It’s no surprise to see Nick Foles, the Super Bowl MVP, getting the start at quarterback in Philadelphia’s opener. But how Foles will perform is a mystery. He did not win the job in the preseason. He’s the starter by default because Carson Wentz is not physically ready. Foles flopped in August, and he goes into the game without injured wideout Alshon Jeffery.

Expect the Eagles to target tight ends Zach Ertz and Dallas Goedert early and often to help Foles find a rhythm. Philadelphia’s offense sputtered in its 15-10 victory over Atlanta in the NFC playoffs, and the Eagles escaped only after Matt Ryan misfired in the red zone late in the game. Ryan has more weapons around him than Foles, beginning with Julio Jones.

It’s difficult for defenses to overload coverages to Jones because he’s flanked by wideouts Mohamed Sanu and Calvin Ridley. The Falcons also attack with running backs Tevin Coleman and Devonta Freeman. Philadelphia boasted the NFL’s No. 1 run defense last year, allowing only 79.2 yards per game, and stopping the run will be the priority.

The play: More signs point to the Falcons, but the line has dropped from 5¹/₂ to 1½ in the past two months, so the good number on the underdog is long gone. With two tough defenses and at least one struggling QB, under the total of 45 might be the better bet.