NFL FREE PICKS
With so many challenging NFL games this week, seeing who wins Preseason Week 2 with so many big players missing from the teams will be interesting.
Once again, we dug deep into the trenches and knuckled down to give you the best NFL picks available.
Cleveland Browns @ Philadelphia Eagles
Date: Thursday, August 17, 2023
Time: 7:30 pm @ Lincoln Financial Field
The upcoming NFL preseason game between the Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles promises to be a battle of depth and determination. With both teams showcasing their depth players and those fighting for roster spots, the game will be a true test of resilience and strategy.
The Browns have shown promise with rookie QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson, while the Eagles have a history of dominating practices. However, this year, the Browns have displayed strength in scrimmages, giving them a slight edge. Considering the defensive focus and the absence of key starters, a low-scoring game is anticipated.
The final score should realistically be in favor of the Browns, 17-14. This prediction is based on the recent performances and the determination shown by the Browns in their preparation. It’s a game that will surely reflect the depth and potential of both teams, making it a must-watch for fans and analysts alike.
Expert Pick: Cleveland Browns
Carolina Panthers @ New York Giants
Date: Friday, August 18, 2023
Time: 7:00 pm @ MetLife Stadium
The Carolina Panthers are set to face the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium, and it’s shaping up to be a game of strategy and skill. In the Panthers’ short debut against the Jets, the offensive line’s pressure was a significant concern, with Bryce Young being hit on 3 out of 11 snaps. This issue and the Giants’ strong secondary depth put the Panthers at a disadvantage.
On the other hand, the Giants have more experienced quarterbacks and better coaching, giving them an edge offensively and defensively. Playing in front of their home fans, the Giants are likely to capitalize on the Panthers’ weaknesses, particularly in pass-block areas. The Panthers may attempt to counter with short passes, but the Giants’ defense is well-equipped to handle this strategy.
The game will likely showcase the Giants’ experience and depth in overcoming the Panthers’ challenges. The final score should realistically favor the Giants, with a 24-14 victory. This prediction reflects the Giants’ superior coaching and the Panthers’ ongoing adjustments to the professional setting. It’s a game that will offer valuable insights into both teams’ potential and areas for improvement.
Expert Pick: New York Giants
Cincinnati Bengals @ Atlanta Falcons
Date: Friday, August 18, 2023
Time: 7:30 pm @ Mercedes-Benz Stadium
With a 14-5 record last year, the Bengals have shown strength in their offensive game, averaging 26.1 points per contest. Joe Burrow’s performance as a rusher and passer has been commendable, although the team’s ground game ranks only 29th in the NFL. Defensively, the Bengals have been solid, ranking 6th in the NFL for opposition scoring and allowing only 20.1 PPG.
On the other hand, the Falcons ended the year with a 7-10 mark, showcasing a strong rushing game, averaging 159.9 rushing yards per game. Tyler Allgeier’s performance against the Buccaneers was particularly impressive. However, their defense has been a concern, ranking 25th in the NFL in passing yards allowed and 23rd in points allowed per game at 22.7.
Given these factors, the Bengals seem to have the upper hand both offensively and defensively. Their strong defense is likely to counter the Falcons’ rushing game, while their offensive capabilities should allow them to capitalize on the Falcons’ defensive weaknesses.
The game is likely to be a showcase of the Bengals’ balanced attack and robust defense overcoming the Falcons’ challenges. The final score should realistically favor the Bengals, with a 27-17 victory.
Expert Pick: Cincinnati Bengals
Jacksonville Jaguars @ Detroit Lions
Date: Saturday, August 19, 2023
Time: 1:00 pm @ Ford Field
The Jacksonville Jaguars and Detroit Lions both have their strengths and weaknesses, but a close examination of their recent performances and statistics reveals a likely outcome. The Jaguars, despite their loss to the Chiefs, have shown a strong offensive game, averaging 124.5 yards on the ground and 23.8 points per game. Their defense, ranked 12th in the league, is also noteworthy.
On the other hand, with a 9-8 mark, the Lions have a potent offense, ranking 4th in football with 380.0 yards per contest. Their scoring average of 26.6 points per game is impressive. However, their defense, ranked 30th in the league, could be their downfall, conceding 25.1 points per game.
Considering these factors, the Jaguars’ balanced offense and defense might give them the edge over the Lions’ strong offense but weaker defense. Therefore, a realistic final score prediction would be Jacksonville Jaguars 24, Detroit Lions 20. This game promises to be a competitive and engaging battle between two teams striving to prove their mettle.
Expert Pick: Jacksonville Jaguars
Miami Dolphins @ Houston Texans
Date: Saturday, August 19, 2023
Time: 4:00 pm @ NRG Stadium
With a 9-8 record, the Dolphins have shown some offensive struggles, averaging only 99.2 yards on the ground and 23.4 points per game. Their passing game, led by Skylar Thompson, has been inconsistent, and their recent loss to the Bills exposed some defensive weaknesses, particularly against the pass. However, they still rank 18th in the league in total defense, allowing 337.8 yards per outing.
The Texans, on the other hand, finished the season with a disappointing 3-13-1 record. Their offense, ranking 31st in the NFL with 283.5 yards per outing, has been a significant concern. The recent victory against the Colts showed some promise, with Davis Mills throwing for 298 yards and 3 touchdowns. However, their defense, particularly against the run, has been porous, allowing 170.2 rushing yards per game.
Given these factors, the Dolphins’ slightly better offensive and defensive statistics should give them an edge over the struggling Texans. Miami’s defense might capitalize on the Texans’ weak running game, and their offense could find opportunities against Houston’s vulnerable run defense.
Therefore, a realistic final score prediction would be Miami Dolphins 27, Houston Texans 17. This game could be a chance for the Dolphins to rebound from their recent loss and for the Texans to prove they can compete, but Miami’s overall balance seems more likely to prevail.
Expert Pick: Miami Dolphins
Buffalo Bills @ Pittsburgh Steelers
Date: Saturday, August 19, 2023
Time: 6:30 pm @ Acrisure Stadium
With an impressive 14-4 record, the Buffalo Bills have demonstrated a strong offensive game, averaging 28.4 points per outing and 139.5 yards via the ground game, ranking 7th in the NFL. Josh Allen’s leadership, both in passing and rushing, has been key to their success. Their defense is also formidable, ranked 2nd in the league, conceding only 17.9 points per game.
The Steelers, on the other hand, finished the season with a 9-8 record. Their recent victory against the Browns showcased the potential of Najee Harris in the running game and Kenny Pickett’s passing ability. However, their offense has struggled, ranking 23rd in football with 322.6 yards per game and 26th in scoring with 18.1 points per outing. While ranked 10th in points allowed, their defence has shown vulnerabilities against both the pass and the run.
Considering these factors, the Bills’ well-rounded offense and robust defense seem to give them a significant advantage over the Steelers. Buffalo’s ability to both run and pass effectively, combined with a defense that has been tough to score against, should allow them to control the game.
Therefore, a realistic final score prediction would be Buffalo Bills 30, Pittsburgh Steelers 17. This game could be a showcase for the Bills’ multifaceted attack and a chance for the Steelers to test themselves against one of the league’s top teams. But the overall balance and strength of the Bills make them the likely victors in this contest.
Expert Pick: Buffalo Bills
Chicago Bears @ Indianapolis Colts
Date: Saturday, August 19, 2023
Time: 7:00 pm @ Lucas Oil Stadium
With a 3-14 record, the Bears have shown some offensive potential, particularly in the running game, where they ranked 1st in the league with an average of 177.3 yards per game. Nathan Peterman’s recent performance was promising, and Khalil Herbert’s rushing ability could be a key factor. However, their defense has been a significant concern, ranked 32nd in the NFL, giving up 27.2 points per game.
With a 4-12-1 record, the Colts have also faced challenges, particularly on offense, where they ranked 27th in the NFL with an average of 311.6 yards per game. Zack Moss’s recent performance in the running game was impressive, and Sam Ehlinger’s passing ability has shown flashes of potential. Their defense, however, has been inconsistent, ranked 30th in points allowed with 25.1 points per game.
Considering these factors, this game could be a battle of offenses, with both teams having vulnerabilities on defense. The Bears’ strong running game might find success against the Colts’ defense, while the Colts’ balanced attack could exploit the Bears’ defensive weaknesses.
Therefore, a realistic final score prediction would be Chicago Bears 24, Indianapolis Colts 21. This game could be an opportunity for both teams to build momentum and showcase their offensive talents. The Bears’ slight edge in the running game and recent offensive performance might be enough to secure a close victory in what promises to be a hard-fought contest.
Expert Pick: Chicago Bears
Tampa Bays Buccaneers @ New York Jets
Date: Saturday, August 19, 2023
Time: 7:30 pm @ MetLife Stadium
The Buccaneers, with an 8-9 record, have had their struggles, particularly in the running game, where they ranked 32nd in the league with an average of 76.9 yards per game. Tom Brady’s experience and ability to connect with receivers like Chris Godwin have kept the passing game alive, but their recent loss to the Cowboys exposed some defensive vulnerabilities. However, they still ranked 10th in the league in total defense, allowing 324.3 yards per game.
The Jets, with a 7-10 record, have also faced challenges, particularly on offense, where they ranked 25th in the league with an average of 318.2 yards per game. Joe Flacco’s recent performance was less than stellar, and the running game has been inconsistent. However, their defense has been a bright spot, ranked 4th in the league in points allowed with 18.6 points per game.
Considering these factors, this game could be a battle of defenses, with both teams having some offensive struggles. The Buccaneers’ passing game might find some success against the Jets defense, but New York’s strong pass defense could also pose challenges for Brady and his receivers. The Jets’ offense will need to find ways to exploit the Buccaneers’ defensive weaknesses, particularly in the running game.
Therefore, a realistic final score prediction would be Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20, New York Jets 17. This game could be a tightly contested battle, with both teams looking to prove themselves. The Buccaneers’ slight edge in the passing game and overall offensive experience might be enough to secure a narrow victory in what promises to be a defensive showdown.
Expert Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
New England Patriots @ Green Bay Packers
Date: Saturday, August 19, 2023
Time: 8:00 pm @ Lambeau Field
Analyzing the detailed statistics of both the New England Patriots and the Green Bay Packers, it’s clear that both teams have had their struggles, ending the season with identical 8-9 records. However, the Patriots have shown a slightly more robust defense, ranking 11th in the NFL and conceding only 20.4 points per contest, compared to the Packers’ 17th rank and 21.8 points per game.
The Patriots’ running game, averaging 4.7 yards per carry, also seems more potent than the Packers’ 3.7 yards per attempt. While Aaron Rodgers’ experience is a significant factor for Green Bay, the Patriots’ overall defensive strength and more efficient running game give them a slight edge.
In conclusion, the New England Patriots are likely to win a closely contested battle against the Green Bay Packers. The final score should be around 24-21 in favor of the Patriots. This prediction is based on the teams’ performances last season, and it reflects their strengths and weaknesses.
Expert Pick: New England Patriots
Tennessee Titans @ Minnesota Vikings
Date: Saturday, August 19, 2023
Time: 8:00 pm @ U.S. Bank Stadium
Starting with the Titans, they ended the season with a 7-10 record, showcasing a balanced offensive attack with 16 passing and 16 rushing touchdowns. Derrick Henry’s ground game was a key component, with an average of 3.6 yards per attempt. However, their defense was a significant concern, ranking 32nd in passing yards conceded and 23rd in total yards per outing. They allowed 21.1 points per game, placing them 15th in the league.
On the other hand, with a 13-4 record, the Vikings demonstrated a more potent offense, ranking 6th in the NFL in passing yards per contest and 8th in points per game at 24.9. Kirk Cousins’ impressive QB rating of 112.9 and Dalvin Cook’s consistent rushing contributed to their success. However, their defense was equally problematic, ranking 31st in passing yards allowed per game and 28th in points conceded.
The Vikings’ offense seems more dynamic and capable of exploiting the Titans’ weak pass defense. The Titans’ running game, led by Derrick Henry, could pose a threat, but the Vikings’ overall offensive prowess gives them an edge.
Furthermore, both teams have defensive vulnerabilities, but the Vikings’ strong aerial attack could more easily exploit the Titans’ struggles against the pass. The Vikings’ defense, despite its issues, managed to create 25 turnovers last season, indicating a knack for capitalizing on mistakes.
This game is likely to be a high-scoring affair, with both teams exploiting each other’s defensive weaknesses. However, the Minnesota Vikings’ superior offensive capabilities and ability to create turnovers should see them emerge victorious. The final score should be in the region of 34-28 in favor of the Vikings. Both teams will have moments of brilliance, but the Vikings’ offensive firepower will ultimately prove decisive.
Expert Pick: Minnesota Vikings
Kansas City Chiefs @ Arizona Cardinals
Date: Saturday, August 19, 2023
Time: 8:00 pm @ State Farm Stadium
With a remarkable 16-3 record, the Chiefs showcased an explosive offense led by Patrick Mahomes, who finished their last game with a quarterback rating of 131.8. The Chiefs’ offense was versatile, with 41 passing touchdowns and 18 rushing touchdowns, averaging 29.2 points per game. Their running game, though ranked 20th in the league, still managed an impressive 6.1 yards per attempt in their last game. Defensively, they were solid, ranking 16th in the league and allowing 21.7 points per game.
On the other hand, the Cardinals struggled throughout the season, finishing with a 4-13 record. Their offense was inconsistent, ranking 18th in passing yards per game and 22nd in total yards per outing. They averaged only 20.0 points per game, with their running game managing just 3.1 yards per carry in their last game. Defensively, they faced significant challenges, ranking 31st in points allowed per game at 26.4 and 24th in passing yards allowed per outing.
Comparing these two teams, the Chiefs have a clear advantage in almost every aspect. Their offensive firepower, led by Mahomes, is likely to exploit the Cardinals’ weak defense. The Chiefs’ balanced attack, both in the air and on the ground, will pose significant challenges for the Cardinals.
The Cardinals’ offense, though capable of big plays, as evidenced by A.J. Green’s 30.3 yards per reception in their last game, will likely struggle against the Chiefs’ defense. The Chiefs’ ability to limit the run, allowing only 3.6 yards per rush in their last game, will further hinder the Cardinals’ offensive efforts.
In conclusion, this game is likely to be dominated by the Chiefs. Their offensive prowess and solid defense should see them comfortably defeat the Cardinals. The final score should be in the region of 35-17 in favor of the Chiefs. While the Cardinals may have moments of promise, the Chiefs’ overall quality and experience will prove too much for them to handle.
Expert Pick: Kansas City Chiefs
Denver Broncos @ San Francisco 49ers
Date: Saturday, August 19, 2023
Time: 8:30 pm @ Levi’s Stadium
The Broncos, finishing with a 5-12 record, showed glimpses of potential, especially in their last game, where they defeated the Chargers 31-28. Russell Wilson’s performance, with a quarterback rating of 118.6, and Latavius Murray’s 6.9 yards per carry were highlights. However, their season-long struggle in scoring, with an average of just 16.9 points per game, ranked them 21st in the league. Defensively, they were solid, ranking 7th in total yards allowed per game and 14th in points allowed.
The 49ers, on the other hand, had a strong season with a 15-5 record. Their offense was potent, ranking 5th in total yards per outing and 6th in points per game at 26.5. Christian McCaffrey’s 5.6 yards per carry in their last game and their season-long average of 138.8 rushing yards per game were impressive. Defensively, they were exceptional, ranking 1st in the league in points allowed per game at 16.3. Their ability to create turnovers, with 30 in total last season, was a key strength.
Comparing these two teams, the 49ers have a clear advantage in both offensive potency and defensive prowess. The Broncos’ offense, despite showing potential, is likely to struggle against the 49ers’ top-ranked defense. The 49ers’ balanced offensive attack, both through the air and on the ground, will pose significant challenges to the Broncos’ defense.
The Broncos’ best chance lies in exploiting the 49ers’ relatively weaker pass defense, which ranked 20th in the league. However, the 49ers’ ability to limit rushing touchdowns to just 11 last season will likely neutralize the Broncos’ ground game.
In conclusion, this game is likely to be controlled by the 49ers. Their offensive versatility and dominant defense should see them secure a comfortable victory over the Broncos. The final score should be in the region of 28-17 in favor of the 49ers. While the Broncos may have moments of success, particularly through the air, the 49ers’ overall quality will prove decisive.
Expert Pick: San Francisco 49ers
Las Vegas Raiders @ Los Angeles Rams
Date: Saturday, August 19, 2023
Time: 9:00 pm @ SoFi Stadium
The upcoming game between the Las Vegas Raiders and the Los Angeles Rams presents a matchup between two teams that struggled last season, both finishing with a 5-12 record.
The Raiders, despite their losing record, showed some offensive promise. Jarrett Stidham’s performance as both a passer and a rusher, along with Davante Adams’ receiving ability, contributed to an average of 23.2 points per game. Their rushing game, ranking 17th in the NFL, was decent but not spectacular. Defensively, the Raiders struggled, ranking 28th in total yards allowed per game and 26th in points allowed, with particular weakness against the run, allowing 6.0 yards per rush in their last game.
The Rams, on the other hand, had their own set of challenges. Their offense was lacklustre, ranking 32nd in total yards per outing and 27th in points per game at 18.1. Cam Akers’ rushing ability and Van Jefferson’s receiving were bright spots, but Baker Mayfield’s quarterback rating of 51.3 in their last game highlighted their struggles in the passing game. Defensively, the Rams were slightly better than the Raiders, ranking 22nd in points allowed per game, but they also struggled against the run, allowing 5.5 yards per rush in their last game.
Given these factors, the game is likely to be a closely contested battle, with both teams having opportunities to exploit each other’s weaknesses.
The Raiders’ offensive potential, particularly in the passing game, could pose problems for the Rams’ defense, which ranked 21st against the pass. Stidham’s dual-threat ability might be key in breaking down the Rams’ defense.
The Rams, on the other hand, could find success on the ground. Akers’ performance in their last game, with 5.0 yards per carry, could be a sign of things to come against the Raiders’ porous run defense.
In conclusion, this game is likely to be a battle of contrasting styles, with the Raiders looking to exploit their passing game and the Rams leaning on their ground attack. The outcome may well hinge on which team can better take advantage of the other’s defensive weaknesses.
Given the Raiders’ slightly more potent offense and the Rams’ struggles in both passing and scoring, the Raiders might have a slight edge in this matchup. A final score in the region of 24-20 in favor of the Raiders seems plausible.
Expert Pick: Las Vegas Raiders
Dallas Cowboys @ Seattle Seahawks
Date: Saturday, August 19, 2023
Time: 10:00 pm @ Lumen Field
Dallas Cowboys
Offense: The Cowboys had a strong offensive performance last season, ranking 9th in the league in rushing yards per game and averaging 27.5 points per contest. Dak Prescott’s passing ability, CeeDee Lamb’s receiving skills, and Ezekiel Elliott’s rushing make them a formidable offensive force. However, Prescott’s QB rating of 63.6 in their last game and 2 interceptions indicate some inconsistency.
Defense: Dallas’s defense was solid last season, ranking 5th in the NFL in points allowed per game at 20.1. They were solid against the pass, ranking 8th in the league. However, their run defense was a bit of a concern, allowing an average of 129.3 rushing yards per game.
Seattle Seahawks
Offense: The Seahawks had a balanced offensive attack, with Geno Smith’s passing (QB rating of 98.9 in their last game) and D.K. Metcalf’s receiving being key components. Their rushing game, led by Kenneth Walker III, was also effective, averaging 120.1 yards per game. However, they ranked 6th in the league in penalties, which could be a concern.
Defense: Seattle’s defense struggled last season, ranking 25th in points allowed per game at 23.6. Their pass defense was middle-of-the-pack, ranking 13th, but their run defense was a significant weakness, allowing 150.2 yards per outing and 21 touchdowns on the ground.
Matchup Analysis
Cowboys’ Offense vs. Seahawks’ Defense: The Cowboys’ strong passing and rushing attack could pose problems for the Seahawks’ defense, particularly their weak run defense. Elliott’s ability to exploit this weakness could be a key factor in the game.
The Seahawks’ Offense vs. Cowboys’ Defense: The balanced offense will test the Cowboys’ defense, particularly their run defense. Walker’s performance could be crucial, and Metcalf’s receiving ability might challenge the Cowboys’ strong pass defense.
This game is likely to be a battle of contrasting strengths, with the Cowboys’ offense looking to exploit the Seahawks’ defensive weaknesses and the Seahawks aiming to do the same against the Cowboys defense.
Given the Cowboys’ overall stronger performance last season and their ability to score consistently, they might have the edge in this matchup. However, the Seahawks’ home-field advantage and their balanced offensive attack could make this a closely contested game.
A final score prediction might be in the range of 28-24 in favor of the Cowboys. Both teams will need to minimize penalties and turnovers, and key performances from star players like Prescott, Elliott, Smith, and Metcalf could be game-changers.
This game promises to be an exciting contest between two teams with playoff aspirations, and it could come down to a few key plays or decisions that tip the balance in favor of one side.
Expert Pick: Dallas Cowboys
New Orleans Saints @ Los Angeles Chargers
Date: Sunday, August 20, 2023
Time: 7:05 pm @ SoFi Stadium
New Orleans Saints
Offense: The Saints’ offense, led by Andy Dalton, had a decent rushing game last season, averaging 116.6 yards per game, with Alvin Kamara being a key contributor. The passing game was also effective, with Dalton having a QB rating of 93.9 in their last game. However, the Saints struggled to score, averaging only 19.4 points per game.
Defense: New Orleans had a strong defense last year, ranking 2nd in the NFL in passing yards allowed and 5th in total yards allowed per game. They were particularly effective against the pass, allowing only 184.4 yards per game. However, their run defense was a concern, allowing 130.5 rushing yards per game.
Los Angeles Chargers
Offense: The Chargers had a potent passing attack last season, ranking 3rd in the NFL in passing yards per game, with Justin Herbert at the helm. Austin Ekeler and Gerald Everett were key contributors, but the rushing game was less effective, averaging only 89.6 yards per game.
Defense: Los Angeles’ defense was mixed, with a strong pass defense that ranked 7th in the league but a weak run defense that allowed 145.8 yards per game. They allowed 22.6 points per game, ranking them 21st in the league.
Matchup Analysis
Saints’ Offense vs. Chargers’ Defense: The Saints’ balanced offense could find success against the Chargers’ weak run defense. Kamara’s performance will be crucial, and Dalton’s ability to connect with receivers like Chris Olave could challenge the Chargers’ pass defense.
Chargers’ Offense vs. Saints’ Defense: Herbert’s passing ability will be tested against the Saints’ strong pass defense. The Chargers may struggle to establish the run against the Saints defense, putting more pressure on Herbert and his receivers.
This game presents an intriguing matchup of the Saints’ strong defense against the Chargers’ potent offense. The key to the game may be whether the Saints can exploit the Chargers’ weak run defense and whether the Chargers can overcome the Saints’ strong pass defense.
Given the Chargers’ home-field advantage and their more dynamic offense, they might have a slight edge in this matchup. However, the Saints’ defense could keep the game close, and key performances from players like Kamara and Dalton could tip the balance in their favor.
A final score prediction might be in the range of 24-21 in favor of the Chargers. Both teams will need to minimize turnovers and penalties, and the battle in the trenches could be decisive.
Expert Pick: Los Angeles Chargers
Baltimore Ravens @ Washington Commanders
Date: Monday, August 21, 2023
Time: 8:00 pm @ FedEx Field
Baltimore Ravens
Offense: The Ravens’ offense last season was known for its strong running game, ranking 2nd in the NFL with an average of 160.0 yards per game. Tyler Huntley’s performance at QB and J.K. Dobbins’ contributions on the ground will be key. The passing game was decent, with Mark Andrews being a reliable target. They averaged 20.6 points per game.
Defense: Baltimore’s defense was one of the best in the league, ranking 3rd in points allowed per game at 18.5. Their run defense was particularly strong, allowing only 92.1 yards per game. However, their pass defense was a concern, ranking 26th in the league.
Washington Commanders
Offense: The Commanders had a balanced offense but struggled to score, averaging only 18.9 points per game. Sam Howell’s performance at QB and Jaret Patterson’s running ability will be vital. Terry McLaurin was a standout receiver, and the team’s rushing attack averaged 126.1 yards per game.
Defense: Washington’s defense was solid, especially against the pass, ranking 4th in the league. They allowed only 20.2 points per game, ranking 7th in the NFL. Their run defense was less impressive, allowing 113.3 yards per game.
Matchup Analysis
Ravens’ Offense vs. Commanders’ Defense: The Ravens’ strong running game will be tested against the Commanders’ decent run defense. Huntley’s ability to connect with receivers like Andrews could be crucial, especially considering Washington’s strong pass defense.
Commanders’ Offense vs. Ravens’ Defense: Washington’s balanced offense may find it challenging against Baltimore’s stout defense, particularly in the running game. Howell’s connection with McLaurin will be vital, but they’ll face a Ravens defense that struggled against the pass.
This game presents an intriguing matchup of the Ravens’ powerful running game against the Commanders’ solid defense. Both teams have areas where they can exploit the other, and it may come down to key performances from players like Dobbins, Huntley, Howell, and McLaurin.
Given the Ravens’ strong running game and the Commanders’ ability to defend against the pass, this game could be a low-scoring, hard-fought battle. The Ravens might have a slight edge due to their offensive versatility and strong defense.
A final score prediction might be in the range of 21-17 in favor of the Ravens. Both teams will need to minimize mistakes and capitalize on opportunities, and the battle in the trenches could be decisive.
Expert Pick: Baltimore Ravens
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