Week 3 NFL Predictions Feature Bold Upsets and Bounce-Back Games
Navigating the complexities of NFL predictions can be a daunting task, especially after a challenging Week 2. With only one week of results to analyze, discerning patterns and trends can be tricky. Yet, as the teams gear up for Week 3, it’s time to shake off the previous setbacks, dive into the film, and make some fearless forecasts. Here’s a comprehensive look at the upcoming matchups, featuring insights and predictions for the week ahead.
Game of Midweek: Dolphins at Bills
Thursday 8:15 p.m. ET, Amazon Prime Video
The Miami Dolphins are desperate to reignite their offense, led by Tua Tagovailoa and bolstered by the explosive talents of Tyreek Hill, De’Von Achane, and Jaylen Waddle. However, overcoming the formidable Buffalo Bills—anchored by Josh Allen and James Cook—on a short week poses a significant challenge.
Pick: Bills win 34-17 and cover the spread.
Game of the Week: Lions at Ravens
Sunday 4:25 p.m. ET, Fox
The Detroit Lions are eager to avenge a humiliating 38-6 loss to the Baltimore Ravens from October 2023. With their offense firing on all cylinders, they aim to capitalize on last week’s momentum against the Bears. Meanwhile, the Ravens, featuring Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry, should present a more balanced offensive threat. While the Lions will make impressive plays, they may fall short in this high-stakes encounter.
Pick: Ravens win 30-27 but fail to cover the spread.
Lock of the Week: Chiefs vs Giants
Sunday 8:20 p.m. ET, NBC and Peacock
The Kansas City Chiefs find themselves in a precarious position, staring down the possibility of an 0-3 start before facing the Ravens in Week 4. After tough losses to the Chargers and Eagles, Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes are primed for a much-needed victory against the Giants, helmed by former Chiefs assistant Mike Kafka. Expect Mahomes to elevate his game significantly in this crucial matchup.
Pick: Chiefs win 30-17 and cover the spread.
Upset of the Week: Bengals at Vikings
Sunday 1 p.m. ET, CBS
Jake Browning, once a member of the Minnesota Vikings, returns to face his former team with a chip on his shoulder. The Bengals’ backup quarterback is set to challenge a Vikings defense that has struggled with turnovers. As Carson Wentz steps in for the injured J.J. McCarthy, he may find it difficult to keep pace in what could become a shootout.
Pick: Bengals win 34-31.
Packers at Browns
Sunday 1 p.m. ET, Fox
The Green Bay Packers have been bolstered by the addition of Micah Parsons, leading a defense that has been performing at a high level. Conversely, the Cleveland Browns have struggled early, particularly with Joe Flacco at the helm and an aging offensive line. Green Bay is poised to take advantage of this matchup.
Pick: Packers win 31-13 and cover the spread.
Colts at Titans
Sunday 1 p.m. ET, CBS
With Jonathan Taylor returning as a dominant force, the Indianapolis Colts are riding high after a strong start. Facing a Tennessee Titans squad with a shaky No. 29 run defense, the Colts look to exploit this weakness. Rookie quarterback Cam Ward may find it challenging to match Taylor’s prowess.
Pick: Colts win 27-20 and cover the spread.
Steelers at Patriots
Sunday 1 p.m. ET, CBS
Both the Pittsburgh Steelers and New England Patriots have seen better days defensively, ranking among the league’s worst in several categories. While the Steelers have struggled against the run, the Patriots have faltered against the pass. In this closely contested matchup, the experience of Aaron Rodgers may give Pittsburgh the edge.
Pick: Steelers win 27-24 and cover the spread.
Rams at Eagles
Sunday 1 p.m. ET, Fox
Matthew Stafford leads a potent Rams offense, featuring rising stars like Puka Nacua and Davante Adams. However, the Philadelphia Eagles, equipped with their own trio of offensive weapons, should keep this game competitive. Expect a nail-biter, with Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley making the decisive plays late in the game.
Pick: Eagles win 26-23 but fail to cover the spread.
Jets at Buccaneers
Sunday 1 p.m. ET, Fox
The New York Jets are in search of offensive consistency, relying heavily on the talents of Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, led by Baker Mayfield, look to capitalize on their home-field advantage. With the Jets’ defensive struggles, expect Tampa Bay to secure a solid victory.
Pick: Buccaneers win 31-20 and cover the spread.
Raiders at Commanders
Sunday 1 p.m. ET, Fox
The Las Vegas Raiders have shown resilience on the road, but their defense may struggle against a revamped Washington Commanders offense. With Jayden Daniels leading a more aggressive attack, the Raiders could find themselves overmatched.
Pick: Commanders win 27-17 and cover the spread.
Falcons at Panthers
Sunday 1 p.m. ET, Fox
The Atlanta Falcons are set to face a Carolina Panthers team that is still finding its rhythm. While both teams have shown flashes of potential, the Falcons may have the slight edge in this matchup. Expect a competitive game, though the Panthers may fall just short.
Pick: Falcons win 23-20 but fail to cover the spread.
Texans at Jaguars
Sunday 1 p.m. ET, CBS
The Houston Texans are grappling with a slow start, facing a Jacksonville Jaguars team that is gaining momentum. With a solid offensive scheme led by Travis Etienne Jr., the Jaguars are well-positioned to capitalize on the Texans’ struggles.
Pick: Jaguars win 24-20 and cover the spread.
