NFL Picks and Predictions – Week 1

NFL Picks – Steelers at Browns

These two teams inhabit the AFC North and are fierce rivals.  On top of that cornerback Joe Haden will under scrutiny as the Browns recently released him and he was then signed by the Steelers.  So Haden covering the Browns receivers will be something to keep a close watch on.

Also, the Browns will be starting a rookie quarterback in Deshone Kizer.  So the Steelers defense are licking their chops.  But the Browns will try to set up a rushing attack with running backs Isaiah Crowell and Duke Johnson to keep the pressure from Kizer.

However, as well as Browns head coach Hugh Jackson will have Deshone Kizer ready for his first NFL start, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin’s defense will be too much for Kizer to overcome.

Winner:   Steelers

Score prediction:       31-17  Steelers  

Points spread:      Steelers  -9.5

Over/under:  46.5 – Over

1:00 pm – CBS

NFL Picks – Cardinals at Lions

These are two very closely matched teams.  Both have good quarterbacks in the Detroit Lions Matthew Stafford and the Arizona Cardinals Carson Palmer.  However, Palmer has the stronger supporting cast on offense.

The Cardinals running back David Johnson is one of the best offensive players in the league and the Lions will be hard pressed to slow him down.  Matthew Stafford will keep the Lions close but the Cardinals defense is the better of the two and have more pass rushers.

This game will come down to the wire and may be decided on the last drive of the game.  But it will be the Arizona Cardinals that will steal a win on the road in the NFC.

Winner:   Lions

Score prediction:       27-23  Lions  

Points spread:      Cardinals  -2.0

Over/under:  48 – Over

1:00 pm – FOX