Division games are always tough, and the Commanders are trying to bounce back from last week. Both the Commanders and Cowboys will be returning significant players back in Week 5 with Brian Robinson Jr and Dak Prescott. Before both come back the Cowboys will be leaning on Cooper Rush to lead them to another victory. Look for the Cowboys to be aggressive as they will get Michael Gallup and Dalton Schultz back in the lineup. The Commanders will be looking to get the running back going with Antonio Gibson and that will lead to opening up the passing game. Wentz has Scary Terry and Curtis Samuel who can get open at any moment for six. The Cowboys have the duel threat running backs of Elliott and Pollard so it can be a long day for the Commanders. The Cowboys also have Micah Parsons who’s always hungry for a sack as well.
Score Prediction: Cowboys Win (28 – 13)
Chicago Bears at New York Giants
The Giants are coming off a bad loss to the Dallas Cowboys and will be looking to rebound against the Bears. Saquon Barkley has looked like the best running back in the game again and the Giants will move the way that Barkley moves. The Giants lost Sterling Shephard and will be looking to see who can step up for them in the receiving core between James, Toney, and Golladay. The Bears need to show that they can throw the ball. Justin Fields has not been able to get the passing game going and with David Montgomery out this will need to be the Fields game. It was great to see Herbert come in and help out with the running game but Fields will need to throw the ball. The Bears have had trouble moving the ball and today they need to change that. The Bear’s defense has been very good this year but we will see how they fair against Daniel Jones and Saquon Barkley today.
Score Prediction: Giants Win (24 – 17)
Seattle Seahawks at Detroit Lions
The Lions will be without DeAndre Swift and Amon-Ra St Brown today. Both are two of their dominant players on the offensive side of the ball and they will look for Williams and that receiving core to step up. The Lions have a good leader in Jared Goff and he will need to lean on his decision making to make the best of the game. The Seahawks have Geno Smith who’s been playing with some confidence. Geno still has the playmakers with DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett to lean on so look for this to be a back-and-forth type game.
Score Prediction: Seahawks Win (17 – 14)
New York Jets at Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers are looking to get this offense going ASAP. Mitch Trubisky will need to get the ball to his playmakers Johnson, Claypool, Harris, and Pickins. If he can get the ball to them then anything is possible in this one as the Jets have struggled on the defensive end. With the Jets, they will be getting their number one quarterback Zack Wilson back in this one. He will be looking to get his guy Wilson involved in this one early as the Jets need this game badly.
Score Prediction: Steelers Win (24 – 10)
Tennessee Titans at Indianapolis Colts
The Titans are looking to find their offensive groove badly. It all starts with the play of Derrick Henry who’s carried this franchise for years. Ryan Tannehill will need to join in on that action as he’s trying to find his number one receiver. The coaching staff has said they want to get Treylon Burks more involved and Robert Woods has finally got back into a rhythm after his knee injury. With the Colts they’re coming off a win against the Chiefs where everything looked good. Matt Ryan finally got his throwing going and he was able to make the best of the situation. With Pittman Jr and Taylor leading the way with him on the offense this should be a tough matchup between the two teams that everyone expected to be on the top of the division.
Score Prediction: Colts Win (23 – 14)
Los Angeles Chargers at Houston Texans
The Chargers got Justin Herbert back on the field last week against the Jags. The only issue is the fact that you can tell that he was still hurting from the rib injury suffered against the Chiefs. The Chargers will be leaning on Mike Williams a lot as the stud receiver Allen is still out with a hamstring injury. This is one of those games where Austin Eckler is going to need to show up as well. The Texans are up and down but with the addition of the presence of Damian Pierce last week it’s starting to look promising. The Texans have Mills and they will be force feeding Brandin Cooks as he’s the lone receiver that can get it done. The Chargers are without Joey Bosa as he injured his groin and will be out extended time.
Score Prediction: Chargers Win (28 – 21)
Cleveland Browns at Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons led by Marcus Marriota will be trying to take care of business against the Browns. It will help that they will be having Patterson in the lineup who’s re-invented himself as a true running back. The Falcons also have London and Pitts so if they can get open against that Brown’s defense it could be a long day. The Browns are without Myles Garrett who got hurt in a car accident. They will need someone to step up on the defensive side against the Falcons. We know that Jacoby Brissett is going to get things going for them in the passing game with Amari Cooper so this could be an interesting game offensively. The Browns have the reliable Nick Chubb who’s been a force all season long so far so look for him to continue that in this game with Kareem Hunt alongside him.
Score Prediction: Browns Win (24 – 21)
Jacksonville Jaguars at Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles have one of the best quarterbacks in the game in Jalen Hurts. Look for Hurts to hurt the Jags in the air and on the ground with ease. Jalen Hurts will be having his number one target AJ Brown in this game and don’t forget Smith who’s emerged early in the season as well. The Jags have looked really good this season with James Robinson looking like the comeback player of the year right now. Trevor Lawrence has been getting the ball out at an elite clip to his receivers, especially Christian Kirk. If the Jags are going to win they will need to slow down Hurts as Coach Pederson will be back in Philly for the revenge game.
Score Prediction: Jaguars Win (23 – 20)
Buffalo Bills at Baltimore Ravens
This should be the game of the week as the Bills and Ravens have high powered offenses. It will be Josh Allen vs Lamar Jackson as we find out who will come out on top in the MVP conversation. The Bills have lost some defensive pieces and it will make it tougher to contain Jackson when he can beat you with his arm and legs. The Ravens will need their receiving core to show up today in a big way to help number 8 on the field. The defense will be in trouble with Allen but you just have to try and contain him. Allen can throw and run the ball as well so with that being said it could be a shootout in this one with Diggs waiting to feast in Baltimore.
Score Prediction: Ravens Win (34 – 28)
4:05 PM EST
Arizona Cardinals at Carolina Panthers
This will be the matchup of the Sooner quarterbacks with Kyler Murray going against Baker Mayfield. The Panthers will need to figure out how to get the ball in the hands of McCaffrey a lot more as they’re trying to get back to a winning record. The Panthers have to use their wide receivers as well with Moore and Anderson needing to get some more touches too. The Cardinals will be getting Moore back as he will be making his debut and that should help the receiving core on the Cardinals. Murray is a special talent that can get the job done on his own but look for James Connor to come in and take some pressure away. The Cardinals have a better defense and that should help them prevail.
Score Prediction: Cardinals Win (31 – 17)
4:25 PM EST
Denver Broncos at Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders will be looking to get in the winning column finally as they come into this one 0-3. Look for Derek Carr to get his big money receivers involved early today (Waller/Adams). They have a great running back in Josh Jacobs that they will need to use as well to mix things up. Russell Wilson will have to get going as the Broncos fans are waiting to see the Russell Wilson from Seattle show up. Wilson has great running backs with Williams and Gordon so they will have to help him out in this one, especially with Crosby coming in to try and sack Wilson. Both teams have some challenges on the defensive end and it may come down to whoever makes the mistake first and the other team capitalizes.
Score Prediction: Raiders Win (27 – 14)
New England Patriots at Green Bay Packers
This should be an ugly game with Mac Jones out for the Patriots. The Patriots will be putting Hoyer out there the longtime veteran who will be depending on the running game to help him (Harris/Stevenson). The Packers have the better offensive players in this game as they have Jones/Dillion who can run all over you. Also, the Packers have been able to get Lazard going so look for the Packers to steamroll the Patriots who don’t have a true identity right now as a unit.
It’s week 4 of the NFL Season and we have a great matchup on Thursday night between the 3-0 Miami Dolphins and the 1-2 Cincinnati Bengals. Thursday nights feature two top young quarterbacks that prove that the future of the NFL will be in good hands. Tua Tagovailoa versus Joe Burrow has the potential to be a high-scoring game so if you’re a fantasy football player don’t expect much from either defense tonight. Another keynote in Thursday’s matchup is Tyreek Hill covered by Eli Apple who has had some bad blood between each other going back to the days when Hill was a Kansas City Chief. I’d get your favorite food, snacks, and beverages for tonight’s game because it’s going to be a great show.
Bengals are at home this week hosting the Dolphins with a 1-2 record. Not the Bengals everyone expected after reaching the Super Bowl last year. After the 0-2 start the Bengals picked up their first win last week against the Jets and a convincing win at that. The Bengals look a bit like their old selves. Burrow threw for 3 touchdowns and the offensive line only allowed 2 sacks compared to the first two games of the season. Despite winning their week 3 matchup should we expect the Bengals to get back to what we saw last year? Thursday night’s game will definitely be where they would need to come alive and show the NFL fans that last year was not a fluke.
Miami Dolphins have been a surprise this season as they are 3-0 to start it off. They’ve had some close games to get to 3-0 but have proven that they can close out games or even come back from a 21-point deficit. A big part of their success this early in the season has been due to the great performance from Tua Tagovailoa who has thrown for 8 touchdowns over three games and 4 which came in the fourth-quarter comeback against the Ravens. He has exceeded expectations along with the entire Dolphins team which I’m sure has caught everyone by surprise. Now in week 4 they face the Bengals as the underdog but don’t believe that will faze this young talented roster. Expect Tua to continue his high level of play spreading the ball around to Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, and the rest of his options to come out with the victory and move onto a 4-0.
The Cowboys and Giants rivalry is one of the best in NFL History. This will be one of the few times we will see this matchup without Dak Prescott. Reports from the week were saying that Dak has been on the side working already trying to get back from the thumb injury. Also missing for this game will be the Cowboys TE Dalton Schultz who is out with a PCL injury. The Giants are banged up coming into this game but players are healthy enough to suit up. We do get to see the matchup of Saqoun vs Zeke so that will be exciting for sure. The Giants are 2-0 and will be looking to go 3-0 as the Cowboys come to New York tonight.
The New York Giants are 2-0 and it’s been because of the consistent play of Daniel Jones. This season you can tell that Jones has been working on his mechanics and that’s showing in his play the first two weeks. On the season Daniel Jones has 364 yards with 3 touchdowns but it’s his maturity that’s been on display. In the past, Jones has struggled with turnovers, and this year it hasn’t been the case. Jones will look to lean on Sterling Shephard who’s been his favorite target as he looks to shred the Cowboy’s defense could be missing Micah Parsons. If Jones has enough time to get it to Shephard or Toney it could easily go for 6 points. Jones will have to keep his eye out for Diggs in the secondary for Dallas as he’s been waiting to make a huge play for his team this season. The Giants have Saquon Barkley playing with some fresh legs and he looks explosive just like he did in his rookie season. Barkley has improved his route running and he’s also improved his catching out the backfield. Those two dynamics and the fact he can take one to the house any time he wants to when given a lane can spell trouble for the Cowboys.
The Giant’s defense has been playing lights out against the Titans & Panthers. This will be a division game it will be the Cooper Rush game instead of playing Dak. The Giants will try to trick Rush into some throws and they will try to stack the box so Zeke & Pollard don’t beat them. Look for Xavier McKinney to lead this defense with Leonard Williams still being banged up. If the Giants can slow down the Cowboy’s run and limit Cooper Rush in the pocket so he doesn’t get Lamb, Gallup, and Brown going it could be an easy game for them. This game will be determined by the play of the defense for the Giants. It’s all about whether can they stop the Cowboys enough to come out with the victory. Look for this to be a game that could be hard-fought and tough-nosed.
It will be the Cooper Rush show in this game as he’s now 1-0 on the season after taking over for Dak. Last week Cooper was able to get the Cowboy’s offense rolling as he beat an impressive Bengals team. He finished last week’s contest with 235 passing yards and a touchdown. This week if he’s going to get the win he will need to get CeeDee Lamb involved more. CeeDee has been ready to take the next step so it only makes sense to give him the chance to make that happen. The Cowboys will need to lean on Zeke and Tony Pollard in this game as both bring the yin/yang to this backfield. This will be a good test for the Cowboys because we will find out of the numbers Rush put up last week were legit or if it was just his day.
The Cowboys have arguably the best player on the defensive end to most people. Micah Parsons has been sacking quarterbacks all season long. One thing about Parsons is the fact he really knows how to get to the quarterback with his different swim moves. Parson has been a generational talent for the Cowboys and he will have his hands all over Jones or Barkley when they have the ball. The Cowboy’s defense will have their hands full and if they can slow down the Giants receivers then it could be an easy matchup. Dallas will try to stack the box taking Saquon away from the game on the ground. They have to figure out containment if he gets out of the backfield for one of those quick dink and dunks. The Cowboys will have Diggs on Shephard so it will be interesting how both team’s secondary approach this game. One thing I do know is that the Cowboy’s defense will be showing up tonight.
Prediction: Dallas Cowboys will win this game 27 – 24 against the New York Giants.
In Week 3 both Russell Wilson and the 49ers will be battling it out like they have his whole career. This time Wilson will be playing with his new team and new weapons on the offensive end. In Russell Wilson’s career, he’s 17-4 against the San Francisco 49ers. The 49ers will look to beat up on Wilson in their only matchup of the season unless it happened in the Super Bowl. Both teams are coming into this game 1-1 and want to prove their dominance in the NFL power rankings.
Russell Wilson has been a little rusty coming out the gates with his new team. The first two weeks without Pete Carol have been different but one thing that’s been the same is the leadership/will to put his teammates in a position to win. Last week Wilson had 219 passing yards and a touchdown against the Texans. Russell Wilson knows the 49ers like the back of his hands and he’s made some great plays against them in his career. Wilson will look to continue the winning in Denver as they were able to beat the Texans. It looks like Russell Wilson will be without Jerry Jeudy for this big matchup against the 49ers. Wilson will be looking to Courtland Sutton who finished with 7 receptions for 122 yards. Sutton didn’t get in the end zone but look for Wilson to look for that connection this evening as they are looking to achieve the victory. The Bronco’s offense will be helped out by the rushing attack as well with Williams and Gordon so if both can establish things on the ground it could be a long night for the 49er’s defense. Williams has been the leading back and he will continue to set the tone for the Broncos tonight. Look for him to get into the endzone tonight.
The Bronco’s defense will be in for an interesting night as they try to slow down Jimmy G. The one thing about Jimmy being in the starting lineup is the fact that he can throw the ball and run in the same play. Denver will have their hands full with Deebo Samuels who’s the 49er’s swiss army knife. Deebo can single-handedly change a game in just one play. The Broncos will need their secondary to keep a close eye on Deebo at all times and blanket him. If the Broncos can get to Jimmy G it will be an interesting night for Denver. Look for Bradley Chubb to make it tough on the backfield as he can cause havoc like the best defenders in the NFL. Denver will need to keep the big plays of the 49ers to a minimum if they will come out of this victorious. Russ is gonna cook but he needs the defense to help him out for the overall team effort.
The 49ers were playing against Russell Wilson’s old team Seattle. In that game, they lost Trey Lance to a broken ankle he’s out for the season. Jimmy G came in the game and got the offense going instantly like he never lost the starting job. Jimmy knows how to get Deebo and Brandon involved in the passing game and it will be interesting to see how Deebo is utilized this week. Last week Deebo almost totaled 100 yards in the receiving game and rushing game. Look for Deebo to get into the endzone and look for him to get involved to the point he can open things up for his teammates. Jeff Wilson Jr will be able to get some touches in the game and he’s been a great veteran that has been able to come in and produce since day 1. Jimmy G will be in charge under center and he might need to run a little bit to stay away from Chubb and Gregory. The great thing about this Kyle Shanahan offense is the fact that it’s all about the system and when you have players that perfect it’s very special. The 49ers will be looking forward to having George Kittle back in the lineup as the Tight End University major will be ready for his season debut.
The 49er’s defense has been elite the last couple of seasons. One of the big reasons for that has been the outstanding play of Nick Bosa the sack machine. The good thing about this matchup tonight is the fact that they know Russell Wilson and his playing style. The 49ers will need to slow down Wilson in the pocket and make the Broncos a one dimensional team if they will be successful. If they can keep Russell from making his one scramble like play for chunk yards they will be in a great position. Fred Warner has been a stud so far this year and he will be looking to cause some trouble back there. The 49ers have a great run defense and they will try to make it tough on the Broncos.
Prediction: The 49ers will beat the Broncos 24-14 as Jimmy G and Deebo are too much for the Broncos defense to contain. The difference in this one is the fact that the 49ers are used to each other and they have been in big games. This will be the Broncos second primetime game and they’re still trying to find their rhythm and might be without Jeudy as well which is a huge blow.
This will hand down be the game of the week as the (2-0) Buffalo Bills will be heading to Miami to face the (2-0) Dolphins. Tua Tagovailoa is coming off a 469-yard passing performance with 6 touchdown performance that put the whole NFL on notice. Tua was able to get his playmakers involved as Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill both had monster games. They both will be looking to get involved against a Bills secondary that’s banged up. The Bills have the best defense against opposing quarterbacks and they will be trying to prove that they are elite to Tua. On the flip side, you have Josh Allen who’s coming into this game as the MVP front runner and he’s been playing lights out. On the season Josh Allen had 614 yards and 7 touchdowns. He will be looking to add to his total and showcase why they’re the best team in the AFC East and Superbowl favorites. The chemistry between Allen and Diggs has been on full display and it should be at its highest peak in Miami.
Score Prediction: Bills Win (38 – 28)
Philadelphia Eagles at Washington Commanders
Carson Wentz will be going against his former team the Philadelphia Eagles as he tries to ruin their undefeated season. So far in the season, Carson Wentz has thrown for 650 yards with 7 touchdowns as he has been commanding this offense. Antonio Gibson has helped him out as well on the ground game as he’s looked electric even in the passing game. Wentz has a wide receiver core of McLaurin, Samuels, and Dotson who have all been able to get open with ease. If those 3 can help Wentz plus Gibson it could be a great game. The big problem with that is that Slay Jr in Philly is on a mission this season to make sure no one scores on his defense. Last week it seemed as though Slay could have had at least 4 interceptions against the Vikings. He’s the heart and soul of the defense so he will try to make things tough on Washington. Jalen Hurts has looked unstoppable this season as he’s punishing teams in the air and on the ground. Jalen Hurts has improved his passing accuracy and it helps that AJ Brown has come over from the Titans to make it easier. AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith will make things tough on this Commanders secondary while helping each other get open. The Eagles have a ton of running backs that can get the job on any play so this should be an interesting game overall.
Score Prediction: Eagles Win (20 – 14)
Cincinnati Bengals at New York Jets
The Bengals are coming into New York (0-2) and they’re looking for their first win of the season. People are panicking about the start but if the Bengals proved anything last year it was that anything’s possible. They will use this game against the Jets as a get-back game. The Bengals will have to get Joe Mixon involved on the ground as he’s getting the touches but he hasn’t had the running lanes. If Joe Burrow can get that play-action game going then it will open up things for the whole offense. Joe Burrow has one of the best wide receiver cores in the NFL led by Ja’Maar Chase, Tee Higgins, and Tyler Boyd. All three of those players can take the ball to the endzone at any moment and they should be able to get open against NY. The Jet’s defense isn’t going to scare anyone but their coach has them playing with a battery in their backs. This is a huge shoutout to Robert Saleh who has been a defensive-minded coach since day one. The players are buying into the system and it helps with the play of Joe Flacco who’s been able to manage the game as the Jets need from him. One of the things that stand out about the Jet’s offense is the youth on that side. Jets have Breece Hall and Michael Carter who give you the mix of toughness and playmaking. Garrett Wilson had a monster game against the Browns last week with 8 receptions for 102 yards with 2 touchdowns. The Jets will have some growing pains but the future is looking bright for the J-E-T-S, JETS, JETS, JETS.
Score Prediction: Bengals Win (38 – 17)
Las Vegas Raiders at Tennessee Titans
The Raiders are coming off a crazy game where they saw Kyler Murray takeover and they fell short. This week they will be playing against Ryan Tannehill who doesn’t have the play-making ability but he has Derrick Henry. The Raider’s defense will need to be up to the challenge because the Titans are pissed after getting blown out against the Bills on Monday. If the Raiders gonna win this game it will be on the offense who will be without Hunter Renfrow (Concussion) and Josh Jacobs (Illness). All that means is more targets for Darren Waller and Devonte Adams. Both of those receivers are difference makers in a game and the Titans will have their hands full against them in the secondary. Derek Carr has proven in his career that he can make any throw and that he’s reliable. The only way they lose is if King Henry shows up big time. The Titans have the advantage in the rushing game and could use that to help Tannehill in the pocket. The Titans team moves to the legs of Derrick Henry but they can get last week’s version who had 13 carries for 25 yards. The Titans will need a 125-yard day with a touchdown or two in order for them to succeed. The bright side for the Titan’s receiving core is that Treylon Burks has emerged as the true number one and he’s shown that he’s very dangerous with the ball in his hands. Both defenses have places they need to improve but I look for this to be a shootout in Nashville.
Score Prediction: Titans Win (31 – 28)
New Orleans Saints at Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers are trying to find their first win of the season. It’s been a struggle for Baker Mayfield but one thing about Baker he’s a winner. The Panthers have to get the offense clicking and it takes some time especially since he’s still new to the offense. Baker will need to depend on DJ Moore and Christian McCaffrey to help him get the win. CMC has been banged up with an ankle injury but he will be suiting up. CMC can change a game instantly with just one play as he’s the best running back in the game when it comes to catching/creating space. Baker has to get in line with DJ Moore as he’s the best wide receiver on the roster and he can take it to the house at any moment. Robbie Anderson will be added to the mix as well but if Moore gets going that will open this offense up. Defensively they will be in a little trouble as they will be facing a Saints team fresh off a loss to Tampa Bay. Jamesis Winston will be looking to lead the Saints to victory and his weapons will all be on the field. The Saints will be getting Alvin Kamara back (Ribs) in the lineup and that will help them as he’s been a force in the running game/passing game like CMC. Kamara is the key to the offense but even if you key in on him you have to watch out for Michael Thomas who’s playing at an All-Pro level like he didn’t miss a beat. Michael Thomas is elite and he’s been getting Chris Olave in the mix as well. Defensively Cameron Jordan can stop an offense at any moment with his aggressiveness toward the quarterback. So overall the Saints can make the best of this game to rebound back into the winning column.
Score Prediction: Saints Win (27–17)
Baltimore Ravens at New England Patriots
The Baltimore Ravens are coming into this game against New England with a win on their minds. Last week they gave up the 6 touchdowns to Tua and this week they would be damned if it happened with Mac Jones. Lamar Jackson will try to put the Ravens up early in this one as the Ravens hope to get JK Dobbins back in the lineup. Lamar Jackson did everything in his power to try to get the victory as he put up 318 passing yards, and 119 rushing yards with 4 touchdowns. The Raven’s defense will be looking to lock up the Patriots and make sure that Mac Jones doesn’t feel comfortable in the pocket. Look for Marcus Peters and Calais Campbell to make some key plays for this Ravens defense that desperately needs it. The Patriots beat Pittsburgh last week and will be looking to make it two in a row. Mac Jones was able to find Nelson Agholor for a crazy moss-like catch that gave New England momentum. The Patriots running attack has been the staple for this team and they will be looking to continue that against Baltimore. If Damian Harris can get that ground-and-pound game going with that offensive line bullying the Ravens it could work in the Patriot’s favor.
Score Prediction: Ravens Win (35 – 17)
Detroit Lions at Minnesota Vikings
This will be a slugfest in Minnesota as it’s rare that the Lions are coming off a win and the Vikings a loss. Minnesota has to figure out how to get Dalvin Cook involved more in the offense. There is no way that Dalvin Cook had 6 carries for only 17 yards. When you have a talent like Cook you have to feed him no matter what. It helps that the Vikings have Justin Jefferson who is arguably the best wide receiver in the NFL. With that being said you have to switch it up and have defenses guessing. The wide receiver core for the Vikings is impressive they just have to bring it together for a full complete game. Theilen & Jefferson alone can create space and make sure that Kirk Cousins can find them in their sweet spots. The Viking’s defense has been consistent as well last week was tough with Jalen Hurts but look for them to make it tough on Jared Goff. The Vikings will need to slow down DeAndre Swift who’s been on fire as of late with his running abilities. Swift has been one of the bright spots for the Lions all off-season and now during the season. Swift should be able to get involved in the running and passing game to help Goff. Jared Goff has been playing well and he’s trying to prove all of his haters wrong that gave up on him when he left LA. Amon-Ra St. Brown has been just unreal all season and he’s on a scoring streak that we haven’t seen in recent history. Last week he had 9 receptions for 116 yards with 2 touchdowns. It looks like the Lions have found their franchise wideout. On the defensive side look for Aidan Hutchinson to cause havoc, especially after his 3 sack performance last week. If the Vikings want to win you must stop number 97.
Score Prediction: Vikings Win (27–24)
Kansas City Chiefs at Indianapolis Colts
The Colts haven’t looked like the AFC South favorites like everyone has projected so far. It’s taking some time for Matt Ryan and Colt’s offensive pieces to get on the same page. Matt Ryan has to turn back the clock and start slinging the ball, especially in this matchup against the Chiefs. Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs won’t be taking them lightly as they can put up numbers quickly. With no Darius Leonard in this game, it looks like Ryan will need to depend on getting the ball to Michael Pittman Jr and Jonathan Taylor ASAP. The Colts tried to get Taylor going last game against the Jaguars and he will need to keep that up against Kansas City. Taylor was able to lead this offense last year with Wentz and we need to see that same type of play with Ryan. Taylor has all the tools to be the best running back in the game and needs to show that in Week 3. The Chiefs are coming into this game undefeated and it seems like Patrick Mahomes can throw the ball to anyone these days. Last week it was Watson who caught a touchdown from Mahomes and this week it can easily be Travis Kelce. This Chief’s offense is explosive as they have Juju, Travis, and Cylde that can get the job done. If the Cheifs can get all of them involved it will be a tough day for the Colts against Mahomes when he is in his groove. We haven’t seen a quarterback like Mahomes who can just get anyone involved since Tom Brady in New England.
Score Prediction: Chiefs Win (38–24)
Houston Texans at Chicago Bears
This will be the Lovie Smith Bowl as his Houston Texans will play his former team the Chicago Bears. Houston is coming off a loss to the Broncos last Sunday. Houston will need to establish the run early in this one with Dameion Pierce if they want to win this game against Chicago. The Bear’s defense is tough against the run but Pierce has to continue to build off the good game he had last week and let his presence be felt. Davis Mills and Brandon Cooks have been able to build a true relationship on the field and they have clicked instantly. Cooks will need to assert himself against the Bear’s secondary so that he can give his quarterback a chance. The Bears are coming into this one hoping to get back in the winning column in a big way. Last week against the Packers Justin Fields had the Bears in position to almost win. He had a questionable run at the 1-yard line that wasn’t ruled a touchdown. This week he will look to make up for that as he wants to run/throw all over the Texans. Justin Fields will need to lean on Mooney as they haven’t been able to get him involved. The running game has taken over as David Montgomery got going last week with 122 rushing yards. If he can get that type of rushing attack going again in Chi-Town they should come out with the win. Justin Fields has the ball in his hands and the fate of the Bears in his hands too. We will see what he’s all about against this Houston defense.
Score Prediction: Bears Win (17 – 14)
4:05 PM EST
Jacksonville Jaguars at Los Angeles Chargers
The LA Chargers are banged up heading into this matchup with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Justin Herbert injured his ribs in the game against the Chiefs. The Chargers announced he would be questionable and so would Keenan Allen (Hamstring). Those are two dynamic players for the Chargers offense but if both don’t suit up it could be an Ekeler type game. Chase Daniel is the backup and he would have to trust the safety blanket Mike Williams and Austin Ekeler. This will be a game to establish the run with Austin if Herbert isn’t available to play. The good thing about the Chargers is the fact they’re balanced properly. The defense has Derwin James, Joey Bosa, and Khalil Mack who all can change the game with one play. Look for them to make the day tough for Trevor Lawerence and his running backs. The Jags fresh off a win will continue to sling the rock and get their new weapon Christian Kirk involved from the jump. Last week Kirk had 6 receptions for 78 yards and 2 touchdowns. This Jags offense is getting scarier as they gain the chemistry and trust of each other so anything is possible. The defense is led by Josh Allen who looks to be on a mission for the AFC Defensive Player of the Year.
Score Prediction: Jaguars Win If Herbert Is Out (24-10)
4:25 PM EST
Las Angeles Rams at Arizona Cardinals
Division games like this one will be must-watch TV, especially after the magic that Kyler Murray pulled off last week. We doubt that Murray would be able to get plays off like he did against the Raiders vs Aaron Donald but it would be impressive. Murray has been asked to do a lot more because he’s missing Hopkins/Moore in the receiving core. In that span, it’s been the unknown Dortch that’s taken the opportunity to make an impression and putting his name on the map. James Connor is a game-time decision so if the Cardinals will be without him it could be challenging. Williams and Benjamin will step in to try to fill the void but it won’t be easy. This will be a game where Murray will need to do it all to pull off the win. The defense is strong but against this stacked Rams team with Kupp and those boys, it will be tough. The Ram’s defense will be up for the challenge as they look to take down the Cardinals. With Murray having limited weapons look for Jalen Ramsey and that secondary to bait him into some bad throws. The offense will be on fire as the Rams finally got Allen Robinson going last week. This team is loaded on the offensive end and Stafford knows how to get the ball to everyone on the field with ease.
Score Prediction: Rams Win (33–17)
Green Bay Packers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Tom Brady vs Aaron Rodgers matchup has always been special. This Sunday we will be in for another spectacular matchup. Green Bay has a couple of injuries at the wide receiver position and will be leaning on the play of the running backs for sure. Aaron Jones and AJ Dillion have been the consistent players that have shown up every week. Last week Aaron Jones showed up big time with 20 carries for 181 yards and a touchdown. It’s safe to say that Coach LaFleur knew he needed to get Jones some more touches and he did just that. Aaron Rodgers has owned the Bears and proved it again last week with 234 yards and two touchdowns. This week he will be trying to go off against a stout defense in Tampa Bay. The wideouts for the Packers have been in and out but Rodgers has made a way out of no way each time. The Packer’s defense will be in for a tough matchup but they won’t have to worry about shadowing Mike Evans who got suspended for a game. Julio Jones is a game-time decision and Chris Godwin is out. They will need to focus on slowing down Leonard Fournette with his tough running. Tom Brady’s the master of the play action and he will make you pay if you’re late to get to him. Look for the Bucs to lean on the run and their defense-heavy in this one. The Bucs defense can slow down Rodgers but it will be a tough task as he has shown he can make magic happen outside the pocket.
Score Prediction: Packers Win (28–21)
Atlanta Falcons at Seattle Seahawks
The Atlanta Falcons almost came back from the 28-3 foolery from the Rams. They lost the game but they showed a lot of fight in this game. Marcus Mariota was able to put up 196 passing yards with 2 touchdowns. You can see that Marcus is playing with different confidence and he’s taking the moment to show everyone that he has what it takes in the league. Mariota has some great weapons in the Falcons offense he was able to finally connect with Drake London the standout rookie from USC. Both of them linked up for the touchdowns last week and now it’s time for Kyle Pitts to get into the mix. The Seahawks will be down a couple of defensive players and that will give the Falcons an advantage. We can’t forget Cordelle Patterson who’s been running things in that backfield in ATL as well because he’s being used as a swiss army knife. The Falcon’s defense is always trying to improve but if they can contain Geno Smith this should be an easy win. The Seahawks have stood by Geno Smith and it looks like it will be through the good, bad, and ugly. Geno’s a great leader and game manager but this will be a game he might need to put some numbers up. Geno always has the chance to do that DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett making things tough for secondary’s. The Seahawks love to depend on the run game as they have Walker/Penny so it will be interesting if they have to change their game script ASAP if the Falcons get up big.
Coming into this week in the AFC North if you would have said the Bengals would be 0-2 you wouldn’t believe it. With that being said the Steelers and Browns will be playing for 1st place in the division. Both teams lost in Week 2 and will be looking to get back in the winning column. This will be a slugfest as both teams know each other very well. In the rivalry series, Pittsburgh leads it 79-61-1 among all the great teams. This week, they will look to add to this rivalry and put on a primetime show.
The Browns will be leaning on their running backs(Nick Chubb/Kareem Hunt) to set the tone in this one. Last week against the New York Jets Nick Chubb ran 17 times for 87 yards and 3 touchdowns. Jacoby Brissett has been leaning on Nick Chubb to help carry the offense and he finally got it going. The Steelers will be without TJ Watt who injured his pectoral muscle. Since the Steelers are banged up on the defensive side look for the Browns to establish the run, even more, to open up the play action. On the season Brissett has only 376 yards passing and 2 touchdowns in the early season. If the Browns are going to make this push for a chance to win this division they will have to get Amari Cooper involved more. Cooper had 9 receptions for 101 yards and 1 touchdown against the Jets. The Steelers have a better secondary and will be trying to put the clamps on him, especially with Fitzpatrick back there. The Brown’s offense will be needing the defense to help out big time as they try to get the win.
The Cleveland Brown’s defense should be able to contain Mitchell Trubisky as they look to rebound from Week 2. The Brown’s defense will go as far as Myles Garrett takes them in this game. Look for Garrett to set the tone and get to the backfield in this one instantly. It will be a tough task as they look to slow down Harris, Claypool, and Johnson. The Browns know that if they can slow down the playmakers for the Steelers this game tonight will go their way in the win column. Cleveland will look to minimize the offense for Pittsburgh as they will look to win this game with the running game and locking them up in the trenches.
The Steelers offense will need to come out and establish the run in this game. Najee Harris will be one of the main reasons that Pittsburgh would win this game against the Browns. Last week against the Patriots Najee rushed 15 times for 49 yards. If the Steelers are going to win this game he will need to rush for at least 100 yards against this Myles Garrett led defense. Najee can get the rushing attack going then it will open up the passing game. Diontae Johnson and Chase Claypool are very explosive. Both of them can take the football to the endzone even on a short pass or a long pass it doesn’t matter. Diontae had only 6 catches last week for 57 yards and that’s unacceptable for someone that took that elite step in his game after last season. Diontae will need to create some space and put this team’s passing game on his back. Mitchell will need to have one of those big games to bring them to victory and he will need to show his mobility in the pocket if the Steelers will even have a chance tonight.
The Steeler’s defense has shown some good glimpses of what we could expect. It’s going to be tough watching this defense without TJ Watt. Losing him will make it tough but if they can get to Brissett they can make it a long night. The Steelers have Haywood and Fitzpatrick who can still impact a game. This game will be determined by how the Steelers can stop the runs from Chubb and Hunt. Both teams love to ground and pound but if the Steelers can force Jacoby Brissett into a turnover of two it could work out in their favor.
Prediction: The Cleveland Browns will win this game 17-10 against the Pittsburgh Steelers as they lean on Chubb. Look for Nick Chubb to run wild in this game and really put the Steelers away after he felt Cleveland lost because of him in Week 2. The Browns defense will also force Mitch into some turnovers which will give them the chance to capitalize on scoring. Both teams are rivals and this will be a slugfest and not high scoring at all.
