There are now no NFL-free Sundays until February 10. If that doesn’t make you smile, consult a doctor or psychiatrist. The NFL is the greatest sports league in the world, and we’re in for an awesome season following an eventful summer. Here are 10 reasons to be pumped for kickoff on Wednesday night.

Predictions

Whether it’s your best friend or one of the “experts,” everyone thinks they know how the NFL season is going to play out. Even though it’s impossible to know what’s going to happen, because of injuries and other variables, it’s fun to look at schedules and try to predict the Super Bowl champ, the MVP, the rushing title, and all that fun stuff. While we’re on the subject, New York Giants over Houston Texans in Super Bowl XLVII. You read it here first.

Talk is Cheap, Play the Game

There is so much hype and talk in the summer leading up to a new football season. Finally, we’ll get to see how these players and teams actually perform in the spotlight. I’m looking at you, New York Jets and Dallas Cowboys. It’s easy to talk in the summer, but it’s a totally different story when the shoulder pads are strapped on tight and the season gets going.

Summer Stories become Reality

This year it’s all about quarterbacks. How will the rookies: Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III, Russell Wilson, Brandon Weeden, and Ryan Tannehill all perform? There is a ton of talent among those 5 new starters, but zero experience. I can’t wait to see how they play this year. Of course then we have that guy on the Jets. We’ll finally see how the Jets use Tim Tebow (I still think he’s starting by week 5 or 6). Finally, there’s Peyton. We’ve seen more than enough coverage of the Denver Broncos camp to last a lifetime, so seeing him on the field will be both rewarding and interesting.

SportsCenter is Watchable Again

Filthy runs and receivers getting laid out are more entertaining than double plays and home runs, period. We’re finally out of the torture that is summer Sports Center. While Monday mornings will always suck, they’re made a little better with the plethora of NFL highlights from Sundays.

Fantasy Football

Yet another way that football enhances your work or school day. There’s nothing better than totally ignoring what you’re supposed to be doing by looking at stats, match-ups, and trade possibilities that can help you beat your buddy next week. After all, finding a solid 3rd receiver is way more important than that test you have tomorrow. Here’s a little fantasy advice for the upcoming season:

• LeSean McCoy will be the best fantasy running back
• If you can get one of the elite QBs, take him
• Don’t let bye weeks effect the way you draft or add players

Click below for the next five reasons that we're excited the NFL is back...