffalo Bills and New York Jets at the Meadowlands is bursting with juicy matchups.
Let's highlight a few and then vote on the one that's most intriguing.
Bills receiver Stevie Johnson versus Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis: Revis is the best cornerback in the game and maybe the best defensive player at any position. But Johnson made some plays against him last year. Johnson had three catches for 84 yards in the first game and eight catches for 75 yards and the only touchdown Revis allowed all season in the rematch. Revis will be extra jacked to ensure Johnson's success doesn't become a trend.
Bills left defensive end Mario Williams versus Jets right tackle Austin Howard: The Bills made Williams the highest-paid defensive player in NFL history because they want him to terrorize quarterbacks. Howard has played in four NFL games and has made a single start. I'm sure Mark Sanchez is aware of this.
Bills running back Fred Jackson versus Jets linebacker Bart Scott: I could have gone with Jets linebacker David Harris here. He's better than Scott, after all. But Scott is one of those players opposing fans love to hate. If Jackson gets into the second level, then Scott's job will be to bring him down. Scott is a highly efficient tackler. And talks a lot.
Bills left tackle Cordy Glenn versus Jets outside linebacker Aaron Maybin: The Bills think highly of Glenn, their second-round draft choice. But he will be making his NFL debut in a stadium with Fireman Ed leading 82,000 fans in chants of "J-E-T-S! Jets! Jets! Jets!" Maybin is the Bills' former first-round pick who has excelled with the Jets as a pass-rushing specialist.
Wildcat versus Wildcat: So many names to consider here. Tim Tebow! The Jets' former Wildcat quarterback Brad Smith now with the Bills. Jets offensive coordinator Tony Sparano and Bills quarterbacks coach David Lee, the ones who brought the Wildcat into vogue with the Miami Dolphins in 2008. And did I mention Tim Tebow?
Bills defensive tackle Kyle Williams versus Jets center Nick Mangold: This is a terrific matchup for those who like to monitor the trenches. Williams was a Pro Bowl nose tackle two years and is coming back from an Achilles injury. Mangold is considered the NFL's best center.
Bills center Eric Wood versus Jets nose tackle Sione Pouha: Wood played terrifically last year and emerged as a Pro Bowl candidate before a knee injury ended his season. Pouha is one of the league's most underrated defensive linemen, a true 3-4 run stuffer.
