NFL officially set to begin in six days, as a battle featuring the last two Super Bowl winners, kicks off week one of the regular season. This will be the second year in a row, that NFL betting lines handicappers get to watch the New Orleans Saints open up the season in the prime time Thursday game. If you recall from last season, the first week of the season, set the framework for what would become one of the most intriguing seasons in recent memory. Here are a few picks for week one of this season.

Indianapolis Colts vs. Houston Texans – With an injury to current starting quarterback Peyton Manning, the Indianapolis Colts enter the 2011 season as an underdog heading into week one of the regular season. Both breeders cup betting fans and scouts alike believe that in light of the Manning injury, this could be the year that the Houston Texans finally put it all together and make the playoffs.

With a newfound emphasis on defense, the Houston Texans are one team that could see their entire season impacted on the result of week one. If Houston can in fact defeat the injured Indianapolis Colts, it will go a long way in boosting their confidence. Conversely, if they lose the game, the depleted Colts will have the belief that they can contend without Peyton Manning for an extended period of time. Pick: Houston

Atlanta Falcons vs. Chicago Bears – This offseason, both the Falcons and Bears made a plethora of adjustments, after choking in big games during the 2011 NFC playoffs. Atlanta added depth on defense to go along with a strong offensive draft in April. Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears finally gave Jay Cutler a true number one wide receiver, by acquiring Roy Williams from the Dallas Cowboys. Known as a head case by some, Williams has the potential to help the Bears get back to the Super Bowl for the first time in six years.