RB Clinton Portis vs. Giants run defense

The passing game is still in transition for quarterback Jason Campbell and head coach Jim Zorn, so expect the Redskins to call on Portis to carry the load early in the season, starting against the Giants. For a change, Portis received some work in August, carrying 15 times for 50 yards. In his last game against New York (December 2007), he helped the Redskins dominate the Giants, carrying 25 times for 126 yards and one touchdown. He has three career 100-yard games against New York.

WR Santana Moss vs. CB Corey Webster

Moss caught a 49-yard pass over Webster in Week 3 last year that sent Webster to the bench for most of the season. But he rediscovered his game in the playoffs and is a starter again. Webster has the speed to keep up with Moss, good hands to play the ball and a newfound confidence. Lining up against the small, shifty and speedy Moss out of the gate could be a huge test, though.

WR Plaxico Burress vs. CBs Carlos Rogers and Shawn Springs

Playing with torn ligaments in his right ankle last season, Burress had 70 catches for 1,025 yards and 12 touchdowns, even though he barely practiced all season. Now he's 100 percent and has been practicing for two weeks. With the Giants 0-2 and facing a 17-3 halftime deficit in Week 3 last year, Burress helped saved the season, and Rogers (knee) was often the player he beat. Burress caught five passes for 86 yards, including the 33-yard game-winner. Rogers struggled against Burress' physical play. Rogers is still coming back from last year's ACL injury and might be vulnerable, too. The Giants should try to match up Burress against Rogers, but the Redskins will probably try to match up Burress against Springs. At 6-foot-5, Burress was a mismatch for the 6-foot-0 Springs even on one good ankle, though.