Game 2: Redskins (0-1) at Cowboys (0-1)

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It's only the second game of the season, but the Redskins' Sunday Night matchup with the Cowboys already has a do-or-die feel to it. The winner of the game leaves the field on even footing; the loser walks away 0-2 and facing an uphill climb. As if this weren't enough, each team is facing its biggest rival before they have a chance to shake off the early-season rust. Simply put: the stakes are as high as they could possibly be for a Week 2 game.

Team expectations aren't the only ticking time bomb set to explode on Sunday night; individuals on each team must prove their mettle or go home. For sure, all eyes will be on Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe. After opening his 14th season in the league with a three-interception outing, Bledsoe must past muster on the field or risk the immediate end of his career at the hands of Bill Parcels' impatience and the allure of Tony Romo. The Cowboys have spent the past several seasons amassing a formidable receiving corps, and Parcells needs a quarterback who can cash in on the investment.

The Redskins are feeling the pressure too. Mark Brunell has to keep the Redskins afloat at quarterback this season as it's clear that neither Jason Campbell nor Todd Collins is ready for prime time yet. Joe Gibbs has had the time he needs to purge the mistakes of the Turner/Spurrier/Schottenheimer era; this is unquestionably his team now. The Skins are somewhat of an enigma: in theory, they have all the pieces of a juggernaut, but in practice they just don't seem to click. This was certainly the case last season, as the team stumbled early before righting the ship. The injuries to Clinton Portis and Shawn Springs are a hindrance, but the team should have the talent to carry on in their stead. The pressure is on Joe Gibbs to show that he's still got what it takes to create a winner.

As dire as these circumstances may seem, it's still only Week 2. The loser of this weekend's contest will live to see another day...well, Monday, anyway.

This is a gameday open thread.