The NFL’s 100th season is upon us. The only way to celebrate is with picks of each Week 1 game, some of which will be immediately regrettable.
All lines courtesy of OddsShark.
Green Bay Packers at Chicago Bears (-3)
Terrific and fitting game to kick off the season. Last year, the Bears took a 20-0 lead on Sunday Night Football against the Packers, only to lose in the waning seconds. This time, it’s a much tighter affair throughout, with the Bears winning on a last-second field goal. Oh, the drama.
Pick: Chicago 22, Green Bay 20
Atlanta Falcons at Minnesota Vikings (-3.5)
Both these teams are Super Bowl contenders. Minnesota and Atlanta are attempting to bounce back from disappointing campaigns. If they stay healthy, it should happen. As for this game, take the home team.
Pick: Minnesota 27, Atlanta 24
Baltimore Ravens (-6.5) at Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins should replace their current logo with a tank. If Baltimore loses this game, it likely foreshadows a long season to come. In the much-improved AFC North, this is a must-have for the Ravens.
Pick: Baltimore 19, Miami 14
Buffalo Bills at New York Jets (-3)
The Jets and Bills are both improved. Buffalo is good defensively, while New York should be better offensively. Ultimately, give me Sam Darnold over Josh Allen, especially at home.
Pick: New York 23, Buffalo 19