While most of the country focuses their attention to the Brady versus Brees QB showdown in Week 1, four pairs of quarterbacks from the same draft class will go at it, all trying to show a positive return on their franchise's investment.
Let's take a closer look at each matchup.
2016 Draft Class: Jared Goff (LAR) vs. Dak Prescott (DAL)
Better Career To-Date: Prescott. While Goff was a pro bowler in 2017 and 2018, it's Dak who has consistently lit up stat sheets since unseating Tony Romo as Cowboys starter during his rookie season.
What to Watch For: Goff's level of confidence. After leading L.A. to a Super Bowl in 2018, his interceptions jumped considerably in 2019 (16 in total) and many began to question the Rams' long-term commitment to the former first overall pick.
Our Prediction: Rams by 1
2017 Draft Class: Patrick Mahomes (KC) vs. Deshaun Watson (HOU)
Better Career To-Date: Obviously, Mahomes. But, Watson has performed at a high level given the weapons available to him on offense, well worth the 12th overall pick in the 2017 draft.
What to Watch For: Houston's pass distribution. After years of reliance on DeAndre Hopkins as the primary target, Watson can now entrust one of four different No.2-caliber receivers (Will Fuller, Brandin Cooks, Kenny Stills, Randall Cobb) to get separation from defenders and make plays after the catch.
Our Prediction: Chiefs by 7
2018 Draft Class A: Lamar Jackson (BAL) vs. Baker Mayfield (CLE)
Better Career To-Date: As reigning NFL MVP, it's clearly Jackson. Aside from Jackson's postseason struggle versus Tennessee in January, his overall performance since taking over for Joe Flacco in 2018 has been immaculate.
What to Watch For: Mayfield's leadership. Coming off of a disappointing 2019 season that had many thinking playoffs for the Browns, it's on the third-year quarterback to set the right expectations and pace the 2020 season one game at a time.
Our Prediction: Ravens by 6
2018 Draft Class B: Josh Allen (BUF) vs. Sam Darnold (NYJ)
Better Career To-Date: Allen. Thanks to his dual-threat ability, he has avoided the need to improve passing mechanics at the same level of urgency that Darnold has had to as an NFL quarterback.
What to Watch For: The new Allen-to-Diggs connection. Since being drafted, Allen has been without a true No.1 wide receiver. Stefon Diggs' presence should reduce the need for Allen to make plays on his legs and enable a more balanced attack on offense.
Our Prediction: Bills by 9
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