NFL Week 3 sport information: Matchup keys, predictions and rating picks for each sport

The Week 3 NFL schedule for the 2024 season is stacked with nice matchups, and we have got you coated with what you must know heading into the weekend.

Our NFL Nation reporters deliver us the largest keys to each sport, and analytics author Seth Walder makes a daring prediction for every matchup. The ESPN Analysis crew supplies a giant stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest, whereas our Soccer Energy Index (FPI) goes contained in the numbers with a sport projection. Fantasy analyst Eric Moody finds fantasy soccer X components, and three analysts — Kalyn Kahler, Moody and Walder — give us ultimate rating picks for each sport. The whole lot you need to know is right here in a single spot that will help you prepare for a loaded weekend of NFL soccer.

Let’s get into the total Week 3 slate, together with the surging Vikings internet hosting the Texans and the Ravens dealing with the Cowboys in Dallas. All of it culminates with a pair of “Monday Evening Soccer” matchups — the Jaguars go to the Payments (7:30 p.m. ET) on ESPN and the Commanders tackle the Bengals (8:15 p.m. ET) on ABC/ESPN+. (Sport occasions are Sunday except in any other case famous.)

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

Thursday: NYJ 24, NE 3

1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: CLE -6.5 (38.5 O/U)

Giants storyline to look at: The Giants are attempting to keep away from beginning 0-3 for the fifth time previously 12 years. New York completed 7-9 in 2013, 3-13 in 2017, 6-10 in 2020 and 4-13 in 2021. It is vital for this locker room to really feel optimistic vibes earlier than it is too late. Gamers are sad with the shedding occurring proper now. “Personally I am pissed as a result of I hate shedding with a ardour,” defensive lineman and captain Dexter Lawrence II stated. — Jordan Raanan

Browns storyline to look at: The Browns’ offense confirmed indicators of enchancment within the Week 2 win over the Jaguars, so can the unit get away in opposition to a struggling Giants protection Sunday too? New York has given up a league-worst 20 explosive performs, whereas the Browns have produced 9 explosive performs by two video games (tied for twenty second within the league). — Daniel Oyefusi

Stat to know: Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has gone 14 straight video games with out throwing for 300-plus passing yards, the longest streak of his profession (he has not thrown for 300 yards since becoming a member of the Browns in 2022) and the second-longest energetic streak within the NFL behind solely Aaron Rodgers (24).

Daring prediction: Giants huge receiver Darius Slayton will catch a 30-plus-yard move. Slayton has run vertical routes 56% of the time (second most amongst qualifying huge receivers) this season, and the Browns have run the least quantity of two-high protection of any crew. — Walder

Accidents: Giants | Browns

Fantasy X issue: Giants huge receiver Wan’Dale Robinson. Robinson has firmly established himself because the No. 2 receiver for New York. Malik Nabers made headlines together with his 18 targets in opposition to the Commanders, essentially the most for a rookie since Puka Nacua’s 20 in Week 2 final season. Nevertheless, Nabers faces a tricky matchup in Week 3 in opposition to Browns CB Denzel Ward. This might lead QB Daniel Jones to deal with Robinson, who excels in area and is adept at gaining yards after contact. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Browns are 6-1 ATS of their previous seven residence video games. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Giants 21, Browns 17
Moody’s choose: Browns 20, Giants 13
Walder’s choose: Browns 19, Giants 16
FPI prediction: CLE, 64.7% (by a median of 6 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Hyatt: ‘My probability will come and when it comes I will likely be prepared.’ … Njoku set to overlook second straight sport … Browns’ offense went larger — and acquired higher — in Week 2 win

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1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: TEN -2 (37.5 O/U)

Packers storyline to look at: Even when Packers QB Jordan Love returns from his knee harm, anticipate RB Josh Jacobs to be a giant a part of the offensive plan once more. He topped 100 yards from scrimmage in every of the primary two video games, and with one other, he’d be the primary Packers working again with 100-plus yards from scrimmage within the first three video games of a season since Ahman Inexperienced in 2004. The Packers imagine they’ve a high-volume again in Jacobs. “It is at all times luxurious, particularly if they’ll deal with it,” working backs coach Ben Sirmans stated. “He is confirmed to be that sort of man.” — Rob Demovsky

Titans storyline to look at: Turnovers proceed to be a misplaced treasure for the Titans even with new defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson’s emphasis on them. The Titans’ protection has not gotten a takeaway within the first two video games. Tennessee’s minus-4 turnover differential is lifeless final within the league, whereas the Packers are on prime with a plus-4 differential. The Titans’ protection spent plenty of time on ball disruption drills in follow this week. “The factor with takeaways, it is about your method, it is about inhabitants to the ball and being violent on the level of a contact,” Wilson stated. “If you wish to be protection within the league, you bought to take the ball away.” — Turron Davenport

Stat to know: Titans huge receiver DeAndre Hopkins has at the least one reception in 164 straight video games performed, which is the longest energetic streak within the NFL.

Daring prediction: The Packers will common underneath 4.0 yards per working again carry. I am not satisfied that the tremendous run-heavy method with Malik Willis at quarterback will work the second time round. — Walder

Accidents: Packers | Titans

Fantasy X issue: Titans working again Tony Pollard. Sure, I am rolling with Pollard for the second week in a row, however hear me out. He is going up in opposition to a Packers protection that gave up 33.2 fantasy factors to Saquon Barkley in Week 1 and 15.5 to Jonathan Taylor in Week 2. Pollard has had 19-plus touches in back-to-back video games. In the meantime, Titans QB Will Levis has made two game-clinching errors in consecutive weeks. Pollard has severe top-10 potential in Week 3. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The underneath has hit in all 4 of Willis’ profession begins (he is 3-1 ATS). Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Packers 17, Titans 15
Moody’s choose: Packers 21, Titans 14
Walder’s choose: Titans 22, Packers 19
FPI prediction: GB, 54.2% (by a median of 1.4 factors)

Matchup must-reads: How Jacobs carried Packers to victory with out Love … Titans coach does not remorse ’emotions’ after viral criticism of Levis

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1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: IND -1.5 (43.5 O/U)

Bears storyline to look at: The Bears have a first-rate alternative to ignite their nonexistent run sport in opposition to a Colts protection that has allowed a league-most 237 speeding yards per sport by two weeks. Outdoors of QB Caleb Williams’ 44 speeding yards, yards that have been principally gained on scrambles in opposition to the Texans, all different Bears rushers averaged 1.6 yards per carry. The emphasis on establishing the run is paramount for Chicago’s offense in organising play-action alternatives to ignite the rhythm that was lacking in Weeks 1 and a pair of. — Courtney Cronin

Colts storyline to look at: Colts QB Anthony Richardson has been constantly aggressive by two video games, with various success. His 49.1% completion fee is final amongst starters, however he has a league-high 13.7 air yards per try. This could possibly be a good matchup for Richardson contemplating the Chicago protection has allowed a league-high 12 explosive move completions in two weeks. — Stephen Holder

Stat to know: Taylor’s 41 profession speeding touchdowns is one shy of matching Marshall Faulk for fourth on the franchise’s profession checklist.

Daring prediction: Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson will file an interception. Johnson has picked up the place he left off — with simply 0.3 yards per protection snap allowed, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats — and Richardson has a minus-10% completion proportion over expectation. — Walder

Accidents: Bears | Colts

Fantasy X issue: Bears working again D’Andre Swift. It has been a tricky begin to Williams’ rookie season, with underneath 10 fantasy factors in every of his first two video games. The Bears’ offensive line has struggled to guard him. A robust working sport might take a few of that strain off the quarterback, and Week 3 is an ideal probability to get it going. The Colts’ protection has been susceptible on the bottom, giving up 159 speeding yards to Joe Mixon in Week 1 and 155 to Jacobs in Week 2. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Bears’ previous 4 highway video games went underneath the full. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Colts 21, Bears 14
Moody’s choose: Colts 24, Bears 17
Walder’s choose: Bears 24, Colts 20
FPI prediction: IND, 52.7% (by a median of 1.1 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Moore regrets exhibiting feelings in loss to Texans … Offensive struggles abound for Colts, Richardson … Bears’ OL has Williams feeling bruised up

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1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: HOU -2 (46.5 O/U)

Texans storyline to look at: The Texans’ offense will face a Vikings protection that blitzes on the sixth-highest fee within the NFL. However Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud has a passer score of 117 in opposition to the blitz by two weeks. The battle between the blitz will likely be a key consider who wins in Week 3. — DJ Bien-Aime

Vikings storyline to look at: The Texans (12.5%) and Vikings (11.8%) lead the NFL in sacks per dropbacks after swapping key members of their move defenses this offseason. Houston signed longtime Vikings linebacker Danielle Hunter, whereas the Vikings signed the Texans’ Jonathan Greenard and Blake Cashman. The Vikings additionally used leftover cap area to signal linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel from Miami. In complete, Minnesota devoted $13.3 million in 2024 cap area to its new trio — slightly below Hunter’s $13.7 million determine in Houston. The crew’s change of draft picks in March, in the meantime, allowed the Vikings to maneuver for rookie move rusher Dallas Turner. — Kevin Seifert

Stat to know: Vikings QB Sam Darnold has thrown two passing touchdowns in every of the primary two video games of this season. He has by no means had a number of TD passes in three consecutive video games in his profession.

Daring prediction: Texans defensive finish Will Anderson Jr. can have a multisack sport. He is off to a torrid begin in move rush win fee (31%, seventh finest) and has a 48% probability to get at the least 1.0 sacks — ninth highest this week — in line with my sack mannequin. Even for all his success this 12 months, Darnold nonetheless is taking sacks at a strong 7% clip, which is round a median mark. — Walder

Accidents: Texans | Vikings

Fantasy X issue: Texans huge receiver Stefon Diggs. Diggs returns to Minnesota after the Vikings traded him following the 2019 season. He confronted the Vikings when he performed for the Payments in the course of the 2022 season, and he had 12 receptions for 128 yards. To date this season, he has solely 70 receiving yards, however Diggs ranks second on the Texans with 12 targets. I am shopping for into the revenge sport narrative and anticipate Stroud to focus on him extra in his homecoming. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Texans are 1-4 ATS in September underneath coach DeMeco Ryans. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Vikings 23, Texans 21
Moody’s choose: Texans 26, Vikings 23
Walder’s choose: Texans 24, Vikings 17
FPI prediction: HOU, 54.2% (by a median of 1.7 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Stroud explains postgame interplay with Williams … Darnold now not letting errors snowball? … Ryans: Sort out that injured Mixon ‘undoubtedly’ hip-drop

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1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: NO -2.5 (49.5 O/U)

Eagles storyline to look at: The Eagles’ protection is among the many worst within the league by two video games in various statistical classes. They rank final in yards allowed per rush (6.4), thirtieth in strain proportion (24%) and thirty first in yards per play allowed (6.9). Now they tackle a Saints crew that has scored 91 factors by two video games, together with 44 in opposition to a decent Cowboys protection in Week 2. If defensive coordinator Vic Fangio’s group does not discover a strategy to stabilize, issues might get ugly. — Tim McManus

Saints storyline to look at: The Saints struggled with opposing cellular quarterbacks in 2023, permitting 5.4 yards per carry, which ranked final within the league. Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is tied for twenty fourth amongst all rushers this 12 months, speeding for 4.5 yards per carry. This would be the first large take a look at of 2024 for New Orleans, seeing whether or not it might probably include Hurts, who had greater than 140 speeding yards in every sport in opposition to the Saints when he performed them in 2020 and 2021. — Katherine Terrell

Stat to know: Hurts is one speeding landing shy of tying Steve Younger for third most by a QB in NFL historical past.

Daring prediction: Saints quarterback Derek Carr will try at the least 33 passes — 10 greater than essentially the most he has tried in a sport this season. Though New Orleans has had a run-heavy method — as a result of it desires to and it has been successful — benefiting from its passing effectivity in opposition to an Eagles crew that struggles with pressuring the quarterback will likely be a possibility it’s going to need to benefit from. Plus, I anticipate this to be an in depth sport. — Walder

Accidents: Eagles | Saints

Fantasy X issue: Eagles tight finish Dallas Goedert. Large receiver A.J. Brown’s (hamstring) absence opens the door for extra targets for DeVonta Smith, however do not sleep on Goedert. He had solely 4 targets and 6.8 fantasy factors in Week 2, however he has been taking part in plenty of snaps and ran as many routes as Smith. The Saints gave up six catches and 10.3 fantasy factors to Cowboys tight finish Luke Schoonmaker final week. Goedert might do higher, particularly in a matchup with one of many highest level totals on the slate. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Saints have coated their two spreads by a median of 32.5 factors per sport, the best common cowl margin by two video games within the Tremendous Bowl period. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Eagles 34, Saints 31
Moody’s choose: Saints 27, Eagles 21
Walder’s choose: Saints 30, Eagles 28
FPI prediction: NO, 50.9% (by a median of 0.7 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Kelce is gone, but the tush push stays — will it nonetheless succeed? … How Carr’s offseason reset helped the Saints begin sturdy

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1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: PIT -1.5 (35.5 O/U)

Chargers storyline to look at: The Chargers have the NFL’s main rusher in J.Ok. Dobbins, who has 266 yards and is averaging 9.9 yards per carry. Nevertheless, the Steelers have been one of many NFL’s finest in opposition to the run, permitting simply 153 yards by two video games, the fourth least within the league. “Let’s discover out what we’re manufactured from,” coach Jim Harbaugh stated. — Kris Rhim

Steelers storyline to look at: With quarterback Russell Wilson nonetheless sidelined by his lingering calf harm, the Steelers are rolling with Justin Fields for the third straight week, and he’ll be protected by rookie first-round choose Troy Fautanu, making his second profession begin after unseating 2023 first-round choose Broderick Jones at proper sort out. Fautanu and left sort out Dan Moore Jr. can have their fingers full in opposition to one of many league’s finest move rush tandems in Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack — plus a Chargers protection that has allowed a league-best 6.5 factors per sport within the first two weeks. — Brooke Pryor

Stat to know: Chargers QB Justin Herbert has thrown underneath 200 passing yards in three consecutive video games relationship again to final season; that is the longest such streak of his profession and the longest by a Chargers QB since Philip Rivers in 2012 (4).

Daring prediction: Fields will throw two or extra interceptions. I might see the Chargers shocking the Steelers by leaning on the passing sport early and letting Herbert construct a lead. Then as soon as they pressure the Steelers into pass-heavy conditions, the Chargers’ protection will take benefit. — Walder

Accidents: Chargers | Steelers

Fantasy X issue: Steelers huge receiver George Pickens. Pickens and Fields are beginning to hit their stride, and I believe we’ll see it actually come collectively in Week 3. Pickens scored solely 4.9 fantasy factors in opposition to the Broncos in Week 2, however he had a 51-yard catch and a landing taken away by penalties. Regardless of that, he leads Pittsburgh in targets, receiving yards and air yards. Pickens is primed for a breakout sport in opposition to the Chargers, and fantasy managers would possibly get the efficiency they have been ready for. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Steelers have coated 4 straight September video games (2-0 ATS this season). Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Chargers 21, Steelers 13
Moody’s choose: Steelers 20, Chargers 19
Walder’s choose: Chargers 26, Steelers 16
FPI prediction: LAC, 51.4% (by a median of 1 level)

Matchup must-reads: Chargers’ much-debated shift to run-first offense is working … What’s working — and what is not — for Fields

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1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: TB -6.5 (40.5 O/U)

Broncos storyline to look at: The Broncos’ offense needs to be greater than decorative to assist the crew keep away from an 0-3 begin, which is able to contain looking for a contented medium for rookie QB Bo Nix. Nix ended Week 2 with 88 dropbacks, third highest within the league, and the Broncos have struggled to guard him at occasions inside that prime quantity of passing playcalls. Defending Nix will likely be much more tough Sunday, as proper sort out Mike McGlinchey (knee) went to injured reserve this week, forcing Alex Palczewski to make his first begin. — Jeff Legwold

Buccaneers storyline to look at: The Bucs are with out a number of key gamers in defensive tackles Calijah Kancey (calf) and Vita Vea (knee), All-Professional security Antoine Winfield Jr. (foot), and proper sort out Luke Goedeke (concussion). With Lions DE Aidan Hutchinson gathering 4.5 sacks final week, Justin Skule and that proper facet of the offensive line could possibly be in for an additional lengthy week. — Jenna Laine

Stat to know: Nix has a 35% completion proportion, 1.3 yards per try, 0-3 touchdown-to-interception ratio when pressured this season (the Bucs have blitzed the second most within the NFL this season).

Daring prediction: Bucs CB Zyon McCollum will permit zero receptions on not more than three targets. By way of two weeks, McCollum ranks second amongst outdoors corners with simply 0.3 yards per protection snap allowed (min. 50 protection snaps) and has been focused simply 10% of the time (third least), per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. — Walder

Accidents: Broncos | Buccaneers

Fantasy X issue: Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield. The Broncos are a middle-of-the-road protection relating to fantasy factors allowed per sport to quarterbacks. Geno Smith put up 17.8 fantasy factors in Week 2, however I anticipate Mayfield to surpass that. Mayfield has scored 19 or extra fantasy factors in every of his previous two video games and will likely be concentrating on WR Chris Godwin. Godwin ought to have a powerful sport in opposition to Broncos slot CB Ja’Quan McMillian. These are the 2 key X components to look at for on this matchup. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Underdogs of at the least six factors are 8-0 ATS this season. Underdogs of at the least seven factors are 3-0 outright. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Buccaneers 28, Broncos 17
Moody’s choose: Buccaneers 27, Broncos 14
Walder’s choose: Buccaneers 20, Broncos 16
FPI prediction: TB, 69% (by a median of seven.9 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Payton shouldering blame for Broncos’ floundering offense … Can the Bucs go 3-0 for the primary time since 2005? … Vea has MCL sprain; will likely be ‘day-to-day’

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4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: LV -5 (39.5 O/U)

Panthers storyline to look at: The Panthers have much more issues than the benching of QB Bryce Younger in favor of veteran Andy Dalton. As depressing as Younger and the offense have been, with just one landing and 13 factors in two video games, the protection performed poorly as nicely, giving up 73 factors. That unit has been significantly unhealthy in opposition to the run. Carolina has allowed 199.5 yards speeding per sport, which ranks thirty first within the NFL. The excellent news for the Panthers is that the Raiders rank thirty second in speeding with 49 yards per sport. — David Newton

Raiders storyline to look at: Rookie tight finish Brock Bowers has already set himself up as QB Gardner Minshew’s midrange safety blanket, and little ought to change in opposition to the Panthers. Carolina has surrendered a mixed 10 catches for 103 yards and two TDs to opposing tight ends. Bowers has set a file for many catches (15) and most receiving yards (156) by a rookie tight finish in his first two NFL video games. — Paul Gutierrez

Stat to know: Dalton made one begin for the Panthers final season, throwing for 361 yards on 34 completions (tied for second most in franchise historical past).

Daring prediction: Panthers WR Diontae Johnson will file 80-plus receiving yards. I had excessive hopes for Johnson this season — and I am throwing the primary two disastrous weeks with Younger out the window (5 receptions for 34 yards). I believe Johnson can thrive on this offense: His go routes and deep fades have been minimize in additional than half from Pittsburgh (18% to eight%), which is an efficient factor for such route runner like him. Now that he has Dalton throwing to him, I believe we’ll see the outcomes. — Walder

Accidents: Panthers | Raiders

Fantasy X issue: Raiders working again Zamir White. Coach Antonio Pierce has made it clear that he desires to repair the Raiders’ run sport. It is a lot wanted since they’re final in speeding yards per sport. Due to that, they have been pressured to depend on the passing sport, which has already led to 9 sacks this season. This week is a good probability for White and the offensive line to step up. They’re dealing with a Panthers protection that ranks final in run cease win fee (25.5%). Carolina gave up 22.0 fantasy factors to Alvin Kamara in Week 1 and 20.1 to Dobbins in Week 2. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Panthers are 2-8 ATS on the highway over the previous two seasons (0-10 outright). Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Panthers 21, Raiders 20
Moody’s choose: Raiders 28, Panthers 16
Walder’s choose: Panthers 26, Raiders 20
FPI prediction: LV, 62.3% (by a median of 4.9 factors)

Matchup must-reads: What Dalton brings to Panthers rather than Younger … How a Lamar Jackson interception righted the Raiders … What benching Younger for Dalton means for Panthers

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4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: SEA -4 (41.5 O/U)

Dolphins storyline to look at: Miami has the receivers to raise QB Skylar Thompson — who is about to begin rather than Tua Tagovailoa (concussion) — even in a tough highway begin. Nevertheless, the Dolphins have struggled to get their passing sport going with out Tagovailoa on the helm. Within the two video games Thompson has began and completed, neither Jaylen Waddle (eight catches, 88 yards) nor Tyreek Hill (9 catches, 92 yards) made an impression. If Seattle sells out to cease De’Von Achane and the Dolphins’ run sport, Thompson & Co. might want to make their opponent pay by the air. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

Seahawks storyline to look at: With Thompson in at quarterback for the Dolphins, the Seahawks’ iffy run protection will seemingly get examined. It was glorious in Week 1, holding Denver’s working backs to solely 2.6 yards per carry. However in opposition to New England, Seattle allowed 185 speeding yards, a quantity that “makes you sick to your abdomen,” coach Mike Macdonald stated. — Brady Henderson

Stat to know: Since Tagovailoa’s rookie season in 2020, the Dolphins are 33-20 in video games that Tagovailoa began and 7-9 in video games began by all different QBs.

Daring prediction: The Seahawks will file a defensive landing. The Seahawks’ protection has ranked fourth finest in EPA allowed per dropback, and I am skeptical Thompson will not make a giant mistake in some unspecified time in the future. — Walder

Accidents: Dolphins | Seahawks

Fantasy X issue: Seahawks huge receiver DK Metcalf. He had an enormous sport in opposition to the Patriots in Week 2 regardless of a tricky matchup with cornerback Christian Gonzalez. Metcalf noticed 14 targets and racked up 28.9 fantasy factors. He is arrange for an additional large efficiency in opposition to a Dolphins secondary that is had hassle with speedy receivers. Miami’s protection has some strong veterans, however till its rookie move rushers step up, it is going to battle to strain quarterbacks. QB Geno Smith ought to have the ability to benefit from that. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Seahawks are 0-4 ATS of their previous 4 video games as a favourite (0-2 ATS this season). Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Seahawks 24, Dolphins 14
Moody’s choose: Seahawks 24, Dolphins 21
Walder’s choose: Seahawks 27, Dolphins 10
FPI prediction: SEA, 66.9% (by a median of 6.8 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Dolphins place Tua on IR after newest concussion … QB Smith places 2-0 Seahawks ‘on his again’ … What to learn about Tua’s concussion, IR designation — and what’s subsequent

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4:05 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: BAL -1 (48.5 O/U)

Ravens storyline to look at: Baltimore desires extra effectivity out of its offense, which ranks first in complete yards per sport (417.5) however simply 14th in factors (21.5). The Ravens have an opportunity to get on monitor in opposition to the Cowboys, who’ve allowed 92 factors of their previous two residence video games, essentially the most over a two-game span at residence since 1960. — Jamison Hensley

Cowboys storyline to look at: Coming off a sport during which the Cowboys allowed 190 speeding yards to New Orleans, it won’t be week for Dallas’ run protection to see Derrick Henry and QB Lamar Jackson. Final week in opposition to the Raiders, Henry had 79 of his 84 yards speeding within the second half, and Jackson had a 25-yard run within the fourth quarter. Nevertheless, since 2021, the Cowboys are 12-2 after a loss. Dallas hasn’t misplaced two straight residence video games in the identical season since 2020, coach Mike McCarthy’s first 12 months. — Todd Archer

Stat to know: The Cowboys are 1-5 all-time in opposition to the Ravens, their worst file in opposition to any opponent in franchise historical past.

Daring prediction: Henry will file his first 100-plus-yard speeding sport as a Raven … in a loss. Dallas ranks final in EPA designed carry and that may harm right here, however I am choosing QB Dak Prescott and Dallas to win by the air in additional time. — Walder

Accidents: Ravens | Cowboys

Fantasy X issue: Cowboys huge receiver CeeDee Lamb. He’s in a great place this week. Prescott and Lamb will seemingly goal the Ravens’ secondary, which has struggled this season by giving up essentially the most receiving yards within the league (576). Lamb has accrued seven or extra targets and scored 13 or extra fantasy factors in back-to-back video games. He might simply prime these numbers in opposition to the Ravens. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Cowboys are 7-1 ATS as residence underdogs since 2018 (4-1 ATS underneath McCarthy). Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Cowboys 33, Ravens 30
Moody’s choose: Ravens 30, Cowboys 28
Walder’s choose: Cowboys 29, Ravens 23
FPI prediction: BAL, 53.6% (by a median of 1.3 factors)

Matchup must-reads: A have a look at the Ravens’ early struggles … Will we see a 70-yarder from Cowboys Ok Aubrey? … Cowboys’ protection nonetheless cannot sluggish Shanahan teaching disciples

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4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: SF -7 (44.5 O/U)

49ers storyline to look at: Each groups are coping with vital accidents with the Rams lacking their two finest receivers (Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua) and the Niners with out their two most versatile offensive threats (RB Christian McCaffrey and WR Deebo Samuel Sr.). That places the onus on the quarterbacks to select up the slack with the Rams’ Matthew Stafford making an attempt to beat his historical past in opposition to the Niners (he is 1-8 in 9 profession begins in opposition to San Francisco) and the Niners’ Brock Purdy trying to maintain historical past on his facet (together with playoffs, he is 8-0 in opposition to NFC West opponents). — Nick Wagoner

Rams storyline to look at: Niners coach Kyle Shanahan is 10-4 in opposition to coach Sean McVay and the Rams in the course of the common season. If San Francisco wins on Sunday, Shanahan will get his eleventh win in opposition to McVay, which is essentially the most by any coach in opposition to one other coach for the reason that two took over in 2017, in line with ESPN Analysis. The Rams received their final matchup in Week 18 of final season, but it surely was a sport during which each groups have been resting key starters to arrange for the playoffs. — Sarah Barshop

Stat to know: Since ESPN launched Complete QBR in 2006, there have been 145 QBs to begin at the least 5 divisional video games. Purdy has the second-highest QBR of any these QBs, trailing solely Peyton Manning.

Daring prediction: Rams rookie linebacker Jared Verse will sack Purdy, regardless of the seemingly sport script. I am shopping for all of the Verse inventory there may be proper now — he is ninth in move rush win fee at edge — and Purdy has taken sacks at an obscene 10.5% fee this 12 months. — Walder

Accidents: 49ers | Rams

Fantasy X issue: 49ers huge receiver Brandon Aiyuk. He has had a sluggish begin this season, partly because of holding out throughout coaching camp and the preseason. Nevertheless, he is up in opposition to a Rams protection that has surrendered essentially the most yards to huge receivers. In Weeks 1 and a pair of, Jameson Williams (24.4 factors) and Marvin Harrison Jr. (29.0 factors) delivered epic fantasy performances in opposition to the Rams. With Samuel sidelined, Aiyuk ought to see loads of targets. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The 49ers are 9-3 ATS in division video games since 2022. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: 49ers 28, Rams 17
Moody’s choose: 49ers 34, Rams 19
Walder’s choose: 49ers 30, Rams 17
FPI prediction: SF, 63.9% (by a median of 5.3 factors)

Matchup must-reads: 49ers Purdy’s management abilities will likely be put to check … Can Rams pull out of 2-0 gap with an injury-ravaged roster? … What 49ers miss most about McCaffrey on offense

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4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: DET -3 (51.5 O/U)

Lions storyline to look at: Professional Bowl TE Sam LaPorta has gotten off to a sluggish begin in 12 months 2 after hurting his hamstring throughout coaching camp, however Lions QB Jared Goff stated he’s planning to get him extra concerned. “His touches will come, I do know he is aware of that, and it is only a matter of time,” Goff stated. LaPorta has simply six catches for 58 yards by the primary two video games. — Eric Woodyard

Cardinals storyline to look at: The Cardinals are ranked second within the league in scoring, averaging 34.5 factors of their two video games after placing up 41 on Sunday in a win over the Rams, however the Lions are giving up 20 factors per sport to this point. Detroit is stout in opposition to the run, giving up 76.5 yards on the bottom and three.3 yards per carry, each ranked fourth within the league. In the meantime Arizona is fourth in speeding yards per sport this season and fifth in speeding yards per play. Whereas the bottom assaults duke it out, Marvin Harrison Jr. will search for a second straight 100-yard sport. — Josh Weinfuss

Stat to know: Harrison’s 130 receiving yards within the first quarter final week have been greater than his father had in a complete sport as a rookie with the Colts in 1996.

Daring prediction: Goff will lead the league in QBR in Week 3. It is a tiny pattern, however quarterbacks dealing with Arizona have the third-best QBR this season — we all know what Goff is able to on this offense, though he has solely a 37 (!) QBR to this point this season. — Walder

Accidents: Lions | Cardinals

Fantasy X issue: Lions working again David Montgomery. Montgomery is in an excellent spot this week in opposition to the Cardinals. The sport is anticipated to be high-scoring with some extent complete of over 50. A slim unfold additionally suggests it’s going to be an in depth, aggressive matchup. Montgomery has had 15-plus touches and 16-plus fantasy factors in two straight video games. Behind the Lions’ sturdy offensive line, he ought to hold thriving. He additionally has scored 15 speeding touchdowns in his previous 16 regular-season video games with Detroit. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Cardinals QB Kyler Murray is 26-15-1 ATS in his profession as an underdog. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Cardinals 31, Lions 28
Moody’s choose: Lions 34, Cardinals 30
Walder’s choose: Lions 40, Cardinals 31
FPI prediction: DET, 49.9% (by a median of 0.2 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Campbell owns as much as clock gaffe vs. Bucs, seems forward … The growing relationship between Murray and Harrison … Lions WR St. Brown avoids severe harm in Bucs loss

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8:20 p.m. ET | NBC/Peacock | ESPN BET: KC -3.5 (46.5 O/U)

Chiefs storyline to look at: Quarterback Kirk Cousins and the Falcons’ passing sport have been lower than stellar to date this season, however is that this their time for a breakout sport? The Chiefs have struggled to defend the move, having allowed extra yards per sport (256.5) than all however the Ravens. Cornerback play apart from Trent McDuffie has been inconsistent, and the move rush, apart from a key strip sack and landing return final week, has additionally been spotty. — Adam Teicher

Falcons storyline to look at: The Falcons’ secondary has given up the seventh-fewest passing yards (339) within the league taking part in zone protection 76% of the time underneath new defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake. Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes has feasted on zones — he has essentially the most yards (16,486) and passing touchdowns (75) in opposition to them within the NFL since 2018. The Falcons have not been capable of successfully get strain on quarterbacks, both, so it could possibly be a difficult day for his or her protection. — Marc Raimondi

Stat to know: Mahomes can set a file for essentially the most wins in his first 100 begins Sunday. He is making his 99th profession begin and his 76 wins are tied with Tom Brady and Roger Staubach for essentially the most by quarterback since 1950.

Daring prediction: Chiefs will win by 14 or extra factors. Cousins’ ultimate drive in opposition to the Eagles was magnificent, however I do not suppose we must always neglect the remainder of the sport. Add in a brief week and the energy of Kansas Metropolis, and I believe this one will not be shut. — Walder

Accidents: Chiefs | Falcons

Fantasy X issue: Chiefs working again Carson Steele. Fantasy managers are curious in regards to the Chiefs’ working again rotation with Isiah Pacheco (fibula) sidelined. Kansas Metropolis has signed Kareem Hunt to the follow squad, whereas Steele and Samaje Perine will deal with backfield duties in Week 3. Pacheco has had 17 or extra touches in every sport this season. Steele had a standout preseason with 11 carries for 87 yards. Count on him to deal with early downs and short-yardage conditions in opposition to the Falcons. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Falcons are 2-8 ATS of their previous 10 prime-time video games. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Chiefs 30, Falcons 24
Moody’s choose: Chiefs 28, Falcons 13
Walder’s choose: Chiefs 30, Falcons 14
FPI prediction: KC, 58.2% (by a median of three factors)

Matchup must-reads: Chiefs say RB Hunt has ‘grown up’ since his launch … London laments gun celebration in win vs. Eagles … Kelce on sluggish begin: ‘I put that on me’

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Monday, 7:30 p.m. ET | ESPN | ESPN BET: BUF -5 (45.5 O/U)

Jaguars storyline to look at: Receiver Christian Kirk — who has 1,924 yards receiving with the Jaguars since 2022 — was focused simply seven occasions in two video games this season, a quantity that coach Doug Pederson and QB Trevor Lawrence stated is unacceptable. He has averaged seven targets per sport the previous two seasons. “Acquired to get him going this week, and I’ve acquired plenty of belief and religion that it’ll get going this week,” Lawrence stated. — Mike DiRocco

Payments storyline to look at: The Payments will likely be with out beginning nickel nook Taron Johnson (forearm) and center linebacker Terrel Bernard (pectoral) for this matchup. Whereas the protection performed nicely in Week 2, even after Bernard went out in the course of the sport, how the unit with quite a lot of backups will carry out in opposition to the Jaguars will likely be a strong take a look at. When the groups confronted off final season, Jags RB Travis Etienne rushed for 136 yards and two touchdowns, together with a 35-yard speeding landing. Etienne, nonetheless, has not rushed for greater than 52 yards by two weeks. How the backup linebacker tandem of Dorian Williams and Baylon Spector performs, together with backup nickel nook Cam Lewis, will go a good distance on the bottom and be one thing to look at. — Alaina Getzenberg

Stat to know: Since Week 13 of final season, the Jaguars are tied with the Panthers for the worst file within the NFL (1-7). 5 of these losses have been by one rating (eight factors or fewer).

Daring prediction: Foyesade Oluokun will lead the league in mixed tackles in Week 3. Buffalo has been run-heavy to this point and can seemingly be successful, which is able to solely additional improve the variety of runs. Oluokon ranked seventh in tackles per run snap final season. — Walder

Accidents: Jaguars | Payments

Fantasy X issue: Payments huge receiver Khalil Shakir. Shakir leads the Payments with eight targets, eight receptions and 96 receiving yards, making him a strong play in opposition to a Jaguars protection that has allowed the second-most receiving yards to huge receivers this 12 months. Together with his effectivity and potential for an even bigger position, Shakir might make a big impact. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Jaguars are 13-21-1 ATS in prime-time video games since 2000. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Payments 24, Jaguars 21
Moody’s choose: Payments 30, Jaguars 21
Walder’s choose: Payments 24, Jaguars 16
FPI prediction: BUF, 66% (by a median of 6.6 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Why the Jaguars rank within the backside 10 of NFL offenses … The duality of Coleman: the fun-loving and cerebral Payments WR

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Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ABC/ESPN+ | ESPN BET: CIN -7.5 (47.5 O/U)

Commanders storyline to look at: Washington has allowed 373 yards to opposing receivers within the first two video games, rating twenty eighth within the NFL. The Commanders’ corners have struggled to play constantly and now must deal with WRs Ja’Marr Chase and probably Tee Higgins. Nook Benjamin St-Juste has performed the very best at this place, so it is seemingly he’d cowl Chase more often than not when in man protection. One key for Washington is tackling. The Commanders have allowed six move performs for 20 yards or extra, although of the 154 yards on these performs, 97 have come after the catch. — John Keim

Bengals storyline to look at: Cincinnati’s banged-up line of defense must deal with one of many NFL’s finest speeding assaults. Washington is third in speeding EPA and fifth in fee of carries that go for 10 or extra yards (18.5%). The Commanders’ Brian Robinson Jr., who’s coming off a career-high 133 speeding yards in Week 2, is dealing with a Bengals inside battling accidents and compelled to signal veteran Lawrence Man Sr. to offer depth within the center. — Ben Child

Stat to know: This would be the third matchup in “Monday Evening Soccer” historical past between Heisman-winning quarterbacks. It is going to be the primary assembly between two Heisman QBs from the identical school (Jayden Daniels and Joe Burrow, LSU).

Daring prediction: Robinson will rush for 50 yards after contact. By way of two video games, Robinson is averaging 3.1 yards after contact per carry — third finest within the NFL — and has 63 rush yards over expectation, second finest within the NFL, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. — Walder

Accidents: Commanders | Bengals

Fantasy X issue: Chase. The Commanders have given up essentially the most fantasy factors to huge receivers, and Chase is sitting at simply 11 targets and 19.7 fantasy factors heading into Week 3. The connection between Chase and Burrow is plain, and this matchup is ideal to reignite that spark. The Bengals are determined to keep away from falling to 0-3, and getting the ball to their prime playmakers is vital. In regular-season video games the place Chase has had 9 or extra targets with Burrow underneath heart, he has averaged 25.2 fantasy factors. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Burrow is 4-0 outright and 3-1 ATS on MNF. All 4 video games went underneath the full. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Bengals 28, Commanders 21
Moody’s choose: Bengals 34, Commanders 20
Walder’s choose: Bengals 27, Commanders 23
FPI prediction: CIN, 63.9% (by a median of 5.4 factors)

Matchup must-reads: QB Daniels confirmed poise in first NFL win … Pool report: Chase used ‘abusive language’ towards official