Atlanta Falcons (2-0) @ Detroit Lions (1-1): The Falcons are starting to click on offense and could be dangerous. Desmond Ridder put up 237 yards and a TD in Atlanta’s 25-24 win over the Packers last week. The Lions were on cloud nine after upsetting the Chiefs to open the season, but they didn’t get the same result in week two at home against the Seattle Seahawks. Jared Goff and the Detroit offense will put up points, but can the Defense get stops? The Falcons have been solid on both sides of the ball and I think their ground attack can give Detroit some problems. I’ll take Atlanta.
My Pick: Atlanta Falcons
Los Angeles Chargers (0-2) @ Minnesota Vikings (0-2): I had high hopes for both teams to start the season, so hopefully the winner gets some momentum. The Chargers didn’t play terrible in their loss to the Titans, but they did struggle to convert on third downs and run the ball. Minnesota hasn’t been that great on the ground either this year, however, they are riding a three-game winning streak against the Chargers so they know the recipe to win. They also have the best receiver in the game, Justin Jefferson who is going to put up big numbers regardless of the opponent. At the end of the day I think the Chargers have more potential in the run game and defensively.
My Pick: Los Angeles Chargers
New Orleans Saints (2-0) @ Green Bay Packers (1-1): I’m still trying to get a feel for the Saints. They have only won both games by a total of four points, and their offense has looked lethargic at certain points this season. Green Bay will prove to be their toughest matchup yet and it’s at Lambeau Field. Green Bay’s offense has looked better than we thought, but their defense also deserves some credit. Guys like De’Vondre Campbel, Quay Walker and Jaire Alexander have been giving offenses some problems so far. Give me Green Bay to win their home opener.
My Pick: Green Bay Packers
Denver Broncos (0-2) @ Miami Dolphins (2-0): The Sean Payton era has gotten off to a slow start in Denver to say the least. The Broncos showed they’re liable to give up big plays on defense and that’s Miami’s specialty on offense. Miami’s defense, mainly their pash rush has also proven to be lethal, too. Miami is the only right answer here.
My Pick: Miami Dolphins
Philadelphia Eagles (2-0) @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-0): The Bucs have played with heart and it’s cool, but they aren’t knocking off Philly. The Eagles’ offense will face a strong Tampa defense, but I have confidence in Jalen Hurts and Philly’s offense. I think Baker Mayfield comes back down to Earth against a merciless Philadelphia defense.
My Pick: Philadelphia Eagles
Los Angeles Rams (1-1) @ Cincinnati Bengals (0-2): A rematch of Super Bowl 56, but it doesn’t feel the same. Joe Burrow’s status is the big question and can be the difference maker in this game. It wouldn’t be ideal for the Bengals to start 0-3 considering four of their next five games are against the Titans, 49ers, Bills and a sneaky good Seahawks team (not overly worried about the Cardinals in week five) but a world does exist where the Bengals could be a one or two win team around the halfway mark of the season. It all depends on if Burrow does plays, and if he can play at the level we know he’s capable of.
Expectations weren’t high or the Rams coming into the season and they sit at 1-1. If not for two interceptions last week against the 49ers, the Rams would’ve had a chance to win against a divisional foe. They’ll have to avoid costly mistakes to have a shot on Monday night. Rookie WR Puka Nacua has been outstanding, catching 25 passes in his first two games, keeping the Rams alive in the absence of Cooper Kupp. I think the Rams come out firing early and control the game to steal a dub at Paycor Stadium.
My Pick: Los Angeles Rams
Overall record: 7-5
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