As we dive into week three of the NFL season, the excitement is palpable. After a promising start with my predictions, last week saw a mixed bag of results, finishing at an even eight wins and eight losses. This week, I’m determined to sharpen my analysis and get back on track. Let’s kick things off with a look at the matchups that are set to unfold this Sunday.
Los Angeles Chargers at Pittsburgh: The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for their 2024 home opener against the undefeated Los Angeles Chargers. With Justin Fields starting for the Steelers and Russell Wilson sidelined with a calf injury, the spotlight will be on the battle of the Justins—Fields versus Herbert. While Herbert is widely regarded as the superior quarterback, this matchup promises to be a defensive showdown. The Steelers’ offense has struggled to find its rhythm, and facing the Chargers’ formidable defense will be a true test. I believe the home field advantage will play a crucial role in this contest. Steelers 20 / Chargers 17
New England at New York Jets: Aaron Rodgers has navigated the first two weeks without injury, showing marked improvement from a shaky opener. The New England Patriots have surprised many, but the Jets’ defense is formidable. I expect the Jets to capitalize on their home turf and secure a convincing victory. Jets 31 / Patriots 17
New York Giants at Cleveland: The Cleveland Browns are looking to maintain pace with the Steelers in what should be a straightforward matchup. Daniel Jones managed to save his job for now, but the Giants face a tough challenge against Deshaun Watson and the Browns. While an upset is possible, I’m leaning towards the Browns to take this one. Browns 20 / Giants 10
Green Bay at Tennessee: Jordan Love’s participation in practice has raised hopes for Packers fans, while the Titans are still searching for their first win. If Tennessee falters again, they may consider a quarterback change. Despite my gut feeling leaning towards an upset, I believe the Packers will come out on top. Packers 35 / Titans 21
Chicago at Indianapolis: The Caleb Williams show continues as the Bears travel to Indianapolis, where the Colts are desperate for a win after two losses. I’m backing the Colts to find their footing at home. Colts 28 / Bears 24
Houston at Minnesota: Sam Darnold has found a new lease on life with the Vikings, leading them to a surprising 2-0 start. This week, he faces off against the talented C.J. Stroud. Expect a high-scoring affair as both offenses look to shine. Vikings 37 / Texans 34
Philadelphia at New Orleans: The Eagles have been embroiled in controversy since last season, and their recent loss to the Falcons has only added to the pressure. They now face Derek Carr and the Saints, who have been on a scoring spree. With New Orleans finding their rhythm, I see them edging out the Eagles in a close contest. Saints 27 / Eagles 24
Denver at Tampa Bay: Baker Mayfield is back in form, leading the Buccaneers to a strong start. Meanwhile, the Broncos are struggling with rookie Bo Nix at the helm. I expect the Bucs to continue their winning streak at home. Bucs 27 / Broncos 17
Carolina at Las Vegas: The Panthers are in turmoil, with Bryce Young benched in favor of veteran Andy Dalton. The Raiders, fresh off a stunning upset against the Ravens, should have little trouble securing a win here. Raiders 45 / Panthers 12
Miami at Seattle: The Dolphins are reeling from Tua Tagovailoa’s injury, and with Skylar Thompson stepping in, their offense is in jeopardy. The Seahawks, on the other hand, are riding high at 2-0 and should capitalize on Miami’s misfortunes. Seahawks 24 / Dolphins 13
Baltimore at Dallas: The Ravens are in a precarious position, having lost their first two games. Facing a Cowboys team eager to bounce back after a tough loss, this matchup could be pivotal for both squads. I’m predicting a narrow victory for Dallas. Cowboys 16 / Ravens 14
San Francisco at Los Angeles Rams: Both teams are dealing with injuries, particularly the 49ers, who are missing key players like Christian McCaffrey. The Rams are also banged up, but I’m leaning towards them to take this matchup at home. Rams 34 / 49ers 27
Detroit at Arizona: The Cardinals have surprised many with their recent performances, and I believe they have what it takes to pull off an upset against the Lions. Cardinals 23 / Lions 21
Kansas City at Atlanta: The Chiefs have had a rocky start, but they remain a formidable force. However, I’m sensing an upset brewing as the Falcons capitalize on their home advantage. Falcons 31 / Chiefs 28
Jacksonville at Buffalo: The Jaguars are struggling after a disappointing start to the season, and facing the Bills will be a tall order. I expect Buffalo to dominate this matchup. Bills 48 / Jaguars 13
Washington at Cincinnati: The Commanders are led by rookie Jayden Daniels, who has shown promise early in his career. However, the Bengals are expected to come out on top, despite a competitive game. Bengals 23 / Commanders 17
Running Pick Record from Week to Week
Week 1: 12/15
Week 2: 8/16
Week 3: TBD