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The NFL is in chaos mode mid-season. Two league-altering trades were made within hours of each other, shaking up the hierarchy of the AFC. The only undefeated team in the NFC is quarterbacked by Sam Darnold. I don’t know what to expect anymore. The chaos is set to continue this weekend as the schedule makers have gifted fans with perhaps the most exciting slate of games so far this season. Here are my top five games of the week, along with score predictions.
5. Jets @ Steelers
The Jets, a 2-4 team with a 40-year-old quarterback and no head coach, are apparently all-in on winning the Super Bowl this season. New York traded for Aaron Rodgers’ favorite receiver, Davante Adams, this week in order to solve their offensive struggles. Adams is currently expected to play this week despite the hamstring injury that kept him sidelined for the exact duration of his trade request. In Pittsburgh, it’s been reported that Russell Wilson is taking first-team practice reps despite Justin Fields’ impressive start to the season. I’d still expect Fields to start on Sunday night, though the competition could shake his confidence. This game is a toss-up for me, but I’ll pick the Jets to get back on track.
NYJ 21-18 PIT
4. Chiefs @ 49ers
You know you’ve got a great weekend of football coming up when a Super Bowl rematch ranks fourth on a list of top matchups. While injuries have slowed the elite offense of the 49ers down, they’ve remained one of the more efficient units in the league. Brock Purdy currently leads all quarterbacks in overall offensive grade, per PFF. Kansas City remains undefeated, but their banged-up offense has shown clear vulnerabilities thus far. I’ll pick the 49ers to get their revenge and end the Chiefs’ unbeaten streak.
SF 27-24 KC
3. Texans @ Packers
This game will feature two of the best young quarterbacks in the league in C.J. Stroud and Jordan Love. Stroud and the Texans are off to a 5-1 start, their only loss coming to the undefeated Vikings. Jordan Love and the Packers seem to be finding their rhythm after Love’s return from injury, beating the Cardinals by 21 over the weekend. The Packers are three-point favorites at home, but I have Houston pulling off a minor upset.
HOU 24-23 GB
2. Ravens @ Buccaneers
Two of the most dangerous offenses in the NFL will face off in prime time on Monday night. After an 0-2 start, the Ravens have won four in a row behind a strong running game and MVP-level play from Lamar Jackson. Meanwhile, the Buccaneers are tied for the league lead in points scored after dropping 51 points in New Orleans last weekend. It may be safe to bet the over in this one. I’ll take Baltimore to keep rolling in a barn burner.
BAL 31-28 TB
1. Lions @ Vikings
My top game of the week features the team many expected to be the top dog in the NFC against the team that currently leads the NFC. Detroit has proven its effectiveness in running the ball this year, culminating in a dominant performance against Dallas on Sunday. Minnesota’s defense has been able to stuff the run at every stop so far, allowing just 3.6 yards per carry on the season. This game will be won in the trenches, no doubt about it. I believe the Lions’ offensive front can overpower Minnesota, leading to a Detroit win.
DET 27-21 MIN
