nfl
NFL Week 3 picks, predictions, schedule, odds, fantasy tips
Aaron Glenn's return to Detroit? Dak vs. Lamar? There are 15 more games in Week 3, and we have picks, predictions, key stats, watchability ratings and more.
NFL Nation, Pamela Maldonado, Eric Moody, Ben Solak and Seth Walder Ā· 25 September 2026 13:18 Ā· 40 min
Week 3 of the 2026 NFL season is here. Can Justin Herbert and the Chargers finally get back on track? How will Kyler MurrayĀ and (potentially) Sam Darnold fare in their return games? What can we expect in Jets coach Aaron Glenn's return to Ford Field? And will we see a bunch of points in a showdown between the Ravens and Cowboys?
We're here to get you ready for the action. First, our NFL Nation reporters take you inside the locker room with the best thing they heard this week, and ESPN Research provides a key stat to know. Then, analytics writer Seth Walder makes a bold prediction for each matchup, NFL analyst Ben Solak gives one reason to tune in to each game (and rates the watchability of the matchup), fantasy analyst Eric Moody shares fantasy football intel and betting analyst Pam Maldonaldo hits betting insights for each contest. We also have theĀ Football Power Index (FPI) game projections, and Maldonado, Moody and Walder each give us final score picks for every game.
Let's get into the full Week 3 slate, which culminates with "Monday Night Football" matchup between the Eagles and Bears on ESPN. (Game times are Sunday unless otherwise noted, and all odds are via Draftkings.)
Jump to a matchup:
NE-JAX | LAC-BUF | SEA-WSH
HOU-IND | NYJ-DET | CIN-PIT
KC-MIA | TEN-NYG | CAR-CLE
ARI-SF | MIN-TB | BAL-DAL
LV-NO | LAR-DEN | PHI-CHI
Thursday: ATL-GB
What ESPN Analytics says ...
Patriots (1-1) at Jaguars (1-1)
1 p.m. ET | CBS | JAX -3 (45.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Patriots: Coach Mike Vrabel, who faced Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence twice a season during his final three years as Titans coach, said he has noticed a change in the QB. "He is just much more decisive and comfortable. I think you could always count on some turnovers, maybe three or four years ago. I don't think that is necessarily the case now," he said.Ā -- Mike Reiss
What we're hearing on the Jaguars: One of the biggest problems the Jaguars will face Sunday is Patriots CB Christian Gonzalez. Coach Liam Coen called him a "hell of a player" and lauded his physicality, aggressiveness and ball skills. "He's a problem," Coen said. "He gives everybody some fits. You've got to fight through contact with him. We're going to have to help the guys when we can with formations, motions and things like that, but we have to go win one-on-one battles, and at the catch point, we've got to be as strong as ever." -- Mike DiRocco
Stat to know: Jaguars WR Parker Washington has five straight games with 80-plus receiving yards, which is tied for the longest streak in franchise history. -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction:Ā Maye will record an 80-plus QBR. Yes, I know he has struggled. But I'm just not going to move that far off my prior -- that Maye was arguably the best QB in football last season -- after two games, especially playing in the same offensive scheme as before. This ship will right itself. -- Walder
Viewers rating (out of 10): 8.4. This is an important game between two 1-1 AFC contenders. The Jaguars just came off a game in which interior pressure ruined them; now they get to block DTsĀ Milton Williams and Christian Barmore. The Patriots are riddled with injuries --Ā Dre'Mont Jones, A.J. Brown, Mike Onwenu, Craig Woodson and more. -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: Patriots RB TreVeyon Henderson returned in Week 2 against Pittsburgh and led the backfield in snaps, routes run and carries, finishing with 13.6 fantasy points. He has five rushing touchdowns of at least 30 yards since the start of 2025, the most in the league.Ā Rhamondre StevensonĀ will still have a role in the Patriots' backfield, but Henderson belongs in lineups. See Week 3 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: The Jaguars are 8-1 against the spread (ATS) at home under Coen, including 5-0 ATS as home favorites. Maye (who has taken six sacks and thrown four interceptions this season) faces a Jacksonville defense that has held opponents to 5-for-19 on third down. If New England keeps ending drives early, Lawrence should get enough chances to cover three points. Read more. -- Maldonaldo
Maldonado's pick: Jaguars 24, Patriots 20
Moody's pick: Jaguars 27, Patriots 20
Walder's pick: Patriots 30, Jaguars 27
FPI prediction: JAX, 57.5% (by an average of 2 points)
Matchup must-reads: Why Patriots must be better at managing the clock before halftime ... Jaguars hope to get Hunter more involved in offense vs. Patriots
Chargers (0-2) at Bills (2-0)
1 p.m. ET | Fox | BUF -7 (50.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Chargers: The Chargers' usual platitude-laden QB, Justin Herbert, broke character this week after Los Angeles fell to 0-2. He cut off a reporter's second question about vocal leadership with a fierce response. "I'm going to stop you right there and say that it's very present," he said. "I don't think anyone is panicked or worried because that's not going to be the sentiment. It's moving on to the next play and understanding that we're close; we've made mistakes -- how do we fix it?" -- Kris Rhim
What we're hearing on the Bills: WR DJ Moore (shoulder) returned to practice in a limited capacity this week, and he and coach Joe Brady spoke optimistically about his chances of being available Sunday. Moore's contributions to the Bills' explosiveness are obvious. In Week 2, Buffalo averaged 8.9 yards per play before his injury and only 4.7 yards after he went out. But Brady cautions against correlating offensive aggressiveness directly to Moore's downfield talents: "The average depth of target is never important to me. It's about Josh [Allen], if the opportunity is there, being able to take advantage of it. And when we have those, cashing in on them, right? A long incompletion doesn't do much either." -- Nick Suss
Stat to know: The Bills are the third team in NFL history to start 2-0 despite allowing 30 points in both games, joining the 2000 Rams and 1991 Bills. No team has ever started 3-0 and allowed 30 or more points in all three games. -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Herbert will record multiple interceptions. I'd have been pretty surprised two weeks ago if you told me Herbert would lead my model's Week 3 forecast for players more likely to throw two or more interceptions, but that's exactly the case. Because of how poorly the Chargers have played and the fact that they are solid underdogs to Buffalo (and therefore will likely have to pass frequently), Herbert has a 24% chance to throw at least two picks, according to the model. -- Walder
Viewers rating (out of 10): 5.4. Watching the Chargers has been extremely depressing so far. They had the potential to be such a cool team -- instead, there have been execution errors and penalties abound. I will turn their games back on only if they figure things out sometime later in the season. -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: The Bills continue to lean heavily on 12 and 13 personnel, which has kept TE Dalton Kincaid on the field for more snaps and routes. He has three career games with at least 18 fantasy points, with two of them coming this season. This matchup also carries one of the highest totals on the slate. Kincaid belongs in lineups. See Week 3 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: The Chargers have the worst average cover margin in the NFL through two weeks (minus-19.5 PPG). Their offense has struggled to extend drives: Herbert has taken six sacks, and Los Angeles is 7-for-22 on third down. The L.A. defense -- which is allowing 263 passing yards per game -- now faces Allen. This provides a clear route to another double-digit Chargers loss. Read more. -- Maldonaldo
Maldonado's pick: Bills 31, Chargers 23
Moody's pick: Bills 31, Chargers 23
Walder's pick: Bills 28, Chargers 16
FPI prediction: BUF, 78.2% (by an average of 8.2 points)
Matchup must-reads: Herbert shuts down leadership questions amid Chargers' 0-2 start ... Bills' Sanders out indefinitely after having appendectomy ... In reversal, Chargers not placing Kolar (forearm) on IR
Seahawks (2-0) at Commanders (0-2)
1 p.m. ET | Fox | SEA -7 (40.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Seahawks: With QB Jayden Daniels (elbow) out, a Seattle defense that has allowed 17 points through two games will face Marcus Mariota. But it might not be a battle of backup quarterbacks, as Sam Darnold has a chance to return from the glute injuryĀ he suffered in Week 1.Ā As for the QB they'll be facing, coach Mike Macdonald said, "Jayden Daniels is a phenomenal player, but Marcus Mariota is a good player, too. When he played for them last year, they were effective on offense. Every time he's played, they've been efficient, they've put up points." -- Brady Henderson
What we're hearing on the Commanders: The Commanders have allowed an NFL-worst seven touchdown passes in two games and rank 24th in yards per reception allowed. Now they have to contend with another top WR in Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who averages 138.5 yards per game. While the injury-riddled offense has a far tougher challenge -- Seattle's defense ranks first in yards per play, second in points and yards per game -- the defense needs to be the side that provides more. The Commanders have struggled with communication, leading to coverage breakdowns. "It's the urgency," defensive coordinator Daronte Jones said. "When there's a breakdown in communication, negative plays occur. ... We have to make sure the call is quick and fast." -- John Keim
Stat to know: The Commanders have gone 14 straight games without winning the turnover battle, which is the longest active drought in the NFL and tied for the franchise's longest drought since 1933 (when team turnovers were first tracked). -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Seahawks WR Rashid Shaheed will record at least 50 receiving yards. He has only 39 so far this season, but he has also converted only 18% of his air yards (complete or incomplete) into actual receiving yards, the fifth-lowest conversion rate among all WRs with at least 30 routes this season. I wouldn't expect that to continue (he was at 48% in 2025) and so once that normalizes, his production will increase. -- Walder
Viewers rating (out of 10):Ā 5.9. We had coach Mike Macdonald's defense against the Commanders in primetime last season -- it wasn't pretty. Seattle won 38-14. It seems like much of the same will come around in 2026 -- though I'll be interested to see how well Darnold is moving.Ā -- Solak
Injuries: Seahawks | Commanders
Fantasy nugget: Whether it's Darnold or Lock, the Seahawks' passing game is positioned for success against a Commanders defense that has allowed the second-most fantasy points per game to QBs this season. Seattle's defense is also in a great spot against a Commanders team without Daniels. The Seahawks have allowed an NFC-low 214 yards per game. See Week 3 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: Six straight Commanders games have gone over the total, the second-longest active streak in the NFL. Seattle can extend it through the air: Washington has allowed more passing touchdowns than any other team, and Lock has thrown four (all to Smith-Njigba). Mariota moved the ball efficiently in relief against Dallas, giving Washington a reasonable path to contribute to the over. Read more. -- Maldonaldo
Maldonado's pick: Seahawks 27, Commanders 20
Moody's pick: Seahawks 27, Commanders 14
Walder's pick: Seahawks 23, Commanders 9
FPI prediction: SEA, 66.2% (by an average of 4.6 points)
Matchup must-reads: Seahawks' Darnold 'on a good track' to play vs. Commanders ... What's next for Daniels, Commanders after latest injury?
Texans (0-2) at Colts (0-2)
1 p.m. ET | CBS | HOU -2.5 (42.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Texans:Ā Wideout Nico Collins' status is in question,Ā as he's dealing with a hamstring injury. Without Collins, Houston struggled against man coverage. In the Texans' Week 2 loss, they scored six points and QBĀ C.J. StroudĀ went 8-of-20 for 102 yards against man coverage. -- DJ Bien-Aime
What we're hearing on the Colts:Ā In the past, the Colts have been heavily reliant on producing big plays on offense and preventing them on defense to achieve success. But as of right now, neither is happening. Indianapolis has an NFL-worst minus-16 explosive-play differential that is the product of WR Alec Pierce's heel injury and a defense that is struggling with tackling and missed assignments. Can the Texans take advantage? -- Stephen Holder
Stat to know: The Colts are the first team to score 50-plus points and start 0-2 since the 2023 Chargers. That team finished 5-12 and missed the playoffs. -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: The Texans' defense will score a touchdown. The Colts rank 29th in EPA per dropback thus far this season, and when QB Daniel Jones drops back to pass Sunday, he'll have edge rushersĀ Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter bearing down on him with CBsĀ Derek Stingley Jr. and Kamari Lassiter in coverage. The chance of a pick-six or sack-fumble returned for a score are higher than normal. -- Walder
Viewers rating (out of 10): 7.9. Two winless AFC South teams fighting for their season in Week 3? Kind of electric! The lack of Pierce is huge in this game -- he has been a Texans killer for the Colts in recent contests. Hopefully Collins plays, or this might just be a grindy, dusty game. Still, the stakes make it must-see TV. -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: RB David Montgomery will be more effective if the Texans can stay competitive or play with a lead. And the Colts might let that happen. Indianapolis has allowed 514.5 yards per game, most in the NFL. The Colts have also allowed the third-most fantasy points per game to RBs. See Week 3 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: The Colts are 0-3 ATS in their past three games as home underdogs under coach Shane Steichen. That trend has a path against Houston: Indianapolis has allowed 675 passing yards and forced no interceptions through two games. Stroud is capable of moving the ball without handing the Colts possessions. If Houston finishes drives better than it did against Cincinnati, 2.5 points is manageable. Read more. -- Maldonaldo
Maldonado's pick: Texans 20, Colts 16
Moody's pick: Texans 24, Colts 20
Walder's pick: Texans 20, Colts 13
FPI prediction: HOU, 52.8% (by an average of 0.7 points)
Matchup must-reads: Texans face troubling trend when they play without WR Collins ... Steichen defends Colts' handling of WR Pierce's heel injury ... Coach Ryans urges Texans to 'dig deep' after 0-2 start ... Sources: Pierce out weeks; Slayton to join Colts
Jets (1-1) at Lions (1-1)
1 p.m. ET | Fox | DET -6.5 (47.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Jets:Ā Jets coach Aaron Glenn responded with a funny look when a reporter suggested this wouldn't be a low-scoring game. Glenn, who calls the defense, wasn't ready to concede anything. Reality check: Even though the Jets are No. 1 in yards allowed, it's asking a lot of the defense to keep the explosive Lions in check. In this matchup, the best defense is a strong running game. The Jets were stymied last week by the Packers' line stunts and run blitzes. The Lions will go to school on that, and the Jets need to have a counter. -- Rich Cimini
What we're hearing on the Lions: This will be a reunion for Glenn, who spent four seasons (2021-24) as Detroit's defensive coordinator under coach Dan Campbell. Although the 1-1 Lions are favored, Campbell isn't viewing this as an easy win, especially because of Glenn's familiarity with the franchise. "Our players know exactly what's coming in here because their defensive coordinator was here for years. And turn on the tape. And look what just happened last Thursday night [in the loss to Buffalo]," Campbell said. "So, this is not going to be a trap game." -- Eric Woodyard
Stat to know: The Lions scored exactly 31 points in each of their first two games this season. They've never scored 30-plus points in each of their first three games of a season. -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction:Ā Jets WRs Garrett Wilson and Adonai MitchellĀ will each record 30-plus-yard receptions. Incredibly, both of these wideouts rank in the top five in vertical distance from the line of scrimmage three seconds into their routes (Mitchell is second; Wilson fifth). There should be opportunities for QB Geno Smith to air it out against the Lions' secondary. -- Walder
Viewers rating (out of 10): 7.5. Lions games get a big watchability boost because of how bad their secondary is -- Smith, Wilson and Mitchell should have a fun day keeping pace with QB Jared Goff and a Detroit team off a long week of rest. Glenn's first game against his old team is a fun storyline, too. -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: Goff is in a great spot in the cozy confines of Ford Field, where he has averaged 20.0 fantasy points per game for the Lions. The matchup with the Jets also has a high total, which bodes well for fantasy. That puts WR Amon-Ra St. Brown, WRĀ Jameson Williams, TEĀ Sam LaPorta and the rest of Goff's pass catchers in a good spot as well. The Jets could also be without a few defensive starters, which helps. See Week 3 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: The Jets look to start 3-0 ATS for the first time since 2013. Their pass rush can disrupt Goff's timing with St. Brown, and Detroit's defense gives Smith room to answer through the air. New York can pressure Goff and give Smith enough possessions to stay within 6.5 points. Read more. -- Maldonaldo
Maldonado's pick: Lions 24, Jets 20
Moody's pick: Lions 30, Jets 20
Walder's pick: Jets 26, Lions 24
FPI prediction: DET, 74.7% (by an average of 7 points)
Matchup must-reads: Why coach Glenn is encouraged by the Jets' progress ... Lions lose key DB Maddox (foot) for the season ... Jets starting DT Onyemata undergoes core muscle surgery ... Emotional Campbell shoulders blame for Lions loss, vows to be better
Bengals (2-0) at Steelers (1-1)
1 p.m. ET | CBS | CIN -3.5 (42.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Bengals: Through two games, Cincinnati has surrendered 200 receiving yards to TEs, the most in the NFL. The Bengals will have to find a way to contain Pittsburgh's combo of Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington. Bengals DC Al Golden on stopping them: "We lost tight ends a couple times [against Houston]. We have to do a better job on that." -- Ben Baby
What we're hearing on the Steelers: Pittburgh's offensive line struggled to protect QB Aaron Rodgers against the Patriots, and their job doesn't get any easier as they face a defense that's tied for the league lead with eight sacks. Not only can the Bengals bring pressure with Jonathan Allen, but the team also added DTĀ Dexter Lawrence IIĀ to further fortify the interior. Steelers guard Brock Hoffman said there isn't another player of Lawrence's size -- 6-foot-5, 350 pounds -- that can move like him. Rodgers agreed: "He's a load inside, but he's not a slug in there. He can really move. He's a good pass rusher, he's got good moves, good lateral quickness." -- Brooke Pryor
Stat to know: Bengals QB Joe Burrow has averaged 1.86 turnovers per game against the Steelers. That's the most against any opponent he has faced at least twice. -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Bengals edge Boye Mafe will record multiple QB hits. That won't be that easy to pull off considering how quickly late-career Rodgers throws the ball to avoid getting hit (to be fair: Rodgers is holding the ball longer this season). But Mafe has shown up early for Cincinnati, ranking third in the NFL in pass rush wins. -- Walder
Viewers rating (out of 10): 6.8. The Steelers have been a tough watch to start the season (one offensive touchdown through two weeks), but a home game against a high-flying divisional rival is the exact spot in which they'veĀ historically put up a fun performance. But does that magic continue without former coach Mike Tomlin? Tune in to find out. -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: DK Metcalf's 19 targets and 44.7% share of the Steelers' air yards this season are encouraging, but his 42.1% catch rate needs to improve. He has scored only 14.7 fantasy points through two games. Now he faces a Bengals secondary that has allowed the ninth-fewest fantasy points per game to WRs. Metcalf averaged only 8.9 fantasy points per game in two meetings with Cincinnati last season. See Week 3 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight:Ā Burrow is 13-5 ATS as at least a 3-point road favorite, and Pittsburgh's offense makes 14-5 likely. The Steelers are converting 20% of third downs, average 5.2 yards per pass attempt and have one offensive touchdown in two games, while Cincinnati's defense has eight sacks. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh allows 8.0 yards per pass attempt, which opens the door downfield forĀ Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase. Read more. -- Maldonaldo
Maldonado's pick: Bengals 27, Steelers 21
Moody's pick: Bengals 30, Steelers 21
Walder's pick: Bengals 27, Steelers 13
FPI prediction: CIN, 61.7% (by an average of 3.1 points)
Matchup must-reads: Sources: Bengals' Iosivas expected to miss 4-6 weeks ... Why there's hope Steelers' O-line can improve ...Ā Ā Rodgers' 2026 NFL season: Tracking records, milestones
Chiefs (2-0) at Dolphins (0-2)
1 p.m. ET | CBS | KC -10.5 (46.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Chiefs: QB Patrick Mahomes doesn't want the Chiefs to get complacent after a 2-0 start. Sunday will be the Chiefs' first road game after consecutive primetime home games. "All offseason we heard about how bad we were, and guys were super hungry and came in with that mentality," Mahomes said Wednesday. "I think that's why we've had the success that we've had these first two weeks. It's like, how can you keep that hunger? Now everybody's saying we're amazing and that we're great. We've got to keep the hunger that we've had this entire offseason." -- Nate Taylor
What we're hearing on the Dolphins: Kansas City's offense was already a handful to deal with, but Miami coach Jeff Hafley believes it has added a "dynamic dimension" in RB Kenneth Walker III: "Very physical, very hard to tackle, great stiff arm. He runs angry, which I respect." Hafley said defenses are now forced to essentially pick their poison when facing the Chiefs, because if you stack the box to stop the run, Mahomes and the Chiefs' bevy of receivers can make you pay. -- Marcel Louis-Jacques
Stat to know: Dolphins QB Malik Willis has been sacked nine times in two games this season, the most in the NFL. That is already the most a Miami QB has been sacked through the first three games since Jay Cutler in 2017 (nine times). -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Chiefs edge George Karlaftis will record at least two sacks. I've long thought Karlaftis was a solid, but not great, edge rusher. But this season he's showing a little more, despite having failed to record a sack yet. He has 10 pass rush wins, tied for fifth most. And now he's going against the Dolphins, and most importantly Willis -- who has the NFL's highest sack rate. -- Walder
Viewers rating (out of 10): 4.2. The Chiefs are 10.5-point road favorites against a Miami team that won't even use Willis in the designed running game, so we don't get to see any cool QB runs. That makes this game uninteresting, I'm sorry to say. -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: The only QBs with more fantasy points than Mahomes this season are Josh Allen and Bryce Young. Mahomes belongs in lineups against the Dolphins, along with Walker, TE Travis Kelce and WR Rashee Rice. Miami's defense has allowed the sixth-most fantasy points per game to QBs, the highest completion percentage and the most fantasy points per game to RBs. See Week 3 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: Overs are 14-6 when Mahomes is at least a 7-point road favorite, and Miami's defense invites another big total. The Dolphins have zero sacks, allow 8.6 yards per attempt and let opponents convert 50% on third down. Mahomes leads an offense averaging 469 yards per game, while Kansas City's thin pass rush (four sacks) should give Willis time to push the ball downfield. Read more. -- Maldonaldo
Maldonado's pick: Chiefs 36, Dolphins 13
Moody's pick: Chiefs 34, Dolphins 17
Walder's pick: Chiefs 27, Dolphins 20
FPI prediction: KC, 85.3% (by an average of 11.1 points)
Matchup must-reads: How Kelce turned wedding shape into an early resurgence ... Dolphins look ahead to home opener vs. Chiefs with lots of room to grow ... Mahomes, Chiefs laud Walker III's impact through 2-0 start: 'It's fun for me'
Titans (0-2) at Giants (1-1)
1 p.m. ET | CBS | NYG -3 (38.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Titans: The Titans have attempted only one pass of more than 20 yards so far this season. Cam Ward would like to push the ball down the field, but the opportunities haven't been as abundant in part because of protection issues and the Jets playing top-down defense in Week 1 to prevent the deep pass. The Titans have increased Ward's snaps under center, which could give him more deep passing attempts off play-action, but that could be hard against a Giants defense that features a lot of blitzing. -- Turron Davenport
What we're hearing on the Giants: The Giants' offense will look different against the Titans. They'll have to cater it to QB Jameis Winston's skill set, which doesn't include the same running ability as Jaxson DartĀ (knee). But coach John Harbaugh said it's more a "lane change as opposed to changing direction." And the Giants already have the plays in their playbook. GuardĀ Jon RunyanĀ said they have more than 300 plays already. Now, OC Matt Nagy & Co. will lean on what works better for Winston. That likely means using Winston's arm and ability to throw downfield to complement the running game. -- Jordan Raanan
Stat to know:Ā The Giants are 0-5 with starting QBs other than Dart since 2025 (Russell Wilson 0-3, Winston 0-2).Ā -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Titans RB Tony Pollard will record at least 80 rushing yards. The Giants have a fearsome pass rush but have struggled against the run so far, allowing 5.0 yards per carry and ranking 25th in run stop win rate this season. Add in that this should be a close game -- in part because the Giants will be starting Winston -- and the Titans might want to run the ball a decent amount. It could be a big day for Pollard. -- Walder
Viewers rating (out of 10): 6.1. I know Winston didn't look watchable in relief of Dart against the Rams, but he'll be more electric with a week's worth of QB1 practice reps. The Brian Daboll/Brian Callahan revenge bowl will be a fun enough watch, too, especially considering how many ex-Giants are current Titans. -- Solak
Fantasy nugget:Ā Ward is a superflex option against a Giants defense that has allowed the eighth-most fantasy points per game to QBs. New York ranks 31st in sack rate and last in pressure rate, per NFL Next Gen Stats. Ward has only 323 passing yards and one touchdown through two games, but he hasn't committed a turnover and could find success here. See Week 3 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: The Titans are 7-18 ATS on the road since 2023. Tennessee averages 15 points and holds the ball only 22 minutes per game. Its defense has three sacks and allows 7.9 yards per pass attempt, so Winston should have time to find TEĀ Isaiah Likely, who leads the Giants with 18 targets and two touchdowns. Read more. -- Maldonaldo
Maldonado's pick: Giants 24, Titans 21
Moody's pick: Titans 20, Giants 17
Walder's pick: Giants 20, Titans 17
FPI prediction: TEN, 53.5% (by an average of 1 points)
Matchup must-reads: Titans trying to 'trust the process' after tough loss ... With Dart out, what's next for Giants, Winston?
Panthers (1-1) at Browns (1-1)
1 p.m. ET | Fox | CAR -3 (42.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Panthers: With RB Jonathon Brooks (groin) on injured reserve, the Panthers are going to need journeyman AJ Dillon to step up behind Chuba Hubbard on Sunday. And while Dillon is known as a power runner, Panthers OC Brad Idzik has been pleasantly surprised by the veteran's receiving ability. "He caught the heck out of the football all training camp," Idzik said Thursday. With that in mind, Dillon could spell Hubbard on obvious passing downs against Cleveland, even though Hubbard has two receiving touchdowns in as many games. -- Mike Kaye
What we're hearing on the Browns: QB Deshaun Watson is playing in his first home game since he was booed in the preseason, and while he's coming off one of his best games with Cleveland, the key to keeping fans happy might be unlocking the run game. Cleveland ranks 31st in rushing through two games but is facing a Panthers defense that has allowed a league-worst 448 rushing yards. Success on the ground could also limit a Carolina team that ranks second in scoring (33.5 points per game). "It's not sustainable to not be able to run the football, it's absolutely not sustainable," coach Todd Monken said. -- Daniel Oyefusi
Stat to know: The Panthers' 71 points scored through two weeks are the second most this season (The Bills have 77). Carolina opened the season with consecutive 30-point games for the first time in franchise history. -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Browns RB Quinshon Judkins will record positive rush yards over expected, according to Next Gen Stats. This is only bold because of what we've seen from Judkins so far this season, including a minus-28 rush yards over expected -- worst in the NFL. But the Panthers offer an opportunity: They're allowing 6.3 yards per carry (!), also worst in the NFL. -- Walder
Viewers rating (out of 10): 6.3. You probably haven't watched much of the Panthers yet this season, as they've played in two blowouts. There might be a third here against the Browns, who had a good-enough game against the Buccaneers to win -- but still aren't a particularly explosive watch. However, I'll tune in to watch the two skyscraper receivers (Cleveland'sĀ Denzel Boston and Carolina's Tetairoa McMillan) exchange blows. -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: Jalen Coker has caught 16 of 18 targets so far this season and has scored at least 14 fantasy points in consecutive games. He's running just as many routes and playing just as many snaps as McMillan. Coker leads the Panthers in fantasy points and faces a Browns defense that has allowed the seventh-most fantasy points to WRs. See Week 3 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: The Panthers snapped a 12-game outright losing streak as favorites last week, and this matchup sets them up to win another. Young is playing with confidence and has reliable targets in Coker and McMillan against a Browns defense that struggles to get pressure. Cleveland's offense stalls near the goal line, while Carolina finishes drives. Read more. -- Maldonaldo
Maldonado's pick: Panthers 23, Browns 16
Moody's pick: Panthers 24, Browns 17
Walder's pick: Panthers 30, Browns 21
FPI prediction: CAR, 62.8% (by an average of 3.5 points)
Matchup must-reads: Panthers' Young to Waller has been money in red zone ... Browns QB Watson 'ready for support' from home crowd ... Sources: Panthers RB Brooks set for surgery, put on IR ... Watson makes case in Browns win with job on line
Cardinals (1-1) at 49ers (2-0)
4:05 p.m. ET | Fox | SF -8.5 (47.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Cardinals: The last time these two teams played, WR Michael Wilson had his breakout game with 15 catches for 185 yards. Can Marvin Harrison Jr. replicate that success and get his season on track? He has had one catch for 33 yards on four targets in two games. It has been a constant topic of criticism and questions across social media, which he has seen, but he said this week that he tried to block out. -- Josh Weinfuss
What we're hearing on the 49ers: Edge rusherĀ Nick Bosa said run defense is the No. 1 area for improvement after two weeks. The Niners are 25th in success rate against the run and have avoided it becoming a bigger issue because they've built big second-half leads. Making matters more difficult, the Niners are now down three of the five DTs they had on the opening-day roster. "Guys are coming together to try to figure out where does everybody fit," LBĀ Fred Warner said. "But it's something that'll continue to get better as we go on. I'm not sitting here saying that I'm complacent with it at all. -- Nick Wagoner
Stat to know: The Cardinals have 15 straight losses versus teams that enter with winning record, the longest active streak in the NFL. Another loss would tie the longest streak since the Bears' 16 games from 2021 to 2023. -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: 49ers CBĀ Renardo Green will allow less than 10 receiving yards, per Next Gen Stats. Green has been targeted on only 5% of opponent dropbacks, according to NGS, the lowest rate among all outside corners with at least 50 coverage snaps. -- Walder
Viewers rating (out of 10): 6.4. It's unclear how good the Cardinals are, as their win over the Chargers looks worse than it did a week ago. Are they good enough to keep it competitive against a red-hot divisional rival? I think so. I find QBĀ Jacoby Brissett and the Cardinals' passing attack to be one of the most underrated watches through two weeks. -- Solak
Fantasy nugget: Brock Purdy is the QB4 in fantasy and is averaging 24.8 points. He has averaged 20.3 fantasy points over his past four games against Arizona. He belongs in lineups along with WRĀ Mike Evans, WRĀ Deebo Samuel Sr.,Ā TEĀ George Kittle and RBĀ Christian McCaffrey. The Cardinals have allowed the sixth-most fantasy points per game to WRs. See Week 3 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight:Ā San Francisco coach Kyle Shanahan is 0-6-1 ATS against the Cardinals when he isn't at least a 13-point favorite, and Arizona's formula fits that history. The Cardinals stay close by shortening games with long, methodical drives and a steady diet of TEĀ Trey McBride. If San Francisco's red zone success cools and those trips end in field goals, 8.5 points is a lot to lay. Read more. -- Maldonaldo
Maldonado's pick: 49ers 27, Cardinals 24
Moody's pick: 49ers 28, Cardinals 17
Walder's pick: 49ers 26, Cardinals 17
FPI prediction: SF, 89.9% (by an average of 13.6 points)
Matchup must-reads: Harrison blocking out noise amid slow start for Cardinals ... Why 49ers' Purdy looks poised for his best season yetĀ ... 49ers place starting DT West on IR due to knee injury
Vikings (2-0) at Buccaneers (0-2)
4:05 p.m. ET | Fox | MIN -1.5 (42.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Vikings: The stage is set for the Vikings' passing game to break out. It has managed only 259 passing yards, which ranks 31st in the NFL, after losing QB Kyler Murray (concussion) in Week 1 and playing in rainy Chicago in Week 2. But Murray will return in Tampa Bay, where the weather will be hot but dry. The run game is weakened by multiple injuries in the backfield, and the Vikings are hoping to exploit a Buccaneers defense that has allowed opponents to complete 75.4% of its passes, the second-worst mark. -- Kevin Seifert
What we're hearing on the Buccaneers: The Bucs are 0-2 for the first time since 2014. Coach Todd Bowles said the team is "angrily optimistic" and acknowledged that there is heightened pressure to get its first win. "I think [there is] always pressure until you get your first win out [of] the way. ... It's not a different kind of pressure, so to speak. It's probably a different kind of urgency -- not that you're not playing urgent already, but you just want to get that first win on the board." -- Jenna Laine
Stat to know: Minnesota has blitzed on 74% of opponent dropbacks this season, which is by far the highest rate in the NFL (next closest is the Commanders at 45%). And it's the highest by any team through two games since tracking began in 2006. -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Buccaners WRĀ Ted Hurst III will record a 40-plus-yard reception. Hurst ranks seventh in total incomplete air yards, so I think a big day is coming for him soon. With the Vikings almost always sending extra blitzers, the Bucs might try to take advantage by hitting Hurst deep. -- Walder
Viewers rating (out of 10): 6.8. This will be the first real Murray action of Minnesota's season, so that's worth tuning in. However, the lack of RBs Jordan MasonĀ (thumb) andĀ Aaron Jones Sr.Ā (knee) might keep the offense in first gear. The Bucs are winless, so I'm expecting an impassioned home performance with their backs against the wall. -- Solak
Injuries: Vikings | Buccaneers
Fantasy nugget:Ā The Vikings are tied for seventh with the Seahawks in rushing attempts per game. Minnesota could lean even more on the run with Murray back under center against a Buccaneers defensive front that ranks 19th in run stop win rate. The matchup also favors Minnesota up front, with its offensive line ranking fifth in run block win rate.Ā See Week 3 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: The Bucs are 0-11 ATS in their past 11 games, the longest such streak by any team in the Super Bowl era, and Minnesota's pass rush can extend it. The Vikings get after QBs, and Baker Mayfield has struggled to protect the football this season. If the pressure forces turnovers again, Tampa Bay's productive run game won't matter much. Read more. -- Maldonaldo
Maldonado's pick: Vikings 22, Bucs 17
Moody's pick: Vikings 23, Buccaneers 17
Walder's pick: Buccaneers 21, Vikings 17
FPI prediction: MIN, 54.6% (by an average of 1.3 points)
Matchup must-reads: With Murray back, will Vikings open up passing attack? ... Mayfield says Bucs need to 'fight our way out' of 0-2 start
Ravens (1-1) vs. Cowboys (1-1)Ā -- in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | BAL -3.5 (52.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Ravens: The Ravens' focus is to get the Cowboys offense off the field after Baltimore allowed the Saints to convert four third-and-longs on Sunday. "That is something that coaches have harped on since the game ended, and that we will emphasize throughout the week in practice," safety Kyle Hamilton said. It will be a major challenge against QB Dak Prescott and the Cowboys, who lead the NFL in third-down conversion percentage (68.2%). -- Jamison Hensley
What we're hearing on the Cowboys: The Cowboys have not done well containing mobile QBs the first two weeks, with Jaxson Dart running for 54 yards and Jayden Daniels picking up 69 yards in one half before he was hurt. Now they get to see Lamar Jackson, who has 74 yards rushing and a touchdown this season. DT Kenny Clark knows it won't be easy. "Just being disciplined, communication, just understanding our rush lanes, playing with extension, powering offensive linemen, just restricting those gaps so he can't get through," Clark said.Ā -- Todd Archer
Stat to know: The Ravens' Week 2 loss to the Saints marked their 15th defeat after holding a double-digit lead since 2019 (Jackson's first season as full-time starter). That's the most in the NFL over that span. -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction:Ā Prescott will attempt 42 or more passes. Dallas has the highest pass rate over expected in the league, per NFL Next Gen Stats, and this is a game where the Cowboys might find themselves behind on the scoreboard, too. -- Walder
Viewers rating (out of 10): 8.4. Heck yeah, brother. Two top-five offenses through the first two games of the season. One pretty rough defense (Dallas) and another with plenty of holes to exploit (Baltimore). If the Brazil field is good, we should be in for a treat with plenty of points. -- Solak
Fantasy nugget:Ā Prescott finished with 29.7 fantasy points against the Commanders last week and should have success against a Ravens defense that gave up 22.3 fantasy points to Tyler Shough. This matchup also has one of the highest totals on the slate and a narrow spread, which points to a competitive game. Start your Cowboys. See Week 3 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: Unders are 4-0 in international games when the total is in the 50s, and this matchup fits the pattern. Baltimore should lean on RBĀ Derrick Henry against a Dallas defense that can't get off the field, draining the clock with long drives and limiting possessions. Dallas can't run the ball, and its third-down success rate is too high to last. Read more. -- Maldonaldo
Maldonado's pick: Cowboys 27, Ravens 24
Moody's pick: Cowboys 31, Ravens 27
Walder's pick: Ravens 38, Cowboys 30
FPI prediction: BAL, 54.4% (by an average of 1.1 points)
Matchup must-reads: Cowboys' Lamb, Pickens playing with 'no egos' ... Ravens feel prepared for Rio 'business trip' ... How Cowboys prepared for Brazil trip to face Ravens
Raiders (2-0) at Saints (1-1)
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | NO -3 (43.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Raiders: The Raiders have been one of the best teams at pressuring the QB. They are first in pressure rate (50%) and sacks (eight). Las Vegas pressured the Chargers' Justin Herbert 17 times in Week 2, despite facing an offensive line featuring OTs Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater. The defense will have a tough task ahead of it against Saints QBĀ Tyler Shough. He has thrown for 303 yards and a passer rating of 100.2 under pressure in the past two games. "Anybody that can stand in there and take pressure and hurt you is painful [to play against]. ...He's a good player," DC Rob Leonard said. -- Ryan McFadden
What we're hearing on the Saints: The Saints will have a new starting LT with Kelvin Banks Jr. (ankle) on injured reserve. Asim Richards will replace Banks after filling in for him in the second half of the Week 2 win against the Ravens. Shough has been sacked eight times in two games and will now face a potent Raiders pass rush. Coach Kellen Moore said Richards has "prepared as if he's ready to play every single week, and you saw that by the way he handled that situation [in] Baltimore and hopping in there. He'll do some good stuff." -- Katherine Terrell
Stat to know:Ā Raiders QB Kirk Cousins (2026), Tom Brady (2021, 2016, 2015) and Peyton Manning (2014) are the only QBs in NFL history to begin a season with back-to-back three-plus passing touchdown games at age 38.Ā -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Raiders edge Malcolm Koonce will record a 25% pass rush win rate or higher. With Banks injured, Koonce will face a backup in Richards. That presents an opportunity for a big game for the edge rusher. -- Walder
Viewers rating (out of 10): 8.0. This is a sneaky banger of the week. The 2-0 Raiders travel for a big test against a quality 1-1 Saints team. Can Saints DC Brandon Staley heat up Cousins and a Raiders offensive line that's excelled through two games? Can Moore find a first-half offense and build a lead this time around? Will TEĀ Brock BowersĀ (knee) return? CanĀ Travis Etienne Jr.Ā get going? Litmus tests abound in this one. We're going to have to take one of these two teams very seriously by the end. -- Solak
Fantasy nugget:Ā Saints WRĀ Chris OlaveĀ has had five straight games with at least 20 fantasy points, the longest active streak among WRs. ShoughĀ has scored at least 17 fantasy points in nine of his past 10 games dating to last season. The chemistry between this duo is undeniable. Shough has thrown for 662 yards, the most by a New Orleans QB through the first two games of a season since Drew Brees had 669 in 2009. See Week 3 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: Since 2017, 2-0 teams that are underdogs in their third game are 5-12 ATS when getting at least two points, and the Raiders fit the profile. Las Vegas has leaned on takeaways more than sustained offense with little help from its run game. New Orleans moves the ball through the air, and Olave should find space against this secondary. Read more. -- Maldonaldo
Maldonado's pick: Saints 27, Raiders 20
Moody's pick: Saints 28, Raiders 24
Walder's pick: Raiders 30, Saints 20
FPI prediction: NO, 63.9% (by an average of 3.8 points)
Matchup must-reads: Shough's late-game heroics have Saints' confidence soaring ... Saints LT Banks to have ankle surgery, out indefinitely
Rams (1-1) at Broncos (1-1)
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC | LAR -2.5 (44.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Rams: WR Davante Adams is coming off a 195-yard, two touchdown game, which was the most receiving yards in a contest by a player age 33 or older since 2012, according to ESPN Research. The Rams might again be without WRĀ Puka Nacua (hip). Adams, who called Broncos CBĀ Pat Surtain IIĀ "one of the best DBs in the league," might be up for a tall task. "[Surtain's] got some length, speed and a lot of stuff you can't teach at that position," Adams said. "We've had some battles in the past." -- Sarah Barshop
What we're hearing on the Broncos: The Broncos are still in search of the elusive fast start on offense. They didn't rebound in Week 1, but did find their offensive rhythm against Jacksonville. QB Bo Nix threw for 288 yards in Week 2 compared to 131 in the opener. But Denver has punted seven times on 11 first-half possessions, and Nix has thrown two interceptions while leading the Broncos to only 10 first-half points. "We've talked about it from the beginning of the season ... just playing better early,'' coach Sean Payton said. -- Jeff Legwold
Stat to know: The Rams are the first team since the 1970 merger to begin a season with three primetime games. They have won five straight versus the Broncos dating to 2006. -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Broncos LBĀ Alex Singleton will record 12-plus tackles. If the Rams get out ahead, they could run the ball plenty, which would lead to more tackling opportunities for Singleton. Plus, the emergence of Rams tight endĀ Terrance Ferguson last week -- and the fact that the Broncos have Surtain and Riley Moss at corner -- could put some more receptions in Singleton's tackling area, too. -- Walder
Viewers rating (out of 10): 8.8. It's tough to tell exactly how good the Rams are, given their first two games. The Broncos seem like they righted the ship quick after their Week 1 embarrassment, and they have the sort of pass rush that can really disrupt QBĀ Matthew Stafford. If Nacua is out, we might get Surtain shadowing Adams. That alone is worth undivided television attention. -- Solak
Fantasy nugget:Ā Rams RBĀ Kyren Williams has had at least 14 touches in consecutive games, while Blake Corum has had at least 10 in each. Williams leads the backfield with 31.2 fantasy points. The Rams' offensive line ranks fourth in run block win rate, and the ground game should have success against a Broncos defense allowing the fourth-most fantasy points per game to RBs this season. See Week 3 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight:Ā Nix is 11-4 ATS and 14-1 outright in his past 15 home games, and the Rams' thin pass rush gives him a path to extend it. Nix was sharp in his last home start when kept clean, and WRĀ Jaylen Waddle gives him a big-play target. With time to throw at altitude, the Broncos can win outright again. Read more. -- Maldonaldo
Maldonado's pick: Broncos 20, Rams 17
Moody's pick: Broncos 24, Rams 20
Walder's pick: Rams 23, Broncos 20
FPI prediction: LAR, 63.7% (by an average of 3.8 points)
Matchup must-reads: Rams RBs Williams and Corum are splitting carries -- and L.A. is better for it ... Broncos to face another MVP QB in Stafford ...Ā Payton thinks Broncos will 'be all right' with three RBs on injury report
Eagles (2-0) at Bears (1-1)
Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ESPN | PHI -4.5 (41.5 O/U)
What we're hearing on the Eagles: When these two teams played in November, the Bears gashed the Eagles' defense for 281 yards and two touchdowns on the ground, the difference in a 24-15 win that compelled coach Ben Johnson to rip off his shirt during the postgame locker room celebration. It was a rare instance under coach Nick Sirianni where Philly was unable to match the physicality of its opponent. Even so, Sirianni says he's not overemphasizing last season's result. "We never really get into revenge," he said. "That lasts about a minute and then your habits and your fundamentals take over." -- Tim McManus
What we're hearing on the Bears: With QB Caleb Williams nursing a hamstring injury and backup Tyson Bagent in the concussion protocol, Case Keenum could be in line to start his first regular season game since 2023. The challenge of potentially playing against the Eagles is viewed by Johnson as an "opportunity," though he has never called an in-season game for a backup. But Keenum thrives off the adrenaline rush that could come Monday. "I do get nervous and it's not a scared nervous, it's an excited nervous, because I know I'm prepared, I'm confident in my preparation and what I've done," Keenum said.Ā -- Courtney Cronin
Stat to know:Ā Last week's three-point Bears' performance marked Johnson's worst in charge of an offense since being shut out in Week 5 of 2022 as Detroit's OC. -- ESPN Research
Bold prediction:Ā Jalen Hurts will hit four passes of 20-plus air yard passes outside the numbers. Hurts likes throwing outside anyway, and the Bears have run Cover 1 49% of the time this season, which should only encourage those downfield outside shots even more.Ā -- Walder
Viewers rating (out of 10): 7.1. The potential lack of Williams hurts this game quite a bit -- though I am intrigued to see Johnson coach around a QB2 (or a QB3 if it's Keenum) for the first time in his career. The Eagles defense has a pride game inbound -- Chicago ran roughshod over them last season. This one could go 15 different directions. -- Solak
Fantasy nugget:Ā Eagles WRĀ DeVonta Smith finished with 13 targets and 27.7 fantasy points last week against the Titans. He's two receptions away from becoming the fastest player in Eagles history to reach 400. Smith should see another heavy target load with tight endĀ Dallas Goedert out due to an MCL sprain. Smith has averaged 21.3 fantasy points in the 16 career games where he's seen at least 10 targets. See Week 3 rankings. -- Moody
Betting insight: The Eagles were 4-1 ATS with extra rest last season, and Monday's matchup sets up another cover. Chicago's secondary has struggled, giving Hurts room to find Smith and Dontayvion Wicks downfield. With Williams doubtful, the Bears will lean entirely on their run game, and Philadelphia can load the box with extra defenders to slow it. Read more. -- Maldonaldo
Maldonado's pick: Eagles 27, Bears 13
Moody's pick: Eagles 27, Bears 17
Walder's pick: Eagles 24, Bears 14
FPI prediction: PHI, 52.6% (by an average of 0.8 points)
Matchup must-reads: Eagles reuniting with Ertz as Goedert has MCL sprain ... Veteran Keenum practices Wednesday, ready to start if called
