LANHAM, Md. (CBSDC) — Despite having history on their side, the Washington Redskins and Mike Shanahan will open the season as underdogs against the New Orleans Saints.

Washington holds a 15-8 all-time record against New Orleans, including wins in three of the last five contests.

In addition, Shanahan is 3-1 in his career when playing the Saints and is also the winningest active head coach on kickoff weekend with a 14-4 record.

New Orleans will make NFL history When Aaron Kromer trots on to the field as the first ever interim for the interim head coach. Sean Payton has hit with a one-year suspension while interim man Joe Vitt was sidelined for six weeks for their roles in the bounty-gate scandal.

Kromer will revert back to offensive line coach once Vitt’s suspension is complete.

The last time the Redskins and Saints met in New Orleans, Washington came away with a 16-10 victory thanks a 119-yard rushing performance by Ladell Betts. Jason Campbell also connected with Santana Moss for a touchdown in the Week 15 contest.

Despite Shanahan’s history and a Saints franchise in turmoil, Washington is a seven-point underdog heading into Robert Griffin III’s official NFL debut.

Kenny Albert, Daryl Johnson and Tony Siragusa will call this week’s game on FOX which kicks off at 1 p.m. at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.

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