The Saints are tied for the best record in the NFC at 4-2, but it's hard to tell by the amount of criticism the team has faced coming off its Super Bowl run.

A new coordinator. Antonio Pierce gone. Kenny Phillips' health in the balance. And Osi Umenyiora on the bench? The Giants need to figure out their defense, because the teams' success depends on it.

If the Steelers, Vikings, Jets and Texans want to fulfill their postseason expectations, they will have to successfully navigate the early portion of their schedules without suspended stars.

San Francisco TE Vernon Davis, Cleveland OT Joe Thomas, Houston DE Mario Williams and Dallas TE Jason Witten are continuing an NFL-USO tradition initiated more than 40 years ago.