NEW YORK JETS (40 ½ ) @ BUFFALO (PK)
Buffalo, picks up where they left off last week. Their front seven on defense is depleted, suffering from injuries, and suspensions. On top of that WR Sammy Watkins injured his foot, and isn’t at 100 %, and Revis will assigned to cover him. Jets are sound defending against the run. However, when the Jets Blitz, they don’t blitz from the edge, and blitz in the middle of the line. That will pose a problem for the Jet pass rush, since Buffalo is stout pass blocking the interior of their line. Buffalo has a solid secondary. The jets have their issues, with Marshall not at 100%. Fitzpatrick, is struggling passing the football. He only threw one pass over 20 yards, and when he releases the ball, it knuckleballs out to his receivers without zip. The Jets have a good Offensive line that can block both ways. The Jets will be able to run the football with RB Forte. I am not wild about this game, and it can go either way. Check the status of Buffalo WR Watkins during the week. If he can’t go, and isn’t at 100 %, take the Jets, and the better coaching staff. PREDICTION : NEW YORK JETS 23 BUFFALO 20, TAKE NEW YORK JETS (PK), AND PLAY OVER 40 ½ .
SAN FRANCISCO (45 ½ ) @ CAROLINA (-13 ½ )
Carolina comes off a physical game, and played one of the better defenses in week #1. This week, QB Can Newton, should have time in the pocket, since SF doesn’t have an outside pass rush. The 49 er secondary wasn’t tested in week one, against one of the worst offenses in the NFL. Although, Carolina lost to Denver, Newton played well, and should be ready for SF. The Niners have a poor offense, and Blaine Gabbert isn’t a good NFL QB. Carolina’s defense may not be as lethal as last season, but they still have a decent defense. They will take away the run from SF RB Hyde, which is the biggest part of their offense. Lastly , this is a 1pm start west coast to east coast trip from San Francisco, to Carolina, will give the Panthers a favorable advantage. Here is my hunch, and why this should be a good play, taking the favorite in this spot Last season, SF at home defeated Minnesota 20-3 at home, week #1. Week #2, the following week, SF had to travel east, and play Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh won 43 18.Don’t be afraid to lay the points. PREDICTION: CAROLINA 27 SAN FRANCISCO 13, TAKE CAROLINA -13 ½ , PLAY THE UNDER 45 ½ .
BALTIMORE (43.0) @ CLEVELAND (+7)
First thing that caught my attention, was the line. Baltimore Laying 7 points on the road?. Maybe at home, the Ravens might have value, but never on the road. The injury to RG3 , could be a blessing in disguise for the Browns. McCown , is a better QB, and should have been the Browns starting QB on opening day. Cleveland has improved this team offensive wise, and McCown has to weapons to work with. Cleveland’s big edge is the matchup in the trenches. Browns front seven versus Baltimore’s nonexistent running game. Cleveland’s biggest problem in this game is their overall inept defense, that lacks a pass rush. Flacco should have all day in the pocket to locate his receivers. However, the Ravens lack talent at the receiver positions, and you wonder if they can take full advantage of the Browns, like Philadelphia did last week. I am not a Cleveland fan, however, here are my reasons why I like them as the dog. The first game of the season at home, the Browns were embarrassed last week in their loss to Philadelphia, Baltimore doesn’t have a high octane offense, to trounce the Browns in a divisional game. PREDICTION: BALTIMORE 20 CLEVELAND 19, TAKE CLEVELAND +7, AND PLAY THE UNDER 43.0.
TENNESSEE (47.0) @ DETROIT (-5 ½ )
Detroit QB Stafford was on fire, 27-30 -0 3 TD’s, 247 yards. The lion offensive line was stellar, and kept the pocket clean. Besides excellent pass blocking versus the Colts last week, the offensive line , also provided outstanding run blocking , open holes that scored two TD’s, 116 Yards rushing, and a 4.8 yards per carry. The problem with Detroit is their defense. The secondary allowed 385 yards and 4 TD’s to the Colts. I expect Stafford to duplicate another great game. Tennessee’s secondary is awful. Detroit has no pass rush, and even against a poor colt offensive line, they didn’t pressure QB Luck. Tennessee has a better offensive line, so expect more of the same. The lion’s poor defense, should assist the Titans weak offense, so expect a lot of scoring in this contest. PREDICTION: DETROIT 30 TENNESSEE 20. TAKE DETROIT (-5 ½ ), PLAY OVER THE TOTAL 47.0.
KANSAS CITY ( 43 ½) @ HOUSTON (-2)
The Texans have a better team, compared to last season. They made upgrades on both sides of the ball. Houston, in the playoffs last season, lost to these Chiefs and were eliminated. Not only did they lose, they were shutout. You better believe, that the Texans were embarrassed before a national audience, and will look to turn the tables in this contest. KC defense is good, but not exceptional as last season’s squad. Overall, Houston’s QB Osweiler , good off on the right foot, and was on fire, in week #1. He was able to complete passes not only short, but long a vertical passes. Houston, now has the speedy receivers to execute their pass offense. Defensively, Houston’s front seven, pass rushed the Chicago Bears, a total of 29 times. It will be interesting to see how KC, Alex Smith will fair against Houston’s pass rush, considering that KC offensive line is outstanding. Last week Smith threw 34-45, and for 363 yards, 2 TD’s. KC’s issue, is their defense. Their front seven was ineffective in week #1, and KC made 51 pass rush attempts without recording a single pressure. This is a tough game to call. However, Houston is new and improved, seeking revenge from 2015, and playing at home, will give them a slight edge. PREDICTION: HOUSTON 20 KANSAS CITY 17. TAKE HOUSTON -2, AND PLAY UNDER 43 ½ .
MIAMI (41 ½ ) @ NEW ENGLAND ( - 6 ½ )
Miami showed us something last week, versus a tough Seattle team, on the road. Although they lost the contest (Could have won if not for Stills TD drop), the aging free agent veterans they signed up on defense, did an excellent job, pressuring Wilson from the pocket. Even QB Tannehill , played above his head, when not under pressure. Last week, Miami’s front seven, faced a terrible Seattle offensive line, and took advantage. The Patriots offensive line doesn’t fare much better, since they are a poor pass blocking unit. This mismatch, could favor Miami. I would expect Bill Belichick, to execute the same game plan, like he did against Arizona. Garoppolo, will throw to short routes, to avoid QB sacks. The Patriot offense played well against the Cardinals, without their TE Gronkowski. Te Bennett, his replacement, was terrific run blocking, and protecting the line of scrimmage. Garoppolo , discovered that even without Gronk, he had four capable go to receivers. On defense, the Patriots added more athletic personnel, and now have a consistent pass rush. They pressured Carson Palmer, 15 times last week. However, with all this said, I looked up their Head to head records. New England at home has won 4 straight over the Dolphins since 2012. By an average score of 33 – 9. Ironically, Miami has won 4 in a row, on their home court, but doesn’t apply here. PREDICTION: NEW ENGLAND 28 MIAMI 17, TAKE NEW ENGLAND (-6 ½ ) , PLAY THE OVER 41 ½ .
NEW ORLEANS (52 ½ ) @ NEW YORK GIANTS (-5)
The Saints QB Drew Brees, and company, was an endless scoring machine against the Raiders last week. However, don’t expect the Saints to score 34 points in this contest. NY Giants have a better defense than the Raiders. Giants in the off season, blended a nice defensive package. The Giants have a solid front seven against the rush, a good secondary, and good pass rushers. They will have a big advantage with the mismatch, facing the Saints offensive line as for offense, QB Eli Manning continues to be unimpressive. His decisions as a field general are terrible, and when pressured, he is most likely to throw an interception. The Giants have a good offensive line, and the combination of their pass protection, and the Saints awful defense, should open the door for Manning to have a good day, as long as he isn’t being constantly pressured. Keep in mind, the Giants allowed zero sacks in week #1. In addition, expect the Giants offensive line, to run all over the Saints front seven. PREDICTION: NEW YORK GIANTS 30 NEW ORLEANS 24. TAKE NY GIANTS (-5), AND TAKE THE OVER 52 ½ .
CINCINNATI (48 ½ ) @ PITTSBURGH (-3)
Recall last season’s playoff game between these two rivals. Antonio Brown , was injured and knocked out of that game. QB Roethlisberger , was not playing at 100% in that contest, and Pittsburgh was eliminated. Now both Brown, and Roethlisberger are 100% healthy, and they have a score to settle this weekend against the Bengals.Cincinnati’s front seven is weak defending the run, and expect RB De Angelo Williams to have a good day. The Pittsburgh secondary is one of the worst, and QB Dalton, was sacked 7 of the 12 pressured drop backs in the pocket. Dalton can’t pass under pressure, and Pittsburgh is known to have the highest blitzing defense in the NFL. The Steelers must pass rush often, to take the football out of AJ Green, Marcos LaFell’s hands. I will lean towards the Steelers to win this game, based on last season’s revenge. PREDICTED SCORE: PITTSBURGH 24 CINCINNATI 20. TAKE PITTSBURGH (-3), AND PLAY UNDER 48 ½ .
DALLAS (45.0) @ WASHINGTON (-2 1/2 )
Washington’s cornerback Breeland, was beat like a drum last Monday Night. I expect Dez Bryant this game, to burn Breeland, like a piece of toast. The Washington front seven, can’t stop the run, and I expect RB Ezekeil Elliott, to have a big game. So expect Dallas QB Prescott, to continue to call a conservative game, and lean more towards the run with Elliott. I expect a better performance from the Cowboy offensive line that is touted one of the best, but played poorly in week #1. Dallas’s secondary played well, however, their front seven is depleted with injuries. Washington, will look to run the football more with RB Matt Jones. Cousins, since the playoff game last season, has been sloppy, and inaccurate with his passes. Cousins, looks like he is reverting back to his old self, and will have trouble leading his team downfield this season. Don’t like this game at all. A division rivalry will keep the score close, but anyone’s game. PREDICTION: DALLAS 23 WASHINGTON 21, TAKE DALLAS +2 ½ , PLAY THE UNDER 45.0.
TAMPA BAY (50.0) @ ARIZONA (-6 ½ )
After watching Arizona last week, I concluded, that their defense isn’t as good as last season, and Carson Palmer, has looked awful at QB, the entire pre-season, and in the regular season opener. Tampa Bay, looked sharp offensively with QB Winston. Here’s how I see it. Winston will attack Arizona’s secondary, and stay away from cornerback Peterson. Arizona will attack the Bucs front seven, with RB David Johnson, who had 132 total yards, and a TD. I have some reservations regarding Tampa Bay. Yes, they played great as a team last week, however, I don’t consider Atlanta as a true test. I need more of a sample size, as the season goes on. Recall, last season the Bucs had the worst defense in the NFL. The Offensive line had trouble in 2015, protecting Winston’s blind side. All was good in week #1, now they have to contest on the road, against a hungry Arizona team looking for a win. PREDICTED SCORE: ARIZONA 30 TAMPA BAY 17. TAKE ARIZONA -6 ½ , PLAY THE UNDER 50.0.
SEATTLE (38 ½ ) @ LOS ANGELES (+6 ½ )
Looks like Seattle QB Russell Wilson will play. Seattle, is about to play one of the worst offenses in the NFL. I do expect the Rams to play better on offense, with RB Gurley, to overcome last week’s embarrassing shutout. My question is, can they score, and break into double digits? QB Keenum is horrid at QB, and can’t read defenses. Offensive line is awful, and allowed their QB to be pressured 19 times, the Ram receivers kept dropping passes. You can’t get away with this, against a defense like Seattle’s. Seattle’s issue in the game, will be the mismatch of their poor offensive line, versus the Ram front seven that could dominate them. So if both offenses are struggling, look for a low scoring game. PREDICTED SCORE; SEATTLE 20 LOS ANGELES 9. TAKE SEATTLE -6 ½ , PLAY THE UNDER 38 ½ .
INDIANAPOLIS (45.0) @ DENVER ( -6)
Denver might not be the same talented super bowl team in 2016, but they started off on the right foot in the season opener, by defeating a good Carolina team. QB Sieman, didn’t play like a rookie, and wasn’t rattled. His passes were crisp, and accurate, and he can become Denver’s system QB, replacing Peyton Manning. Give credit to the Bronco offensive line that protected the young QB. Denver maybe doesn’t have that dominate defense anymore, due to personnel losses, but are still an excellent bunch, with an outstanding secondary. The Colts totally stink on defense, and yet, Luck showed he was back, but putting points on the scoreboard. Luck, has an excellent offensive line to protect him. They allowed only one sack, and 7 pressures on their QB, against a good Detroit defensive pass rush. If Luck, and Sieman , have the same protection like they had in week one, I think both sides will score some points. There is no way I will pick the Colts, with their awful defense. PREDICTED SCORE: DENVER 30 INDIANAPOLIS 23. TAKE DENVER -6, PLAY THE OVER 45.0
ATLANTA (49 ½ ) @ OAKLAND (-4 ½ )
Oakland’s display of a horrible secondary in week one, should have QB Ryan’s QB rating climb after week #2. Oakland doesn’t have a pass rush, and it showed against a lousy offensive line last week. Atlanta, has trouble scoring in the Red Zone, so expect that to change. The Falcons defense, is just about par with the Saints, so look for the Raiders to score in the 30 point range. Atlanta, should also take advantage of Oakland’s poor defense, and put points on the board. You can’t trust either team here. PREDICTED SCORE: OAKLAND 31 ATLANTA 28. TAKE ATLANTA +4 ½ , AND PLAY THE OVER 49 ½ .
JACKSONVILLE (48.0) @ SAN DIEGO (-3)
With the loss of their top offensive players, Keenan Allen, this leaves the Chargers in a delicate situation. Recall, last week, after he was carried off the field, the San Diego offense died on the field. They blew a 21 -3 lead. Jacksonville, has their issues too. They have injuries to their secondary, their overall defense is suspect. The jags front seven, has no pass rush, and didn’t record one single pressure on the opposing QB. Offensively, Jacksonville is in good shape. They have Bortles, and three talented wide receivers that can catch. The added bonus is that San Diego can’t stop the run, and TJ Yeldon, should have a good game rushing.San Diego’s QB Rivers put up good numbers in week one. Passed 25 -36, 243 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT. San Diego’s offensive line played really well, and their run blocking, helped them gain 145 yards rushing. San Diego isn’t a good home team. My advice, throw a coin up into the air, and pick that team. PREDICTED SCORE: SAN DIEGO 28 JACKSONVILLE 23. TAKE SAN DIEGO -3, AND PLAY THE OVER 48.0.
GREEN BAY ( 44.0) @ MINNESOTA (+2 ½ )
Look for the Vikings to start Bradford at QB. They need Bradford to attack the suspect Green Bay secondary. The Vikings are known as a predominate rushing team on offense, with RB Peterson. Problem is Green Bay is especially stout versus the run. In return, QB Rodgers , will face a good Minnesota defense. Rodgers, had trouble communicating with his receivers last week, and the timing wasn’t down. Green Bay’s offensive line didn’t allow a sack or a QB hit. Besides, Rodgers is good under pressure, when pass rushed. When in doubt, go with the elite QB. PREDICTION: GREEN BAY 23 MINNESOTA 20. TAKE GREEN BAY -2 ½ , AND PLAY THE UNDER 44.0.
PHILADELPHIA (44.0) @ CHICAGO (-3)
Philadelphia, played one of the worst NFL teams in their opener. So with that being said, QB Wentz wasn’t under pressure, and he found comfort in the pocket. Chicago, will put Wentz to the test, with their defensive front seven that is good at attacking opposing QB’s. Chicago’s stout seven, will stop the Eagles running game. Chicago has the edge with their receivers. Philadelphia, has a weak front seven, and Chicago should be able to run the football. Philadelphia allowed 5 yards per carry, to an inept Cleveland team. I like Chicago in this spot, for these reasons. They have a solid front seven, they have the more experienced QB, and have the better offense overall. PREDICTED SCORE: CHICAGO 27 PHILADELPHIA 20, TAKE CHICAGO -3, AND PLAY THE OVER 44.0.
Buffalo, picks up where they left off last week. Their front seven on defense is depleted, suffering from injuries, and suspensions. On top of that WR Sammy Watkins injured his foot, and isn’t at 100 %, and Revis will assigned to cover him. Jets are sound defending against the run. However, when the Jets Blitz, they don’t blitz from the edge, and blitz in the middle of the line. That will pose a problem for the Jet pass rush, since Buffalo is stout pass blocking the interior of their line. Buffalo has a solid secondary. The jets have their issues, with Marshall not at 100%. Fitzpatrick, is struggling passing the football. He only threw one pass over 20 yards, and when he releases the ball, it knuckleballs out to his receivers without zip. The Jets have a good Offensive line that can block both ways. The Jets will be able to run the football with RB Forte. I am not wild about this game, and it can go either way. Check the status of Buffalo WR Watkins during the week. If he can’t go, and isn’t at 100 %, take the Jets, and the better coaching staff. PREDICTION : NEW YORK JETS 23 BUFFALO 20, TAKE NEW YORK JETS (PK), AND PLAY OVER 40 ½ .
SAN FRANCISCO (45 ½ ) @ CAROLINA (-13 ½ )
Carolina comes off a physical game, and played one of the better defenses in week #1. This week, QB Can Newton, should have time in the pocket, since SF doesn’t have an outside pass rush. The 49 er secondary wasn’t tested in week one, against one of the worst offenses in the NFL. Although, Carolina lost to Denver, Newton played well, and should be ready for SF. The Niners have a poor offense, and Blaine Gabbert isn’t a good NFL QB. Carolina’s defense may not be as lethal as last season, but they still have a decent defense. They will take away the run from SF RB Hyde, which is the biggest part of their offense. Lastly , this is a 1pm start west coast to east coast trip from San Francisco, to Carolina, will give the Panthers a favorable advantage. Here is my hunch, and why this should be a good play, taking the favorite in this spot Last season, SF at home defeated Minnesota 20-3 at home, week #1. Week #2, the following week, SF had to travel east, and play Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh won 43 18.Don’t be afraid to lay the points. PREDICTION: CAROLINA 27 SAN FRANCISCO 13, TAKE CAROLINA -13 ½ , PLAY THE UNDER 45 ½ .
BALTIMORE (43.0) @ CLEVELAND (+7)
First thing that caught my attention, was the line. Baltimore Laying 7 points on the road?. Maybe at home, the Ravens might have value, but never on the road. The injury to RG3 , could be a blessing in disguise for the Browns. McCown , is a better QB, and should have been the Browns starting QB on opening day. Cleveland has improved this team offensive wise, and McCown has to weapons to work with. Cleveland’s big edge is the matchup in the trenches. Browns front seven versus Baltimore’s nonexistent running game. Cleveland’s biggest problem in this game is their overall inept defense, that lacks a pass rush. Flacco should have all day in the pocket to locate his receivers. However, the Ravens lack talent at the receiver positions, and you wonder if they can take full advantage of the Browns, like Philadelphia did last week. I am not a Cleveland fan, however, here are my reasons why I like them as the dog. The first game of the season at home, the Browns were embarrassed last week in their loss to Philadelphia, Baltimore doesn’t have a high octane offense, to trounce the Browns in a divisional game. PREDICTION: BALTIMORE 20 CLEVELAND 19, TAKE CLEVELAND +7, AND PLAY THE UNDER 43.0.
TENNESSEE (47.0) @ DETROIT (-5 ½ )
Detroit QB Stafford was on fire, 27-30 -0 3 TD’s, 247 yards. The lion offensive line was stellar, and kept the pocket clean. Besides excellent pass blocking versus the Colts last week, the offensive line , also provided outstanding run blocking , open holes that scored two TD’s, 116 Yards rushing, and a 4.8 yards per carry. The problem with Detroit is their defense. The secondary allowed 385 yards and 4 TD’s to the Colts. I expect Stafford to duplicate another great game. Tennessee’s secondary is awful. Detroit has no pass rush, and even against a poor colt offensive line, they didn’t pressure QB Luck. Tennessee has a better offensive line, so expect more of the same. The lion’s poor defense, should assist the Titans weak offense, so expect a lot of scoring in this contest. PREDICTION: DETROIT 30 TENNESSEE 20. TAKE DETROIT (-5 ½ ), PLAY OVER THE TOTAL 47.0.
KANSAS CITY ( 43 ½) @ HOUSTON (-2)
The Texans have a better team, compared to last season. They made upgrades on both sides of the ball. Houston, in the playoffs last season, lost to these Chiefs and were eliminated. Not only did they lose, they were shutout. You better believe, that the Texans were embarrassed before a national audience, and will look to turn the tables in this contest. KC defense is good, but not exceptional as last season’s squad. Overall, Houston’s QB Osweiler , good off on the right foot, and was on fire, in week #1. He was able to complete passes not only short, but long a vertical passes. Houston, now has the speedy receivers to execute their pass offense. Defensively, Houston’s front seven, pass rushed the Chicago Bears, a total of 29 times. It will be interesting to see how KC, Alex Smith will fair against Houston’s pass rush, considering that KC offensive line is outstanding. Last week Smith threw 34-45, and for 363 yards, 2 TD’s. KC’s issue, is their defense. Their front seven was ineffective in week #1, and KC made 51 pass rush attempts without recording a single pressure. This is a tough game to call. However, Houston is new and improved, seeking revenge from 2015, and playing at home, will give them a slight edge. PREDICTION: HOUSTON 20 KANSAS CITY 17. TAKE HOUSTON -2, AND PLAY UNDER 43 ½ .
MIAMI (41 ½ ) @ NEW ENGLAND ( - 6 ½ )
Miami showed us something last week, versus a tough Seattle team, on the road. Although they lost the contest (Could have won if not for Stills TD drop), the aging free agent veterans they signed up on defense, did an excellent job, pressuring Wilson from the pocket. Even QB Tannehill , played above his head, when not under pressure. Last week, Miami’s front seven, faced a terrible Seattle offensive line, and took advantage. The Patriots offensive line doesn’t fare much better, since they are a poor pass blocking unit. This mismatch, could favor Miami. I would expect Bill Belichick, to execute the same game plan, like he did against Arizona. Garoppolo, will throw to short routes, to avoid QB sacks. The Patriot offense played well against the Cardinals, without their TE Gronkowski. Te Bennett, his replacement, was terrific run blocking, and protecting the line of scrimmage. Garoppolo , discovered that even without Gronk, he had four capable go to receivers. On defense, the Patriots added more athletic personnel, and now have a consistent pass rush. They pressured Carson Palmer, 15 times last week. However, with all this said, I looked up their Head to head records. New England at home has won 4 straight over the Dolphins since 2012. By an average score of 33 – 9. Ironically, Miami has won 4 in a row, on their home court, but doesn’t apply here. PREDICTION: NEW ENGLAND 28 MIAMI 17, TAKE NEW ENGLAND (-6 ½ ) , PLAY THE OVER 41 ½ .
NEW ORLEANS (52 ½ ) @ NEW YORK GIANTS (-5)
The Saints QB Drew Brees, and company, was an endless scoring machine against the Raiders last week. However, don’t expect the Saints to score 34 points in this contest. NY Giants have a better defense than the Raiders. Giants in the off season, blended a nice defensive package. The Giants have a solid front seven against the rush, a good secondary, and good pass rushers. They will have a big advantage with the mismatch, facing the Saints offensive line as for offense, QB Eli Manning continues to be unimpressive. His decisions as a field general are terrible, and when pressured, he is most likely to throw an interception. The Giants have a good offensive line, and the combination of their pass protection, and the Saints awful defense, should open the door for Manning to have a good day, as long as he isn’t being constantly pressured. Keep in mind, the Giants allowed zero sacks in week #1. In addition, expect the Giants offensive line, to run all over the Saints front seven. PREDICTION: NEW YORK GIANTS 30 NEW ORLEANS 24. TAKE NY GIANTS (-5), AND TAKE THE OVER 52 ½ .
CINCINNATI (48 ½ ) @ PITTSBURGH (-3)
Recall last season’s playoff game between these two rivals. Antonio Brown , was injured and knocked out of that game. QB Roethlisberger , was not playing at 100% in that contest, and Pittsburgh was eliminated. Now both Brown, and Roethlisberger are 100% healthy, and they have a score to settle this weekend against the Bengals.Cincinnati’s front seven is weak defending the run, and expect RB De Angelo Williams to have a good day. The Pittsburgh secondary is one of the worst, and QB Dalton, was sacked 7 of the 12 pressured drop backs in the pocket. Dalton can’t pass under pressure, and Pittsburgh is known to have the highest blitzing defense in the NFL. The Steelers must pass rush often, to take the football out of AJ Green, Marcos LaFell’s hands. I will lean towards the Steelers to win this game, based on last season’s revenge. PREDICTED SCORE: PITTSBURGH 24 CINCINNATI 20. TAKE PITTSBURGH (-3), AND PLAY UNDER 48 ½ .
DALLAS (45.0) @ WASHINGTON (-2 1/2 )
Washington’s cornerback Breeland, was beat like a drum last Monday Night. I expect Dez Bryant this game, to burn Breeland, like a piece of toast. The Washington front seven, can’t stop the run, and I expect RB Ezekeil Elliott, to have a big game. So expect Dallas QB Prescott, to continue to call a conservative game, and lean more towards the run with Elliott. I expect a better performance from the Cowboy offensive line that is touted one of the best, but played poorly in week #1. Dallas’s secondary played well, however, their front seven is depleted with injuries. Washington, will look to run the football more with RB Matt Jones. Cousins, since the playoff game last season, has been sloppy, and inaccurate with his passes. Cousins, looks like he is reverting back to his old self, and will have trouble leading his team downfield this season. Don’t like this game at all. A division rivalry will keep the score close, but anyone’s game. PREDICTION: DALLAS 23 WASHINGTON 21, TAKE DALLAS +2 ½ , PLAY THE UNDER 45.0.
TAMPA BAY (50.0) @ ARIZONA (-6 ½ )
After watching Arizona last week, I concluded, that their defense isn’t as good as last season, and Carson Palmer, has looked awful at QB, the entire pre-season, and in the regular season opener. Tampa Bay, looked sharp offensively with QB Winston. Here’s how I see it. Winston will attack Arizona’s secondary, and stay away from cornerback Peterson. Arizona will attack the Bucs front seven, with RB David Johnson, who had 132 total yards, and a TD. I have some reservations regarding Tampa Bay. Yes, they played great as a team last week, however, I don’t consider Atlanta as a true test. I need more of a sample size, as the season goes on. Recall, last season the Bucs had the worst defense in the NFL. The Offensive line had trouble in 2015, protecting Winston’s blind side. All was good in week #1, now they have to contest on the road, against a hungry Arizona team looking for a win. PREDICTED SCORE: ARIZONA 30 TAMPA BAY 17. TAKE ARIZONA -6 ½ , PLAY THE UNDER 50.0.
SEATTLE (38 ½ ) @ LOS ANGELES (+6 ½ )
Looks like Seattle QB Russell Wilson will play. Seattle, is about to play one of the worst offenses in the NFL. I do expect the Rams to play better on offense, with RB Gurley, to overcome last week’s embarrassing shutout. My question is, can they score, and break into double digits? QB Keenum is horrid at QB, and can’t read defenses. Offensive line is awful, and allowed their QB to be pressured 19 times, the Ram receivers kept dropping passes. You can’t get away with this, against a defense like Seattle’s. Seattle’s issue in the game, will be the mismatch of their poor offensive line, versus the Ram front seven that could dominate them. So if both offenses are struggling, look for a low scoring game. PREDICTED SCORE; SEATTLE 20 LOS ANGELES 9. TAKE SEATTLE -6 ½ , PLAY THE UNDER 38 ½ .
INDIANAPOLIS (45.0) @ DENVER ( -6)
Denver might not be the same talented super bowl team in 2016, but they started off on the right foot in the season opener, by defeating a good Carolina team. QB Sieman, didn’t play like a rookie, and wasn’t rattled. His passes were crisp, and accurate, and he can become Denver’s system QB, replacing Peyton Manning. Give credit to the Bronco offensive line that protected the young QB. Denver maybe doesn’t have that dominate defense anymore, due to personnel losses, but are still an excellent bunch, with an outstanding secondary. The Colts totally stink on defense, and yet, Luck showed he was back, but putting points on the scoreboard. Luck, has an excellent offensive line to protect him. They allowed only one sack, and 7 pressures on their QB, against a good Detroit defensive pass rush. If Luck, and Sieman , have the same protection like they had in week one, I think both sides will score some points. There is no way I will pick the Colts, with their awful defense. PREDICTED SCORE: DENVER 30 INDIANAPOLIS 23. TAKE DENVER -6, PLAY THE OVER 45.0
ATLANTA (49 ½ ) @ OAKLAND (-4 ½ )
Oakland’s display of a horrible secondary in week one, should have QB Ryan’s QB rating climb after week #2. Oakland doesn’t have a pass rush, and it showed against a lousy offensive line last week. Atlanta, has trouble scoring in the Red Zone, so expect that to change. The Falcons defense, is just about par with the Saints, so look for the Raiders to score in the 30 point range. Atlanta, should also take advantage of Oakland’s poor defense, and put points on the board. You can’t trust either team here. PREDICTED SCORE: OAKLAND 31 ATLANTA 28. TAKE ATLANTA +4 ½ , AND PLAY THE OVER 49 ½ .
JACKSONVILLE (48.0) @ SAN DIEGO (-3)
With the loss of their top offensive players, Keenan Allen, this leaves the Chargers in a delicate situation. Recall, last week, after he was carried off the field, the San Diego offense died on the field. They blew a 21 -3 lead. Jacksonville, has their issues too. They have injuries to their secondary, their overall defense is suspect. The jags front seven, has no pass rush, and didn’t record one single pressure on the opposing QB. Offensively, Jacksonville is in good shape. They have Bortles, and three talented wide receivers that can catch. The added bonus is that San Diego can’t stop the run, and TJ Yeldon, should have a good game rushing.San Diego’s QB Rivers put up good numbers in week one. Passed 25 -36, 243 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT. San Diego’s offensive line played really well, and their run blocking, helped them gain 145 yards rushing. San Diego isn’t a good home team. My advice, throw a coin up into the air, and pick that team. PREDICTED SCORE: SAN DIEGO 28 JACKSONVILLE 23. TAKE SAN DIEGO -3, AND PLAY THE OVER 48.0.
GREEN BAY ( 44.0) @ MINNESOTA (+2 ½ )
Look for the Vikings to start Bradford at QB. They need Bradford to attack the suspect Green Bay secondary. The Vikings are known as a predominate rushing team on offense, with RB Peterson. Problem is Green Bay is especially stout versus the run. In return, QB Rodgers , will face a good Minnesota defense. Rodgers, had trouble communicating with his receivers last week, and the timing wasn’t down. Green Bay’s offensive line didn’t allow a sack or a QB hit. Besides, Rodgers is good under pressure, when pass rushed. When in doubt, go with the elite QB. PREDICTION: GREEN BAY 23 MINNESOTA 20. TAKE GREEN BAY -2 ½ , AND PLAY THE UNDER 44.0.
PHILADELPHIA (44.0) @ CHICAGO (-3)
Philadelphia, played one of the worst NFL teams in their opener. So with that being said, QB Wentz wasn’t under pressure, and he found comfort in the pocket. Chicago, will put Wentz to the test, with their defensive front seven that is good at attacking opposing QB’s. Chicago’s stout seven, will stop the Eagles running game. Chicago has the edge with their receivers. Philadelphia, has a weak front seven, and Chicago should be able to run the football. Philadelphia allowed 5 yards per carry, to an inept Cleveland team. I like Chicago in this spot, for these reasons. They have a solid front seven, they have the more experienced QB, and have the better offense overall. PREDICTED SCORE: CHICAGO 27 PHILADELPHIA 20, TAKE CHICAGO -3, AND PLAY THE OVER 44.0.
