BROOKLYNWORM’S NFL 2018 PICKS & PREDICTIONS WEEK #1
ATLANTA (45.0) @ PHILADELPHIA (-2)
This is a tricky game to kick off the season. I watched the Eagles up close, and read articles about them during the preseason. I am not a big fan of the NFL preseason, and isn’t a complete indication as to what’s to come during the regular season. Philadelphia has been banged up during most of the preseason. QB Wentz remains unable to play, and Foles once again will be the Eagle starting signal caller. The overall observation of the Eagles, is that they went through the motions in training camp, played poorly in the preseason games, and they were without key players with injuries. This gloomy situation in Philadelphia, has recently changed. Reports are that Philadelphia will be at without Wentz & Jeffery. Philadelphia has an excellent front seven, and can stuff the run. They also have the ability to rush, and pressure the opposing QB. So bottom line, what you seen in the preseason, is not what you’ll get on opening night. Atlanta, has an explosive offense, and defense. However, recall last season, when Steven Sarkisian replaced the Offensive Coordinator position, his play calling wasn’t as conducive , or explosive, like it was in 2016. So the jury is out, if QB Ryan and company can ever repeat those offensive numbers. In conclusion, I think the Eagle defense will arise to the occasion, and make the difference. Prediction Philadelphia 27 Atlanta 21, Philadelphia (-2), Over (45.0).
PITTSBURGH (46.0) @ CLEVELAND (+6)
Pittsburgh has some issues that need to be answered. After losing Ryan Shazier on defense last season, the Steeler defense hasn’t been the same. They were allowing 28 points per game to their opponents. Gone, was their trademark defense of excellence. Le’veon Bell, is still MIA, and is holding out on his contract, just days before opening night. The Steelers no doubt have a passing game that can score points with Roethlisberger at quarterback, with his talented wide outs. Without Bell signed, that will force the Steelers into a one dimensional offense, and will become predictable to defend. Cleveland, in the off season, and preseason, have been making moves, and strides in the right direction. Cleveland drafted a franchise QB, They have QB Tyrode Taylor to help him lead the way into the future. Their defense has been improved, they obtained a shutdown CB, they shown signs of a pass rush. Overall, much improved all around. Pittsburgh, can expect a different Browns team comes opening day. Lastly, this important stat I discovered. Pittsburgh is a very poor team, when they are made big road favorites. They have trouble covering the spread, and only beat the Browns on the road by 3, in 2017. Cleveland is getting 4 points, and their team is much improved. Prediction Pittsburgh 28 Cleveland 27, Cleveland (+4), Over (46.0). (Possible upset special, Browns win outright)
SAN FRANCISCO (+6) MINNESOTA (46.0)
In 2017, the Vikings established themselves a possible super bowl contenders in 2018. However, they may be mitigating factors to consider with this year’s team. Coaches. Minnesota lost offensive line coach Sparano, in the off season (RIP). They also lost their brainy offensive coordinator, to become head coach of the NY Giants. They had a system QB in place with Case Keenum, but signed Kirk Cousins. I my opinion I think Cousins is a slightly better QB, but the question is if he is a fit for their offense, like Keenan was. Cousin has proven nothing in Washington, and will signal call behind one of the worst offensive lines. Keenen had the better footwork, when sliding in and out of the pocket, to extend plays. I think Cousins will have some difficulty, and will take time to adjust. The Viking defense remains the strength of the team, and will limit their opponents offensively. San Francisco, lost 6 players to injury during their first preseason game. Linebacker Reuben Foster, is suspended for two games, which can affect SF defense in this game without him. The Niners lost a bunch of running backs to injury. In preseason game three, I watched QB Jimmy Garappolo in action. Jimmy, didn’t perform well, and had a bad completion percentage. He has lessor talented receivers, which had four drops that game. After half of season with SF, Jimmy was awarded with that $30 million dollar a year contract, and dubbed the “Franchise”. I am not questioning Garoppolo’s ability. What I am concerned about, is that all the NFL teams seen him play, and now have enough film, to game plan against him. Jimmy, will have to make adjustments on the field , if he wants to continue to be successful. SF might get off to a slow start. Prediction Minnesota 24 San Francisco 13, Minnesota (-6), Under (46.0).
Cincinnati (47) @ Indianapolis (-3)
Andrew Luck is back at quarterback, however, there are concerns. Look at Luck’s preseason stats. The numbers shown us that Luck limited himself to short passes, and had made no serious attempts to throw the football vertically deep. We have no idea about Luck’s arm strength, and he really didn’t test his arm deep in a game situation. As for Luck’s offensive line, that is still a major concern The Cincinnati defense is a dominant bunch, and have the talent on their defensive line, to pass rush, and hurry the quarterback. That can spell doom for the Colts, and Andrew Luck.QB Andy Dalton had an excellent camp. The Bengals also upgraded their offensive line. Since they solved their weaknesses in the off season, and now have a new offensive coordinator, their 4-12 record from 2017, will improve in 2018. Until I see Luck’s arm strength in a regular season game, I will go with the opposition. Prediction Cincinnati 27 Indianapolis 24, Cincinnati (+3), Over (47.0).
BUFFALO (40.5) @ BALTIMORE (-7)
I have ranked Buffalo to finish last in 2018. They have the worst offensive line in football, and injured two of their quarterbacks, for failing to pass block. Considering Baltimore’s stout front seven on defense, they will shred the Bills O-Line. Add QB Nathan Peterman to the mix (The worst Starting QB in the NFL), gets the nod. Looks like Flacco in his contract year, worked hard in this pre season. Flacco, now has offensive weapons at his disposal, at the wide out, and running back positions. Another tangible factor to consider. Baltimore plays their best football at home, and this game will be their season opener. Prediction, Baltimore 23 Buffalo 7, Baltimore (-7), Under 40.5.
JACKSONVILLE (43.5) @ NY GIANTS (+3)
So, to start with, Bortles , is a check down quarterback. Last season’s success was no indication that he upgraded his play as a quarterback in the NFL. Bortles also lost one of his few offensive weapons for the season, Wide out, Marquise Lee. Their head coach is suspect and his team will be challenged in his own division. Luck , is back with the Colts, and Houston appears healthy as a team, after last season’s slew of injuries. In addition, the Jaguars will play a much tougher schedule. The strength of this team is in their defense. However, their defense will be challenged by Barkley, and Beckham. The Giants improved their offensive line, to give Manning pass protection. He now has Nate Solder to protect his blind side. As much improved the Giants team is going into 2018, they still have many holes to plug, on both sides of the ball. Regardless, this should be a very close contest. Prediction. NY Giants 23 Jacksonville 21, NY Giants (+3), Over (43.5).
TAMPA BAY (49.5) @ NEW ORLEANS (-9.5)
QB Ryan Fritzpatrick, will start in lieu of Jameis Winston, due to his suspension. I see this as a downgrade at that position. Fitzpatrick’s offensive line is suspect. Although he has the necessary weapons on offense, Fritzpatrick will be a sitting duck in the pocket, when challenged by the Saints upgraded front seven on defense. Drew Brees, will take advantage of the Bucs weak secondary. With a lame duck head coach opening up the season, and since the Bucs play in one of the toughest divisions in the NFL, their future looks bleak. Prediction. New Orleans 31 Tampa Bay 13. New Orleans (-9.5), Under (49.5)
HOUSTON (51.0) @ NEW ENGLAND (-6.5)
The Texans were injury riddled in 2017, and their 4 -12 record reflected that. Now that QB Deshaun Watson, JJ Watt, and Whitney Mercilus, are healthy. There are those that think that Houston is a super bowl contender. I believe that the Texans are a legitimate playoff contender, and that a super bowl may be out of reach. Although Watson has prepared, and worked hard in the off season to make his comeback, he still doesn’t have enough NFL experience, due to his injury. Watson has elite wide outs in Hopkins, and Fuller. The weakness on the Texans can be found on their offensive line. Recall last season, before Watson was hurt, he faced the Patriots, and connected for a pair of TD’s. He looked impressive. Belichick teams, usually don’t prepare well for players they never seen. Now, the Pats already seen Watson play, and you better believe that Belichick will be prepared to target Watson, and attempt to hold him in check. Defensively, the Patriots are much improved, and have produced excellent results in their preseason games. Although they lost players to free agency, and are thin at wide receiver, the Patriots always have a way of landing on their feet. They go through with this routine every season, and as long as Brady is the quarterback, and Belichick the Head Coach, they find a way to win. Prediction. New England 28 Houston 24. Houston (+6), Over (51.0).
TENNESSEE (45.0) @ MIAMI (PK)
I noted in game three in the preseason (The most important game where starters get their reps) the Dolphins played all their starters, and Tannehill struggled against the Baltimore Raven starting defense. The team overall is a mess. Tannehill now has less talent around him. Miami’s offensive line is terrible. However, Tennessee’s pass rushers are all hurt, and that should give Miami enough of an edge, to pass protect Tannehill. Miami did upgrade at one position, Wide Out. However, Tennessee also upgraded their defensive secondary, and will match up well against the Miami receivers. Tannehill is a notch better than Jay Cutler, but not by much. As for Tennessee, played Pittsburgh in week three of the preseason. QB Mariota didn’t play well against a suspect Steeler defense. Don’t look to see much scoring in this contest. This game could go down to the final seconds, and I will stick with the Titans, and their defense. Prediction. Tennessee 21 Miami 17. Tennessee (pick’em) , Under (45.0)
Kansas City (47.5) @ LA Chargers (-3)
The Chargers have been cursed with the injury bug. In recent seasons, the Chargers have fielded excellent teams, with only their super bowl hopes, to be shot down. Recall last season, in their first four games key injuries to their playmakers, and missed field goal attempts, lost games with seconds to play. That slow start cost them a playoff spot, when they made their surge in the second half of the season. In 2018, they already lost TE Hunter Henry, a valuable piece on offense. They were fortunate to resign Antonio Gates, and maybe he might have enough in the tank to contribute to the offense. The Chargers have an excellent pass rush, and a solid secondary. KC will counter with rookie QB Mahomes. Mahomes , has shown us in the preseason, that he is an NFL QB of the future. They surrounded the rookie with playmakers, and should just do fine. I expect the Chargers to attack with their running game, and Melvin Gordon to come out big. The slight edge goes to the Chargers in this game. KC lacks a top pass rush, and Rivers will pick their suspect secondary apart. As much as Mahomes has impressed us, remember he is only a rookie, and he plays this game on the road. This should be a good game to watch. Prediction. Los Angeles Chargers 24 Kansas City 23, Kansas City (+3), Under (47.5).
SEATTLE (42.0) @ DENVER (-3)
John Elway, did the right thing, to jump on QB Case Keenum , when he became available. This is an upgrade at quarterback, since the 2017 season. Don’t forget, Keenum, led the Vikings to the NFC Championship game last year. Now , Denver has the offensive talent, and weapons, to improve upon that 5-11 record. Looking at the Seahawks, this team has regressed, and there is no hope in sight. Russell Wilson, is the only offensive player, with enough talent, to keep this team afloat. However, this boat is about to sink. In the off season, they lost all their talented players, the offensive line, has never been fixed, and they cannot run, nor pass block. Denver’s solid defense, should be able to sack, and hurry Wilson the entire game. This game is in Denver, and I am surprised that the Broncos are only laying -3 points? Prediction. Denver 24 Seattle 17, Denver (-3), Under (42.0).
DALLAS (42.5) @ CAROLINA (-3)
Carolina, had multiple injuries to their team last season, and still managed to finish the season 11-5. Considering the fact that Can Newton, was inconsistent at quarterback, was a feat in itself to win in double digits. What I understand, coach Norv Turner, is working hard with Cam, and it appears that Newton will have a highly productive season. Dallas, has huge issues on their offensive line, and they face a stout Carolina defensive front seven. On offense, Dallas lost two key talented players, Dez Bryant, and Jason Witten. So that leaves QB Prescott, to scramble, and throw to talentless targets. Elliott, will have no where to run, because his offensive line can’t block. Carolina’s weakness, is in their secondary. However, the Cowboys don’t have the weapons to exploit it. The bright spot on the Cowboys, is there defensive front seven, with Randy Gregory leading the charge. Gregory is a difference maker, and the reason why he should keep this game close. Carolina’s offensive line is mediocre at best, and Dallas will have the edge. Prediction Carolina 24 Dallas 20. Carolina (-3), Over 42.5.
WASHINGTON (44.0) @ ARIZONA (PK)
QB Sam Bradford, is a welcomed addition to the Cardinals to start the season. They immediately have a favorable matchup with their wide outs on offense, versus the suspect Redskin secondary. RB David Johnson, returns from his season ending surgery this season. However, Washington has an excellent front seven on defense, and will be able to stop the run. Washington, has one of the best offensive lines in the NFL, and will be capable of protecting QB Smith in the e pocket. The biggest blow to the Skins, was losing RB Derrius Guice for the season. Washington had one of the worst running attacks last season. Arizona’s strength is in their defense. Lastly, Adrian Peterson goes up against his former team, and had a good preseason. So the question is, can Peterson crack the Cardinals defense? Prediction. Arizona 27 Washington 24. Arizona (PK), Over (44.0).
CHICAGO (47.5) @ GREEN BAY (-7.5)
The Bears have made so many improvements to this team in the off season. Their latest move, trading for the best defenseman in the NFL.Chicago, I consider my sleeper team in the NFC. Their QB Mitchell Trubisky, has a year of experience under his belt. In 2017, the Bears were competitive, in all their losses. They return a good offensive line, and with Khalik Mack, will shut down the run, and have a pass rush. The Bears now have an r 2unning attack, and actual talented players at key positions. As for Green Bay, QB Aaron Rodgers returns after missing half the season in 2017. The Packers go, as far as Rodgers goes. In this game, Rodgers opposes Trubisky in this matchup. I say Green Bay wins, but doesn’t cover the spread. Prediction. Green Bay 27 Chicago 24. Chicago (+7.5), Over (47.5).
NEW YORK JETS (45.0) @ DETROIT (-6.5)
Detroit, has a new head coach, Matt Patricia. The Lions, had a poor preseason. They haven’t any linebackers that can cover in pass coverage, stopping running backs, or tight ends. Overall, the Lion defense is awful, and will surrender many points this season. Although the Jets decided to start rookie QB Sam Darnold, he has shown his quarterbacking abilities in the preseason, and he has an opportunity to exploit a bad Detroit secondary. The Jets have many questions, and game one of the regular season, should answer those questions. This team has many unknowns, and the jury is out on the rookie QB. If Darnold plays poorly, the Jets could easily regress from 2017. Prediction. Detroit 27 New York Jets 24, New York Jets (+6.5), Over (45.0).
LOS ANGELES RAMS (48.5) OAKLAND (+3)
QB Jared Goff, comes off a fantastic season. However, Goff lost his QB coach to Oakland. His mentor, now with the Raiders, knows Goff’s tendencies, and other tells. The Raiders did a great job upgrading their linebacker, and secondary positions. However, the lost Kahil Mack to the Bears. Since Mack, is the best defensive player in football, his presence will be more then missed in Oakland. The Rams offensive game plan, is to run Todd Gurley, behind their outstanding offensive line. QB Carr, comes off a bad season, and now he is healthy. The Raiders will not be able to run, However, Carr will challenge the Ram’s suspect secondary. Let me say at this point, I am throwing out all the X’s and O’s. The public is laying all their bets on the Rams to cover. About 80% of the money on the Rams. When I see that the Raiders are only getting 3 points, in this heavily favored game by the public, I always bet the other way. Meaning, as good as the Rams look, I am jumping on the Oakland Raider bandwagon. When something is too good to be true, it usually is. Prediction. Oakland 21 LA Rams 20, Oakland (+3), Under (48.5).
ATLANTA (45.0) @ PHILADELPHIA (-2)
This is a tricky game to kick off the season. I watched the Eagles up close, and read articles about them during the preseason. I am not a big fan of the NFL preseason, and isn’t a complete indication as to what’s to come during the regular season. Philadelphia has been banged up during most of the preseason. QB Wentz remains unable to play, and Foles once again will be the Eagle starting signal caller. The overall observation of the Eagles, is that they went through the motions in training camp, played poorly in the preseason games, and they were without key players with injuries. This gloomy situation in Philadelphia, has recently changed. Reports are that Philadelphia will be at without Wentz & Jeffery. Philadelphia has an excellent front seven, and can stuff the run. They also have the ability to rush, and pressure the opposing QB. So bottom line, what you seen in the preseason, is not what you’ll get on opening night. Atlanta, has an explosive offense, and defense. However, recall last season, when Steven Sarkisian replaced the Offensive Coordinator position, his play calling wasn’t as conducive , or explosive, like it was in 2016. So the jury is out, if QB Ryan and company can ever repeat those offensive numbers. In conclusion, I think the Eagle defense will arise to the occasion, and make the difference. Prediction Philadelphia 27 Atlanta 21, Philadelphia (-2), Over (45.0).
PITTSBURGH (46.0) @ CLEVELAND (+6)
Pittsburgh has some issues that need to be answered. After losing Ryan Shazier on defense last season, the Steeler defense hasn’t been the same. They were allowing 28 points per game to their opponents. Gone, was their trademark defense of excellence. Le’veon Bell, is still MIA, and is holding out on his contract, just days before opening night. The Steelers no doubt have a passing game that can score points with Roethlisberger at quarterback, with his talented wide outs. Without Bell signed, that will force the Steelers into a one dimensional offense, and will become predictable to defend. Cleveland, in the off season, and preseason, have been making moves, and strides in the right direction. Cleveland drafted a franchise QB, They have QB Tyrode Taylor to help him lead the way into the future. Their defense has been improved, they obtained a shutdown CB, they shown signs of a pass rush. Overall, much improved all around. Pittsburgh, can expect a different Browns team comes opening day. Lastly, this important stat I discovered. Pittsburgh is a very poor team, when they are made big road favorites. They have trouble covering the spread, and only beat the Browns on the road by 3, in 2017. Cleveland is getting 4 points, and their team is much improved. Prediction Pittsburgh 28 Cleveland 27, Cleveland (+4), Over (46.0). (Possible upset special, Browns win outright)
SAN FRANCISCO (+6) MINNESOTA (46.0)
In 2017, the Vikings established themselves a possible super bowl contenders in 2018. However, they may be mitigating factors to consider with this year’s team. Coaches. Minnesota lost offensive line coach Sparano, in the off season (RIP). They also lost their brainy offensive coordinator, to become head coach of the NY Giants. They had a system QB in place with Case Keenum, but signed Kirk Cousins. I my opinion I think Cousins is a slightly better QB, but the question is if he is a fit for their offense, like Keenan was. Cousin has proven nothing in Washington, and will signal call behind one of the worst offensive lines. Keenen had the better footwork, when sliding in and out of the pocket, to extend plays. I think Cousins will have some difficulty, and will take time to adjust. The Viking defense remains the strength of the team, and will limit their opponents offensively. San Francisco, lost 6 players to injury during their first preseason game. Linebacker Reuben Foster, is suspended for two games, which can affect SF defense in this game without him. The Niners lost a bunch of running backs to injury. In preseason game three, I watched QB Jimmy Garappolo in action. Jimmy, didn’t perform well, and had a bad completion percentage. He has lessor talented receivers, which had four drops that game. After half of season with SF, Jimmy was awarded with that $30 million dollar a year contract, and dubbed the “Franchise”. I am not questioning Garoppolo’s ability. What I am concerned about, is that all the NFL teams seen him play, and now have enough film, to game plan against him. Jimmy, will have to make adjustments on the field , if he wants to continue to be successful. SF might get off to a slow start. Prediction Minnesota 24 San Francisco 13, Minnesota (-6), Under (46.0).
Cincinnati (47) @ Indianapolis (-3)
Andrew Luck is back at quarterback, however, there are concerns. Look at Luck’s preseason stats. The numbers shown us that Luck limited himself to short passes, and had made no serious attempts to throw the football vertically deep. We have no idea about Luck’s arm strength, and he really didn’t test his arm deep in a game situation. As for Luck’s offensive line, that is still a major concern The Cincinnati defense is a dominant bunch, and have the talent on their defensive line, to pass rush, and hurry the quarterback. That can spell doom for the Colts, and Andrew Luck.QB Andy Dalton had an excellent camp. The Bengals also upgraded their offensive line. Since they solved their weaknesses in the off season, and now have a new offensive coordinator, their 4-12 record from 2017, will improve in 2018. Until I see Luck’s arm strength in a regular season game, I will go with the opposition. Prediction Cincinnati 27 Indianapolis 24, Cincinnati (+3), Over (47.0).
BUFFALO (40.5) @ BALTIMORE (-7)
I have ranked Buffalo to finish last in 2018. They have the worst offensive line in football, and injured two of their quarterbacks, for failing to pass block. Considering Baltimore’s stout front seven on defense, they will shred the Bills O-Line. Add QB Nathan Peterman to the mix (The worst Starting QB in the NFL), gets the nod. Looks like Flacco in his contract year, worked hard in this pre season. Flacco, now has offensive weapons at his disposal, at the wide out, and running back positions. Another tangible factor to consider. Baltimore plays their best football at home, and this game will be their season opener. Prediction, Baltimore 23 Buffalo 7, Baltimore (-7), Under 40.5.
JACKSONVILLE (43.5) @ NY GIANTS (+3)
So, to start with, Bortles , is a check down quarterback. Last season’s success was no indication that he upgraded his play as a quarterback in the NFL. Bortles also lost one of his few offensive weapons for the season, Wide out, Marquise Lee. Their head coach is suspect and his team will be challenged in his own division. Luck , is back with the Colts, and Houston appears healthy as a team, after last season’s slew of injuries. In addition, the Jaguars will play a much tougher schedule. The strength of this team is in their defense. However, their defense will be challenged by Barkley, and Beckham. The Giants improved their offensive line, to give Manning pass protection. He now has Nate Solder to protect his blind side. As much improved the Giants team is going into 2018, they still have many holes to plug, on both sides of the ball. Regardless, this should be a very close contest. Prediction. NY Giants 23 Jacksonville 21, NY Giants (+3), Over (43.5).
TAMPA BAY (49.5) @ NEW ORLEANS (-9.5)
QB Ryan Fritzpatrick, will start in lieu of Jameis Winston, due to his suspension. I see this as a downgrade at that position. Fitzpatrick’s offensive line is suspect. Although he has the necessary weapons on offense, Fritzpatrick will be a sitting duck in the pocket, when challenged by the Saints upgraded front seven on defense. Drew Brees, will take advantage of the Bucs weak secondary. With a lame duck head coach opening up the season, and since the Bucs play in one of the toughest divisions in the NFL, their future looks bleak. Prediction. New Orleans 31 Tampa Bay 13. New Orleans (-9.5), Under (49.5)
HOUSTON (51.0) @ NEW ENGLAND (-6.5)
The Texans were injury riddled in 2017, and their 4 -12 record reflected that. Now that QB Deshaun Watson, JJ Watt, and Whitney Mercilus, are healthy. There are those that think that Houston is a super bowl contender. I believe that the Texans are a legitimate playoff contender, and that a super bowl may be out of reach. Although Watson has prepared, and worked hard in the off season to make his comeback, he still doesn’t have enough NFL experience, due to his injury. Watson has elite wide outs in Hopkins, and Fuller. The weakness on the Texans can be found on their offensive line. Recall last season, before Watson was hurt, he faced the Patriots, and connected for a pair of TD’s. He looked impressive. Belichick teams, usually don’t prepare well for players they never seen. Now, the Pats already seen Watson play, and you better believe that Belichick will be prepared to target Watson, and attempt to hold him in check. Defensively, the Patriots are much improved, and have produced excellent results in their preseason games. Although they lost players to free agency, and are thin at wide receiver, the Patriots always have a way of landing on their feet. They go through with this routine every season, and as long as Brady is the quarterback, and Belichick the Head Coach, they find a way to win. Prediction. New England 28 Houston 24. Houston (+6), Over (51.0).
TENNESSEE (45.0) @ MIAMI (PK)
I noted in game three in the preseason (The most important game where starters get their reps) the Dolphins played all their starters, and Tannehill struggled against the Baltimore Raven starting defense. The team overall is a mess. Tannehill now has less talent around him. Miami’s offensive line is terrible. However, Tennessee’s pass rushers are all hurt, and that should give Miami enough of an edge, to pass protect Tannehill. Miami did upgrade at one position, Wide Out. However, Tennessee also upgraded their defensive secondary, and will match up well against the Miami receivers. Tannehill is a notch better than Jay Cutler, but not by much. As for Tennessee, played Pittsburgh in week three of the preseason. QB Mariota didn’t play well against a suspect Steeler defense. Don’t look to see much scoring in this contest. This game could go down to the final seconds, and I will stick with the Titans, and their defense. Prediction. Tennessee 21 Miami 17. Tennessee (pick’em) , Under (45.0)
Kansas City (47.5) @ LA Chargers (-3)
The Chargers have been cursed with the injury bug. In recent seasons, the Chargers have fielded excellent teams, with only their super bowl hopes, to be shot down. Recall last season, in their first four games key injuries to their playmakers, and missed field goal attempts, lost games with seconds to play. That slow start cost them a playoff spot, when they made their surge in the second half of the season. In 2018, they already lost TE Hunter Henry, a valuable piece on offense. They were fortunate to resign Antonio Gates, and maybe he might have enough in the tank to contribute to the offense. The Chargers have an excellent pass rush, and a solid secondary. KC will counter with rookie QB Mahomes. Mahomes , has shown us in the preseason, that he is an NFL QB of the future. They surrounded the rookie with playmakers, and should just do fine. I expect the Chargers to attack with their running game, and Melvin Gordon to come out big. The slight edge goes to the Chargers in this game. KC lacks a top pass rush, and Rivers will pick their suspect secondary apart. As much as Mahomes has impressed us, remember he is only a rookie, and he plays this game on the road. This should be a good game to watch. Prediction. Los Angeles Chargers 24 Kansas City 23, Kansas City (+3), Under (47.5).
SEATTLE (42.0) @ DENVER (-3)
John Elway, did the right thing, to jump on QB Case Keenum , when he became available. This is an upgrade at quarterback, since the 2017 season. Don’t forget, Keenum, led the Vikings to the NFC Championship game last year. Now , Denver has the offensive talent, and weapons, to improve upon that 5-11 record. Looking at the Seahawks, this team has regressed, and there is no hope in sight. Russell Wilson, is the only offensive player, with enough talent, to keep this team afloat. However, this boat is about to sink. In the off season, they lost all their talented players, the offensive line, has never been fixed, and they cannot run, nor pass block. Denver’s solid defense, should be able to sack, and hurry Wilson the entire game. This game is in Denver, and I am surprised that the Broncos are only laying -3 points? Prediction. Denver 24 Seattle 17, Denver (-3), Under (42.0).
DALLAS (42.5) @ CAROLINA (-3)
Carolina, had multiple injuries to their team last season, and still managed to finish the season 11-5. Considering the fact that Can Newton, was inconsistent at quarterback, was a feat in itself to win in double digits. What I understand, coach Norv Turner, is working hard with Cam, and it appears that Newton will have a highly productive season. Dallas, has huge issues on their offensive line, and they face a stout Carolina defensive front seven. On offense, Dallas lost two key talented players, Dez Bryant, and Jason Witten. So that leaves QB Prescott, to scramble, and throw to talentless targets. Elliott, will have no where to run, because his offensive line can’t block. Carolina’s weakness, is in their secondary. However, the Cowboys don’t have the weapons to exploit it. The bright spot on the Cowboys, is there defensive front seven, with Randy Gregory leading the charge. Gregory is a difference maker, and the reason why he should keep this game close. Carolina’s offensive line is mediocre at best, and Dallas will have the edge. Prediction Carolina 24 Dallas 20. Carolina (-3), Over 42.5.
WASHINGTON (44.0) @ ARIZONA (PK)
QB Sam Bradford, is a welcomed addition to the Cardinals to start the season. They immediately have a favorable matchup with their wide outs on offense, versus the suspect Redskin secondary. RB David Johnson, returns from his season ending surgery this season. However, Washington has an excellent front seven on defense, and will be able to stop the run. Washington, has one of the best offensive lines in the NFL, and will be capable of protecting QB Smith in the e pocket. The biggest blow to the Skins, was losing RB Derrius Guice for the season. Washington had one of the worst running attacks last season. Arizona’s strength is in their defense. Lastly, Adrian Peterson goes up against his former team, and had a good preseason. So the question is, can Peterson crack the Cardinals defense? Prediction. Arizona 27 Washington 24. Arizona (PK), Over (44.0).
CHICAGO (47.5) @ GREEN BAY (-7.5)
The Bears have made so many improvements to this team in the off season. Their latest move, trading for the best defenseman in the NFL.Chicago, I consider my sleeper team in the NFC. Their QB Mitchell Trubisky, has a year of experience under his belt. In 2017, the Bears were competitive, in all their losses. They return a good offensive line, and with Khalik Mack, will shut down the run, and have a pass rush. The Bears now have an r 2unning attack, and actual talented players at key positions. As for Green Bay, QB Aaron Rodgers returns after missing half the season in 2017. The Packers go, as far as Rodgers goes. In this game, Rodgers opposes Trubisky in this matchup. I say Green Bay wins, but doesn’t cover the spread. Prediction. Green Bay 27 Chicago 24. Chicago (+7.5), Over (47.5).
NEW YORK JETS (45.0) @ DETROIT (-6.5)
Detroit, has a new head coach, Matt Patricia. The Lions, had a poor preseason. They haven’t any linebackers that can cover in pass coverage, stopping running backs, or tight ends. Overall, the Lion defense is awful, and will surrender many points this season. Although the Jets decided to start rookie QB Sam Darnold, he has shown his quarterbacking abilities in the preseason, and he has an opportunity to exploit a bad Detroit secondary. The Jets have many questions, and game one of the regular season, should answer those questions. This team has many unknowns, and the jury is out on the rookie QB. If Darnold plays poorly, the Jets could easily regress from 2017. Prediction. Detroit 27 New York Jets 24, New York Jets (+6.5), Over (45.0).
LOS ANGELES RAMS (48.5) OAKLAND (+3)
QB Jared Goff, comes off a fantastic season. However, Goff lost his QB coach to Oakland. His mentor, now with the Raiders, knows Goff’s tendencies, and other tells. The Raiders did a great job upgrading their linebacker, and secondary positions. However, the lost Kahil Mack to the Bears. Since Mack, is the best defensive player in football, his presence will be more then missed in Oakland. The Rams offensive game plan, is to run Todd Gurley, behind their outstanding offensive line. QB Carr, comes off a bad season, and now he is healthy. The Raiders will not be able to run, However, Carr will challenge the Ram’s suspect secondary. Let me say at this point, I am throwing out all the X’s and O’s. The public is laying all their bets on the Rams to cover. About 80% of the money on the Rams. When I see that the Raiders are only getting 3 points, in this heavily favored game by the public, I always bet the other way. Meaning, as good as the Rams look, I am jumping on the Oakland Raider bandwagon. When something is too good to be true, it usually is. Prediction. Oakland 21 LA Rams 20, Oakland (+3), Under (48.5).
