The Week 2 NFL schedule for the 2023 season is stacked with nice matchups, and we’ve you lined with what you should know heading into the weekend. Our NFL Nation reporters convey us the most important keys to each recreation and a daring prediction for every matchup.
Moreover, ESPN Stats & Info supplies a giant stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest, and our Soccer Energy Index (FPI) goes contained in the numbers with recreation projections. Analytics author Seth Walder picks out every matchup’s largest X issue, and fantasy analyst Eric Moody arms out useful fantasy soccer intel. Lastly, Walder and Moody give us closing rating picks for each recreation. The whole lot you need to know is right here in a single spot that can assist you prepare for a loaded weekend of NFL soccer.
Let’s get into the complete Week 2 slate, together with an AFC North battle between Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson, an all-rookie QB battle in Houston and Zach Wilson and the Jets having to face up to the Cowboys’ fearsome go rush. All of it culminates with a “Monday Night time Soccer” double characteristic, together with a matchup between the Browns and the Steelers on ABC/ESPN+. (Sport occasions are Sunday until in any other case famous.)
Leap to a matchup:
BAL-CIN | GB-ATL | KC-JAX
SEA-DET | LV-BUF | LAC-TEN
CHI-TB | IND-HOU | SF-LAR
NYG-ARI | NYJ-DAL | WSH-DEN
MIA-NE | NO-CAR | CLE-PIT
Thursday: PHI 34, MIN 28
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: CIN -3 (46.5)
Storyline to observe: This one can have early AFC North implications. The Bengals need to keep away from an 0-2 begin to the season and have well being and home-field benefits. A Baltimore win provides the Ravens a robust begin of their pursuit to finish Cincinnati’s two-year run as division champs. — Ben Child
Daring prediction:Jackson will run for greater than 100 yards for the thirteenth time of his profession. The Ravens shall be with out two of their greatest offensive linemen in left sort out Ronnie Stanley (knee) and middle Tyler Linderbaum (ankle), which implies Jackson should scramble to get away from stress. Final Sunday, the Bengals allowed Browns QB Deshaun Watson to hurry for 45 yards on 5 carries. Jackson has a historical past of success working the ball in opposition to Cincinnati, averaging 83.1 yards dashing in seven profession video games.— Jamison Hensley
Stat to know: Together with the playoffs, three of Burrow’s 4 lowest Complete QBR video games in 2022 got here in opposition to the Ravens.
Matchup X issue: Ravens backup offensive linemen Patrick Mekari and Sam Mustipher. These two might need to fill in for Stanley and/or Linderbaum, who each suffered accidents in Week 1. If they will fill in effectively — Mekari was fairly good final 12 months — the Ravens ought to have the a lot better offensive line on this recreation. — Walder
Accidents: Ravens | Bengals
What to know for fantasy: The chemistry Jackson and Zay Flowers had throughout coaching camp and the preseason carried over into the common season. Flowers gained 54 yards after the catch, the second most in a rookie receiver’s first profession recreation since 2020. Flowers had 9 receptions for 78 yards. See Week 2 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget:Jackson is 10-1-1 in opposition to the unfold (ATS) as a regular-season underdog (8-4 outright). Out of 330 quarterbacks to be underdogs a minimum of 10 occasions within the Tremendous Bowl period, Jackson has the second-best outright file in that position behind Raiders quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, who can also be an underdog this week. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Bengals 28, Ravens 24
Walder’s decide: Ravens 21, Bengals 16
FPI prediction: CIN, 51.5% (by a median of 0.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Ravens’ new-look offense seeking to rebound from underwhelming debut … OT Collins a free agent after Bengals launch him off PUP … Ravens staying in-house to switch Dobbins … Burrow throws for profession low in Browns loss
1 p.m. ET | FOX | Unfold: ATL -1 (40.5)
Storyline to observe: Whereas these groups have not performed since 2020 — and have not performed in Atlanta since 2017 — there are familiarities right here. Falcons coach Arthur Smith and Packers coach Matt LaFleur labored collectively in 2018 in Tennessee, and Atlanta assistant coach Jerry Grey coached the Inexperienced Bay secondary the previous three seasons. Would possibly that assist Atlanta in opposition to Inexperienced Bay’s vast receivers? “If I used to be on the market enjoying, it might,” Grey mentioned. He will not be, though the ties between elements of each staffs ought to be fascinating for either side.— Michael Rothstein
Daring prediction: The Packers will maintain the Falcons beneath 100 whole dashing yards. Sure, Atlanta leads the NFL in designed dashing yards (144.3 per recreation) for the reason that begin of final season. However the Packers’ run protection may not be as unhealthy because it seemed in Week 1. The unit that ranked twenty sixth within the NFL final season gave up 122 yards dashing in Week 1 to the Bears, however 59 of these yards had been to quarterback Justin Fields. Inexperienced Bay truly restricted the Bears to 2.8 yards per designed rush, in keeping with ESPN Stats & Info.— Rob Demovsky
Stat to know:Falcons quarterbackDesmond Ridder has thrown zero interceptions in his first 5 profession begins (3-2 file). He might turn out to be the primary quarterback to throw zero picks within the first six begins since begins had been first tracked in 1950.
Matchup X issue: Packers linebackers De’Vondre Campbell and Quay Walker. The Packers might want to cease the Atlanta run recreation and make Ridder throw the ball. Campbell and Walker shall be key to that course of. — Walder
Accidents: Packers | Falcons
What to know for fantasy: Do not underestimate the Packers’ protection. Despite the fact that Inexperienced Bay wasn’t good there, it was a lot better stopping the run. Fields, D’Onta Foreman, Khalil Herbertand Roschon Johnson accrued solely 3.3 yards per carry. See Week 2 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Packers are 41-26 ATS beneath LaFleur (.612), one of the best mark within the NFL since 2019 (minimal 40 video games coached). Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Packers 24, Falcons 20
Walder’s decide: Packers 30, Falcons 17
FPI prediction: ATL, 51.5% (by a median of 0.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: ‘All people respects him’: Jones the proper match for Love … Falcons shrug off being over .500 for first time since 2017
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: KC -3.5 (51)
Storyline to observe: How will the Jaguars deal with Chiefs tight finish Travis Kelce, assuming he performs? He had 20 catches for 179 yards and three touchdowns within the two conferences final season, each Chiefs victories. Varied gamers will draw Kelce at occasions — together with linebacker Devin Lloyd and security Andre Cisco — however the important thing to preserving him from doing an excessive amount of injury is limiting his yards after the catch. He had the third-most yards after catch within the NFL final season (643). — Mike DiRocco
Daring prediction:Chiefs defensive tackleChris Jones will acquire a few sacks in opposition to Jags quarterbackTrevor Lawrence. That appears so much to ask in his first recreation for the reason that Tremendous Bowl, however Jones has performed effectively in opposition to the Jaguars. He had 1.5 sacks of Lawrence throughout a regular-season recreation final 12 months and even had the one interception and landing of his profession in opposition to a pre-Lawrence Jacksonville staff in 2018. — Adam Teicher
Stat to know: The Chiefs need to keep away from turning into solely the fifth defending Tremendous Bowl champion to start out a season 0-2. Of the earlier 4, just one made the playoffs, however that simply occurred to be the 1993 Cowboys, who went on to win their second straight Tremendous Bowl.
Matchup X issue: Jaguars offensive sort out Anton Harrison. The rookie posted a 71% go block win price in Week 1, fourth worst amongst tackles. If the Jaguars are going to maintain up with the Chiefs’ offense, Lawrence goes to wish higher safety. — Walder
Accidents: Chiefs | Jaguars
What to know for fantasy: The Chiefs are usually disciplined, however they had been sloppy in opposition to the Lions. There have been a number of cases when gamers blocked the identical participant or bumped into one another whereas working routes. The Chiefs completed with 4 drops in opposition to the Lions, essentially the most in any recreation since Patrick Mahomes has been the beginning quarterback. See Week 2 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Jaguars are 5-0 outright as house underdogs beneath Doug Pederson, together with playoffs. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Chiefs 38, Jaguars 34
Walder’s decide: Chiefs 38, Jaguars 24
FPI prediction: KC, 61.3% (by a median of 4.1 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Jones ‘tremendous happy’ with new Chiefs deal after holdout … What Ridley’s robust Jaguars debut means for the offense…Sunday’s recreation cannot arrive quick sufficient for Chiefs receivers
1 p.m. ET | FOX | Unfold: DET -4.5 (47)
Storyline to observe: If historical past is any indication, followers at Ford Discipline ought to be enthusiastic about what’s in retailer for the Lions’ house opener. In NFL historical past, no two groups have mixed for a minimum of 80 factors in three consecutive conferences. Nevertheless, the Lions and Seahawks have an opportunity to try this Sunday. Final 12 months, Seattle beat Detroit 48-45, and in 2021, it beat the Lions 51-29. However Detroit is coming off an enormous win versus the defending Tremendous Bowl champion Chiefsand is seeking to begin 2-0 for the primary time since 2017. — Eric Woodyard
Daring prediction: Detroit’s Aidan Hutchinson can have a minimum of two sacks, and Seahawks receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba can have a minimum of six catches. Hutchinson tied for the NFL lead in Week 1 with six pressures and now will get to face an offensive line that may probably have backups at each sort out spots. That can necessitate a fast passing recreation, which might imply a busy day for Smith-Njigba within the slot after the rookie first-round decide managed solely 13 yards in his debut. — Brady Henderson
Stat to know:Detroit quarterbackJared Goff’s 359 consecutive passes with out an interception is the third-longest streak in NFL historical past (40 makes an attempt shy of matching Tom Brady for second).
Matchup X issue: Seahawks vast receivers DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett and Smith-Njigba. This is among the greatest vast receiver teams within the league. However that did not present in Week 1. The Seahawks want the trio to step up in opposition to the Lions. — Walder
Accidents: Seahawks | Lions
What to know for fantasy: Goff has carried out very effectively at Ford Discipline. He has averaged 275 passing yards and 21.6 fantasy factors per recreation at house. Since 2017, the Seahawks’ protection has ranked close to the underside of the league in yards allowed and factors in opposition to. See Week 2 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: 5 straight Seahawks video games have gone beneath the overall. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Lions 21, Seahawks 20
Walder’s decide: Seahawks 29, Lions 27
FPI prediction: DET, 64.7% (by a median of 5.4 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Seahawks with out each beginning tackles Sunday … RB Gibbs suits what Lions want completely
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: BUF -8 (47)
Storyline to observe: After a four-turnover day for quarterback Josh Allen, the Payments’ house opener in opposition to the Raiders is a chance to bounce again. Buffalo has scored 20-plus factors in 11 straight house video games, whereas the Raiders need to begin 2-0 through two street wins for the primary time since 1982. — Alaina Getzenberg
Daring prediction: Raiders WR Hunter Renfrow, who was shut out on the stat sheet for the primary time in his profession final week, can have a minimum of 5 catches in Buffalo. The 2021 Professional Bowl slot receiver was a forgotten man in Denver, as he was not focused as soon as. However with All-Professional Davante Adams coping with a foot damage and No. 2 receiver Jakobi Meyers struggling a concussion vs. the Broncos, Renfrow shall be a priceless asset for the Raiders. In his solely different motion in opposition to Buffalo, Renfrow had 5 catches for 57 yards in 2020.— Paul Gutierrez
Stat to know: The Raiders have had 14 video games determined by one rating (eight factors or much less) for the reason that begin of final season, tied with the Broncos for essentially the most over that span. Their 5-9 file in one-score video games is the sixth worst within the NFL for the reason that begin of final season.
Matchup X issue:Allen. All he has to do shouldn’t be make wild errors and Buffalo ought to coast. Then once more, that is all he wanted to do final week, and look what occurred. — Walder
Accidents: Raiders | Payments
What to know for fantasy:Raiders working backJosh Jacobs led the league in dashing yards (1,653) and averaged 19.3 fantasy factors per recreation in 2022. Now he faces a Payments protection that allowed 172 dashing yards to the Jets on Monday evening, which was shocking as a result of Buffalo had among the best run defenses within the league final season. See Week 2 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Payments are 0-4 ATS of their previous 4 video games on quick relaxation. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Payments 28, Raiders 17
Walder’s decide: Payments 35, Raiders 27
FPI prediction: BUF, 71.4% (by a median of 8.0 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Jacobs nonetheless seeking to ‘knock the rust off’ after holdout … ‘It is the double-edged sword’: Allen nonetheless studying to handle threat … Garoppolo wins over new Raiders teammates with late-game grit … How can the Payments shore up their offense after a disappointing Week 1?
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: LAC -3 (45)
Storyline to observe: Of their first recreation beneath new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, the Chargers confirmed a dedication to working the soccer final week with 40 carries for 234 yards — their highest whole since Week 6 in 2018. They will be examined in opposition to the Titans, who allowed solely 69 dashing yards final week in opposition to the Saints. Tennessee prides itself on stopping the run. The Titans do not anticipate Los Angeles working the ball 40 occasions this week. But when it does, Tennessee shall be prepared. “Our mindset is no one will run the ball on us,” defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons mentioned. — Turron Davenport
Daring prediction: Keenan Allen and Mike Williams will every have 100 yards receiving. The Titans are banged up within the secondary — security Amani Hooker is recovering from a concussion and cornerback Kristian Fulton is restricted due to a hamstring damage — and that is a foul growth for a protection that should respect all facets of a balanced Chargers offense. Play-action will assist Allen and Williams turn out to be the primary Los Angeles duo to high 100 yards receiving in the identical recreation since Allen and working backMelvin Gordon IIIagainst Kansas Metropolis within the 2018 season opener. — Daniel Greenspan
Stat to know:Tennessee working backDerrick Henry has recorded 5 straight video games with 100-plus scrimmage yards. He’s one recreation shy of tying the longest streak of his profession (carried out twice).
Matchup X issue: Titans exterior linebacker Harold Landry III. He had only a 5% go rush win price at edge in Week 1, however he was additionally going in opposition to a wonderful sort out in Ryan Ramczyk. There is a massive distinction within the Titans’ go rush if Landry is again to his previous self. This shall be a superb take a look at. — Walder
Accidents: Chargers | Titans
What to know for fantasy: Final season, the Titans’ secondary allowed 274.8 passing yards per recreation, essentially the most within the league. In opposition to the Saints on Sunday, Tennessee’s protection seemed prefer it did in 2022. Simply think about what Justin Herbert will do in opposition to them. Allen and Williams must also be in your fantasy lineups. See Week 2 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Chargers are 8-1-3 ATS prior to now 12 conferences with the Titans. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Chargers 27, Titans 20
Walder’s decide: Chargers 24, Titans 20
FPI prediction: LAC, 62.8% (by a median of 4.7 factors)
Matchup must-reads: What’s fixable and what may not be from the Chargers’ Week 1 loss … Tannehill pissed off: ‘Simply need to transfer on’ …Vrabel says Henry nonetheless ‘enormous half’ of offense
1 p.m. ET | FOX | Unfold: TB -2.5 (41)
Storyline to observe: Whereas the Bears are struggling to determine what occurred of their dismal season-opening loss to the Packers, with Fields admitting he was “a little bit bit too conservative,” the Bucs are hoping to copy final week’s beautiful street win over the Vikings whereas including a little bit extra offensive firepower. Sure, the Bucs scored two touchdowns and had two area objectives, however the protection contributed three takeaways, and the Vikings had a litany of penalties.— Jenna Laine
Daring prediction: One week after being focused on 5.3% of his team-high 38 routes ran in opposition to the Packers, Bears vast receiver DJ Moore will join with Fields on a deep-ball landing and lead his staff in receiving with 80 or extra yards. Moore has by no means caught a landing when dealing with Tampa Bay cornerbacks Carlton Davis III and Jamel Dean in protection. He’ll finish that streak and present up as a featured a part of Chicago’s offensive assault. — Courtney Cronin
Stat to know:QuarterbackBaker Mayfield gained his debut with the Buccaneers final week. He’s in search of to affix Ryan Fitzpatrick (2017), Rob Johnson (2002) and Shaun King (1999) as the one Buccaneers quarterbacks to win their first two begins with the staff.
Matchup X issue: Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson. He is off to a pleasant begin to his 2023 marketing campaign, permitting simply 13 yards over 27 protection snaps in Week 1 in opposition to the Packers, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. — Walder
Accidents: Bears | Buccaneers
What to know for fantasy: With Mike Evans and Chris Godwin as his high two receivers, Mayfield is a stable streamer in deeper codecs. Evans and Godwin have each performed in 85 of 99 attainable video games, and the Buccaneers’ quarterback group has averaged 18.1 fantasy factors in these video games. Evans and Godwin are additionally clearly stable begins and may exploit the Bears’ secondary. See Week 2 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget:Fields is 8-17-1 ATS in his profession, the second-worst file amongst quarterbacks to start out a minimum of 25 video games within the Tremendous Bowl period (Colt McCoy). And Fields is 1-6-1 ATS when the road falls between +3 and -3. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Buccaneers 24, Bears 21
Walder’s decide: Bears 24, Buccaneers 13
FPI prediction: TB, 52.1% (by a median of 0.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Claypool’s standing shaky after lackluster opener for Bears … Mayfield, Godwin make sure that Buccaneers ‘seal the sport’ in model … Usual Bears? Pink flags in loss to Packers deflated offseason optimism
1 p.m. ET | FOX | Unfold: HOU -1 (40)
Storyline to observe: This recreation will characteristic two rookie quarterbacks drafted within the high 5 within the Texans’ C.J. Stroud and the Colts’ Anthony Richardson. The final time two rookie quarterbacks drafted within the high 5 confronted one another was the Jets’ Zach Wilsonversus the Jaguars’ Trevor Lawrence in 2021. Wilson led the Jets to a 26-21 victory. — DJ Bien-Aime
Daring prediction: Colts receiver Alec Pierce, after being restricted to 1 catch for five yards in Indy’s opener, can have a big-play landing because the Colts look to open issues up and take extra downfield photographs. The Colts struggled to inject life into their passing recreation in Week 1, however Pierce and Richardson developed a transparent bond throughout coaching camp. To date, that hasn’t translated throughout preseason or regular-season video games. However Pierce’s greatest asset is his potential to beat defenders deep. — Stephen Holder
Stat to know:The Stroud-Richardson duel will mark the second matchup between two beginning QBs beneath the age of twenty-two in NFL historical past, becoming a member of Jameis Winston and Marcus Mariota in Week 1 of 2015.
Matchup X issue: Texans defensive finish Will Anderson Jr. With a 31% go rush win price at edge in Week 1, Anderson ranked within the high 10 within the class. He is usually a main disruptive drive to the Colts’ offense — even this early in his profession. — Walder
Accidents: Colts | Texans
What to know for fantasy: Nico Collins (165) completed Week 1 with the third-most air yards on targets. A.J. Brown (167) and Tyreek Hill (236) had been the one gamers with extra. See Week 2 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Colts are 1-6 ATS in opposition to division opponents for the reason that begin of final season. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Colts 24, Texans 23
Walder’s decide: Texans 19, Colts 16
FPI prediction: HOU, 51.4% (by a median of 0.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Taylor’s absence looms massive as Colts’ run recreation struggles … How Stroud used the Texans’ protection to organize …Stroud impresses Texans teammates regardless of loss in NFL debut
4:05 p.m. ET | FOX | Unfold: SF -7.5 (44.5)
Storyline to observe:The 49ers have gained eight consecutive regular-season video games in opposition to the Rams, a part of coach Kyle Shanahan’s 9-4 file (together with playoffs) in opposition to Sean McVay. The final matchup, in Week 8 final season at SoFi Stadium, was Christian McCaffrey’s second recreation with San Francisco after he was traded. He handed for a landing, ran for a landing and caught a landing go, and he might be a giant issue on this recreation.— Sarah Barshop
Daring prediction: 49ers receiver Brandon Aiyuk will go over 100 receiving yards and rating two touchdowns for the second consecutive week. Aiyuk has by no means had two straight video games with 100-plus receiving yards, however the Rams do not have cornerbackJalen Ramsey in the intervening time and should determine methods to match up in opposition to Aiyuk, Deebo Samuel and the remainder of the Niners’ playmakers. Which means Aiyuk ought to have loads of one-on-one alternatives. — Nick Wagoner
Stat to know: Matthew Stafford had zero passing touchdowns in Week 1 in opposition to the Seahawks, his third such recreation since becoming a member of the Rams. He has gone consecutive video games with zero passing touchdowns solely 4 occasions in his profession (the final time was Weeks 3-4 final season).
Matchup X issue: Rams vast receivers Puka Nacua and Tutu Atwell. They had been wonderful in Week 1, with 119 yards apiece. The Rams are completely going to surrender factors to the 49ers, so their solely hope is to maintain up and have their two younger receivers come near a repeat efficiency. — Walder
Accidents: 49ers | Rams
What to know for fantasy:Niners quarterbackBrock Purdyhas the second-highest passer ranking in his first six begins within the Tremendous Bowl period (117.5), behind solely Kurt Warner (131.5). He has thrown a number of landing passes in all six video games. Look no additional in the event you want a quarterback streamer, as Purdy has upcoming video games in opposition to the Rams, Giants and Cardinals. See Week 2 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Purdy is 8-1 outright and 7-2 ATS because the 49ers’ starter (together with playoffs). Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: 49ers 34, Rams 20
Walder’s decide: 49ers 42, Rams 17
FPI prediction: SF, 65.5% (by a median of 5.7 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Holdout over, Bosa centered on taking subsequent step … Why the Rams’ offense might nonetheless thrive with out Kupp
4:05 p.m. ET | FOX | Unfold: NYG -4 (39.5)
Storyline to observe: Each groups are in search of their first win and are determined to attain factors after neither offense scored a landing in Week 1. QuarterbackJoshua Dobbs mentioned this week the Cardinals’ offense is “evening and day” in comparison with the place it was per week in the past. In the meantime, a key for the Giants’ offense is likely to be the run recreation. In 2022, 53% of their touchdowns got here on rushes, the third-highest price within the NFL, whereas the Cardinals have allowed 22 dashing TDs since begin of 2022, tied for the fourth most.— Josh Weinfuss
Daring prediction: The Giants’ protection will drive three turnovers. Dobbs fumbled thrice and misplaced two within the Week 1 loss to Washington. He did not throw an interception however had the NFL’s highest proportion of tight window passes (26.7%), per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. There ought to be loads of alternative for Wink Martindale’s pressure-heavy protection to make some performs on this one. — Jordan Raanan
Stat to know: The Cardinals have gained 4 straight video games in opposition to the Giants, their second-longest win streak all time vs. New York. They gained seven straight from 1974 to ’77 when the Cardinals had been in St. Louis.
Matchup X issue: Giants vast receivers Darius Slayton and Isaiah Hodgins. These two mixed for 39 receiving yards within the Giants’ Week 1 fiasco in opposition to the Cowboys. The Giants’ passing assault goes to wish extra than simply tight finish Darren Waller. — Walder
Accidents: Giants | Cardinals
What to know for fantasy:New York quarterbackDaniel Jones was beneath stress on practically 70% of his dropbacks in opposition to the Cowboys in Week 1. It’s crucial that the Giants repair their offensive line. New York at present ranks twenty sixth in go block win price. The Giants had solely 4 performs acquire 10-plus yards, the fewest within the league. See Week 2 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Giants are 6-0 ATS after a loss beneath coach Brian Daboll. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Giants 20, Cardinals 17
Walder’s decide: Giants 30, Cardinals 10
FPI prediction: NYG, 64.7% (by a median of 5.4 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Giants proceed to seek for solutions at offensive line … Dobbs sees ‘evening and day’ progress from Cardinals in a single week … Parsons rips Giants for not pulling Jones in blowout loss
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: DAL -9 (38.5)
Storyline to observe: It is not coach versus quarterback anymore, with Aaron Rodgers’ season-ending damage taking a few of the shine off this contest, but it surely does characteristic two of one of the best defenses within the NFL. Rodgers’ previous coach, Mike McCarthy, should be on high of his recreation because the playcaller in opposition to a Jets protection that restricted Buffalo’s Allen in Week 1. However Week 2 has been form to the Cowboys of late. They’ve gained 5 straight video games within the second week of the season and eight of their previous 10. The final time the Jets began 2-0 was 2015. — Todd Archer
Daring prediction: The Cowboys, coming off a seven-sack opener, will sackZach Wilsonat least six occasions. Wilson tends to carry the ball too lengthy; his 3.29-second launch time in Week 1 was the slowest amongst certified passers. The Jets’ offensive line is not adequate to carry their blocks that lengthy, particularly in opposition to Micah Parsons & Co. — Wealthy Cimini
Stat to know: The Cowboys led all groups with a 52.3% stress proportion in Week 1, whereas the Jets allowed 34.6% in Week 1 (the NFL common was 30.5%).
Matchup X issue:Wilson. Who else might it’s? This recreation will swing on his efficiency. If he performs at a median NFL starter stage, the Jets can have a combating likelihood. However common NFL starter is so much higher than what Wilson has been in his profession.— Walder
Accidents: Jets | Cowboys
What to know for fantasy: The Jets’ offensive line ranked final in go block win price however ranked fifteenth in run block win price. Working backs Dalvin Prepare dinner and Breece Corridor might obtain numerous touches on this one. See Week 2 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget:Wilson’s previous seven begins have gone beneath the overall. Total, the Jets had been 5-4 ATS — with unders going 7-2 — in Wilson’s begins final season. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Cowboys 23, Jets 14
Walder’s decide: Cowboys 26, Jets 13
FPI prediction: DAL, 68% (by a median of 6.7 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Life after Rodgers: How Jets might tailor offense to Wilson … Cowboys’ go rush channels Oprah: ‘You get a sack! You get a sack!’ … Rodgers ‘heartbroken’ in wake of Achilles tear … Cowboys make franchise historical past, depart ‘little question’ with 40-0 win
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: DEN -3.5 (39)
Storyline to observe: A Broncos offense that has scored 16 or fewer factors in 12 of its previous 18 video games, together with a Week 1 loss to the Raiders, goes to have to determine a solution to carve out some yards in opposition to Washington’s bodily defensive entrance. Commanders defensive tackles Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen mixed for 4 tackles for loss in opposition to the Cardinals final week, and defensive finish Montez Sweat used that room to work for 1.5 sacks. If the Broncos cannot management the purpose of assault sufficient to complete drives with touchdowns, the Commanders might begin off 2-0. — Jeff Legwold
Daring prediction: Neither offense will surpass 300 yards for a second consecutive week. For Denver’s offense, it is about quarterback Russell Wilson missing playmakers on the talent positions, with receiver Jerry Jeudy nonetheless ailing and others out, whereas dealing with one of many league’s high defenses. The Broncos function a ball-control assault. For Washington, it is about quarterback Sam Howell making his third begin and first on the street behind a line nonetheless attempting to mesh in a brand new offense. — John Keim
Stat to know:Howell is seeking to turn out to be the primary participant in NFL historical past to file a passing landing and a dashing landing in his first three profession video games.
Matchup X issue: Broncos defensive sort out Zach Allen. Denver did not get a lot of a go rush moving into Week 1 (25% go rush win price, ranked thirty first), however Allen has an opportunity to be a disruptive drive in opposition to what seems to be like a weak inside Commanders offensive line, a minimum of on paper. — Walder
Accidents: Commanders | Broncos
What to know for fantasy:Jeudy seems on monitor to make his season debut in opposition to the Commanders on Sunday. In Week 1, Wilson confirmed enchancment in opposition to the Raiders, which might daring effectively for Jeudy, who averaged 7.5 targets and 18.5 fantasy factors per recreation from Weeks 13 to 18 final season. See Week 2 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Broncos are 1-7 ATS as favorites for the reason that begin of final season, and they’re 12-25-2 ATS in that position since 2017. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Broncos 24, Commanders 17
Walder’s decide: Broncos 23, Commanders 9
FPI prediction: DEN, 66.4% (by a median of 6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Commanders’ religion in Howell unshaken after Week 1 … Broncos want rookie WR Mims to step up amid accidents … Commanders ring in Josh Harris period with win
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC | Unfold: MIA -3 (46.5)
Storyline to observe: The Dolphins gave up 234 dashing yards of their season-opening win over the Chargers, however the Patriots’ working recreation wasn’t efficient of their season-opening loss to the Eagles (22 carries, 76 yards, 3.5 yards per carry). Which unit rectifies these points shall be telling, with Patriots middle David Andrews saying, “That is one thing we will enhance on, however Miami has a very good entrance, so it may be a giant problem. Christian Wilkins leads the league in tackles yearly from the D-tackle place.” — Mike Reiss
Daring prediction:Miami quarterbackTua Tagovailoa has by no means misplaced to the Patriots, so predicting a win is not that daring of an announcement. Nevertheless, he has but to throw for greater than 300 yards in opposition to Invoice Bellichick’s protection — so let’s get daring and say Tagovailoa hits that mark after which some. The AFC’s Offensive Participant of the Week will construct on his Week 1 efficiency and throw for 350 yards and three scores, because the Dolphins begin the season 2-0. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Stat to know:The Patriots performed zone protection 77.5% of the time in opposition to the Dolphins final season. Tagovailoa ranks first in yards per try (9.0) and is tied for third in passing TDs (11) in opposition to zone protection since final season.
Matchup X issue: Patriots cornerback Jonathan Jones. If the Patriots efficiently decelerate Miami’s unimaginable passing assault, it in all probability means Jones had a superb recreation. — Walder
Accidents: Dolphins | Patriots
What to know for fantasy:Tyreek Hillled all gamers final week with 44.5 factors in opposition to the Chargers. Since 2018, he has led all gamers in fantasy factors 5 occasions, tied with Alvin Kamara for essentially the most. Hill has averaged 8.8 targets and 91.7 receiving yards in six profession regular-season video games in opposition to the Patriots. See Week 2 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Patriots are 0-6 ATS of their previous six video games as an underdog. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Dolphins 30, Patriots 27
Walder’s decide: Dolphins 26, Patriots 16
FPI prediction: MIA, 61.5% (by a median of 4.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Hill, Tagovailoa lead dynamic offense in Dolphins’ win … Can Patriots’ D gradual Dolphins’ Tua, Tyreek?
Monday, 7:15 p.m. ET | ESPN | Unfold: NO -3 (39.5)
Storyline to observe: This recreation might come all the way down to explosive passing performs. The Saints had seven of their opening-day win in opposition to the Titans that allowed quarterback Derek Carr to throw for 305 yards. He’ll face a Carolina protection with out beginning cornerback Jaycee Horn (hamstring), who’s out indefinitely. In Week 1, the Panthers had been certainly one of two groups (Cincinnati) that had no passes of a minimum of 15 yards, and each misplaced. Rookie quarterback Bryce Younger took a part of the blame. He was solely 2-of-10 on passes of 10 yards or extra. — David Newton
Daring prediction: The Saints’ protection will maintain the Panthers to twenty factors or fewer, extending the franchise streak to a file 10 video games in a row. The Panthers scored solely 10 factors in a loss to the Falcons final week, whereas the Saints’ protection placed on certainly one of its greatest performances in opposition to the Titans, ending with three sacks and three interceptions. There’s potential for a repeat efficiency in opposition to Younger, who’s making his second profession begin.— Katherine Terrell
Stat to know: With a loss or tie, Younger could be the fifth quarterback out of the previous six taken No. 1 general to go winless in every of his first two profession begins.
Matchup X issue: Saints offensive sort out Trevor Penning. He was by far the worst pass-protecting sort out within the league in Week 1 in go block win price (66%). Now he’ll face Panthers edge rusherJustin Houston. The Saints want extra from Penning. — Walder
Accidents: Saints | Panthers
What to know for fantasy:Carrcompleted practically 70% of his passes for 305 yards, a landing go and an interception for the Saints. It is notable as a result of New Orleans had solely two video games with 300-plus passing yards final season. Carr ought to be in a primary place to use a Panthers secondary that shall be with out Horn, their No. 1 cornerback. See Week 2 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Saints’ previous 9 video games with further relaxation have gone beneath the overall. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Saints 21, Falcons 20
Walder’s decide: Saints 24, Panthers 21
FPI prediction: NO, 61.4% (by a median of 4.1 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Why Carr virtually gave up soccer in offseason … Burns enjoying to ‘dominate,’ earn extension on the sector … Why Hill might be a loophole within the NFL’s new emergency QB rule
Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ABC/ESPN+ | Unfold: CLE -2.5 (38.5)
Storyline to observe: Since he was drafted by the Browns in 2018, working backNick Chubb’s efficiency has been a bellwether for this recreation. The Steelers are 5-0-1 once they maintain Chubb to fewer than 80 dashing yards and 0-3 when he positive aspects greater than 80. Within the Steelers’ Week 1 loss to the 49ers, working again Christian McCaffrey went for 152 yards and averaged 6.9 yards per carry. Whereas Chubb and McCaffrey are various kinds of backs, the duty of slowing Chubb turns into much more tough with All-Professional defensive lineman Cameron Heyward positioned on injured reserve due to a groin damage that required surgical procedure.— Brooke Pryor
Daring prediction: The Browns’ dynamic pass-rushing duo of Myles Garrett and Za’Darius Smithwill sack Steelers quarterbackKenny Pickett 5 occasions. With protection main the way in which once more, Cleveland will win its first regular-season recreation in Pittsburgh in 20 years and begin 2-0. — Jake Trotter
Stat to know: Since 2007, Mike Tomlin’s first season because the Steelers’ coach, Browns QBs rank final in completion proportion, final in yards per dropback and fourth lowest in QBR in opposition to Pittsburgh of any division matchup (96 whole).
Matchup X issue: Browns proper sort out Dawand Jones. The rookie got here in for the injured Jack Conklin in Week 1 and carried out effectively, with a 100% go block win price and 71% run block win price (barely beneath common) as a fill-in. However now he has to face T.J. Watt, who had three sacks in Week 1. — Walder
Accidents: Browns | Steelers
What to know for fantasy:Chubb ran for 100-plus yards for the thirtieth time in his profession in opposition to the Bengals final week. Solely Derrick Henry (34) and Ezekiel Elliott (30) have had 30 or extra 100-yard dashing video games prior to now 10 seasons. Chubb has averaged 72.6 dashing yards per recreation in 9 profession video games in opposition to the Steelers. See Week 2 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Mike Tomlin is 5-1 ATS in opposition to Kevin Stefanski. Learn extra.
Moody’s decide: Steelers 20, Browns 13
Walder’s decide: Browns 23, Steelers 13
FPI prediction: CLE, 59.6% (by a median of three.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Browns’ protection dominant in Jim Schwartz’s debut … Steelers have trigger for concern — and optimism — after Week 1 … Browns lose RT Conklin for remainder of season after torn ACL, MCL … Awaiting timeline, Johnson admits damage ‘irritating’