Momentum Time for Picking Games: 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 found my rhythm last week, finishing with an impressive 8-6 against the spread and a stellar 12-2 straight up. This brings my overall records to 46-43-3 against the spread and 51-41 straight up. Not too shabby! With Week 7 upon us, the stakes are higher, and the matchups are more thrilling than ever.
High-Profile Matchups
This week features several marquee games, including a much-anticipated rematch of the Super Bowl from last February. The Kansas City Chiefs, fresh off a bye week, will face the San Francisco 49ers in a game that promises to be a nail-biter. The last time these two teams met, the Chiefs emerged victorious on a neutral field. However, this time, the game is set in San Francisco, giving the 49ers a significant home-field advantage. The question remains: will that edge be enough for the 49ers to secure a win?
Thursday Night Showdown: Saints vs. Broncos
Kicking off the week is a compelling Thursday night matchup featuring the New Orleans Saints against the Denver Broncos. This game marks the return of Sean Payton to face his former team. While the Saints have their own challenges, including starting rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler, I believe they will rise to the occasion. The Broncos have shown defensive prowess but will be missing star corner Patrick Surtain. I’m predicting a solid performance from Rattler, leading the Saints to victory.
Pick: Saints 23, Broncos 16
Early Sunday Action: Patriots vs. Jaguars
As we dive into Sunday, we have a matchup between the struggling New England Patriots and the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Patriots are grappling with the growing pains of rookie quarterback Drake Maye, while the Jaguars boast the league’s last-ranked passing defense. Despite their issues, I expect Jacksonville to capitalize on their superior talent and secure a win.
Pick: Jaguars 29, Patriots 21
Seahawks vs. Falcons: A Battle of Offenses
Next up is a clash between the Seattle Seahawks and the Atlanta Falcons. The Seahawks are reeling from three consecutive losses, and their defense is underperforming. This sets the stage for a high-scoring affair, with both quarterbacks likely to shine. However, I’m leaning towards the Falcons, as Kirk Cousins is poised to have a standout game.
Pick: Falcons 34, Seahawks 30
Bills vs. Titans: A Clash of Styles
The Buffalo Bills are on a short week after a victory over the Jets, while the Tennessee Titans are looking to bounce back from a disappointing loss to the Colts. The Bills have the offensive firepower to dominate, but I expect the Titans’ defense to keep the game closer than anticipated.
Pick: Bills 23, Titans 17
Ohio Showdown: Bengals vs. Browns
In the battle of Ohio, the Cincinnati Bengals will face the Cleveland Browns. The Bengals have struggled defensively, but I believe Joe Burrow will rise to the occasion against a Browns offense that has been lackluster. Expect a close game, but I’m giving the edge to the Bengals.
Pick: Bengals 21, Browns 17
Packers vs. Texans: Young Quarterbacks Duel
This matchup features two promising young quarterbacks, C.J. Stroud and Jordan Love. Both teams have shown flashes of brilliance, but the Packers will have the home-field advantage. I expect Love to outshine Stroud in a high-scoring contest.
Pick: Packers 34, Texans 30
Dolphins vs. Colts: A Tight Contest
The Miami Dolphins are coming off a much-needed bye week, while the Indianapolis Colts are riding high after a road victory. With both teams struggling defensively, I anticipate a close game, but I’m leaning towards the Colts, who have a more effective run game.
Pick: Colts 21, Dolphins 17
Vikings vs. Lions: NFC North Showdown
This matchup is crucial for both teams, with the Vikings coming off a bye and the Lions fresh off a blowout win against the Cowboys. With the Lions missing key defensive players, I’m predicting a high-scoring affair, but I believe the Vikings will edge out the victory.
Pick: Vikings 31, Lions 26
Giants vs. Eagles: An Upset in the Making
The New York Giants are looking to capitalize on their recent momentum, while the Philadelphia Eagles have struggled offensively. With the Giants getting back key players, I’m predicting an upset as they take down the Eagles.
Pick: Giants 24, Eagles 20
Rams vs. Raiders: A Battle of Struggling Teams
The Los Angeles Rams are coming off a bye, while the Las Vegas Raiders are looking to recover from two straight losses. Despite the Raiders’ recent quarterback change, I believe the Rams will come out on top, thanks to a more cohesive team effort.
Pick: Rams 27, Raiders 19
Commanders vs. Panthers: A Shootout Expected
In a game featuring two defenses with issues, I expect a shootout between the Washington Commanders and the Carolina Panthers. With both offenses capable of scoring, I’m betting on the Commanders to come out on top.
Pick: Commanders 35, Panthers 27
Chiefs vs. 49ers: Super Bowl Rematch
The highlight of the week is undoubtedly the Chiefs vs. 49ers rematch. With the Chiefs coming off a bye and the 49ers struggling defensively, I’m predicting a close game, but I believe Patrick Mahomes will lead the Chiefs to victory.
Pick: Chiefs 27, 49ers 23
Jets vs. Steelers: A Defensive Battle
As the Jets face the Steelers, both teams are grappling with quarterback issues. However, I believe the Jets will leverage their strong run defense to secure a hard-fought victory.
Pick: Jets 23, Steelers 17
Monday Night Showdown: Bucs vs. Ravens
The week wraps up with a thrilling Monday night matchup between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Baltimore Ravens. Both offenses are capable of explosive plays, but I’m banking on Baker Mayfield to lead the Bucs to victory in a high-scoring affair.
Pick: Bucs 34, Ravens 31
Chargers vs. Cardinals: Road Warriors
Finally, the Los Angeles Chargers will take on the Arizona Cardinals. With the Chargers riding high after a recent win and the Cardinals struggling defensively, I’m confident the Chargers will come out on top.
Pick: Chargers 27, Cardinals 14
As we dive into Week 7, the excitement is palpable. With so many intriguing matchups, it’s time to place those bets and enjoy the thrill of the game!