Over at Off the Bar and Out - one of the blogs in the SB Nation Soccer family - Sam Fels gives us a preview of the weekend's action in the English Premier League, including a view of Birmingham City's trip to the Stadium of Light to take on former manager Steve Bruce and Sunderland:
Sunderland v. Birmingham: More than a few have tipped Sunderland to threaten being relegated. They might be a little too solid for that, but with Kenwye Jones shipped off and Darren Bent not fit, a team of scientists may be required to figure out how they're going to score. Especially against a Birmingham side that specialized in keeping things tight last season. Serbian beanpole Nicola Zigic will make his debut in a game that can't possibly feature more than one goal.
Thoughts on all nine weekend matches can be found in Watery Tarts Throwing Swords: Your Opening EPL Weekend Preview at Off the Bar and Out.