What to know for NFL Week 3: Score picks, bold predictions, fantasy tips, key stats for every game

The Week 3 NFL schedule for the 2023 season is stacked with nice matchups, and we have got you lined with what you want to know heading into the weekend. Our NFL Nation reporters convey us the most important keys to each sport and a daring prediction for every matchup.

Moreover, ESPN Stats & Data offers an enormous stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest, and our Soccer Energy Index (FPI) goes contained in the numbers with a sport projection. Analytics author Seth Walder picks out every matchup’s greatest X issue, and fantasy analyst Eric Moody fingers out useful fantasy soccer intel. Lastly, Walder and Moody give us closing rating picks for each sport. The whole lot you need to know is right here in a single spot that can assist you prepare for a loaded weekend of NFL soccer.

Let’s get into the complete Week 3 slate, together with an AFC East Patriots-Jets showdown, Justin Herbert vs. Kirk Cousins and a pair of first-round rookie operating backs going through off. All of it culminates with a doubleheader on “Monday Night time Soccer” — the Eagles go to the Buccaneers (7:15 p.m. ET) on ABC/ESPN+ and the Rams tackle the Bengals (8:15 p.m. ET) on ESPN/ESPN2. (Recreation instances are Sunday except in any other case famous.)

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

Thursday: SF 30, NYG 12

1 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: DET -3 (46)

Storyline to look at: Atlanta’s No. 8 total decide, Bijan Robinson, and the Lions’ No. 12 total decide, Jahmyr Gibbs, might be in motion in the identical sport on Sunday. Gibbs desires to be the perfect operating again on the market however says he has been impressed by Robinson to date. Robinson and Gibbs have been the primary pair of operating backs to go within the prime 12 picks of the draft since 2017, when Leonard Fournette and Christian McCaffrey have been chosen fourth and eighth, respectively. — Eric Woodyard

Daring prediction: With Detroit’s offensive line banged up — Taylor Decker (ankle) and Halapoulivaati Vaitai (left knee) are coping with accidents — Falcons defensive finish Calais Campbell will make private historical past, selecting up profession sack No. 100 within the second quarter. Will probably be one among three sacks the Falcons have towards Detroit, which might double their whole for the season. — Michael Rothstein

Stat to know: Robinson has 180 speeding yards (the second most within the NFL) and leads all operating backs in receptions (10) this season.

Matchup X issue: Falcons defensive sort out David Onyemata. He has come up big to date this 12 months with a 22% move rush win price at defensive sort out, the fourth finest on the place. If he and Grady Jarrett are in a position to break by way of the Lions’ offensive line and disrupt quarterback Jared Goff, that may go a great distance towards slowing down the explosive Detroit offense. — Walder

Accidents: Falcons | Lions

What to know for fantasy: Goff has one of many highest on-target charges by way of Week 2. He has produced a quarterback ranking of 85 or larger in every of the previous 9 video games and has averaged 19.4 fantasy factors per sport in that span. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Lions are 24-12 towards the unfold (ATS) underneath Dan Campbell, the second-best mark within the NFL in that span (since 2021). He’s 3-3 outright and ATS as a favourite. Learn extra.

Moody’s decide: Lions 31, Falcons 27
Walder’s decide: Lions 30, Falcons 20
FPI prediction: DET, 55.1% (by a median of 1.9 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Falcons’ Okudah prepared for return to Detroit … Montgomery might miss ‘couple weeks’ … Ridder nonetheless striving for enchancment after 2-0 begin … Lions lose Gardner-Johnson to torn pec; he hopes to be again in 2023

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Why fantasy mangers ought to begin Jahmyr Gibbs in Week 3

Mike Clay breaks down why Jahmyr Gibbs can be a strong RB1 for fantasy managers in Week 3.

1 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: BUF -6.5 (43.5)

Storyline to look at: Sunday’s sport will come right down to who wins the battle exterior the pocket: Payments quarterback Josh Allen or Washington’s protection? Washington has allowed 16 dropbacks to be prolonged exterior the pocket — second most within the NFL — however ranks fourth in completion proportion on these performs (33.3%). In the meantime, Allen has thrown three touchdowns whereas exterior the pocket — tied for first within the NFL — and has thrown for the fifth-most yards (79). — John Keim

Daring prediction: The 2 groups will mix for not less than 10 sacks. The Commanders are tied for the league lead in sacks with 10, however they’ve additionally given up 10 sacks (tied for second most). So, the Payments can have a chance to extend their sack whole from three. — Alaina Getzenberg

Stat to know: The Payments have received eight of 9 matchups towards the Commanders since dropping Tremendous Bowl XXVI following the 1991 season. Seven of these eight wins have been by double digits (their solely loss was on highway in Week 15 of 2015).

Matchup X issue: Commanders cornerback Kendall Fuller. He is off to a scorching begin with only a 9% goal price — finest amongst all corners with not less than 50 protection snaps — and 0.2 yards per protection snap allowed, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. If the Commanders are going to beat the Payments, stopping the Buffalo move sport might be key. — Walder

Accidents: Bills | Commanders

What to know for fantasy: The Commanders have allowed the seventh-most fantasy factors per sport to large receivers. Buffalo WR Stefon Diggs has 17 receptions for 242 yards and a landing in two video games at Washington. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Washington quarterback Sam Howell is 2-0 outright as an underdog in his profession. Learn extra.

Moody’s decide: Payments 27, Commanders 21
Walder’s decide: Payments 33, Commanders 17
FPI prediction: BUF, 73.4% (by a median of 8.8 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Payments’ balanced method could possibly be new blueprint … Commanders relishing beginning 2-0 … Younger’s splashy return a great signal for Washington’s protection

1 p.m. ET | Fox | Unfold: GB -2 (42.5)

Storyline to look at: Jordan Love has settled into the QB1 job, however there’s one factor he hasn’t carried out but: Begin a sport at Lambeau Discipline. Actually, most of his taking part in time over the previous three seasons has come on the highway. Of his 135 profession passing makes an attempt, solely 11 have been at Lambeau Discipline. Saints quarterback Derek Carr has one profession begin at Lambeau in 2019 — he threw for 293 yards and two landing passes in a loss as a member of the Raiders. — Rob Demovsky

Daring prediction: The Saints will maintain the Packers to lower than 100 speeding yards. Inexperienced Bay is averaging simply 88 speeding yards by way of two video games, and operating again Aaron Jones missed final week with a hamstring harm. The Packers might definitely take a look at the Saints’ move protection, which might be with out beginning security Marcus Maye (suspended), however their run protection might be stout once more, particularly if Jones is not 100%. — Katherine Terrell

Stat to know: The Saints have held opponents to twenty or fewer factors in a franchise-record 10 straight video games. The one crew with an extended streak over the previous 25 seasons was the Patriots (11 straight in 2018-19).

Matchup X issue: Packers large receiver Jayden Reed. The rookie has a whopping 38% goal price in two video games, which places him behind Tyreek Hill and Travis Kelce. — Walder

Accidents: Saints | Packers

What to know for fantasy: Love has scored 20 or extra fantasy factors in consecutive video games and leads the league in passer ranking (123.2). See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Inexperienced Bay is 13-4 ATS after a loss underneath Matt LaFleur. Learn extra.

Moody’s decide: Packers 28, Saints 21
Walder’s decide: Packers 19, Saints 16
FPI prediction: GB, 53.3% (by a median of 1.2 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Williams (hamstring) anticipated to overlook time … Love not able to make up for Packers’ deficiencies — but … Saints WR trio making a distinction in crunch time

1 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: MIA -6.5 (48.5)

Storyline to look at: The Dolphins search their second straight 3-0 begin underneath Mike McDaniel, and so they’ve acquired an important matchup ready of their house opener. Miami’s NFL-best passing offense (355 yards/sport) faces the Broncos’ Twenty first-ranked move protection (233 yards/sport) — though Miami is likely to be with out large receiver Jaylen Waddle, who entered concussion protocol this week. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

Daring prediction: The Broncos will want endurance and a few stops by their very own protection, however they may have their first 100-yard rusher of the season. Miami’s protection, with former Broncos coach Vic Fangio calling the photographs, makes it laborious to search out the massive performs within the passing sport. However the Broncos’ three backs — Javonte Williams, Samaje Perine and rookie Jaleel McLaughlin — and even QB Russell Wilson ought to discover some room towards a Miami protection that allowed 233 yards speeding to the Chargers in Week 1 and is permitting opposing runners to achieve 4.9 yards per carry. — Jeff Legwold

Stat to know: Wilson’s 17 QBR vs. man protection this season is the second worst within the NFL behind Steelers QB Kenny Pickett. The Dolphins have used man protection on the third-highest price within the NFL by way of the primary two weeks of the 2023 season (62% of time).

Matchup X issue: Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II. He is off to a pleasant begin this season with simply 42 yards allowed over 60 protection snaps (that 0.7 yards per protection snap allowed ranks sixth finest amongst corners with not less than 50 protection snaps, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats). Containing the Dolphins’ large receivers is a mighty problem, however Surtain is one nook who is likely to be up for it. — Walder

Accidents: Broncos | Dolphins

What to know for fantasy: Wilson has averaged 280.7 passing yards and 18.5 fantasy factors per sport towards the Dolphins in his profession. In two video games this season, Wilson has thrown for 485 passing yards, 5 passing touchdowns and rushed for 57 yards. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Dolphins are 14-5-1 ATS as house favorites since 2017. Learn extra.

Moody’s decide: Dolphins 35, Broncos 30
Walder’s decide: Dolphins 24, Broncos 20
FPI prediction: MIA, 70% (by a median of seven.4 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Payton eyeing methods to repair clock administration points … Tagovailoa, Dolphins’ offense off to scorching begin to 2023 season

1 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: CLE -3.5 (39.5)

Storyline to look at: How will quarterback Deshaun Watson bounce-back following a depressing “Monday Night time Soccer” efficiency through which he had a 55% completion proportion, was sacked six instances and fumbled twice? The Titans’ protection is tied for the eighth-most sacks (7) by way of two video games, which does not bode properly for Watson. The protection additionally will not have to fret about All-Professional operating again Nick Chubb, who’s misplaced for the season with a knee harm. — Jake Trotter

Daring prediction: A late strip sack will result in a Titans win. The Titans’ defensive position has constantly set its give attention to attending to the quarterback and knocking the ball out. Given how Watson has three fumbles in two video games, this week might be a major alternative for Titans defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons and the protection to generate a late turnover. — Turron Davenport

Stat to know: The Browns haven’t allowed any pink zone touchdowns or subject targets. They might be the primary crew since not less than 1978 to not permit any pink zone factors by way of three video games.

Matchup X issue: The Browns’ surprisingly sturdy run protection. After rating twenty ninth in EPA per designed run allowed final season, the protection ranks third within the class after two weeks in 2023. That is vital towards a Titans crew that’s higher on the bottom than by way of the air. — Walder

Accidents: Titans | Browns

What to know for fantasy: Working again Kareem Hunt, who signed with the Browns following Chubb’s harm, trailed solely Chubb in speeding makes an attempt (442), speeding yards (1,874) and speeding touchdowns (16) throughout his earlier 4 seasons with the Browns. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Titans are 7-2-1 ATS on the highway for the reason that begin of final season (7-1-1 ATS final 9). Learn extra.

Moody’s decide: Titans 20, Browns 17
Walder’s decide: Browns 24, Titans 17
FPI prediction: CLE, 57.1% (by a median of two.6 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Tannehill reasserts himself at Titans’ QB1, leaves unhealthy Week 1 behind … Browns lose Chubb for season after ‘important’ knee harm … With Chubb out, Browns want Watson to play like $230 million

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McAfee: Kareem Hunt-Browns reunion is sensible

Pat McAfee and crew react to Kareem Hunt returning to the Browns on a one-year contract.

1 p.m. ET | Fox | Unfold: MIN -1 (54)

Storyline to look at: Each groups are 0-2 and on a bizarre run of dropping shut video games, relationship again to the 2022 season. The Chargers have misplaced the previous 4 video games they’ve performed, all by three factors or much less, whereas the Vikings have misplaced three consecutive video games by one rating, after successful 11 consecutive such video games. — Kevin Seifert

Daring prediction: Justin Herbert will throw for lower than 200 yards. Herbert has thrown for fewer than 200 yards 4 instances in his profession, one among which got here towards the Vikings in 2021. The Vikings have one of many worst run defenses within the NFL, so the Chargers will depend on the bottom sport. — Kris Rhim

Stat to know: Keenan Allen wants 111 receiving yards to move Lance Alworth (9,584) for second most in Chargers historical past.

Matchup X issue: Chargers cornerbacks Asante Samuel Jr., Michael Davis and J.C. Jackson. The trio permits 1.8, 2.7 and three.0 yards per protection snap, respectively — and the common for corners this 12 months is 1.4, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. They are going towards the Vikings, who’ve the very best designed move price within the league (80%). — Walder

Accidents: Chargers | Vikings

What to know for fantasy: Whereas the Vikings traded for Cam Akers to energise their operating sport, with Kirk Cousins, Justin Jefferson, T.J. Hockenson and Jordan Addison they may proceed to rely closely on the passing sport. This season, the Chargers’ protection has allowed probably the most yards on deep passes. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Vikings have lined 5 straight conferences relationship again to 2007. Learn extra.

Moody’s decide: Vikings, 34, Chargers 31
Walder’s decide: Chargers 33, Vikings 28
FPI prediction: LAC, 53.2% (by a median of 1.2 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Chargers not ‘turning our again on one another’ after 0-2 begin, defensive woes … Jefferson, Cousins and Hunter begin scorching forward of contract talks … No timetable for Ekeler’s return, coach says … Vikings nonetheless assured in Mattison after Akers deal

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What number of passing yards will Kirk Cousins rack up vs. the Chargers?

Erin Dolan expects Kirk Cousins to have an enormous efficiency for the Vikings of their matchup vs. the Chargers.

1 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: NE -2.5 (36.5)

Storyline to look at: It is all concerning the streak (the Patriots have received 14 straight on this sequence) and two 2021 first-round quarterbacks: Mac Jones and Zach Wilson. Jones has regained his footing after a disappointing 2022, whereas Wilson, beginning for the injured Aaron Rodgers, seems to be to overcome his New England demons (0-4 towards the Patriots). — Wealthy Cimini

Daring prediction: A particular groups play will determine the sport. Take into account that the Jets have transformed on six straight pretend punts since 2014 (their most up-to-date coming final week versus Dallas), which is the second-longest streak over that span. And the NFL remains to be buzzing over Brenden Schooler’s blocked subject aim final week, because the Patriots look to dam a kick in back-to-back video games for the primary time since 2017. — Mike Reiss

Stat to know: Jones has thrown 96 passes this season, which leads all quarterbacks by way of two weeks and is the third most by any participant within the crew’s first two video games in franchise historical past (Tom Brady: 100 in 2009, Drew Bledsoe: 98 in 1995).

Matchup X issue: Jets left sort out Duane Brown. His 63% move block win price ranks worst amongst all tackles. He merely has to guard higher for his quarterback to have an opportunity. — Walder

Accidents: Patriots | Jets

What to know for fantasy: With a median of 4.8 yards per goal, the Patriots’ large receiver corps ranks thirty first within the league. New England’s receivers now face a strong Jets cornerback unit. This has the makings of a low-scoring affair. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Seven of Wilson’s previous eight begins have gone underneath the entire. He’s 0-4 outright and ATS in his previous 4 begins. Learn extra.

Moody’s decide: Patriots 14, Jets 13
Walder’s decide: Patriots 20, Jets 14
FPI prediction: NYJ, 54.7% (by a median of 1.7 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Inside Patriots’ thrilling FG block that is ‘going to alter the sport’ … Jets’ slow-starting offensive line vows higher safety for Wilson

1 p.m. ET | Fox | Unfold: JAX -9 (44.5)

Storyline to look at: The Texans’ offensive line is ravaged by accidents, which might make issues tough for rookie QB C.J. Stroud. He hasn’t thrown an interception however has already been sacked 11 instances in two video games. The Jaguars’ protection has compelled six turnovers and sacked opposing quarterbacks six instances in two video games. That may appear to be a recipe for the Jaguars to win back-to-back video games within the sequence for the primary time since 2017. — Michael DiRocco

Daring prediction: Count on the Texans to pressure not less than two turnovers, with a number of sacks, and pull off the upset. Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence is 1-3 towards the Texans and has thrown three landing passes and 6 interceptions. In keeping with NFL Subsequent Gen Stats, the Texans rank fifth within the league in strain price (44%). When Lawrence is pressured, he completes simply 44% of his passes with a ranking of 29. — DJ Bien-Aime

Stat to know: Stroud has 91 move makes an attempt with out an interception. He’s solely 44 makes an attempt shy of reaching the highest 5 longest streaks to start a profession (Dak Prescott 176, Tom Brady 162, Kyle Allen 159, Tua Tagovailoa 153 and Carson Wentz/Desmond Ridder 134).

Matchup X issue: Texans operating again Dameon Pierce. He has 69 speeding yards in two weeks of motion and now could be going through the Jaguars, who’ve the perfect EPA per designed run allowed within the league. Stroud might absolutely use a bit of extra help from the bottom sport. — Walder

Accidents: Texans | Jaguars

What to know for fantasy: Stroud has amassed 626 passing yards in his first two profession begins. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Jaguars are 0-7 ATS of their previous seven video games as house favorites (1-6 outright). Learn extra.

Moody’s decide: Jaguars 27, Texans 17
Walder’s decide: Texans 23, Jaguars 21
FPI prediction: JAX, 71.2% (by a median of seven.9 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Loss overshadows Stroud’s historic day for Texans … Struggling offense ought to concern Jaguars … Texans lose CB Stingley Jr. to hamstring harm

1 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: BAL -8 (45)

Storyline to look at: Lamar Jackson vs. Colts move rush. Indianapolis ranks second within the AFC with eight sacks, together with six final Sunday towards the Texans. Final week, Jackson wasn’t sacked for the primary time since September 2022 and confronted a career-low 9.1% strain price, regardless of lacking injured beginning middle Tyler Linderbaum and left sort out Ronnie Stanley. — Jamison Hensley

Daring prediction: The Colts will maintain the Ravens to fewer than 75 speeding yards regardless of Baltimore’s common of 144 yards by way of two video games. The Colts rank first in speeding protection, permitting simply 2.6 yards per carry coming into Week 3. That is to not say Jackson cannot beat the Colts by way of the air. However an efficient efficiency towards the run will make Baltimore’s offense a bit extra one-dimensional and simpler to defend. — Stephen Holder

Stat to know: Rookie Zay Flowers has 13 receptions in his first two video games, which is greater than twice as a lot as another Ravens participant (all different Baltimore receivers have mixed for 16).

Matchup X issue: Ravens large receiver Nelson Agholor. After Odell Beckham Jr. did not end the Ravens’ Week 2 sport and was held out of form on Wednesday, Agholor would possibly tackle a bigger function. If that’s the case, he is coming off a robust sport through which he caught 5 passes for 63 yards and a landing. — Walder

Accidents: Colts | Ravens

What to know for fantasy: Jackson has the second-highest completion proportion (74.5%) amongst quarterbacks by way of two video games. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Colts’ previous 5 highway video games have gone over the entire. Learn extra.

Moody’s decide: Ravens 33, Colts 17
Walder’s decide: Ravens 23, Colts 20
FPI prediction: BAL, 77.3% (by a median of 10.5 factors)

Matchup must-reads: With Richardson in concussion protocol, QB’s model sparks debate … Jackson’s accuracy has taken the Ravens QB to a different degree

4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | Unfold: SEA -6.5 (42)

Storyline to look at: Bryce Younger missed the primary two days of follow this week with an ankle harm, placing veteran Andy Dalton in line to start out Sunday at Lumen Discipline. The 35-year-old Dalton is not anyplace close to the dynamic risk that Younger is, however he did game-manage the Saints to a victory over Seattle final October. — Brady Henderson

Daring prediction: Dalton will mild up a Seattle protection that ranks thirtieth in passing yards allowed (325 per sport) with 350 yards and three landing passes. That may be big, contemplating Younger (ankle) has mixed for 299 yards passing and two landing passes within the first two video games. Dalton should not have to fret about a lot strain from the Seahawks, who rank twenty ninth in sacks with two. — David Newton

Stat to know: Kenneth Walker III has 4 profession video games with a number of speeding touchdowns, tied for probably the most by a Seahawks participant in his first two seasons in crew historical past (David Sims, Curt Warner, Derrick Fenner).

Matchup X issue: Dalton. I believe he’ll be an improve over Younger within the rookie’s present state — Younger has a 36 QBR in two video games — and that may give Carolina an opportunity. — Walder

Accidents: Panthers | Seahawks

What to know for fantasy: The Panthers have allowed not less than 130 speeding yards in every of their first two video games. The Seahawks’ offensive line ranks seventh in run block win price. On this matchup, Walker would possibly exceed expectations. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Seahawks are 1-6 ATS as a favourite over the previous two seasons, going 0-5 ATS of their previous 5 video games. Learn extra.

Moody’s decide: Seahawks 28, Panthers 17
Walder’s decide: Seahawks 24, Panthers 17
FPI prediction: SEA, 72.5% (by a median of 8.4 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Panthers not anticipating Younger to play vs. Seahawks … Seahawks’ Woolen probably out Sunday

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4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | Unfold: KC -13 (48)

Storyline to look at: First to seven factors wins? It hasn’t been that unhealthy for both crew, however offensively the Chiefs and Bears have been disappointments although two weeks. These groups are tied for twenty second within the league in scoring with 37 factors by way of two video games. Every crew, Kansas Metropolis specifically, has motive to imagine enchancment will come if it could actually cease sloppy offensive play. Nonetheless, the issues have been so widespread for the Chiefs and Bears that it isn’t smart to anticipate an explosive, high-scoring sport. — Adam Teicher

Daring prediction: Patrick Mahomes will toss 5 landing passes towards Chicago, three of which go to tight finish Travis Kelce. Matt Eberflus is again to calling the Bears’ protection after former defensive coordinator Alan Williams’ sudden resignation. Eberflus’ Colts groups held Mahomes to his lowest Complete QBR (56.3) towards any crew he has confronted a number of instances, together with the playoffs. However the Chiefs quarterback is primed for a breakout efficiency towards a Bears protection that has allowed a median of 25.5 offensive factors within the first two video games. — Courtney Cronin

Stat to know: For the reason that begin of final season, 54% of the Chiefs’ receiving yards have come after the catch, the very best price within the league. The Bears rank thirty first in opponent YAC per reception over the identical span.

Matchup X issue: Bears backup left sort out Larry Borom, assuming he will get the decision to exchange the injured Braxton Jones. Jones’ 97% move block win price ranked third amongst tackles, so Borom has spectacular sneakers to fill. — Walder

Accidents: Bears | Chiefs

What to know for fantasy: Justin Fields has been sacked on 11.5% of his dropbacks since coming into the league. Fields has taken 10 sacks to date this season regardless of having the fifth-highest common time to throw. Do not overlook the Chiefs in the event you’re searching for a streamable protection. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Fields is 8-18-1 ATS in his profession, together with 0-3 ATS when getting double digits. Learn extra.

Moody’s decide: Chiefs 33, Bears 13
Walder’s decide: Chiefs 38, Bears 16
FPI prediction: KC, 81.9% (by a median of 12.8 factors)

Matchup must-reads: GM says Bears do not view Fields ‘as a finger pointer’ … Will Mahomes ever be paid what he is price? … Reid says Chiefs ‘can repair’ Taylor’s penalty woes

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Greeny: The Bears are “ruining” Justin Fields

Mike Greenberg goes off on the Chicago Bears, saying the group is incompetent and is “ruining” Justin Fields.

4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | Unfold: DAL -12 (43)

Storyline to look at: The Cardinals have been in a position to get to opposing quarterbacks with relative ease by way of two video games, rating tied for third with 9 sacks. Sunday might be a battle of a top-tier move rush towards a top-tier offensive line, because the Cowboys have allowed only one sack of quarterback Dak Prescott. — Josh Weinfuss

Daring prediction: The Cardinals can have extra possessions with fewer than 20 yards towards the Cowboys than the 9 they’ve had of their first two video games of the season. The Cowboys’ protection has had eight drives in every of their wins, towards the New York Giants and New York Jets, through which they allowed fewer than 20 yards. In 111 snaps, opposing offenses have mixed for 17 negative-yardage performs. At 15.3%, that ranks second within the NFL. — Todd Archer

Stat to know: Prescott will play his one centesimal profession sport towards the Cardinals. He is the one participant in NFL historical past with not less than 150 landing passes and 25 speeding touchdowns in his first 100 video games.

Matchup X issue: Cowboys defensive sort out Osa Odighizuwa. This is one other probability for Odighizuwa to shine: He is at the moment main the league in move rush win price as a defensive sort out (25%). — Walder

Accidents: Cowboys | Cardinals

What to know for fantasy: Dallas has allowed the third-fewest fantasy factors per sport to quarterbacks, the fewest to operating backs and the fewest to large receivers. When you have gamers going through the Cowboys’ protection in your fantasy groups, mood your expectations. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Cardinals are the sixth crew previously 30 seasons to start out 2-0 ATS and 0-2 outright. These groups are 1-4 outright and ATS of their third sport (Falcons received and lined final season). Learn extra.

Moody’s decide: Cowboys 35, Cardinals 10
Walder’s decide: Cowboys 33, Cardinals 3
FPI prediction: DAL, 88.1% (by a median of 16.5 factors)

Matchup must-reads: How Prescott acquired in sync with Cowboys’ receivers … Watkins to endure biceps surgical procedure … Cowboys CB Diggs suffers torn ACL … Cardinals’ offense progresses however wants to complete

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Swagu: Cowboys are nonetheless contenders with out Trevon Diggs

Marcus Spears says the Dallas Cowboys are nonetheless Tremendous Bowl contenders regardless of Trevon Diggs tearing his ACL.

8:20 p.m. ET | NBC | Unfold: LV -2.5 (43)

Storyline to look at: Beat the Raiders within the groups’ first assembly in Las Vegas and Kenny Pickett would be the first Steelers quarterback to win a sport within the Raiders’ house stadium since … Neil O’Donnell again on Dec. 10, 1995 — 2½ years earlier than Pickett was born. The Raiders have received 4 straight house video games towards the Steelers (2006, 2012, 2013, 2018) with 4 totally different QBs (Andrew Walter, Carson Palmer, Terrelle Pryor and Derek Carr) by the common rating of 25-21, beating two-time Tremendous Bowl-winning quarterback Ben Roethlisberger in every of these contests. These video games, although, have been all in Oakland. — Paul Gutierrez

Daring prediction: Josh Jacobs will get his first 100-yard speeding sport of the season. Jacobs averaged almost 100 yards a sport final season, so this prediction does not appear that daring. Nevertheless, within the Week 2 loss to the Buffalo Payments, Jacobs had minus-2 speeding yards on 9 makes an attempt after simply 48 yards every week earlier. Jacobs will get again on monitor this week towards the Steelers, who’ve allowed probably the most rush yards over anticipated (plus-144) of any protection by way of Week 2 since 2018, in line with NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. — Brooke Pryor

Stat to know: Davante Adams has 116 straight video games with a reception, the fifth-longest lively streak within the league, trailing DeAndre Hopkins (147), Travis Kelce (144), Stefon Diggs (121) and Zach Ertz (118).

Matchup X issue: Pickett. The Steelers quarterback was bailed out by the protection in Week 2, however he must be higher for Pittsburgh to succeed going ahead. Pickett has an 18.8 QBR, which ranks final of all qualifying quarterbacks. — Walder

Accidents: Steelers | Raiders

What to know for fantasy: This season, the Raiders have allowed the third-most fantasy factors per sport to operating backs. To ensure that Pittsburgh operating backs to capitalize on this pattern, its offensive line should carry out higher. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Mike Tomlin is 2-6 ATS in his profession towards the Raiders. He’s 3-5 outright, all as a favourite. Learn extra.

Moody’s decide: Steelers 24, Raiders 21
Walder’s decide: Raiders 27, Steelers 16
FPI prediction: LV, 50.8% (by a median of 0.4 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Fitzpatrick on Chubb hit: ‘I am not a unclean participant’ … Adams criticizes ‘uncontrolled’ security Rapp … Can Pickens assist save the Steelers’ offense? … Two video games, one goal: Renfrow making an attempt to make sense of Raiders function

Monday, 7:15 p.m. ET | ABC/ESPN+ | Unfold: PHI -5 (46)

Storyline to look at: Nearly nobody noticed the Bucs beginning the season off 2-0, however their matchup with the defending NFC champions would be the solely battle of unbeatens in Week 3. With the league’s prime two run-stopping models, plus defenses which have a mixed 12.0 sacks and 11 takeaways, you get the sensation this one will come right down to who can defend their quarterback higher. — Jenna Laine

Daring prediction: Mike Evans will discover the top zone twice. He’s coming off a monster six-catch, 171-yard efficiency towards the Bears, and now faces a banged-up Eagles secondary that simply misplaced slot nook Avonte Maddox for the 12 months with a torn pec. Mario Goodrich acquired his first motion as a professional in his place. It is a protected wager the Bucs will line Evans up inside to attempt to make the most of Maddox’s absence. — Tim McManus

Stat to know: DeVonta Smith and A.J. Brown symbolize 79% of the Eagles’ receiving yards, 59% of the targets and 55% of the receptions this season (highest proportion of a crew’s receiving yards by a duo this season).

Matchup X issue: Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield. He has confronted the bottom price of sunshine containers (tougher to throw towards) within the league, and I believe that may change this week if Tampa Bay falls behind. — Walder

Accidents: Eagles | Buccaneers

What to know for fantasy: Evans and Chris Godwin are a gifted and versatile large receiver duo, and Tampa Bay ought to rely closely on them. The Eagles at the moment rank thirty first within the league in move protection, permitting 326 yards per sport. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Mayfield is 3-0 ATS in his previous three begins and 5-2 ATS in his previous seven begins. Learn extra.

Moody’s decide: Eagles 27, Buccaneers 17
Walder’s decide: Eagles 30, Buccaneers 10
FPI prediction: PHI, 69.6% (by a median of seven.2 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Assessments affirm Maddox tore his pectoral muscle … Bucs WR Mike Evans’ large day prompts on-line pattern … Buccaneers’ Shaq Barrett dedicates pick-six to late daughter

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Why fantasy managers ought to begin A. J. Brown in Week 3

Liz Loza expects A. J. Brown to submit sturdy fantasy numbers in Week 3.

Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ESPN | Unfold: CIN -3 (44)

Storyline to look at: Will Joe Burrow be accessible on Sunday? The Cincinnati QB is day-to-day as he continues to get better from a strained proper calf that he reinjured in Week 2. Whether or not it is Burrow or backup QB Jake Browning, the Bengals’ offense that ranks final in whole yards per sport (212.0) will face a Rams protection that ranks sixth within the NFL in whole yards allowed per sport (272.5) this season. — Ben Child

Daring prediction: No matter who’s at quarterback for the Bengals, Aaron Donald will make the most of Cincinnati’s inside offensive line with two sacks Monday evening. Though it is a new mixture of guard-center-guard for the Bengals, the group has struggled to guard the quarterback, rating thirty first in move block win price amongst inside offensive traces for the reason that begin of the 2022 season. Donald leads all inside defenders (with 100 inside pass-rush performs with win or loss) in move rush win price over that very same span. — Sarah Barshop

Stat to know: Matthew Stafford’s 93 move makes an attempt this season rank second within the NFL behind Mac Jones (96). Stafford would wish to throw 41 instances to tie his profession excessive for many move makes an attempt by way of his crew’s first three video games of a season (135 in 2018 with the Lions).

Matchup X issue: Bengals cornerbacks Cam Taylor-Britt and Chidobe Awuzie. Can anybody cease rookie star receiver Puka Nacua? Taylor-Britt and Awuzie would be the newest to strive. — Walder

Accidents: Rams | Bengals

What to know for fantasy: With Akers gone, RB Kyren Williams might simply be a must-start. In final week’s sport towards the 49ers, Williams performed 96% of the offensive snaps and had 20 touches. The Bengals rank thirty first in speeding yards allowed to date this season, which ought to give Williams room to work. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Bengals are 9-3 ATS of their previous 12 video games as a favourite. Learn extra.

Moody’s decide: Bengals 26, Rams 23
Walder’s decide: Rams 26, Bengals 20
FPI prediction: CIN, 65.3% (by a median of 5.5 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Meet Rams sensation Nacua … Burrow ‘day-to-day’ after tweaking calf harm in loss to Ravens