It's the opening of the preseason, so neither Carolina nor the New York Giants will be revealing any top secrets when they meet tonight.

Both teams might be even more cautious and secretive than usual at the Meadowlands because they also meet Dec. 27; a lot could be at stake in the NFC two days after Christmas.

While such key players as Giants quarterback Eli Manning and defensive end Osi Umenyiora, plus Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams and Carolina tackle Jordan Gross should get onto the field, they will make cameo appearances. The real stuff begins Sept. 13.

The Giants need to sort out their receiving corps, which is minus the regulars who helped them win the 2008 Super Bowl: Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer.

Carolina has some worries on the defensive line, particularly at tackle, where Maake Kemoeatu's season-ending torn Achilles' tendon left a big hole.

Michael Vick spent an extra 20 minutes on the field after Philadelphia's practice ended trying to catch up on the Eagles's offense and get back into playing shape.

Kicker Garrett Hartley says he expects to serve a four-game suspension when the regular season begins because he tested positive for the stimulant Adderall, which is on the NFL's banned substances list.

Rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez will start New York's preseason game at Baltimore next Monday. Sanchez entered Friday's 23-20 loss to St. Louis with 28 seconds left in the first quarter and completed a 48-yard pass on his opening play.