WASHINGTON, Sept. 3 (UPI) -- The NFL campaign opens Thursday when the New York Jets visit Washington in a matchup of teams that were often linked during the offseason.
The Redskins created a rivalry when they raided the Jets for four free agents -- wide receiver Laveranues Coles, guard Randy Thomas, returner Chad Morton and kicker John Hall.
"I don't think you could've picked a game any better than this," said Jets defensive end John Abraham. "It automatically gets you hyped. It's the first game and it's a game against ex-teammates, so you want to play well."
Britney Spears, Aerosmith and Mary J. Blige will be among the entertainers saluting U.S. military personnel at The National Mall as part of the pre-game festivities. Aretha Franklin will sing the national anthem to conclude the concert.
