Rule of thumb: When the superior team gets points -- even a measly one -- run with it. The Raiders will contend for a division title; the Saints will not. The Raiders claimed a No. 7 ranking last year in pass defense, which suggests they will contain QB Drew Brees. Their offense, on the rise with developing QB Derek Carr and an impressive supporting cast, could feast on the Saints' shaky defense. Traveling cross-country might be a factor later in the season, but not for an opener. Who dat say dey gonna beat dem Saints? Oakland, dat’s who — with justification.

After giving up an NFL-worst 6.6 yards per play in 2015 -- a full half-yard more than the next-worst teams, the Giants and Browns -- the Saints needed a jolt from No. 12 overall pick Sheldon Rankins. Instead the 305-pound defensive tackle broke his leg in practice, leaving this unit just as exposed as last season. Look for Derek Carr, Amari Cooper, Michael Crabtree and potentially rookie DeAndre Washington to light up the Superdome. An improved Raiders defense will do just enough.