[Lunchbox]

The opener is on the house, courtesy of Lunch Box Sports Handicapping
Raiders at Patriots (-7.5)
The Champs are set to open the season at home for the second straight year. For the second straight year, they are defending the title as well. The Raiders have added great pieces to their offensive puzzle, but are still somewhat puzzling on defense. All the pre-game talk has centered around the Raiders' offense vs. the Patriots' defense. The real key to this game. however, is Corey Dillon and the Pats' O line vs the aging by the minute Raiders D line. Belichick has had a whole offseason to prepare for this game, and it will show. Look for the Patriots to control the clock by converting a high percentage of third downs with 4 and 5 wide out sets, and pounding the ball with Dillon.