I was 10-6 ATS overall last week, but 2-3 ATS for my best bets. Let’s turn that into a winning number this week.
Rams -10 over Falcons
By kickoff, it will be ten days since the Rams were embarrassed in the opening game of the NFL season. In that time, the players have sat and listened to critics doubt their legitimacy and whether or not they are a serious contender. Head coach Sean McVay most definitely laid it into his team all week how disappointing they were and you can bet the Rams will come out with a vengeance. The Falcons had three feel-good quarters against the Saints before blowing a double-digit lead. That is the Atlanta team we will see more of this season. Rams win in a blowout.
Lions -1.5 over Commanders
The Lions covering last weekend was my favorite pick and I’m backing them this week as home favorites. We saw their offensive ability, putting up 35 points against a stout Eagles defense and expect to see more of that against a weak Commanders’ defense. The Lions are one of the most underrated teams entering this season and they will snag their first win of the year on Sunday.
Saints +2.5 over Bucs
This is my upset of the week. The Saints have had the Bucs number since Tom Brady joined Tampa Bay, going 4-0 in that span. Expect to see the same result this week. Jameis Winston will look to dominate his former team and the Saints will pick up where they left off in Atlanta by coming back from being down double digits. Though the Bucs defeated the Cowboys 19-3 last Sunday night, they will have to do much more against a Saints offense that can put up big numbers. Saints win and cover.
Vikings +2 over Eagles
This is another upset I like, but I’ll grab the points anyway. The Eagles’ defense allowed 35 points to the Lions last weekend and will now have to go up against a rejuvenated Vikings offense, notably the explosive Justin Jefferson. While the Vikings defense is by no means one of the best in the league, they are significantly more talented than the Lions’ squad. Look for Kirk Cousins to put up big numbers in this one.
Patriots -2.5 over Steelers
The Patriots let me down last week, but I’m doubling down on them this week. I should have known the Patriots would struggle in the awful Miami humidity, and it was evident since they looked lethargic and listless the entire matchup. However, it’s a new week and Belichick will have his team ready to go up against the Steelers, who are flying high after their upset of the Bengals. However, the Steelers suffered some legitimate injuries as DE T.J. Watt suffered a torn pec and will miss this contest. That will be a huge blow to the Steelers’ defense and should allow Mac Jones to have extra time in the pocket. It will be a low-scoring affair, but I’ll take New England here.