NFL 2025: Week3 - Picks & Predictions

Buffalo Bills vs. Miami Dolphins
Date/Time: September 18, 2025, 8:15 PM ET (Highmark Stadium, Buffalo, NY)

The Buffalo Bills come into this divisional showdown at 2-0, riding high after convincing wins to start their season. Their offense has been among the league’s most explosive, ranking top-3 in scoring and yards per play through the first two games. Josh Allen, while dealing with a broken nose, will sport a clear visor in this match to protect his recently injured face, but he remains one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in all of football, particularly against Miami. Running back James Cook has also been dominant, amassing over 170 rushing yards and multiple touchdowns so far, and figures to be a key factor again in keeping drives balanced and the Bills in control of tempo. On defense, Buffalo must contend with several injuries: defensive tackle Ed Oliver (ankle) and linebacker Matt Milano (pectoral) are out, while cornerback Taron Johnson, linebacker Shaq Thompson, and safety Cam Lewis are listed as questionable after limited practice reps. These absences could provide Miami openings in the interior run game and short-to-intermediate passing zones.

The Miami Dolphins enter this game with an 0-2 record, still facing many of the same concerns that carried over from last season. Turnovers have plagued Tua Tagovailoa, and despite flashes of offense—Tyreek Hill posted a 100+-yard game in Week 2 and De’Von Achane remains dangerous as both a rusher and receiver—Miami’s offensive line and ability to sustain drives remain liabilities. Defensively, they’ve surrendered 33 points in each of their first two games and rank poorly in stopping both the run and high-leverage pass plays. The Dolphins will need big games from Hill and Achane, and better protection for Tagovailoa, if they hope to steal one on the road.

Matchups to watch include Buffalo’s pass rush (led by Joey Bosa and Greg Rousseau) versus Miami’s offensive line, especially right tackle Larry Borom, who has struggled in pass protection. In the secondary, Christian Benford and the Bills’ defensive backs will likely shadow Hill and Waddle closely; meanwhile, Miami’s linebackers’ ability to cover tight ends and backs in the middle will be tested by Buffalo’s multiple receiver sets. Special teams could also matter, particularly in field position, given Buffalo’s capacity to generate explosive plays and Miami’s difficulty keeping their defense off the field.

Given the recent history in this rivalry—Buffalo has dominated head-to-head, including all meetings the past several seasons—and factoring in Miami’s 0-2 start, the home field advantage, and Buffalo’s offensive momentum, the Bills are clear favorites. But expect Buffalo to lean on its run game and try to control the clock, while Miami might push tempo and try to force mistakes.

Score Prediction: Buffalo Bills 33 Miami Dolphins 21

Picks: Bills cover -9.5, over 49.5 total points

Carolina Panthers vs. Atlanta Falcons
Date/Time: September 21, 2025, 1:00 PM ET (Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC)

Carolina enters the game 0-2 after back-to-back losses, including a tough defeat in Week 2 vs. Arizona where offensive line injuries compounded existing problems. Center Austin Corbett and right guard Robert Hunt are both now on injured reserve. Corbett suffered a Grade 3 MCL sprain and Hunt a torn left biceps; their absences will significantly weaken Carolina’s interior line, raising concerns in both pass protection and run blocking. Bryce Young, the team’s young quarterback, has not yet produced at the level many expected after his strong late-2024 stretch. He’s thrown turnovers and has struggled to sustain drives, particularly when the pressure mounts in the pocket. Running back Chuba Hubbard remains one of Carolina’s more reliable pieces; his speed and shiftiness are assets, especially when Young has time. Rookie receiver Tetairoa McMillan adds big-play potential and could be a weapon against Falcons’ secondary mismatches, though consistency will be key. Defensively, Carolina’s front seven has signs of life, but without help from the offensive line, they’ll have to defend long drives and convert on third downs just to stay in range.

The Falcons are 1-1 and hope to take a step toward consistency in what’s shaping up to be a winnable divisional matchup. Their Week 2 win over the Vikings was boosted by a dominant running game from Bijan Robinson, and rookie kicker Parker Romo earned the trust of the coaching staff with a perfect field goal day, including a long one, after being promoted from the practice squad. That give-and-take in special teams could matter in a close game. Their defense, while generally improving, will be without cornerback A. J. Terrell, who is “week-to-week” with a hamstring injury suffered in Week 2. His absence opens up starting roles in the secondary, likely giving more reps to Dee Alford and other backups; this could test how well Carolina’s receivers can stretch the field, particularly McMillan and Hubbard in spatial coverage. On offense, Michael Penix Jr. has shown flashes; the Falcons like to take shots deep and use play-action off the run. Drake London remains a vertical threat, and combining that with Robinson’s ground work gives Atlanta more balance. However, red-zone execution and turnovers were issues in their 1-1 start; if those persist, Carolina, even with its own problems, could hang around.

Key matchups will include what Atlanta can do without Terrell in coverage versus Carolina’s tendency to target mismatches. Also, who wins the line of scrimmage will be crucial: with Corbett and Hunt out, Carolina’s ability to protect Young and establish Hubbard in the run game will be greatly tested. Falcons’ defensive fronts will likely try to exploit those holes inside. On the flip side, Atlanta needs to maintain their backfield momentum—Bijan Robinson against a Carolina run defense that has given up chunk runs will be central. Finally, special teams—Field goals, punts, and returns—might be difference-makers if the game remains close.

Betting lines reflect the expectations: Atlanta is favored by about 4.5 points, despite the game being in Charlotte. The over/under is set around 43.5, pointing to a projected moderately scoring game rather than a shootout. Given Carolina’s offensive line woes and early turnover trend, many expect Atlanta to pull away late if their offense can execute in short yardage.

Score Prediction: Atlanta Falcons 24 Carolina Panthers 17

Picks: Falcons cover -4.5, under 45.5 total points

Cleveland Browns vs. Green Bay Packers
Date/Time: September 21, 2025, 1:00 PM ET (Cleveland Browns Stadium, Cleveland, OH)

The Browns return home after an uneven 1-1 start, hoping to stabilize their offense behind Deshaun Watson. In Week 2, Cleveland’s offense once again struggled to find rhythm, particularly in the passing game, as Watson’s accuracy issues carried over from last season. Still, the Browns have reason for optimism: running back Nick Chubb continues his comeback campaign after last year’s season-ending injury and has shown flashes of his pre-injury explosiveness. Behind one of the league’s stronger offensive lines, Cleveland will look to lean on Chubb early to set the tone. The receiving corps, featuring Amari Cooper and Elijah Moore, has been inconsistent, but the Packers’ young secondary could give opportunities for big plays. Defensively, Myles Garrett remains the centerpiece, and his duel against Green Bay’s tackles could swing momentum. If Garrett and Za’Darius Smith are able to collapse the pocket, Jordan Love may be forced into mistakes.

The Packers enter the game at 2-0, riding strong performances from Jordan Love, who has quietly begun to look like Green Bay’s long-term answer under center. Love has spread the ball effectively to young playmakers like Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, and tight end Luke Musgrave, giving the Packers a versatile passing attack. Their running back duo of Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon provides balance, though Jones has been limited by a lingering hamstring issue. Head coach Matt LaFleur’s play-calling has leaned on tempo and spacing to keep defenses guessing, and Cleveland’s secondary—while talented—has been susceptible to blown coverages. On defense, Rashan Gary and Jaire Alexander headline a unit that has forced turnovers in both opening games. Alexander’s potential shadow assignment on Amari Cooper will be a critical matchup, as limiting Cooper could leave Watson relying on his less proven receivers.

Key storylines surround whether Cleveland’s defensive front can disrupt Love’s growing confidence, and whether Watson can finally deliver a complete performance against an opportunistic Green Bay defense. Chubb’s production on the ground may determine the Browns’ offensive identity, while the Packers will test Cleveland with vertical passing and play-action. Special teams could also play a role—Green Bay’s Anders Carlson has been steady early in the season, while Cleveland’s Cade York has faced scrutiny for inconsistency in pressure moments.

Betting markets currently list the Packers as slight favorites on the road, around -2.5 points, with the total set near 44.5. This reflects expectations of a close contest with balanced scoring. If the Browns’ defense can harass Love and force turnovers, an upset at home is very possible. Otherwise, Green Bay’s momentum and offensive efficiency may be too much.

Score Prediction: Green Bay Packers 23 Cleveland Browns 20

Picks: Packers moneyline, under 47.5 total points

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Houston Texans
Date/Time: September 21, 2025, 1:00 PM ET (EverBank Stadium, Jacksonville, FL)

The Jaguars come into Week 3 at 1-1 after an up-and-down start. Their Week 2 loss to Cincinnati exposed issues in execution and chemistry, particularly between Trevor Lawrence and his receiving corps. Rookie wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. has dealt with a wrist injury and has yet to fully establish himself in Lawrence’s read-progressions, which has limited Jacksonville's explosiveness. Conversely, running back Travis Etienne has been a bright spot, leading the NFL in rushing yards early, showing toughness between the tackles and making plays in space. The defense has looked solid in spots, especially with contributions from Josh Hines-Allen, but there are still struggles in defending chunk plays and consistency in coverage. One interesting dynamic is the role of rookie Travis Hunter, who the Jaguars’ staff have discussed using on both offense and defense; the extent to which he is deployed could influence tactical flexibility.

Houston enters this game off an 0-2 start, having lost two close contests where offense failed to close. Quarterback C.J. Stroud has shown flashes—good arm strength, occasionally clean pocket work—but so far his touchdown-to-interception ratio is poor and the offense struggles to finish drives. The wide receiver corps has been depleted by injuries; Christian Kirk and Braxton Berrios have missed time but are practicing and expected to return, potentially giving Stroud more options. Running back Joe Mixon is out with a foot/ankle injury, pushing more work upon Nick Chubb and backups. Houston’s defense is among the more competitive units; they’ve forced turnovers and kept games close, but weaknesses in coverage and late-game stamina have shown. Injuries in the secondary (Kamari Lassiter, Jaylen Smith, Jalen Pitre) threaten to expose the Texans in big-play situations if depth backup players are not ready.

This matchup is a must-win for the Texans to stay afloat in the AFC South, while Jacksonville sees an opportunity to assert themselves as the top contender in the division. Key matchups will include whether Stroud can stay upright and distribute accurately once Kirk is back, and how well Jacksonville can contain Chubb in lanes while also defending Etienne and Lawrence’s mobility. Also important is third-down success: Jacksonville needs to stay ahead in possession and avoid long drives by Houston. Given home-field and momentum, Jacksonville has an advantage if they clean up mistakes. But if Kirk and Berrios return fully and Stroud makes tight throws, Houston could steal a surprise.

Score Prediction: Jacksonville Jaguars 30 Houston Texans 23

Picks: Jaguars cover -4.5, over 48.5 total points

Minnesota Vikings vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Date/Time: September 21, 2025, 1:00 PM ET (U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, MN)

The Vikings enter Week 3 facing a sudden quarterback change after rookie J.J. McCarthy suffered an ankle injury in Week 2 and is expected to miss time, clearing the way for veteran Carson Wentz to start in Minneapolis. Wentz gives Minnesota a steady, game-managing presence and a chance to lean on a more conservative passing attack that favors quick reads and play-action off the run, but the roster will clearly feel the loss of McCarthy’s mobility and upside. Carson Wentz’s preparation and the offensive line’s ability to buy him time will be central to limiting third-down failures and avoiding negative plays. The Vikings still possess one of the league’s best wide receiver tandems in Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, and O’Connell’s offense will look to manufacture underneath completions, quick tempo and run-support from the backfield to keep the chains moving. The defensive story for Minnesota is whether Brian Flores’ unit can consistently generate pressure without sacrificing coverage integrity; stopping the vertical passing game and winning the turnover battle are musts for home success.

The Bengals come into town still navigating life without Joe Burrow after his Week 1 injury, relying on backup quarterback play and a Bengals offense that has leaned more on short passing concepts and Y-receiver creativity to replace big-play timing. Cincinnati’s receiving corps—headed by Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins—remains dangerous in one-on-one matchups, and the team will try to manufacture explosive plays while avoiding third-and-long situations that mask offensive weaknesses without Burrow. Defensively, the Bengals will emphasize getting more consistent pressure with their front four and forcing Minnesota into uncomfortable third-down throws to Erase yardage via turnovers. The matchup tilts on whether Minnesota’s backup-quarterback approach limits big plays enough for Cincinnati’s offense to control field position; if the Vikings can sustain drives it reduces possessions for Chase and limits Cincinnati’s ability to improvise. Given the personnel swings at quarterback, this projects as a low-variance, possession battle where turnovers and the run game will decide the outcome.

Score Prediction: Cincinnati Bengals 17 Minnesota Vikings 20

Picks: Vikings moneyline, under 41.5 total points

New England Patriots vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Date/Time: September 21, 2025, 1:00 PM ET (Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA)

The Patriots arrive at Gillette off a resilient road win and a Week 2 performance that suggested rookie quarterback Drake Maye is settling into the offense; Maye’s mix of accuracy, pocket movement and occasional scramble ability has been complemented by Rhamondre Stevenson’s workmanlike runs and sudden receiving production out of the backfield. New England’s coaching staff emphasizes situational football—third-down efficiency, turnover avoidance and special teams field position—which is a favorable profile against an opponent inclined to force mistakes. The Patriots’ defense has generated timely pressure and takeaways, but they are still vulnerable to explosive plays over the top if a pass rush fails to collapse the pocket. A major point of attention will be the Patriots’ ability to keep Maye clean in the pocket and to create manageable down-and-distance scenarios for their offense.

Pittsburgh comes into Foxborough seeking to stabilize an inconsistent defense and to rediscover a complementary running game that helps the young quarterback (or established starter in place) manage the clock. The Steelers’ front seven retains edge talent in T.J. Watt and company, and if they can pressure Maye early they can force turnovers or hurried reads. Pittsburgh’s offense will need to avoid self-inflicted mistakes—penalties, dropped third-down conversions and short fields created by special-teams lapses—that have undermined them in tight games. The game should come down to trench play and situational coaching: New England will try to dictate pace via short passing and a physical run scheme, while Pittsburgh will look to flip field position and exploit one-on-one matchups on the perimeter. Expect a close, hard-fought affair where late coaching adjustments and how each team defends the two-minute window prove decisive.

Score Prediction: New England Patriots 21 Pittsburgh Steelers 24

Picks: Steelers moneyline, under 49.5 total points

Philadelphia Eagles vs. Los Angeles Rams
Date/Time: September 21, 2025, 1:00 PM ET (Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA)

The Eagles host the Rams with a potent early-season identity: balanced rushing with Jalen Hurts’ dual-threat efficiency and an opportunistic defense that creates splash plays. Philadelphia’s offensive line intends to establish the ground game—Saquon Barkley’s ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact opens play-action opportunities that Jalen Hurts has used effectively to punish aggressive second-level defenders. The Eagles’ secondary and defensive front have combined to force turnovers and stall high-leverage drives; in a home stadium that will be loud, Philadelphia’s crowd noise and sideline energy could magnify mistakes for the visiting offense. Matchups to watch include Philadelphia’s interior front against the Rams’ pro-style running game and how the Eagles schematically defend the Rams’ intermediate crossing concepts.

The Rams counter with a veteran quarterback in Matthew Stafford and a receiver room that includes Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp—targets who create separation and produce after the catch. Los Angeles will try to attack the seams and exploit single-coverage matchups, using tempo and formation variation to force the Eagles into uncomfortable substitutions. The Rams’ defensive plan centers on disguising pressures and forcing Hurts into tight windows, while the offense will look to take occasional deep shots to open up manageable underneath opportunities for the running backs. Special teams and red-zone efficiency figure to be pivotal; both clubs feature playmakers that can flip the scoreboard in a hurry, so expect big momentum swings. This rematch-style Sunday afternoon should be a high-octane, situational chess match with explosive plays deciding a late outcome.

Score Prediction: Philadelphia Eagles 30 Los Angeles Rams 27

Picks: Eagles moneyline, over 52.5 total points

Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. New York Jets
Date/Time: September 21, 2025, 1:00 PM ET (Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, FL)

Tampa Bay enters Week 3 with a unit built around veteran quarterback Baker Mayfield and a reliable receiving duo in Mike Evans and Chris Godwin; the Buccaneers emphasize ball-control, efficient third-down conversions and complementary special teams that tilt field position in their favor. Tampa’s defensive group has shown the ability to generate timely pressure and force turnovers, but they can be vulnerable to mobile quarterbacks and bootlegs if the rush gets locked into the pocket. The Bucs will likely try to dominate time of possession and keep the Jets’ playmakers off the field.

The Jets are dealing with a late change at quarterback after Justin Fields was placed in the concussion protocol and ruled out for Week 3; the Jets have prepared Tyrod Taylor to start in his stead, pivoting to a more conservative, quick-game structure that emphasizes ball security and limiting negative plays. The Jets’ defense—anchored by Sauce Gardner—will aim to pressure Mayfield into mistakes and to collapse throwing lanes to his primary targets; success here would create short fields for a Jets offense that will be focused on efficient possessions. New York’s special teams performance and ability to convert on third downs with Taylor under center will ultimately decide whether they can keep this game close on the road. Expect a tactical tilt toward the home club’s control of the clock, but if Taylor manages the game with poise and the Jets generate a turnover or two, an upset is possible.

Score Prediction: Tampa Bay Buccaneers 23 New York Jets 17

Picks: Buccaneers cover -3.5, under 44.5 total points

Tennessee Titans vs. Indianapolis Colts
Date/Time: September 21, 2025, 1:00 PM ET (Nissan Stadium, Nashville, TN)

This AFC South grudge match contrasts Indianapolis’s early offensive cohesion with Tennessee’s ongoing rookie-quarterback learning curve. The Colts have shown offensive balance with Daniel Jones managing the pocket and Jonathan Taylor pounding the rock; Indy’s ability to control the line of scrimmage and convert third downs has translated into a favorable time-of-possession edge and fewer explosive plays conceded to opponents. Defensively, Indianapolis has been opportunistic at forcing turnovers and turning short fields into scoring drives.

Tennessee’s rookie Cam Ward has flashed arm talent and mobility but has also struggled with decision-making in tight windows; the Titans’ offensive line must hold up to give Ward time to progress reads, and their run game (headed by Tony Pollard) will need to establish early to take pressure off the rookie passer. The Titans’ defense will try to generate interior push to disrupt Daniel Jones’ quick game, but if Indy’s offensive tempo continues to click the Colts should be able to run long drives that limit Ward’s opportunities. Expect a physical, grind-it-out meeting where execution in short fields and red-zone efficiency determine a late winner.

Score Prediction: Indianapolis Colts 27 Tennessee Titans 20

Picks: Colt cover -4.5, over 42.5 total points

Washington Commanders vs. Las Vegas Raiders
Date/Time: September 21, 2025, 1:00 PM ET (FedExField, Landover, MD)

Washington arrives with lingering injury questions at quarterback after Jayden Daniels missed limited practice time following a knee issue sustained in Week 2; the team has prepared contingency plans should Daniels be limited or unavailable. If Daniels plays, his dual-threat dimension forces defenses to honor the edge run and keeps play-action viable; if he’s out, Washington will pivot to a conservative game manager and try to rely on Dan Quinn’s aggressive defense to create scoring chances. The Commanders’ defensive unit has created timely takeaways and presents multiple pressure looks, but consistency down the depth chart remains a concern.

The Raiders, after a demoralizing Week 2 loss in which turnovers and inefficiency plagued Geno Smith, must reestablish offensive rhythm and shore up pass protection in order to exploit Washington’s occasional secondary mismatches. Las Vegas still has playmakers on offense and a disruptive edge presence in Maxx Crosby, but the Raiders’ ability to convert in short-yardage and red-zone situations will determine whether they can hang with Washington. This game is likely to hinge on which team wins the turnover battle and executes better on third down; special teams could also swing momentum in a tight contest. Expect two evenly matched clubs where early possessions and complementary football decide the final margin.

Score Prediction: Washington Commanders 24 Las Vegas Raiders 21

Picks: Commanders moneyline, under 49.5 total points

Los Angeles Chargers vs. Denver Broncos
Date/Time: September 21, 2025, 4:05 PM ET (SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles, CA)

The Chargers come in 2-0, riding high after consecutive wins — but they’ll do so without veteran edge rusher Khalil Mack, who was placed on injured reserve due to a dislocated elbow sustained in their Week 2 win. His absence creates a significant void in the pass rush. Other concerns include wide receiver Ladd McConkey (biceps), safety Elijah Molden (hamstring), TE Will Dissly (knee), and DL Justin Eboigbe (foot), all of whom missed full practices in midweek. Despite those injuries, Justin Herbert has maintained strong accuracy so far, and the offense continues to lean on its vertical threats and Y-receiver depth to stretch defenses. The Chargers’ defense has been opportunistic, particularly in turnover situations, though without Mack they must rely more heavily on Tuli Tuipulotu, Bud Dupree, and younger rotational pieces to generate pressure. Special teams and field position will also be a factor, given some recent struggles in coverage. (turn0news23, turn0search9)

The Broncos will try to exploit the Chargers’ weakened edge and secondary matchups. Injuries have also chipped away at Denver’s depth: tight end Evan Engram is dealing with a back injury, linebacker Dre Greenlaw has yet to debut and is still out, safety Talanoa Hufanga is limited, and ILB Justin Strnad is coping with a foot issue. These absences especially hurt their pass protection and tight end involvement in both blocking and receiving. Bo Nix has shown flashes as a passer, but his growth could be tested in high-leverage moments, especially if Herbert and the Chargers get ahead and force Denver into pass-heavy game scripts. Javonte Williams remains the workhorse run option, and if the Broncos can establish the run early, it’ll help open up play-action and reduce pressure on Nix. Defensively, Denver must generate pressure from the interior and force Herbert into quick reads given the edge weaknesses. (turn0search8, turn0search7)

Key storylines involve how Chargers will compensate for Mack’s loss—whether their internal depth holds up and whether Herbert can carve out big throws without him. Also, whether Denver can stay close by running the ball and keeping Herbert from exploiting single-coverage situations. The battle up front for Denver (both in pass protection and interior pass rush) versus the Chargers defensive line will likely shape momentum. Betting markets are giving LA a modest edge at home; totals are likely projected in the mid-40s.

Score Prediction: Los Angeles Chargers 28 Denver Broncos 24

Picks: Chargers cover −1.5, over 47.5 total points

Seattle Seahawks vs. New Orleans Saints
Date/Time: September 21, 2025, 4:05 PM ET (Lumen Field, Seattle, WA)

Seattle enters Week 3 with a deepening injury list that could impact both sides of the ball. Key names such as CB Devon Witherspoon (knee), S Nick Emmanwori (ankle), S Julian Love (hamstring), and RB Zach Charbonnet (foot) are either out or limited. OL Abe Lucas is also limited with an elbow issue, and receiver Tory Horton is dealing with a groin injury. These losses weaken Seattle’s run game and diminish their secondary depth just as they’re set to face a Saints offense that, while inconsistent, has shown flashes of big-play potential. Seattle’s strength — pass rush, home crowd noise, and the ability to force turnovers — will be critical, especially with Golden Tate’s or alternative receivers likely drawing more targets due to the absences.

The Saints are 0-2 and feeling the pressure. Their offensive line is banged up: right tackle Taliese Fuaga (back/knee) is out, guard Dillon Radunz (toe) did not practice, and longtime pass rusher Chase Young remains out with a calf injury. Wide receiver Trey Palmer is limited by hamstring, and while Trevor Penning has returned to practice, he’s limited and still working through recovery. Spencer Rattler has shown willingness to push the ball downfield, but he’s also made critical mistakes under pressure and struggled in third-down efficiency. Alvin Kamara continues to be a reliable outlet both in the run game and as a checkdown when pressure tightens. New Orleans’ defense has given up big plays through the air and has struggled with penalties and sustaining drives in red zone; this will be magnified against a Seattle team that can capitalize on mismatches and defensive breakdowns.

With all that, Seattle holds a distinct edge playing at home, especially given their crowd and ability to force mistakes when opponents are under duress. Expect Seattle to try to establish the run early (though Charbonnet’s status is in question) and force New Orleans into predictable passing situations. The Saints will need clean execution, low penalties, and strong protection to stay competitive. This feels like it leans toward Seattle by double digits if the injury absences linger for New Orleans.

Score Prediction: Seattle Seahawks 30 New Orleans Saints 17

Picks: Seahawks cover −10.5, under 41.5 total points

Chicago Bears vs. Dallas Cowboys
Date/Time: September 21, 2025, 4:25 PM ET (AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX)

Chicago is showing early season promise with rookie QB Caleb Williams demonstrating flashes of dynamic playmaking, especially through deep throws and improvisation. However, the young Bears offense still faces growing pains: pass protection inconsistency, issues sustaining drives, and trouble converting third downs have kept some scoring opportunities off the board. Their wide receiver corps (DJ Moore, Rome Odunze) provide big play potential, but without consistent scheme execution and strong line play, they risk having long drives stall. Defensively, Montez Sweat continues to be a force, but the Bears have allowed chunk plays and struggled against balanced offensive attacks that mix run and play-action.

Dallas is up 2-0, riding the confidence of a more complete offense returning from injury. Dak Prescott looks sharp, especially connecting deep with CeeDee Lamb and using the tight end and slot receivers to stretch the field. The Cowboys’ run game has been more effective than many expected, helping open up their passing game. Defensively, Micah Parsons leads an aggressive front; the Cowboys aim to generate pressure and force turnovers, particularly on early downs to disrupt rhythm. Their pass defense, when switched into zone or mixed coverages, may provide resistance to Chicago’s deep threats. The home field also gives Dallas a psychological and environmental advantage, especially in front of a crowd expecting improvement after a rough 2024.

This game likely turns on whether Chicago can avoid self-inflicted mistakes — penalties, dropped passes, poor third downs — and whether Dallas can maintain balance, not allowing Chicago big plays in what could be a back-and-forth game early. In the end, experience and depth favor Dallas, and I expect them to pull away in the second half.

Score Prediction: Dallas Cowboys 34 Chicago Bears 24

Picks: Cowboys cover −7.5, over 53.5 total points

San Francisco 49ers vs. Arizona Cardinals
Date/Time: September 21, 2025, 4:25 PM ET (State Farm Stadium, Glendale, AZ)

The 49ers continue to impress with methodical offense under Brock Purdy and a backfield led by Christian McCaffrey whose all-purpose ability keeps defenses honest. Even with George Kittle still out (hamstring), the 49ers’ secondary receiving threats have stepped up in red-zone and third downs. Defensively, their pass rush has been strong, pressure from Nick Bosa and interior defensive line has forced hurried throws. San Francisco’s strength also lies in their ability to disguise coverage and force opponents into long third downs while limiting explosive gains.

Arizona has shown fight in close games, with Kyler Murray still capable of creating outside the pocket and extending plays. James Conner has helped establish balance on the ground and rookie Tetairoa McMillan has made some big plays in space; however, the Cardinals’ pass defense has been challenged by over-pursuit and missed assignments. The offensive line, still coping with injuries and inconsistencies, will need to protect Murray long enough for plays to develop, particularly given San Francisco’s aggressive edges. Also, field goal execution and special teams coverage matter in Glendale where momentum swings can be amplified by the home crowd.

Given the matchups, San Francisco appears to have the advantage — their depth, scheme discipline, and ability to take what the defense gives them should allow them to eke out a road win. But the Cardinals have the capability to make it close if Murray avoids turnovers and Conner gets going early.

Score Prediction: San Francisco 49ers 30, Arizona Cardinals 23

Picks: 49ers cover −4.5, over 48.5 total points

New York Giants vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Date/Time: September 21, 2025, 4:25 PM ET (MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ)

The Giants remain in rebuild mode, with their rookie QB showing potential but still under pressure in protection and dealing with miscommunications in both run-pass option and deep coverage reads. Malik Nabers and Wan’Dale Robinson give them big play potential, but consistency remains elusive. Turnovers have cost them in tight situations, and their defense has struggled to cover multiple threats simultaneously; frequently facing mismatches in route combinations and pre-snap motions.

The Chiefs arrive having already shown why they are considered Super Bowl contenders: deep roster, versatile weapons, and an offense led by Patrick Mahomes that can score in multiple ways. Kelce remains a reliable safety valve; youngster Rashee Rice is now fully eligible and offers another vibrant target. Kansas City’s offensive line has had moments of weakness under pressure but remains among the better units overall, especially in pass protection during critical drives. Defensively, they aim to clamp down on big plays and force Giants into long drives, hoping to win the turnover battle.

In this matchup, I expect Kansas City to control tempo and avoid letting the Giants get enough rhythm. Home crowd, experience in tight moments, and diversified offense give Chiefs the edge. The Giants may hang around early, possibly even make it close at halftime, but Chiefs’ second half adjustments should pull them over the top.

Score Prediction: Kansas City Chiefs 33, New York Giants 20

Picks: Chiefs cover −10.5, over 48.5 total points

Baltimore Ravens vs. Detroit Lions
Date/Time: September 22, 2025, 8:15 PM ET (M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, MD)

The Ravens arrive 1-1, fresh off a dominant rebound over the Browns in which Lamar Jackson threw for four touchdowns, and their defense scored via big plays including a long fumble return and interception. Their offense remains among the most dangerous in the league; the combo of Jackson and Derrick Henry, along with emerging options like Zay Flowers and Devontez Walker, pose matchup nightmares. However, their pass protection has shown some strain, and they must limit mental errors, penalties, and explosive plays allowed given Detroit’s offensive weapons. Ravens’ overall defense has struggled in some areas thus far, especially in containing spread looks and when forced to cover explosive receivers on the outside. (turn0news22, turn0search5)

Detroit also comes in 1-1, having reasserted its offensive identity in a Week 2 rout of the Bears by combining big passing gains with a rejuvenated run game. Jared Goff has looked efficient, rarely forcing throws, and his chemistry with Amon-Ra St. Brown and Sam LaPorta continues to build. David Montgomery has helped anchor the ground attack, giving the Lions more tools to exploit Ravens’ weaknesses, particularly in third-and-long situations where Detroit has been effective at converting. Detroit’s defensive line must bring pressure to disrupt Jackson’s timing and limit Henry’s effectiveness, but tackling in open space and avoiding big plays will be their biggest challenges.

This point sets up as one of those primetime marquee matchups where both teams have upside, but Baltimore’s home environment and ability to create momentum swings — at times via defense and special teams — give them a slight but important edge. Betting lines have Baltimore favored by around 4-5 points, reflecting expectations of a close but Ravens-leaning contest.

Score Prediction: Baltimore Ravens 31 Detroit Lions 27

Picks: Ravens cover −1.5, over 53.5 total points