Thursday Night Football: Texans @ Jets 7:15 PM (Prime Video)
Following an embarrassing loss to the New England Patriots, the New York Jets have entered full-on panic mode, slipping to a 2-6 record. But there’s a glimmer of optimism: Aaron Rodgers claims to have found the fountain of youth—a mix of cayenne pepper and water, apparently. If you’re sensing chaos, you’re right; the Jets are a circus teetering off the rails. Still, Vegas has them listed as two-point favorites against the Houston Texans.
The Texans, though uninspiring, have improved to 6-2 and control the underwhelming AFC South. Statistically, they stack up closely to the Jets’ defense in yards allowed and points given up but boast a much stronger offense. Judging by the numbers and overall performance, it seems Vegas may have missed the mark here.
Then again, Las Vegas wasn’t built on backing winners or poor bookkeeping. While the Jets as favorites raises an eyebrow, the eye test suggests New York lacks the consistency to beat Houston. This game should be close, with the Jets fighting to keep slim playoff hopes alive, but the Texans will simply be too much for New York to handle.
Prediction: 24-21 Texans
Sunday Noon Window
Cowboys @ Falcons (FOX)
The Atlanta Falcons bounced back from a disappointing outing against the Seahawks to secure a crucial win over Tampa Bay last week. Although the 31-26 final score suggests a closer game, the Falcons controlled the action. A safety, a garbage-time touchdown, and a missed Atlanta field goal allowed the Buccaneers to narrow the gap. While Atlanta’s defense remains a bit shaky, head coach Raheem Morris is expected to make improvements as the season progresses.
In terms of garbage-time scoring, the Dallas Cowboys are experts at making lopsided losses appear competitive. Trailing 27-10 entering the fourth quarter last week, Dak Prescott padded his stats with two touchdown passes, ultimately closing the game at 30-24. However, his four straight incompletions sealed Dallas’s fourth loss of the season. The Cowboys also struggled on the ground, managing only 56 yards on under three yards per carry.
If Dallas could run the ball, they might pose a threat to Atlanta’s average run defense. But given the Cowboys’ league-worst rushing offense, that seems unlikely. On the other hand, the Falcons have a strong ground game facing the NFL’s second-worst run defense. If the Falcons can avoid costly mistakes, they should be able to run away (pun intended) with a win on Sunday.
Prediction: 27-21 Falcons
Dolphins @ Bills (CBS)
Tua Tagovailoa returned to action against the Cardinals, playing clean football and avoiding turnovers while throwing a single touchdown pass to De’Von Achane. However, Miami’s defense faltered, allowing Kyler Murray to rack up over 300 passing yards and lead Arizona to a game-winning field goal. For the money invested in their defense, the Dolphins aren’t seeing much return, giving up 24 or more points in four of their seven games this season.
The Bills, meanwhile, rolled to a dominant win over the Seahawks. Their defense shined, stifling Seattle’s passing attack and holding them to just 32 rushing yards. The Bills were also the last team Tua faced before his injury, and even then, the game was out of hand before he exited. Though Josh Allen threw his first interception of the season last week, one slip-up isn’t necessarily a sign of future struggles.
The Dolphins haven’t won in Buffalo since 2016, and while it won’t be a frigid Sunday, they face an uphill battle. For Miami to have a shot at victory, they’ll need to force at least two turnovers, avoid turnovers themselves, put up at least 28 points, and contain both Josh Allen’s arm and mobility—a tall order for any team.
Prediction: 27-23 Bills
Raiders @ Bengals (FOX)
Though I predicted a Bengals loss last week, I didn’t expect them to look so lifeless. The Bengals are running out of mulligans and off-days; with three more losses, their best possible finish would be 9-8, potentially leaving them out of playoff contention. Joe Burrow is a standout talent, but he’s a different player when Ja’Marr Chase and/or Tee Higgins are sidelined. With Higgins listed as questionable, there’s a chance Cincinnati’s offensive leader may be shorthanded again.
The Raiders, meanwhile, lost to the Chiefs by a single score, with Gardner Minshew passing for over 200 yards without an interception. However, 80 of his 209 yards came late, when Las Vegas was down two touchdowns. When the Raiders got stopped at the goal line, the game was essentially over as the Chiefs quickly built the lead to 14 points.
Las Vegas’s defense is tough but often overworked, and it can only hold up so long. Whether it can withstand the Bengals this week is uncertain, but it would need a near-perfect performance to pull off a win. Even if Higgins sits out, the Bengals should have enough firepower to score around 24 points—something the Raiders may struggle to match.
Prediction: 24-21 Bengals
Chargers @ Browns (CBS)
Just a few weeks ago, predicting a Chargers win in this matchup would have been easy. But after Jameis Winston led the Browns to an impressive victory over the Ravens last week, it feels like there’s renewed energy in Cleveland. A path to a nine-win season—and an outside shot at the playoffs—might just be emerging for the Browns, and winning games like this is key. Cleveland’s defense held one of the league’s hottest offenses to 24 points last week and now faces a Chargers unit that sometimes struggles with offensive consistency.
The Chargers managed to put up 26 points last week, but their offense was hit-or-miss, punting on half of their 12 drives and conceding a safety. On defense, the Chargers were dominant, but it’s worth noting that they faced two backup quarterbacks, Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener. While Los Angeles’ defense currently leads the league in points allowed per game (13), a closer look reveals that they’ve benefited from a weaker slate of opposing offenses.
With possible showers in Cleveland on Sunday, this could become a physical, grind-it-out game. The Browns need a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. If Winston can replicate his strong play from last week, Cleveland may just secure this crucial victory.
Prediction: 21-17 Browns
Patriots @ Titans (FOX)
The only real reasons to tune into this game are if you’re a devoted fan of one of these teams or if you have a bet riding on it. The Patriots come into this matchup off a season-defining win over the Jets, though the status of quarterback Drake Maye is uncertain after he exited with a head injury. Despite challenges, New England posted a season-high 25 points, which could hint at potential improvement on offense.
Meanwhile, the Titans face extremely low expectations after a rough loss to the Lions, falling 52-14. The Titans’ four turnovers in that game were a major factor in the lopsided result. Still, Calvin Ridley provided a bright spot, racking up 10 catches for 143 yards despite the loss.
Even if Maye is sidelined, the Patriots may hold a slight edge at quarterback with Jacoby Brissett. This matchup likely won’t be a high-scoring affair—it feels like a game where the first team to 17 points might secure the win. Pride and job security are on the line for both coaching staffs, as neither team is going to make a playoff push this season.
Prediction: 17-13 Patriots
Commanders @ Giants (FOX)
The Washington Commanders are riding high after a thrilling win over the Chicago Bears, where a tip-drill Hail Mary saved them from what seemed like certain defeat. Despite scoring just 18 points, Washington managed over 400 yards of offense, excluding their final Hail Mary drive. Their main issue was settling for field goals instead of converting drives into touchdowns. Fortunately, they’ll be up against a Giants team allowing nearly a touchdown more per game than the Bears.
The Giants, meanwhile, found themselves in an odd game against the Steelers—never fully out of reach, but never truly threatening to win. Their defense added to its league-leading sack total but also gave up over 400 yards. On the offensive side, running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. had a standout game with 145 yards against Pittsburgh, providing a bright spot in an otherwise underwhelming performance.
With the Eagles close behind, the Commanders can’t afford to drop winnable games if they hope to contend for the NFC East title. The key will be whether the Commanders’ offense can replicate last week’s production and capitalize in the red zone, especially after holding Chicago to just 15 points.
Prediction: 26-18 Commanders
Saints @ Panthers (CBS)
The Saints threw a curveball last week, holding Derek Carr out against the Chargers despite initial signs he might return. Carr watched from the sideline as the Saints fell 26-8. This week, however, he’s expected to be back, and he’ll face a favorable matchup against the league’s worst pass defense, which Bo Nix just exploited for 284 yards and three touchdowns.
The Panthers enter this game with the NFL’s worst record, still smarting from a 47-10 blowout loss to the Saints in Week 1. Carolina’s offense has been a chaotic mix of aging veterans, unproven rookies, and missed opportunities. Defensively, they’re struggling as well, ranking in the bottom half of the league in both passing and rushing yards allowed. Though they manage one turnover per game, it’s countered by an offense that has given the ball away 14 times in eight games.
The Saints should have no trouble here, especially if Carr plays. Even without him, New Orleans could likely rely on the run and still come out on top. For Panthers fans, the only bright spot is that once this one’s over, just eight games remain.
Prediction: 24-13 Saints
Broncos @ Ravens (CBS)
The Baltimore Ravens’ defense has quickly devolved from a concern to a full-blown disaster. After getting repeatedly burned by Jameis Winston and the Browns last week, it seemed logical the Ravens might seek help in the secondary. However, as NFL moves often defy logic, Baltimore instead traded for wide receiver Diontae Johnson—a puzzling addition for a team known for its ground game. While this doesn’t make the Ravens a bad team, it does suggest they may be a bit off-course in addressing their core needs.
Meanwhile, the Denver Broncos come into this matchup with much more optimism surrounding their 5-3 record. Bo Nix is fresh off his best game yet, throwing for nearly 300 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions. The Broncos’ defense has been elite, holding opposing running backs to fewer than four yards per carry and limiting quarterbacks to 5.9 yards per attempt, the best mark in the league.
The formula for beating the Ravens has been clear: contain Derrick Henry and force them to rely on their passing game. When Henry has been held under 100 yards, the Ravens are just 1-3 this season, with the sole win coming in overtime against the Bengals. A recurring issue in the Lamar Jackson era has been the Ravens’ tendency to abandon the run and put too much on Jackson’s arm, often resulting in disappointment.
Prediction: 24-21 Ravens
Sunday Afternoon Window
Jaguars @ Eagles (CBS)
After five weeks of inconsistent play, the Eagles finally showed why they’re seen as NFC contenders, dominating the Bengals 37-17. Three Eagles receivers surpassed 50 yards, which bodes well as they prepare to face one of the league’s most vulnerable pass defenses. Saquon Barkley also crossed the 100-yard mark on the ground, though he missed a touchdown opportunity, as Philly seems reluctant to let their backs carry at the one-yard line.
The Eagles will take on a Jaguars team that had a chance to edge out the Packers last week, as Jordan Love’s injury meant Malik Willis took over for much of the second half. Despite the break, Jacksonville still couldn’t secure the win. The Jaguars’ defense remains their Achilles heel, overshadowing Trevor Lawrence’s recent progress at quarterback. Jacksonville feels like a team lacking identity—a squad that fills a spot on the schedule but struggles to assert itself.
While I’m not fully sold on the Eagles yet, they’re starting to inspire confidence. A strong, decisive win against the Jaguars would help solidify their standing. However, if Philly plays uninspired, Jacksonville has enough offensive spark to make it interesting. It would likely take an off night from the Eagles for the Jaguars to pull off the upset.
Prediction: 28-23 Eagles
Bears @ Cardinals (CBS)
The funniest part about the Bears’ loss to the Commanders on a Hail Mary that landed a good five yards short of the end zone? Surprisingly, it wasn’t the cornerback trash-talking the fans, oblivious to the play unfolding behind him. It was the reaction of a Mike Ditka impersonator, visible on the sideline camera—hands over his head in disbelief, clearly bracing for a long, defeated walk back to the car.
On a brighter note for Chicago, the defense remains the team’s strength, though they’ll be hoping for a more consistent performance from Caleb Williams, who went 10-for-24 with 131 passing yards. Deandre Swift’s performance will be crucial in this matchup, as Chicago will need him to replicate last week’s success, where he rushed for 129 yards on 18 carries.
The Cardinals, meanwhile, are coming off their third walk-off field goal of the season. Kyler Murray orchestrated a 13-play, 73-yard drive to seal the game and spoil Tua Tagovailoa’s comeback. Arizona put up just under 400 yards of offense, with Murray accounting for over 300 passing yards and two touchdowns. The Cardinals’ defense has been their Achilles’ heel, but they’ll get a chance to shine against Chicago’s inconsistent offense.
This game could have playoff implications. Though the Cardinals lead the NFC West, a win over the Bears—who are fighting for a wild card spot—would be a valuable tiebreaker in case Arizona can’t hold onto the division lead.
Prediction: 21-20 Cardinals
Lions @ Packers (FOX)
It feels like every week has a crucial NFC North showdown, and this week is no exception as the Packers prepare to host the Lions. Jordan Love left the Jaguars game with a groin injury, but all indications suggest he’ll suit up against Detroit. The Lions have quietly built an effective pass defense, allowing only six passing touchdowns while snagging ten interceptions on the season. However, this stat can be misleading, as they’re also giving up the sixth-most passing yards per game.
Last week’s 52-14 rout of the Titans was one of the season’s strangest games. Jared Goff didn’t even reach 100 passing yards, yet he posted a quarterback rating over 100 with three touchdown passes. The game’s standout performer was running back Jahmyr Gibbs, who racked up over 120 rushing yards and a touchdown. The Lions were also clinical in the red zone, converting all five trips into touchdowns.
The Lions are playing some of the best football we’ve seen in recent memory, outscoring opponents 172-81 over the past three weeks. Only a fool would pick against them. Well, if you’re looking for a fool, I guess I’m your Huckleberry. In a week that doesn’t seem primed for much drama, I believe that if Jordan Love plays, the Packers will notch the surprise win of the week.
Prediction: 27-26 Packers
Rams @ Seahawks (FOX)
There’s no polite way to put it—the Seattle Seahawks got thoroughly outclassed by the Buffalo Bills in front of their own fans. Simply saying they lost 31-10 almost makes it sound more respectable than it was. Seattle’s offense struggled, managing just 1.9 yards per carry and seeing Geno Smith barely surpass 200 passing yards, with no touchdowns and an interception. The defense didn’t fare much better, surrendering over 400 yards of offense. Their only bright spot was intercepting Josh Allen for the first time this season.
Meanwhile, the Rams are coming off a strong performance, with Matthew Stafford finally having both Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua healthy and on the field. The duo combined for over 150 receiving yards, with Kupp snagging one of Stafford’s four touchdown passes. The Rams’ defense also held firm, keeping the Vikings to just 20 points and limiting their rushing attack to 66 yards.
Seattle’s inconsistency makes it hard to view them as a serious NFC threat, and this upcoming game could emphasize that. The Seahawks’ secondary has struggled against wide receivers, ranking 20th in passer rating allowed on receiver targets. This matchup looks like a tough one for Seattle, and unless Kupp or Nacua are sidelined, it’s hard to see the Seahawks pulling out a win.
Prediction: 28-21 Rams
Sunday Night Football: Colts @ Vikings 7:20 PM (NBC)
The tides have turned quickly for the Minnesota Vikings. Just a few weeks ago, they sat atop the NFC undefeated, but now, after consecutive losses, they’re in third place in their division. Sam Darnold performed adequately against the Rams last week, but the Vikings appeared unprepared, outmatched by a Rams team that seemed more energized than ever. A major issue was the Vikings’ struggles in the trenches, which they’ll need to address this week against the Colts, who rank 11th in the league with 128 rushing yards per game.
The Colts enter with a fresh start under veteran quarterback Joe Flacco, replacing Anthony Richardson after locker-room confidence waned. With Flacco, Indianapolis gains a steadier passing attack, though the Colts’ offensive identity remains grounded in their run game. Jonathan Taylor, fresh off a 100-yard outing against the Texans, leads the charge. However, the Colts’ pass defense has struggled, allowing the ninth-most passing yards per game, a vulnerability the Vikings may look to exploit.
The Vikings’ defense has bent but rarely broken this season, though it snapped against the Rams and their full lineup of weapons. Fortunately for Minnesota, the Colts lack that level of offensive firepower. If the Vikings can control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball, they should be in a good position to secure a much-needed win.
Prediction: 27-20 Vikings
Monday Night Football: Buccaneers @ Chiefs 7:15 PM (ESPN/ABC)
The Chiefs are off to a 7-0 start, looking dominant even while battling mistakes. Patrick Mahomes played solidly in their most recent game, though it’s another interception that grabbed attention. Mahomes has thrown at least one pick in each of Kansas City’s first seven games. Chiefs fans are hopeful this stretch will mark the start of a turnaround for the two-time MVP, who now faces a defense ranked 24th in passer rating allowed.
Tampa Bay put up a fight against Atlanta, despite missing top receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. Baker Mayfield threw three more touchdowns, bringing his season total to 21. Both the Chiefs and Bucs have been turnover-prone at times, suggesting their defenses could face extended work this week. The Chiefs’ defense has stepped up, allowing only 17.6 points per game, while the Bucs have given up 26.6 points per game, the league’s fifth-worst mark.
The X-factor in this matchup may be the Chiefs’ blitz against the Buccaneers’ offensive line. Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo is known for his aggressive schemes, and he’ll likely dial up pressure against an O-line that didn’t allow a single sack on 50 pass attempts last week.
Prediction: 28-24 Chiefs
Overall Record: 81-42 (Last Week 10-6)