As expected, the season-opening showdown between the Atlanta Falcons and Philadelphia Eagles provided a fitting launching point for what should be a thrilling season.
There, the Eagles survived a near carbon copy of last season's NFC Divisional Round playoff game and thwarted multiple last-second end-zone shots to Julio Jones, including one as the time expired, to secure an 18-12 victory.
Keep in mind the NFL season is a lengthy affair and much can change. But one year ago, the Kansas City Chiefs knocking off the New England Patriots in Foxborough at least foreshadowed two of the playoff participants.