Momentum Time for Game Picks: Week 7 NFL Predictions
It’s that exhilarating time of year again—momentum time for picking games! After a somewhat sluggish start to the season, I’ve found my stride, going 8-6 against the spread and an impressive 12-2 straight up last week. This brings my overall record to 46-43-3 against the spread and 51-41 straight up. Not too shabby! With Week 7 upon us, let’s dive into the matchups that promise to be thrilling, including a highly anticipated rematch of last season’s Super Bowl.
Thursday Night Football: Saints vs. Broncos
Kicking off the week, we have the New Orleans Saints visiting the Denver Broncos. This matchup is particularly intriguing as it marks the return of Sean Payton to face his former team. However, the current Broncos squad is struggling offensively, and they will be without star corner Patrick Surtain. The Saints, on the other hand, are starting Spencer Rattler at quarterback, who showed promise in his first start last week. I believe Rattler will lead the Saints to victory over his former coach.
Pick: Saints 23, Broncos 16
Sunday Morning Showdown: Patriots vs. Jaguars
As we move to the Sunday morning slate, we have a matchup between the New England Patriots and the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Patriots are grappling with the challenges of starting rookie quarterback Drake Maye, while the Jaguars are looking to bounce back from a rough patch. With Jacksonville’s last-ranked passing defense, Maye might find opportunities for big plays. However, I expect Trevor Lawrence to step up and guide the Jaguars to a win.
Pick: Jaguars 29, Patriots 21
Sunday Afternoon Action: Seahawks vs. Falcons
The 1 p.m. games feature a clash between the Seattle Seahawks and the Atlanta Falcons. Seattle is coming off three consecutive losses, and their defense has been shaky. This is not a favorable situation against a potent Atlanta offense. Expect a high-scoring affair, but I believe Kirk Cousins will outshine the Seahawks’ efforts.
Pick: Falcons 34, Seahawks 30
Bills vs. Titans: A Clash of Offenses
In another 1 p.m. matchup, the Buffalo Bills will face the Tennessee Titans. The Bills are coming off a short week after a win against the Jets, while the Titans are reeling from a disappointing loss to the Colts. Although the Bills can score at will, I think the Titans’ defense will keep the game closer than expected.
Pick: Bills 23, Titans 17
Battle of Ohio: Bengals vs. Browns
Next up is the Battle of Ohio, featuring the Cincinnati Bengals and the Cleveland Browns. Both teams have had their struggles this season, but I believe Joe Burrow will rise to the occasion, while the Bengals’ defense will stifle Deshaun Watson and the Browns’ offense.
Pick: Bengals 21, Browns 17
Young Quarterback Duel: Texans vs. Packers
In another intriguing matchup, the Houston Texans will take on the Green Bay Packers. This game showcases two promising young quarterbacks, C.J. Stroud and Jordan Love. While the Texans are on the road for consecutive games, I expect Love to lead the Packers to victory in a shootout.
Pick: Packers 34, Texans 30
Dolphins vs. Colts: A Battle of Run Games
The Miami Dolphins are coming off a much-needed bye week, while the Indianapolis Colts are fresh off a road victory. With both teams struggling to stop the run, I believe the Colts will leverage their superior run game to secure a win.
Pick: Colts 21, Dolphins 17
NFC North Showdown: Vikings vs. Lions
As we approach the 1 p.m. games, the Minnesota Vikings will face the Detroit Lions in a battle for first place in the division. The Vikings are coming off a bye, while the Lions are riding high after a blowout win against the Cowboys. Despite the Lions losing key defensive player Aidan Hutchinson, I think Sam Darnold will shine, leading the Vikings to victory.
Pick: Vikings 31, Lions 26
Giants vs. Eagles: An Upset in the Making
In a surprising twist, the New York Giants will take on the Philadelphia Eagles. The Giants’ defense has been solid, and with the Eagles struggling offensively, I see the Giants pulling off an upset, especially with Malik Nabers returning to the lineup.
Pick: Giants 24, Eagles 20
Rams vs. Raiders: A Battle of Injuries
The Los Angeles Rams are coming off a bye, while the Las Vegas Raiders have lost two straight games. With the Rams being the better team and Matt Stafford likely outperforming Aidan O’Connell, I expect the Rams to take this one.
Pick: Rams 27, Raiders 19
Commanders vs. Panthers: A High-Scoring Affair
In another exciting matchup, the Washington Commanders will face the Carolina Panthers. Both teams have shown defensive vulnerabilities, which could lead to a shootout. I’m betting on Jayden Daniels to lead the Commanders to victory.
Pick: Commanders 35, Panthers 27
Super Bowl Rematch: Chiefs vs. 49ers
The highlight of the week is undoubtedly the rematch of the Super Bowl between the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers. The Chiefs are coming off a bye, while the 49ers are looking to bounce back after a tough game last Thursday. Despite the 49ers’ home-field advantage, I believe Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs will prevail.
Pick: Chiefs 27, 49ers 23
Sunday Night Showdown: Jets vs. Steelers
As the week wraps up, the New York Jets will face the Pittsburgh Steelers. With the Jets acquiring Davante Adams, their offense could see a boost. However, the Steelers’ running game and defense will play a crucial role. I’m leaning towards the Jets to secure a tough road win.
Pick: Jets 23, Steelers 17
Monday Night Football: Bucs vs. Ravens
Finally, we have a thrilling Monday night matchup between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Baltimore Ravens. Both teams have explosive offenses, and I expect a high-scoring affair. Playing at home, I’m giving the edge to Baker Mayfield and the Bucs.
Pick: Bucs 34, Ravens 31
Chargers vs. Cardinals: A Road Challenge
To close out the week, the Los Angeles Chargers will take on the Arizona Cardinals. The Chargers are coming off a solid win, while the Cardinals are struggling defensively. I expect the Chargers to capitalize on this and secure a comfortable victory.
Pick: Chargers 27, Cardinals 14
With these predictions in hand, let’s enjoy another thrilling week of NFL action!