NFL Picks and Predictions – Week 2

Welcome to week two of the NFL season.  Here is some analysis and picks on each game for the week.  NFL Picks and Predictions – Week 2

NFL Picks – Browns at Ravens

With the first of the week 2 NFL Picks, we have Browns at Ravens.  A matchup of two AFC North teams who have an interesting rivalry.  The Ravens used to be the Browns and the Browns have been aspiring to win like the Ravens ever since.

So, while the Ravens are clearly the better team, the rivalry aspect of this game could make things closer than it seems.  However, the Ravens defense looked dominant in week one against the Cincinnati Bengals and the Browns offense might be in for a long day.

They start a rookie at quarterback in Deshone Kizer and his inexperience could be a detriment the Ravens defense can exploit.  But Kizer’s athleticism will make up for some of that.  And even though he’s a rookie, I don’t see him playing a badly as Andy Dalton did in week 1.

However, the Browns don’t have the fire power to enough point on the board to win this game.  The Ravens defense is just too strong.

Winner:   Ravens

Score prediction:       24-13  Ravens  

Points spread:      Ravens  -8.0

Over/under:  39 – Under

1:00 pm – CBS

NFL Picks – Bills at Panthers

Both the Bills and Panthers got off to a good start on the season by winning in week one.  However, neither team had a significant challenge as their opponents were the Jets and the 49ers but that will change in week 2.

One of the top storyline in this game is that new Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott was defensive coordinator for the Panthers.  So McDermott has some inside knowledge on his old team and has an edge in how to attack the offense.

But I don’t think it’s going to matter too much.  The Panthers are the more talented team on both sides of the ball with quarterback Cam Newton and linebacker Luke Kuechly both healthy and poised for big performances.

McDermott’s knowledge of the Panthers will make things a little closer than expected, but the Panthers will win at home.

Winner:   Panthers

Score prediction:       24-17  Panthers  

Points spread:      Panthers  -7.5

Over/under:  43 – Under

1:00 pm – CBS