Ambition is the unifying theme for Bournemouth and Houston this season. Each has spent big in recent months to acquire a highly rated but unproven talent from a more storied rival. Bournemouth, playing in England's top division for the first time, hope former Liverpool winger Jordon Ibe can help them to extend their stay at this level. The Texans want ex-Broncos quarterback Brock Osweiler to lead them on their first Super Bowl run.
Burnley would be -- the Philadelphia Eagles
Who needs the ball? Burnley defied all wisdom last month when they beat Liverpool 2-0 despite earning just 19.4 percent of possession. Philadelphia spent less time on offense than any other NFL team last season but still won seven out of 16 games and finished second in the NFC East. That was, admittedly, a reflection of the beliefs of since-departed head coach Chip Kelly, who once famously argued, "Time of possession is how much time can the other team waste."
Crystal Palace would be -- the Oakland Raiders
Their home stadiums are old and run down, but the real reason opposing teams hate to visit is that Palace and Oakland boast some of the most raucous and colorful fans in their respective leagues. On the field, though, they might be trending in different directions. The Raiders believe their young and talented roster is ready to end a 13-year playoff drought. Palace, despite an FA Cup final appearance this year, have won only two of their past 24 Premier League games.
Everton would be -- the San Francisco 49ers
There was a time when these guys used to rule the roost, but it feels like so long ago. At Everton they yearn for another Dixie Dean, whose 60 goals during the 1927-28 season remain an English record. In San Francisco, every new quarterback lives in the shadow of Joe Montana. Both clubs have recently been at a low ebb but hope a new coach can revive their fortunes.