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Tag: matchup

  • Friday Night Hits Week 4 | You Pick 2 Poll

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    For a second straight year, we are asking YOU the fans to help us pick the second game featured in Friday Night Hits.It’s the “You Pick 2” poll, vote for which matchup you would like to see as the second game featured on Friday Night Hits.The poll will be open until 5 p.m. on Wednesday.The WESH 2 Sports team will announce which matchup received the most votes in the “You Pick 2” poll live on-air.Game of the WeekOur Game of the Week for Week 4 will be Jones at Edgewater. It’s a battle between two of Central Florida’s top programs. The Fighting Tigers fresh off a trip to the state championship game but trying to bounce back after falling to Evans last week. Meantime, the Eagles are finding their way under new head coach Patrick Browning, starting off the season a perfect 3-0. You Pick 2 PollHere are the Week 4 options for the You Pick 2 Poll:Dr. Phillips at OcoeeSpruce Creek at MainlandWest Orange at Boone >> Vote here if you cannot see the poll

    For a second straight year, we are asking YOU the fans to help us pick the second game featured in Friday Night Hits.

    It’s the “You Pick 2” poll, vote for which matchup you would like to see as the second game featured on Friday Night Hits.

    The poll will be open until 5 p.m. on Wednesday.

    The WESH 2 Sports team will announce which matchup received the most votes in the “You Pick 2” poll live on-air.

    Game of the Week

    Our Game of the Week for Week 4 will be Jones at Edgewater.

    It’s a battle between two of Central Florida’s top programs. The Fighting Tigers fresh off a trip to the state championship game but trying to bounce back after falling to Evans last week. Meantime, the Eagles are finding their way under new head coach Patrick Browning, starting off the season a perfect 3-0.

    You Pick 2 Poll

    Here are the Week 4 options for the You Pick 2 Poll:

    • Dr. Phillips at Ocoee
    • Spruce Creek at Mainland
    • West Orange at Boone

    >> Vote here if you cannot see the poll

    This content is imported from Woobox.
    You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

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  • What to know for NFL Week 6: Score picks, bold predictions, fantasy tips, key stats for every game

    What to know for NFL Week 6: Score picks, bold predictions, fantasy tips, key stats for every game

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    The Week 6 NFL schedule for the 2022 season is stacked with great matchups, and we got you covered with what you need to know heading into the weekend. Our NFL Nation reporters bring us the biggest keys to every game and a bold prediction for each matchup.

    Additionally, ESPN Stats & Information provides a big stat to know and a betting nugget for each contest, and our Football Power Index (FPI) goes inside the numbers with a matchup rating (on a scale of 1 to 100) and a game projection. ESPN researcher Kyle Soppe hands out helpful fantasy football intel, as well. Finally, Seth Walder and Eric Moody give us final score picks for every game. Everything you want to know is here in one spot to help you get ready for a loaded weekend of NFL football.

    Let’s get into the full Week 6 slate, including another edition of Patrick Mahomes vs. Josh Allen, an NFC East showdown between Philadelphia and Dallas and a rushing battle between the Giants and Ravens. It all culminates with a Monday Night Football matchup between the Broncos and the Chargers on ESPN. (Game times are Sunday unless otherwise noted.)

    Jump to a matchup:
    BAL-NYG | CIN-NO | NYJ-GB
    MIN-MIA | SF-ATL | TB-PIT
    NE-CLE | JAX-IND | ARI-SEA
    CAR-LAR | BUF-KC | DAL-PHI
    DEN-LAC

    Thursday: WSH 12 CHI 7
    Bye: DET, HOU, LV, TEN

    1 p.m. ET | CBS | Spread: BAL -5.5 (44.5)

    What to watch for: The Ravens get to face former defensive coordinator Wink Martindale, who went to the Giants after 10 years with the organization this offseason. “It was nothing negative, it was just time,” he said this week of the breakup. Martindale knows Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson‘s game, and Jackson knows Martindale’s defense, having gone against it every day at practice the previous four seasons. Both are having success this season — Jackson is eighth in the NFL with a QBR of 63.6, while Martindale’s defense hasn’t allowed more than 23 points in a game. — Jordan Raanan

    Bold prediction: J.K. Dobbins will produce more rushing yards than Saquon Barkley. Dobbins is coming off his most explosive game, averaging a season-best 3.25 yards after contact. The Giants have struggled against the run, giving up an average of 2.36 yards after contact (fourth-worst in the league). It could be a challenging day for Barkley against Baltimore, which has allowed just one running back to rush for more than 80 yards in a game since the start of 2021 (Dalvin Cook in Week 9 last season). — Jamison Hensley

    Stat to know: Jackson has a 12-0 record as a starting QB against NFC teams in his career, per Elias Sports Bureau. That’s the second-longest inter-conference win streak to start a career since the 1970 merger.

    Injuries: Ravens | Giants

    What to know for fantasy: Barkley has more than 15 receiving yards in every game this season, not a bad trend for a player who also has at least 13 points as a rusher in four of five games this season. See Week 6 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Jackson is 17-7-2 ATS on the road in his career. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Ravens 24, Giants 21
    Walder’s pick: Ravens 27, Giants 16
    FPI prediction: BAL, 64.8% (by an average of 4.5 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Lamar to the rescue: How the Ravens’ QB saved the day after rough startThe magic behind the Giants’ 4-1 startRavens’ Ojabo debuts in practice after Achilles injuryJones, Giants upset Packers to match 2021 win total


    1 p.m. ET | CBS | Spread: CIN -2 (43)

    What to watch for: The Saints are short on receivers. Seriously short. Kick returner Deonte Harty has a significant toe injury, Michael Thomas hasn’t practiced in weeks, Jarvis Landry‘s status will likely be up in the air and Chris Olave is still going through the concussion protocol. That means things might fall on the shoulders of Alvin Kamara and Taysom Hill for the second straight week. If Hill comes anywhere close to repeating last week’s four-touchdown performance, the Saints just might be OK. — Katherine Terrell

    Bold prediction: Kamara goes for 125 total scrimmage yards. Baltimore had success attacking Cincinnati horizontally and picking up decent gains. With New Orleans having several offensive question marks, Kamara could be the most reliable asset for the Saints. — Ben Baby

    Stat to know: The Saints are seeking their first home win against the Bengals since Jan. 2, 1994.

    Injuries: Bengals | Saints

    play

    0:27

    Doug Kezirian explains why he is taking the over in the Bengals vs. Saints matchup.

    What to know for fantasy: Ja’Marr Chase has failed to score even 13 fantasy points in four straight games. He had a run of five straight games with fewer than 14 fantasy points in the middle of last season (Weeks 8-13). You take the bad with the extreme good. See Week 6 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Cincinnati has gone under the total in 10 straight games including playoffs, one shy of the longest streak in the last 35 seasons. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Bengals 28, Saints 21
    Walder’s pick: Bengals 33, Saints 19
    FPI prediction: CIN, 63.1% (by an average of 3.9 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Bengals offense, Taylor looking for answers after sluggish startHow former LSU WRs Landry, OBJ inspired Chase, Jefferson to be next waveBurrow, Chase share Superdome memories upon returnSaints’ Winston practices for first time since Week 3There’s nobody else like him’: Hill’s four TDs give Saints’ offense big lift


    1 p.m. ET | FOX | Spread: GB -7 (45)

    What to watch for: Just fast forward to the second half of this game, because that’s where it will be decided. The Packers have scored seven or fewer points in the second half in four of their five games. The Jets have scored 61 points combined in the second half this season, third most in the AFC behind only Buffalo and Kansas City. — Rob Demovsky

    Bold prediction: In the battle of the two-headed backfields, the Jets’ young guns (Breece Hall and Michael Carter) will outrush the Packers’ more heralded tandem (Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon). Jones-Dillon is averaging 127 yards per game, compared to 87 for Hall-Carter, but the Jets’ two runners are coming off a big game against the Dolphins. The Jets are also starting to create a run-first identity on offense. — Rich Cimini

    Stat to know: Should the Packers lose, they’ll be 3-3 after six games for the first time since 2012. A Jets win in that situation would mark their first 4-2 start since 2015.

    Injuries: Jets | Packers

    What to know for fantasy: Aaron Rodgers has yet to finish a week as a top-10 fantasy signal caller. For the record, Ryan Tannehill, Jimmy Garoppolo and Joe Flacco all have a top-10 finish on their 2022 resume. See Week 6 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Under Matt LaFleur, Green Bay is 10-0 outright and ATS following a loss. Overall, Green Bay has won and covered 12 straight games following a loss, the longest streak by any team since the 1970 AFL/NFL merger. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Packers 27, Jets 23
    Walder’s pick: Packers 21, Jets 13
    FPI prediction: GB, 82.6% (by an average of 11.1 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Williams has evolved into a stiff-arming, ‘absolute game-wrecker’Rodgers, Packers not concerned with QB’s thumb injuryRookie RB Hall gives Jets offense missing dual-threat dimensionRodgers not happy with talk in Packers’ locker room


    1 p.m. ET | FOX | Spread: MIN -3 (45.5)

    What to watch for: Skylar Thompson will become the 10th rookie to make his first career start for the Dolphins since 1966. He can also become just the third rookie to win their first start, joining David Woodley and Tua Tagovailoa. They haven’t fared well as a group, however, throwing for six touchdowns against 11 interceptions; only Dan Marino and Ryan Tannehill eclipsed the 200 passing yard-mark. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

    Bold prediction: Dalvin Cook will have his best game of the season, rushing for at least 100 yards and two touchdowns. The Dolphins’ run defense has actually been pretty good this season, ranking No. 7 in the NFL based on expected points added. But it has allowed seven rushing touchdowns, tied for sixth-most in the league, and Cook — a Miami native — has averaged more than 100 yards per game dating back to college when he played Florida-based teams in Florida. — Kevin Seifert

    Stat to know: Kirk Cousins has 75 passing first downs this season, the third-most in the NFL behind Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen (78). He is facing a Dolphins defense that allows 8.29 passing yards per attempt, the third-worst in the NFL.

    Injuries: Vikings | Dolphins

    play

    1:51

    Eric Moody gives his thoughts on how fantasy managers should approach the Dolphins’ skill positions with Skylar Thompson at QB.

    What to know for fantasy: We are five weeks into the season and 47.7% of Jaylen Waddle‘s 2022 production has come in a single game (Week 2 at BAL: 40.1 fantasy points). See Week 6 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Minnesota is 1-5 ATS in its last six road games (0-2 ATS this season). Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Vikings 21, Dolphins 20
    Walder’s pick: Dolphins 23, Vikings 17
    FPI prediction: MIN, 65.3% (by an average of 4.6 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Dolphins captains remove ping pong table from locker roomJefferson tallying big numbers in O’Connell’s offenseTagovailoa ruled out again; Dolphins to start Thompson


    1 p.m. ET | FOX | Spread: SF -5 (44.5)

    What to watch for: The Falcons have rushed for more than 150 yards in every game but one this season no matter who the running back is. Cordarrelle Patterson, before the knee injury that landed him on injured reserve, was third in the NFL in rushing. In his place, the Falcons have used a combination of Tyler Allgeier, Caleb Huntley and Avery Williams — all with two years or less of experience in the league. — Michael Rothstein

    Bold prediction: The 49ers will have more rushing yards than the Falcons. Something has to give in a matchup featuring Atlanta’s third-ranked rushing offense against the Niners’ top-ranked rushing defense. San Francisco could be without some key defenders, which means Atlanta will have its chances to gain yards on the ground, but the Niners also boast a strong ground game of their ownand the Falcons have been middle of the road in stopping the run. Give the slight edge to the 49ers in an area that will go a long way in determining a winner. — Nick Wagoner

    Stat to know: The 49ers have allowed the third-fewest passing yards in the league while the Falcons have thrown for the third-fewest passing yards in the NFL (834).

    Injuries: 49ers | Falcons

    What to know for fantasy: Jeff Wilson Jr. has gone over 70 rushing yards in four straight games (season best 20.2 fantasy points last week in Carolina) and is averaging 5.4 yards per carry in the process. See Week 6 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Atlanta remains the only team undefeated ATS following its backdoor cover last week against Tampa Bay. Only two teams in the last decade have started 6-0 or better ATS (2021 Dallas, 2018 Kansas City). Read more.

    Moody’s pick: 49ers 27, Falcons 17
    Walder’s pick: Falcons 20, 49ers 19
    FPI prediction: SF, 52.0% (by an average of 0.7 points)

    Matchup must-reads: It’s early, but 49ers defense is on historically elite paceFalcons turn to committee without PattersonWill 49ers thrive despite injuries like 2019, or buckle like they did in 2020?Jarrett still in disbelief over flag on Brady hit


    1 p.m. ET | FOX | Spread: TB -8 (44)

    What to watch for: After finishing the 38-3 loss to the Buffalo Bills without their top three cornerbacks, the Steelers still figure to be short-handed in the secondary against the Buccaneers. While safeties Minkah Fitzpatrick (knee) and Terrell Edmunds (concussion) will likely play, the status of the corners — Cam Sutton (hamstring), Ahkello Witherspoon (hamstring) and Levi Wallace (concussion) — is less certain. That’s bad news against a Bucs offense that averages 281.8 passing yards per game and is getting stronger as its receiving corps gets healthier. — Brooke Pryor

    Bold prediction: Tom Brady will throw for more than 350 passing yards for a third consecutive game, tying 2011 and 2013 for the longest streak in his career. The Steelers have surrendered 11 passing touchdowns so far this season — tied for third most in the NFL. They’ve also allowed five wide receivers to eclipse the 100-yard mark, including 171 yards from Gabe Davis last week. Pro Bowl wide receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin should benefit. — Jenna Laine

    play

    1:52

    Kimberley Martin explains why Mike Tomlin should be facing criticism for the Steelers’ poor record.

    Stat to know: Leonard Fournette has back-to-back games with 50 receiving yards and a touchdown. He could become the first Bucs RB to do it in three straight games.

    Injuries: Buccaneers | Steelers

    What to know for fantasy: Najee Harris was drafted eighth overall this summer after averaging 17.7 fantasy PPG as a rookie last season, but he has yet to hit 14 points in a single game this season. Not once! See Week 6 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Pittsburgh is in its largest home underdog role since 1989 when Pittsburgh upset Minnesota as an 8.5-point home underdog. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Buccaneers 30, Steelers 14
    Walder’s pick: Buccaneers 27, Steelers 10
    FPI prediction: TB, 82.9% (by an average of 11.3 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Bucs’ Bowles downplays attention on coaching matchup with Steelers’ TomlinTomlin on Steelers’ struggles: ‘It starts with me’How do the 1-4 Steelers move on after Buffalo debacle?


    1 p.m. ET | CBS | Spread: CLE -2.5 (43.5)

    What to watch for: Browns QB Jacoby Brissett faces off against the team that drafted him. Brissett, who started two games as a rookie for the Patriots in 2016 due to Tom Brady‘s Deflategate suspension and an injury to Jimmy Garoppolo, has never started against Bill Belichick or the Patriots before. — Jake Trotter

    Bold prediction: The Browns, who lead the NFL in rushing yards per game behind Nick Chubb, Kareem Hunt and a solid offensive line, will be held below their average of 192.4 rushing yards. This is a tall task for a Patriots run defense that hit a rough patch from the second half of their Week 3 loss to the Ravens through their Week 4 loss to the Packers, but there were decisive signs of a bounce-back in a shutout win over the Lions in Week 5. — Mike Reiss

    Stat to know: The Browns have allowed the third-worst yards per rush (5.32). They will be facing Patriots RB Rhamondre Stevenson, who ranks eighth among qualified running backs in yards per rush (5.5).

    Injuries: Patriots | Browns

    What to know for fantasy: Four times in five weeks has a New England receiver scored over 18 fantasy points … those four performances have come by three different players (Jakobi Meyers, Nelson Agholor and DeVante Parker). See Week 6 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Bill Belichick is 8-2 outright and 7-3 ATS against Cleveland. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Patriots 20, Browns 16
    Walder’s pick: Browns 24, Patriots 16
    FPI prediction: CLE, 73.7% (by an average of 7.3 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Zappe keeping Patriots afloat with Jones sidelinedBrowns running out of time to turm defense aroundJones’ foot-tap interception for Patriots denies Lions scoring chanceBrowns swap picks with Falcons for linebacker JonesWatson back at Browns facility, still out until December


    1 p.m. ET | CBS | Spread: IND -2 (42)

    What to watch for: The Colts have inexplicably gone 3-8 versus the Jaguars in road games since 2012. But the Colts have dominated the Jaguars at home, going 8-2 in the same span. The Jaguars’ last road win in the series came in 2017, when the Colts finished 4-12 due in large part to quarterback Andrew Luck missing the season with a shoulder injury. — Stephen Holder

    Bold prediction: Jaguars WR Christian Kirk will have 10-plus catches. The Jaguars’ offense has been at its best when he’s involved, and he had just three combined catches the last two games after having 18 in the first three. Gus Bradley’s defense keeps things in front of them, and there are times when a linebacker will be matched up with Kirk — a matchup Kirk exploited in the earlier meeting. He’ll do it again. — Mike DiRocco

    Stat to know: Trevor Lawrence has a 2-1 record with four touchdowns and zero interceptions in his career vs. the Colts. He is 0-5 with four touchdowns and 10 interceptions vs. all other AFC South opponents.

    Injuries: Jaguars | Colts

    What to know for fantasy: Travis Etienne Jr. played nine more snaps than James Robinson last week and scored a season-high 14.4 fantasy points against the Texans. He has produce at least six PPR fantasy points as a pass catcher in three of his past four games. See Week 6 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Indianapolis has gone under the total in 10 straight games, one shy of the longest streak in the last 35 seasons. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Colts 26, Jaguars 24
    Walder’s pick: Jaguars 30, Colts 7
    FPI prediction: JAX, 59.7% (by an average of 2.9 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Jaguars’ Pederson, Lawrence: We have to get Kirk the ballWhile Ryan, Colts’ offense struggle, defense finds ways to overcomePederson says Jaguars confident in Lawrence despite recent struggles


    4:05 p.m. ET | FOX | Spread: ARI -2.5 (50.5)

    What to watch for: The Seahawks are in the midst of their third straight miserable start on defense, struggling equally against the run and the pass. They’ll get a break with Arizona’s backfield being shorthanded, but then again, Seattle got run all over last week by Taysom Hill to the tune of 112 rushing yards and three touchdowns. — Brady Henderson

    Bold prediction: With the Cardinals down to just one of their top four running backs this season — Eno Benjamin — Arizona had to restock its running back room this week with guys off the street. Kyler Murray will make sure the running attack isn’t lacking, rushing for 75 yards and two touchdowns in Seattle, including breaking a long one that’ll silence the hyped-up crowd. — Josh Weinfuss

    Stat to know: The Cardinals have been outscored 38-0 in the first quarter this season, the only team without points in the first quarter this season. The Seahawks have scored the second-most first-quarter points this season (41).

    Injuries: Cardinals | Seahawks

    What to know for fantasy: For his career, Murray is averaging 36.8 rush yards and completing 69.3% of his passes against the Seahawks (more than 16 fantasy points in four of those five games). See Week 6 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Arizona is 10-1 ATS on the road since the start of last season (2-1 ATS as road favorite). Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Seahawks 31, Cardinals 27
    Walder’s pick: Seahawks 33, Cardinals 27
    FPI prediction: ARI, 63.8% (by an average of 4.2 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Seahawks-Cardinals game time may change for MarinersSeahawks’ defense continues to stifle the team’s momentumWhat went wrong on Cardinals’ chaotic final drive against Eagles?RB Penny sidelined for rest of season


    4:05 p.m. ET | FOX | Spread: LAR -10 (41)

    What to watch for: The Panthers and Rams have the second- and third-worst offensive EPAs in the NFL this season, respectively, according to ESPN Stats & Information research. Matthew Stafford‘s seven interceptions and 21 sacks are both tied for the most in the NFL this season, and Los Angeles has scored just one touchdown in its last nine quarters. The Panthers’ defense ranks just 22nd in Football Outsiders’ pass DVOA and has three interceptions this season. — Sarah Barshop

    Bold prediction: The Panthers, with only eight sacks on the season, will sack Stafford six times to keep this one closer than most expect. Stafford has been sacked 12 times the past two games, the Rams are tied for last in the NFL in sacks allowed with 21 and interim Carolina coach Steve Wilks is known for his aggressive blitz packages as a defensive coordinator. — David Newton

    Stat to know: PJ Walker has a 15.1 career Total QBR, the worst of any QB with 100-plus attempts since 2020.

    Injuries: Panthers | Rams

    What to know for fantasy: Christian McCaffrey is again pacing the position in terms of percentage of team RB touches (89.9%). Saquon Barkley has been the star of 2022 (85.2%), and Jonathan Taylor (76.9% in games he has played) was the player we all debated with McCaffrey at the top overall spot. See Week 6 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Los Angeles is 1-4 ATS this season (0-3 ATS at home). Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Rams 24, Panthers 10
    Walder’s pick: Rams 26, Panthers 9
    FPI prediction: LAR, 75.8% (by an average of 8.1 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Panthers fire coach Rhule after 1-4 record: What’s next?McVay not closing the door on potential Beckham returnPanthers seek to ‘move on’ after shock of Rhule firingLG Edwards on IR after entering concussion protocolSource: Mayfield tests OK but QB likely out 2-6 weeks


    4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | Spread: BUF -2.5 (54)

    What to watch for: Don’t be surprised if the game’s winner is determined by which QB runs for more yardage. Patrick Mahomes has averaged 43 rushing yards in four career games against the Bills, more than any other opponent, while Josh Allen has run for 64 per game against the Chiefs. Both have also thrown it well in this rivalry, with Mahomes having a QBR of 86.1 against the Bills and Allen, 83.5 against the Chiefs. — Adam Teicher

    Bold prediction: Wide receiver Stefon Diggs will have his first 100-yard game against the Chiefs as a Buffalo Bill. In four games against the Chiefs since 2020, Diggs has averaged 49.8 receiving yards per game, but he’s averaging 101.6 yards per contest this season. The Chiefs defense will also have to deal with a now-healthy Gabe Davis coming off three receptions for 171 yards against the Steelers. Along with slot receiver Isaiah McKenzie and tight end Dawson Knox returning to the field, the success of other players will open up opportunities for Diggs against a defense that is 24th in the NFL in allowing 255.6 passing yards per game. — Alaina Getzenberg

    Stat to know: Travis Kelce‘s seven receiving touchdowns this season are tied for the second-most by a tight end in the team’s first five games in NFL history.

    Injuries: Bills | Chiefs

    What to know for fantasy: Backwards trend for Diggs? Certainly has played out that way recently, as Diggs has failed to score 15 fantasy points in five of his past seven games with an over/under of 50-plus. See Week 6 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Allen is 20-10-2 ATS on the road. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Bills 31, Chiefs 27
    Walder’s pick: Bills 34, Chiefs 31
    FPI prediction: KC, 60.5% (by an average of 3.0 points)

    Matchup must-reads: White takes another step toward return from torn ACLThe famous fans you’ll fnd at Arrowhead StadiumWhat makes Mahomes and Allen so hard to stop?


    8:20 p.m. ET | NBC | Spread: PHI -6 (42)

    What to watch for: Four of the Eagles starting offensive linemen are battling injuries, including left tackle Jordan Mailata, who plans to play but will be wearing a sleeve and a cuff around his right shoulder to limit arm mobility. The Cowboys’ pass rush ranks first in pressures (85) and second in sacks (20). When healthy, the Eagles’ O-line versus the Dallas defensive front is strength on strength. Keep an eye on how Philly holds up in the trenches. — Tim McManus

    Bold prediction: Micah Parsons will record the first interception of his career but not get a sack. It’s about the only thing Parsons has not done in the first two seasons of his career. But Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has been intercepted four times in two starts against the Cowboys, the most against any opponent. — Todd Archer

    Stat to know: The Cowboys currently lead the league in pass rush win rate this season, while the Eagles rank sixth in pass block win rate.

    Injuries: Cowboys | Eagles

    play

    2:33

    Stephen A. Smith details why the Cowboys’ wide receivers are the key to getting a win vs. the Eagles.

    What to know for fantasy: Ezekiel Elliott averaged more than 100 total yards against the Eagles last season, including his best game of the season (26.6 FP in Week 3). See Week 6 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Cooper Rush is the sixth quarterback in the Super Bowl era to begin his career 5-0 outright and ATS Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Eagles 24, Cowboys 17
    Walder’s pick: Eagles 27, Cowboys 20
    FPI prediction: PHI, 75.2% (by an average of 8.0 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Cowboys OL Peters gives Eagles fans brutal complimentCowboys-Eagles matchup promises NFC East fireworksFor 4-1 Cowboys, now comes the fun part — facing 5-0 Eagles on SNFHow did Eagles improve so much in 2022?


    Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ESPN | Spread: LAC -5 (45.5)

    What to watch for: ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson has been battling a partially torn lat near his right shoulder, but Broncos coach Nathaniel Hacket said that no limitations will be placed on Wilson against the Chargers. He’s a competitor, he’s doing great. This extra little mini-bye that we’ve had has been fantastic for him and really our whole team,” Hackett said of the 10-day span between their Week 5 Thursday night game and Monday night’s Week 6 matchup. The Chargers are on a two-game win streak despite playing without top pass-catcher Keenan Allen, who has been sidelined four games because of a nagging hamstring injury. — Lindsey Thiry

    Bold prediction: Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert has been one of the most difficult starters to sack in the season’s first five weeks — he’s been sacked one or zero times in four of the Chargers’ five games this season — but the Broncos will get him three times. The Broncos defense, which has been one of the bright spots in the clunky 2-3 start, is tied for fourth in the league in sacks, and Herbert will put the ball in the air enough to give the Broncos a chance to test their rush. Herbert has only had nine games in his career when he’s been sacked at least three times, and the Chargers are 3-6 in those games. — Jeff Legwold

    Stat to know: Herbert has 972 career completions and could reach completion number 1,000 against the Broncos, his 38th career start. That would make him the fastest, by QB starts, to 1,000 completions since at least 1950. Matthew Stafford currently holds that distinction at 41 starts.

    Injuries: Broncos | Chargers

    What to know for fantasy: Remember all that complaining within the industry about Austin Ekeler‘s slow start? Well, through five games, he is just 5.6 points behind of where he was at during his 2021 breakout. In fact, he actually has two more touches through five games this year than last. See Week 6 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Los Angeles is 4-1 ATS this season, while Denver is 1-4 ATS Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Broncos 23, Chargers 16
    Walder’s pick: Chargers 24, Broncos 12
    FPI prediction: LAC, 74.1% (by an average of 7.5 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Five key problems facing HackettStaley says Allen’s critical tweet made them ‘closer’

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  • What to know for NFL Week 4: Score picks, bold predictions, fantasy tips, key stats for all 15 games

    What to know for NFL Week 4: Score picks, bold predictions, fantasy tips, key stats for all 15 games

    [ad_1]

    The Week 4 NFL schedule for the 2022 season is stacked with great matchups, and we’ve got you covered with what you need to know heading into the weekend. Our NFL Nation reporters bring us the biggest keys to every game and a bold prediction for each matchup.

    Additionally, ESPN Stats & Information provides a big stat to know and a betting nugget for each contest, and our Football Power Index (FPI) goes inside the numbers with a matchup rating (on a scale of 1 to 100) and a game projection. ESPN researcher Kyle Soppe hands out helpful fantasy football intel, as well. Finally, Seth Walder and Eric Moody give us final score picks for every game. Everything you want to know is here in one spot to help you get ready for a loaded weekend of NFL football.

    Let’s get into the full Week 4 slate, including our first London game of the season, Josh Allen vs. Lamar Jackson, Jaguars coach Doug Pederson facing his old team in Philadelphia, Derrick Henry vs. Jonathan Taylor and a big Chiefs-Bucs meeting on Sunday night. It all culminates with a Monday Night Football matchup between the Rams and the 49ers on ESPN. (Game times are Sunday unless otherwise noted.)

    Jump to a matchup:
    MIN-NO | BUF-BAL | JAX-PHI
    CHI-NYG | WSH-DAL | CLE-ATL
    NYJ-PIT | SEA-DET | TEN-IND
    LAC-HOU | ARI-CAR | NE-GB
    DEN-LV | KC-TB | LAR-SF

    Thursday: CIN 27, MIA 15

    9:30 a.m. ET | NFL Network | Spread: MIN -2.5 (43)

    What to watch for: The Saints could be relying heavily on wide receiver Chris Olave, who was just named the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Month. He has seen a large amount of targets recently and that should continue with wide receivers Michael Thomas and Jarvis Landry dealing with injuries. Quarterback Jameis Winston‘s back injury also continues to linger, which has contributed to offensive struggles this season. Perhaps a meeting with Minnesota is just what New Orleans needs. The Vikings have allowed 1,240 yards this season, the third most in the NFL, and at least 300 scrimmage yards in 11 consecutive games. — Katherine Terrell

    Bold prediction: Saints CB Marshon Lattimore will hold Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson to less than 50 yards receiving. Lattimore uses the same kind of close-in, physical approach that Eagles CB Darius Slay and Lions CB Jeff Okudah have utilized to slow down Jefferson in the past two weeks. Until Jefferson proves he can beat that type of approach, opponents will continue using it. — Kevin Seifert

    Stat to know: The Vikings have 13 total penalties through Week 3, second fewest in the NFL this season. But the Saints have 28 — tied for the second most.

    Injuries: Vikings | Saints

    What to know for fantasy: “Air yards” are not a fantasy stat, but they do have a way of hinting at upside. Olave leads the league in that category … by 164! See Week 4 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Favorites are 18-12 against the spread (ATS) in London games. Overs and unders are split 15-15. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Vikings 23, Saints 20
    Walder’s pick: Vikings 27, Saints 13
    FPI prediction: NO, 51.3% (by an average of 0.4 points)

    Matchup must-reads: O’Connell’s aggressive playcalling before halftime has paid off for VikingsSaints rookie WR Olave lone bright spot on struggling offenseWinston says he plans to play Sunday


    1 p.m. ET | CBS | Spread: BUF -3 (51)

    What to watch for: Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson are two of the NFL’s most impactful running quarterbacks. The Bills are 12-3 (.800) when Allen runs for over 50 yards, and the Ravens are 16-1 (.941) when Jackson goes for 90 or more yards rushing. Allen and Jackson are among the favorites for NFL MVP this season because they are two of the three quarterbacks to account for over 83% of their team’s total yards (passing and rushing) through the first three games. — Jamison Hensley

    Bold prediction: Bills wide receiver Stefon Diggs will have over 125 receiving yards for the second time this season, while the team’s receiving group deals with multiple injuries. Jake Kumerow (high ankle), is not expected to play, nor is Gabe Davis (ankle) trending in a positive direction for the game against the Ravens. Allen connecting with Diggs at a high level would go a long way in the Bills coming away with a win. Baltimore has allowed a league-high 95 total completions and 353.3 passing yards per game, which should provide opportunities for the Bills’ passing offense despite the injuries. — Alaina Getzenberg

    Stat to know: Buffalo has allowed just 173 total rushing yards, the second fewest in the NFL (Jaguars, 165) — including seven rushes for 20 yards by opposing quarterbacks.

    Injuries: Bills | Ravens

    What to know for fantasy: No team has allowed more deep completions this season than the Ravens, and Gabe Davis’ average depth of target for his career is over 14 yards. See Week 4 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Baltimore is 12-2-1 ATS when the line is between +3 and -3 since 2019. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Bills 37, Ravens 30
    Walder’s pick: Ravens 33, Bills 30
    FPI prediction: BAL, 55.5% (by an average of 1.6 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Winning close games could be Bills’ Achilles’ heelWhy the Ravens’ Jackson is playing better than during his MVP seasonBills, beset by injuries to secondary, sign CB Rhodes to practice squadRanking best QB combos in NFL draft history: Allen, Jackson in the top 10?


    1 p.m. ET | CBS | Spread: PHI -6.5 (45.5)

    What to watch for: Doug Pederson, the only Super Bowl-winning coach in Eagles history, makes his return to Philadelphia as head man of the Jags. QB Trevor Lawrence has grown leaps and bounds under him. The reigning AFC Offensive Player of the Week has completed 69.4% of his passes with six touchdowns to just one interception. The coach-QB tandem will face an Eagles defense that ranks sixth in pass defense (186.7 YPG) and second in sacks (12). “I have a very high opinion of Doug,” said Eagles defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon. “He’s a very good playcaller. He doesn’t have a lot of tendencies. You can’t bank on certain things coming. He’s doing a good job with the quarterback playing extremely fast.” — Tim McManus

    Bold prediction: Eagles QB Jalen Hurts will rush for 100 yards and a touchdown. The Jaguars’ defense has been very good through three games, but it hasn’t faced a mobile QB like Hurts yet (Carson Wentz, Matt Ryan and Justin Herbert with broken rib cartilage). While the pass rush has been good (21 QB hits, 7 sacks), Hurts’ ability to escape pressure will allow him to make some plays with his legs, especially if the Jaguars are in man coverage. — Mike DiRocco

    Stat to know: Hurts ranks first in yards per attempt (9.35) this season, and his 13 offensive plays (12 pass, 1 rush) of 20-plus yards are tied for most in the NFL.

    Injuries: Jaguars | Eagles

    What to know for fantasy: The Jaguars have been a great surprise thus far, and running back James Robinson is a big reason. Coming off the Achilles injury, Robinson ranks third at the position in fantasy points this season, trailing only Saquon Barkley and Nick Chubb. See Week 4 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Philadelphia and Miami are the only teams to start 3-0 both outright and ATS. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Jaguars 31, Eagles 28
    Walder’s pick: Eagles 27, Jaguars 21
    FPI prediction: PHI, 67.3% (by an average of 5.1 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Are the Jaguars, Lawrence finding their stride?Hurts is adding to the Eagles’ Black QB lineageCollege chemistry paying off for six QB-receiver duos in the NFLWhat’s in store for Doug Pederson in Philly return? Four coaches share their ‘homecoming’ tales


    1 p.m. ET | Fox | Spread: NYG -3 (39.5)

    What to watch for: These are two of the best rushing teams in the NFL through four weeks. The Bears with the duo of David Montgomery and Khalil Herbert are second in the NFL, averaging 186.7 yards per contest. Giants defensive coordinator Wink Martindale considers Chicago’s running game “elite.” The Giants, meanwhile, are riding Saquon Barkley. They’re fourth in the NFL, averaging 169.3 yards per game on the ground. This is expected to be the week’s lowest-scoring game with the over/under at 39.5 according to Caesars Sportsbook. — Jordan Raanan

    Bold prediction: The Bears leave MetLife Stadium with three sacks — matching half of their current total through three weeks — including two from Robert Quinn. Daniel Jones was pressured 24 times by Dallas, the most pressure a Giants QB has faced since 2009. Chicago’s pass rush hasn’t been all that effective (33 pass block wins, ranked 31st in the NFL), but this is the week it finally gets home with a heavy dose of new-look pressures and blitzes typically not seen from this scheme. — Courtney Cronin

    Stat to know: The Bears have attempted 45 passes this season, fewest of any team through three games since the 1982 Patriots (44). Justin Fields has been intercepted on 8.9% of his attempts this season, highest in the NFL. And his 23.0 QBR ranks 31st among the 32 qualified QBs this season (only Baker Mayfield is worse).

    Injuries: Bears | Giants

    What to know for fantasy: Don’t call it a comeback. Barkley is touching the ball 22 times a game and is on pace for over 2,000 total yards. For most, that would be the product of a small sample size, but for Barkley, it’s just pacing himself for a repeat of his rookie season in 2018. See Week 4 rankings.

    Betting nugget: New York is 6-0 ATS on short rest since 2020. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Giants 17, Bears 14
    Walder’s pick: Giants 20, Bears 9
    FPI prediction: NYG, 65.0% (by an average of 4.4 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Bears hope Herbert can continue to ‘knock it forward’ in Montgomery’s absenceCan the Giants’ offensive line fix its pass-block woes?Bears legend Butkus goes on tweeting spree from team Twitter accountGiants lose top receiver Shepard to torn ACL


    1 p.m. ET | Fox | Spread: DAL -3 (41.5)

    What to watch for: The Cowboys have won seven straight NFC East games as they host the Commanders at AT&T Stadium. Cooper Rush will look to become the first Cowboys quarterback to win the first four starts of his career. While the pass game has been efficient, the run game has helped, too, with Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard picking up 274 yards on 52 carries in Rush’s starts. Carson Wentz has a 4-4 record against Dallas in his career, but he is coming off a game in which he was sacked nine times. The Cowboys enter Week 3 with an NFL-best 11 sacks and have three players — Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence and Dorance Armstrong — with six sacks. — Todd Archer

    Bold prediction: Speedy Dallas receiver Michael Gallup will make a big splash in his debut. He is returning from a torn ACL and will take advantage of a Washington defense that has yielded big plays by catching a 40-yard touchdown pass. The Commanders have allowed an NFL-high five passes of 40-plus yards and 12 plays overall of that length. They played better defensively in Week 3 vs. the Eagles, but big plays remain the issue. — John Keim

    Stat to know: Washington receiver Terry McLaurin is coming off his 11th career game with 100-plus receiving yards, but he has never had one against the Cowboys.

    Injuries: Commanders | Cowboys

    What to know for fantasy: The Commanders have coughed up a 100-yard receiver in each of the first three weeks this season, and CeeDee Lamb was a dropped pass away from a career night against the Giants on Monday Night Football last week. See Week 4 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Ten of the past 13 meetings have gone over the total. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Commanders 24, Cowboys 20
    Walder’s pick: Cowboys 19, Commanders 16
    FPI prediction: WSH, 53.3% (by an average of 1.1 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Commanders must find offensive identityHow CeeDee got redemption in Cowboys’ win vs. GiantsLamb ready to carry Cowboys’ No. 88 legacy set by Pearson, Irvin and DezRush rallies to win third straight career start


    1 p.m. ET | CBS | Spread: CLE -1 (47.5)

    What to watch for: This game, in theory, will have two of the NFL’s top three rushers — Cleveland’s Nick Chubb (No. 1, 341 yards) and Atlanta’s Cordarrelle Patterson (No. 3, 302 yards). Patterson, though, didn’t practice on Wednesday or Thursday, so that could take some luster out of the matchup if he can’t go. These two teams have some interesting ties, too, including both Falcons offensive coordinator Dave Ragone and defensive coordinator Dean Pees growing up in Ohio as Browns fans. — Michael Rothstein

    Bold prediction: Atlanta tight end Kyle Pitts will double his career TD reception total, with two against the Browns. The Falcons, and their underrated offense, will hang around with Cleveland into the fourth quarter. — Jake Trotter

    Stat to know: The Browns have scored on 14 consecutive red zone drives dating back to last season, the third-longest active streak in the NFL behind the Cowboys (24) and Titans (16).

    Injuries: Browns | Falcons

    What to know for fantasy: Amari Cooper dropped 23.1 fantasy points on the Steelers last week, giving him consecutive 20-point games for the first time since Weeks 5-6 of the 2016 season. See Week 4 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Both teams have gone over the total in each of their first three games. The only other team 3-0 to the over is Detroit. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Browns 31, Falcons 23
    Walder’s pick: Falcons 22, Browns 17
    FPI prediction: ATL, 50.1% (by an average of 0.1 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Browns offense thriving with Brissett at QBPatterson powers the Falcons’ running gameGarrett injured shoulder, biceps in car crashBrowns LB Walker out for season with torn quad tendon


    1 p.m. ET | CBS | Spread: PIT -3.5 (41.5)

    What to watch for: Jets QB Zach Wilson is making his season debut. The Steelers’ lack of experience against him, along with his mobility, create challenges for a defense that’s still struggling to find an identity without T.J. Watt. The Steelers have just two total sacks since Watt went out with the pectoral injury, and the run defense is again ranked near the bottom of the league after giving up 171 rushing yards to the Browns. — Brooke Pryor

    Bold prediction: Rookie running back Breece Hall will record the first 100-yard rushing day of his career. After throwing a league-high 155 times in the first three games, the Jets want to be balanced with Wilson back. Michael Carter, and especially Hall, will be the beneficiary of strategic shift, as they run through the Steelers’ suspect run defense. — Rich Cimini

    Stat to know: The Steelers have a 33% third-down conversion rate this season, the second worst in the AFC after the Texans. They went 1-9 on third-down conversions against the Browns in the Week 3 loss — tied for the third-worst conversion rate since Mike Tomlin took over in 2007.

    Injuries: Jets | Steelers

    What to know for fantasy: New year, same problem. Last season, Najee Harris was king of volume, but his carries were only so valuable because he was hit at or behind the line of scrimmage on 30.6% of his totes. This season … 35%. See Week 4 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Pittsburgh is 16-1 outright with extra rest since 2017 (8-7-2 ATS). Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Steelers 28, Jets 17
    Walder’s pick: Steelers 27, Jets 20
    FPI prediction: PIT, 67.9% (by an average of 5.4 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Wilson medically cleared, will start against SteelersThree signs of progress for the Steelers’ offense, and three things that must improveJets dealt another blow at offensive tackle as Fant put on IR

    play

    1:10

    Mike Clay breaks down what Zach Wilson coming back could mean for the Jets receivers.


    1 p.m. ET | Fox | Spread: DET -4 (48)

    What to watch for: A hobbled Lions team could limp into the Week 4 matchup after missing several key players throughout practice during the week, including running back D’Andre Swift (ankle/shoulder), tight end T.J. Hockenson (foot) and wide receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown (ankle) and Josh Reynolds (ankle). Both teams are entering the contest with matching 1-2 records, trying to bounce back after close, one-score losses the previous week. An interesting matchup to watch is Lions cornerback Jeff Okudah against DK Metcalf. The Seahawks receiver recently said Okudah isn’t really “locking people down” and has a safety under helping him. — Eric Woodyard

    Bold prediction: The Seahawks will hold Detroit to under 115 rushing yards. That qualifies as bold given that Seattle has allowed the second-most rushing yards per game this season, including 189 and 179 the past two weeks. They might get a break Sunday with the Lions’ Swift injured, and they could get a boost with outside linebackers Boye Mafe and Darryl Johnson playing more on early downs in place of Darrell Taylor, who has struggled against the run. — Brady Henderson

    Stat to know: The Lions are scoring 31.7 PPG — the second most in the NFL — and are allowing 31.0 PPG, the most in the NFL.

    Injuries: Seahawks | Lions

    What to know for fantasy: Through three weeks, both Detroit running backs rank as top-10 players at the position, but only one of them will be active this week. Jamaal Williams and his four rushing touchdowns are set to take center stage with Swift’s shoulder injury set to sideline him for at least the short term. See Week 4 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Detroit is 3-0 ATS this season and 14-6 ATS under Dan Campbell. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Lions 31, Seahawks 21
    Walder’s pick: Lions 30, Seahawks 15
    FPI prediction: DET, 65.3% (by an average of 4.5 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Seahawks’ defense faces familiar challenge: Turning around another poor startLions’ Swift week-to-week with shoulder sprain


    1 p.m. ET | Fox | Spread: IND -3.5 (43)

    What to watch for: The Colts currently have a minus-3 turnover margin, an alarming number for a team that ranked first in this category in 2021 and second in 2020. There are two reasons: Matt Ryan has had an exceedingly rare stretch, turning the ball over six times in three games. And the defense — after finishing last season second in takeaways — has produced just three turnovers to date. Alternatively, Titans QB Ryan Tannehill has thrown just three interceptions through three games. If the Colts’ defense can somehow force turnovers — and not commit turnovers — they will have a better chance at their second win of the season. — Stephen Holder

    Bold prediction: Titans running back Derrick Henry will get his first 100-yard rushing performance this season. That’s bold considering the Colts are allowing a league-low 2.6 yards per carry. Henry had a season-high 65 yards after contact last week. Offensive coordinator Todd Downing feels Henry is on the verge of breaking off a long run if “they can finish blocks, that last shove, last bit of effort to will spring him into the secondary.” — Turron Davenport

    Stat to know: Ryan has been sacked 12 times, the fourth most in the NFL so far this season. That’s the second-most sacks he has taken in his team’s first three games of a season in his career (13 in 2011). That is also the second-most sacks taken by a Colts QB since the franchise moved to Indianapolis in 1984 (Jim Harbaugh took 16 sacks in 1997).

    Injuries: Titans | Colts

    What to know for fantasy: It might not be what you signed up for, but don’t panic … Jonathan Taylor has 14.8 more fantasy points through three games this season than he did during his historic 2021 campaign. See Week 4 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Eight straight Indianapolis games have gone under the total, including all three this season. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Colts 27, Titans 24
    Walder’s pick: Colts 20, Titans 17
    FPI prediction: IND, 60.4% (by an average of 3.0 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Titans coach Vrabel searching inside (and outside) the building for answers to secondary woesRyan, imperfect Colts finding ways to win while also finding their wayTitans LT Lewan out for season with knee injury


    1 p.m. ET | CBS | Spread: LAC -5 (45)

    What to watch for: Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert has the fourth-most passing yards in the NFL (910), but the Texans’ pass defense has been exceptional. They’ve held opposing quarterbacks’ completion percentage to 55.1%, which is the second best in the NFL, according to Next Gen Stats. The Texans have 10 sacks on the year, coming in at fourth best. The coverage in the secondary has been stout, as quarterbacks are completing only 44% of their passes when targeting cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. This should be interesting as the Chargers are coming off a down week, losing to the Jaguars in Week 3. –– DJ Bien-Aime

    Bold prediction: The Chargers will clamp down on defense and keep the Texans out of the end zone. This is bold considering the Chargers’ defense is averaging the most points allowed in the AFC at 28 per game. But the Texans are among teams who are struggling to score, averaging 16.3 points per game. Watch for the Bolts’ defense behind Khalil Mack and Derwin James to play inspired, wanting to prove that it should not be counted out despite losing star edge rusher Joey Bosa indefinitely. — Lindsey Thiry

    Stat to know: Los Angeles’ Austin Ekeler is the only running back in the NFL who is currently leading his team in both targets (22) and receptions (21).

    Injuries: Chargers | Texans

    What to know for fantasy: Dameon Pierce got 87% of the Texans’ RB carries last week in Chicago. Not a bad role to take into a matchup with the Chargers, the third-worst defense in terms of running back yards per carry since the beginning of last season. See Week 4 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Los Angeles is 0-3 outright as a road favorite under coach Brandon Staley. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Chargers 31, Texans 20
    Walder’s pick: Chargers 26, Texans 10
    FPI prediction: LAC, 70.4% (by an average of 6.3 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Guide to all the Chargers injuries, and how they’ll try to overcome themTexans coach Smith not sure ‘exactly why’ Mills, offense are strugglingInjured Herbert ‘didn’t want to quit on the team’ in Jags lossBolts LT Slater out for season


    4:05 p.m. ET | Fox | Spread: CAR -1 (43.5)

    What to watch for: Panthers quarterback Baker Mayfield ranks 31st in the NFL in completion percentage (51.9), and a big issue has been poor footwork due to a lack of full trust in his offensive line that has allowed nine sacks. He should have more confidence going up against an Arizona defense that ranks 31st in sacks with only two through three games. — David Newton

    Bold prediction: With the weather playing a factor, the Cardinals will commit to the run, and James Conner will have 100 yards for the first time this season and Kyler Murray will eclipse 50 for the first time. — Josh Weinfuss

    Stat to know: Christian McCaffrey has two straight games of 100-plus rush yards after going 18 games without reaching 100. He has not had three straight 100-yard rushing games since Weeks 8-10 in 2019.

    Injuries: Cardinals | Panthers

    What to know for fantasy: It’s hard to know what will happen in four weeks when DeAndre Hopkins returns after Week 6, but Marquise Brown is coming off a career day and is the ninth-highest-scoring fantasy receiver this season (just ahead of first-round picks Justin Jefferson and Davante Adams). See Week 4 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Arizona has won seven straight games outright as a road underdog, tied for the longest streak since the 1970 AFL/NFL merger. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Cardinals 28, Panthers 17
    Walder’s pick: Cardinals 31, Panthers 14
    FPI prediction: CAR, 52.8% (by an average of 0.8 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Kingsbury still trying to solve Cardinals offense’s first-quarter woesAs Mayfield struggles, Panthers’ defense shines in first winCollege chemistry paying off for six QB-receiver duos in the NFL

    play

    1:34

    Field Yates and Mike Clay break down DJ Moore’s fantasy struggles and what they recommend fantasy managers do with him.


    4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | Spread: GB -9.5 (40)

    What to watch for: There are some telling streaks at play: Aaron Rodgers has won five straight games against AFC opponents,; the Packers have won 14 straight regular-season home games, which is the longest active streak in the NFL; and Patriots likely starting quarterback Brian Hoyer has lost 11 consecutive starts, which is the longest streak among quarterbacks currently on NFL rosters. — Rob Demovsky

    Bold prediction: Patriots running backs Damien Harris and Rhamondre Stevenson will come close to totaling 200 rushing yards between them. This will have to be the formula for New England to have a chance to pull the upset. The Packers have shown some vulnerability against the run, with the Bears totaling 180 yards on 27 carries in Week 2, and the Vikings with 126 yards on 28 carries in Week 1. But here’s a potential problem for New England: With Rodgers completing 75% of his passes in back-to-back games, the possibility of falling behind early could make the Patriots more one-dimensional than they desire. — Mike Reiss

    Stat to know: The Patriots’ defense owns a 9.3% sack rate this season, which is the third best in the NFL. And Rodgers has taken eight sacks in three games this season.

    Injuries: Patriots | Packers

    What to know for fantasy: Romeo Doubs saw 23.5% of the targets last weekend in Tampa Bay, the highest rate for a Packer this season and potentially a sign of things to come for the promising rookie. See Week 4 rankings.

    Betting nugget: Green Bay is 17-7 ATS as a home favorite under coach Matt LaFleur, including 7-1 ATS since the start of last season. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Packers 28, Patriots 13
    Walder’s pick: Packers 24, Patriots 0
    FPI prediction: GB, 88.8% (by an average of 14.7 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Why coaching is a family affair for the Belichicks, from Bill to Amanda to Steve to BrianBakhtiari off to good start in return from torn ACL. What’s next?Belichick stiff-arms queries on Jones injury with ‘day by day’ refrainRodgers vs. Brady matchup fizzled, but Packers found other ways to winMatthews hoped to finish his career with Packers


    4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | Spread: LV -2.5 (45.5)

    What to watch for: Raiders edge rusher Chandler Jones has zero sacks through three games, and is fast becoming a target for impatient fans. Keep an eye, then, on the four-time Pro Bowler possibly getting untracked against his favorite target in Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson. Jones has sacked Wilson 16.5 times in his career, the most sacks Jones has against any one QB. It’s a rivalry that dates to Jones’ days in Arizona and Wilson’s in Seattle. “He thought he could get away from me, leaving [the NFC West],” Jones said with a laugh back in March, “but I’m right here with him again. So, that’s going to be fun, getting after him a little bit.” — Paul Gutierrez

    Bold prediction: Fire the confetti cannons in Denver, Broncos quarterback Wilson will have his first multiple-touchdown game with the team after having just two passing touchdowns over the first three games. And while that might not move the needle on the “bold” meter in some NFL outposts, the Broncos keep saying they’re close to something that resembles the offense they hoped to have when they exited the preseason. Plus, the Raiders have surrendered four pass plays of at least 30 yards in the first three games to go with five passing touchdowns by opposing quarterbacks. — Jeff Legwold

    Stat to know: The Broncos are averaging 14.3 PPG, second worst in the NFL. Forty-three total points in the first three games are their fewest since 2006.

    Injuries: Broncos | Raiders

    What to know for fantasy: The Denver passing game has yet to really hit its stride, and yet, only four receivers in the entire league have more receiving yards than Courtland Sutton. See Week 4 rankings.

    Betting nugget: All three Denver games have gone under the total by over 10 points this season. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Broncos 26, Raiders 17
    Walder’s pick: Raiders 30, Broncos 19
    FPI prediction: LV, 58.3% (by an average of 2.4 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Should the Broncos panic?Adams shrugs off Green Bay comparisons amid adjustment period with Carr, RaidersLearning curve a bumpy ride so far for Broncos’ HackettRaiders hope to turn frustration into redemption to recover from 0-3 start


    8:20 p.m. ET | NBC | Spread: EVEN (45.5)

    What to watch for: The Bucs will have wide receivers Mike Evans (suspension) and Julio Jones (knee) back this week, with wide receiver Chris Godwin (hamstring) and left tackle Donovan Smith (elbow) also possibilities. Having scored only three offensive touchdowns in three games so far this year, they need all hands on deck to keep pace with a Chiefs team averaging 29.3 points per game. On the other side of the ball, the Chiefs’ rebuilt offensive line is eager to show this wasn’t the same group from Super Bowl LV — their two sacks given up are tied for fewest in the league right now. — Jenna Laine

    Bold prediction: The sixth meeting between Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes will be the lowest scoring yet. The Chiefs and Bucs are struggling to score, with the Chiefs’ offense producing just 37 points in the past two games and the Bucs averaging just 17 points per game through the first three. These teams don’t look like they will combine for 39 points, the lowest output so far for a Brady-Mahomes game. It certainly won’t approach the 83 points the two generated in a 2018 game between the Chiefs and Patriots. — Adam Teicher

    Stat to know: The Buccaneers are looking to avoid a fourth straight game held under 20 points. Only one Brady-led team has been held under 20 points in four straight games — the 2002 Patriots.

    Injuries: Chiefs | Buccaneers

    What to know for fantasy: Leonard Fournette got loose in Week 1 for 127 yards on 21 carries. In the two games since (Mike Evans was ejected in one and suspended for the other), he has picked up just 100 yards on 36 carries. The Bucs welcome their WR1 back this week with the hopes of reopening the lanes that were there in the Week 1 win at Dallas. See Week 4 rankings.

    Betting nugget: All three Tampa Bay games have gone under the total this season. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: Buccaneers 24, Chiefs 21
    Walder’s pick: Chiefs 30, Buccaneers 17
    FPI prediction: TB, 63.3% (by an average of 3.9 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Are the Chiefs in trouble?Buccaneers’ Bowles, Brady concerned with lack of productionHow the Chiefs have kept Mahomes happy in Kansas CityBuccaneers relocate to South Florida ahead of Hurricane Ian, hold practices at Dolphins’ facility

    play

    1:07

    Bart Scott and Dan Graziano explain why it isn’t time to panic about the Buccaneers.


    Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ESPN | Spread: SF -1 (42.5)

    What to watch for: The 49ers have had the Rams’ number in recent years, winning six straight regular-season games, but the Rams won the one that mattered most in January, advancing to the Super Bowl with a fourth-quarter surge in the NFC Championship Game. After a road loss last week in Denver, the Niners are in danger of falling two games back of the Rams in the NFC West with a loss here. To avoid that, they’ll need quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo to find a groove in a hurry behind an offensive line missing star tackle Trent Williams. Garoppolo is 6-1 as a starter against Los Angeles, but his eight interceptions are the most he has thrown against any opponent. — Nick Wagoner

    Bold prediction: Cooper Kupp sets a career high for receptions with 14 catches. He leads the NFL with 28 receptions, including tying his career high of 13 in Week 1 against the Bills. Kupp’s target share through three games (35%) is higher than it was during the 2021 season (32%), and that continues against the 49ers on Monday night. — Sarah Barshop

    Stat to know: The Niners’ Deebo Samuel has 111 rushing yards this season, the most among players who are primarily wide receivers. He is also one of two wideouts with a rushing touchdown in 2022. The other? Kupp.

    Injuries: Rams | 49ers

    What to know for fantasy: Allen Robinson II is one of just seven players who has seen an end zone target in each of the first three weeks. His managers might be getting impatient, but converting targets like that could make up for a slow start in short order. See Week 4 rankings.

    Betting nugget: San Francisco has covered all five meetings since 2020 including playoffs. Read more.

    Moody’s pick: 49ers 24, Rams 21
    Walder’s pick: 49ers 23, Rams 17
    FPI prediction: LAR, 60.0% (by an average of 3.0 points)

    Matchup must-reads: Kupp off to great start, but Rams’ offense still work in progressGaroppolo has 8.5 million sources of motivation for 49ersBattered Rams secondary steps up to help muzzle Cardinals49ers’ Williams, Al-Shaair dealing with multiweek injuries

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