Friday, 4 a.m.
No player in NFL history has provided more answers than he has. Yet, for Tom Brady, the questions keep coming.
Is his focus wavering? Is he worried about the newcomers on his offensive line? Are the rumors about his marriage true? Can he take more advantage of the Cowboys secondary than Dak Prescott will of his? Will he wear a mask and sing? Is he finally too old?
More than any of those, can he add another chapter to his legacy?
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He is the player in the NFL who means the most to his franchise. He has accomplished more than anyone ever. His team is built around his whims, his wishes, his will.
But as a new season begins, and a new journey, it is time for Brady to answer questions all over again.
It's an ambitious undertaking. If Brady loses in triple overtime of the NFL title game, well, that's a loss.
And so the questions begin. Can the Bucs build enough of a running game to help Brady? Can they rush the passer? Can he figure out this punt coverage puzzle?
Still, it comes down to Brady.
Hey, I know the Bucs have a dreadful early-season schedule. But I still like the Bucs in this one. Brady is the master of the comeback (42 fourth-quarter rallies), and it figures to be close.
Any questions?
Prediction: Tampa Bay 24, Dallas 23.
In other games:
New Orleans 32, Atlanta 14.
Miami 27, New England 24.
Green Bay 30, Minnesota 21.
And in the college game:
Alabama 30, Texas 13.
South Florida 25, Howard 11.
Florida 24, Kentucky 21.
Miami 40, Southern Miss 14.