Week 3 began on Thursday Night Football with the New York Jets dismantling the New England Patriots 24-3 in their home opener. After an anemic week one against the 49ers’, and even struggling in Tennessee, Aaron Rodgers bounced back to deliver a vintage performance to silence his critics. Rodgers completed 27 of 35 passes for 281 yards and two touchdowns. The Jets defense found its 2023 form by shutting down a Patriots offense to only 3 points, 2 of 11 on 3rd down, forcing seven sacks and a fumble. The Jets sent a message that they can contend after back-to-back wins in four days, while the Patriots will start exploring whether Drake Maye is a better option under center over journeyman Jacoby Brissett. So what can we expect from the rest of the weekend? In this article, we preview the five best games from the upcoming weekend and predict their outcome.
1. Houston Texans (2-0) at Minnesota Vikings (2-0)-Sunday, 1 p.m. ET CBS
This matchup includes two of the nine undefeated teams left in the league. The Vikings have been the surprise package in upsetting the 49ers at home last week. On the other hand, the Texans were expected to be contenders and easily defeated the Vikings’ NFC North foe, the Chicago Bears, last week. This will be an interesting matchup because both teams executed a trade in the offseason to improve their pass rush by swapping Danielle Hunter and Jonathan Greenard. The trade has worked out, and both defenses will make life difficult for the offenses. However, I will give the edge to CJ Stroud, who has defied the critics by not regressing in a sophomore slump. I think he will make enough more winning plays over Sam Darnold, and the Texans win a close ball game.
Texans 23-Vikings 20
2. Philadelphia Eagles (1-1) at New Orleans Saints (2-0)-Sunday, 1 p.m. ET Fox
The Eagles blew their second win on Monday Night Football after Saquon Barkley dropped a crucial catch and the dubious decision-making by Nick Sirianni. Despite being in a position to win the game, the Eagles’ defense should share the blame for the defeat in their ability to stop the run and Kirk Cousins from completing the comeback on the final drive. I think the Eagles’ defense will struggle to stop the Saints’ offense, who had a streak of scoring on 15 straight possessions in their first two games. Alvin Kamara scored four touchdowns last week, and his tear will continue while the Eagles will miss the presence of A.J. Brown for the second consecutive game.
Saints 26-Eagles 20
3. Los Angeles Chargers (2-0) at Pittsburgh Steelers(2-0)-Sunday, 1 p.m. ET CBS
This is the second matchup of the weekend among unbeaten teams. The Chargers destroyed the Panthers on the road and decided to remain on the East Coast to face the Steelers. It feels like Jim Harbaugh has transformed the culture of the Chargers from finesse to a physical team that looks to dominate on both sides of the football. The Steelers will present a challenge for the Chargers because their defense specializes in shutting down teams and winning ugly. However, I think this is the game that Justin Herbert steps up late in the fourth quarter to win this game.
Chargers 20-Steelers 16
4. Baltimore Ravens (0-2) at Dallas Cowboys (1-1) -Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET Fox
This feels like the game with the most at stake for both teams. On one hand, the Ravens need this game to save their season because only 4 teams since 1990 have made the playoffs after losing their first three games. On the other hand, the Cowboys were dismantled in week 2 by the Saints after giving up 6 straight touchdown drives. The Cowboys cannot afford another embarrassment, and I think they will respond to perform better at home. However, I think the Ravens will play like the more desperate team, and using Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry to run the football will make life difficult for the Cowboys. Ravens get off the mark.
Ravens 30-Cowboys 24
5. Kansas City Chiefs (2-0) at Atlanta Falcons (1-1)-Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET NBC
The Atlanta Falcons offense led by Kirk Cousins found another gear when they needed it to pull off an improbable win to avoid the 0-2 start. However, things will not be easier as they welcome the two-time reigning defending champions on Sunday Night Football. Both offenses will play well in the dome atmosphere with elite playmakers answering the call. However, I think Patrick Mahomes will be too good for a Falcons defense that failed last week to generate a consistent pass rush. I think the Chiefs put up a big number and will win the game.
Chiefs 34-Falcons 23
Last Week: 2-3
Overall Record: 5-5