With two weeks in the books and fifteen weeks remaining, navigating an NFL season is challenging, but we’ve already completed 11.8% of the regular season. Last week, the action was mostly predictable, with only the Minnesota Vikings—who were favored by 4 or more points—suffering an upset. Our official pick was the Dallas Cowboys in a nail-biting match of the season. We also took a contrarian approach with the Buccaneers, who clinched a dramatic victory. Remember, it’s not about how you survive, but whether you do. As we turn our focus to Week 3, several formidable favorites stand out among our 16 ranked survivor pool choices, from most to least confident.
Doc’s Sports provides expert NFL picks for every game on our NFL predictions page.
Buffalo Bills (-11.5) vs. Miami Dolphins
As the week’s biggest favorite, the Buffalo Bills are well-positioned for a commanding victory. Following an impressive performance in Week 1, they are poised to improve to 3-0 this season. Meanwhile, the Miami Dolphins are currently in turmoil, making this pick one of the safer bets in the survivor pool. However, considering the Bills have about ten more games where they will be heavy favorites, we’re holding off on using them this week.
Green Bay Packers (-8.5) vs. Cleveland Browns
The Packers enter this game with added rest from last Thursday’s game and should have an easy time in Cleveland. The addition of Micah Parsons has fortified their defensive dominance, leaving the Browns’ offense struggling. Jordan Love has been steady on offense, while the once-feared Browns defense has diminished. While I almost went with this pick, it’s wise to save the Packers for easier matchups later in the season.
Seattle Seahawks (-7.5) vs. New Orleans Saints
Picking against the Saints is a strategic move in survivor pools, and the Seahawks will be our official selection this week. Although the Saints showed some offensive promise against the 49ers, they were up against a faltering team. Seattle, led by Sam Darnold, needs this victory to bolster their playoff aspirations, and with their arsenal of pass-catching talent, they have a competitive edge. It’s an optimal time to take Seattle and move forward confidently.
Kansas City Chiefs (-5.5) vs. New York Giants
The Kansas City Chiefs are facing a must-win situation, making it a timely choice to bet on Patrick Mahomes. A motivated Kansas City squad is set to dominate the Giants, who lack the defensive capability to respond effectively. Although Russell Wilson might keep this matchup close, it’s unlikely the Chiefs will fall to 0-3.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-6.5) vs. New York Jets
The Buccaneers are a reliable option this week as they take on the Jets, whose defense is struggling immensely and is unable to make up for their offensive deficiencies. Baker Mayfield has a history of winning games like this, making him a solid choice for this week.
Philadelphia Eagles (-3.5) vs. Los Angeles Rams
The Eagles, known for their physical style of play, are unlikely to be stopped by the Rams, despite Los Angeles being a formidable challenger in their own right. Philadelphia’s strength in the trenches and their adaptable defense could secure them the win, though this match has potential upset written all over it. It might be best to avoid this game for now.
Los Angeles Chargers (-2.5) vs. Denver Broncos
While the Chargers have shown impressive form, it might be wise to save them for better matchups rather than risking them against a capable Broncos side. Justin Herbert is asserting himself as one of the league’s elite quarterbacks, and as long as he remains protected, he should exploit the weaknesses in the Broncos’ defense.
Indianapolis Colts (-4.5) vs. Tennessee Titans
Daniel Jones has not yet ended a drive with a punt as a Colt, showcasing his effectiveness. This matchup features two rising quarterbacks, and while the Colts should secure the win frequently, rookie Cam Ward may still be waiting for a breakthrough performance. It’s reasonable to support the Colts now before potential regression strikes.
Atlanta Falcons (-5.5) vs. Carolina Panthers
Following a commanding win against the Vikings, the Falcons are a strong candidate against the Panthers. However, inconsistency has plagued Atlanta with Michael Penix Jr. at quarterback, raising concerns over their ability to replicate previous achievements. Given that it’s a divisional matchup, the Panthers will come prepared, making this game a potential survivor trap.
New England Patriots (+1.5) vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
New England has demonstrated an impressive offense under Drake Maye, supported by a capable defense. Conversely, the Steelers are not the powerhouse they once were, and while their defense could spring a surprise, hosting the Patriots is a preferable scenario for utilizing a middle-tier team.
Chicago Bears (PK) vs. Dallas Cowboys
It’s primed for Chicago to have an offensive breakout, especially against a vulnerable Dallas defense. Although Chicago’s defense has had its struggles, they are due for some positive turnarounds. The unpredictable nature of the Dallas Cowboys makes this week a fitting time to fade them.
Arizona Cardinals (+1.5) vs. San Francisco 49ers
After handling their initial opponents well, Arizona faces a significant challenge in the 49ers. While victory is expected, Kyler Murray’s reliability against high-quality teams is in question, complicating their chances against the formidable San Francisco side, even with Mac Jones leading.
Houston Texans (+1.5) vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
The AFC South seems alive, but it’s risky to stake your survivor pool on either the Texans or Jaguars. Both teams exhibit too much inconsistency, making it prudent to steer clear of this matchup.
Minnesota Vikings (-3) vs. Cincinnati Bengals
In this clash, it’s Carson Wentz against Jake Browning—what a matchup! Wentz is now starting for his sixth team in six years, signaling a tumultuous career. The Bengals’ defense is problematic, and trusting Browning to spearhead a strong offensive effort is a tall order. This matchup should be avoided early in your survivor pool season.
Washington Commanders (-3.5) vs. Las Vegas Raiders
If Jayden Daniels plays, selecting Washington could be beneficial, particularly given injury concerns around their star quarterback. However, the Raiders have significant offensive issues, making them an unwise choice as well.
Baltimore Ravens (-5.5) vs. Detroit Lions
With both teams showcasing strength, there’s little reason to wager on them against each other. The 5.5 point spread may be misleading, as the Ravens aren’t guaranteed a secure victory this week.
Official Pick of the Week: Seattle Seahawks vs. New Orleans Saints
Contrarian Survivor Pool Pick of the Week: Los Angeles Chargers vs. Denver Broncos
Teams Used: Denver Broncos, Dallas Cowboys
Status: Alive
For comprehensive NFL insights and to access our premium expert picks, register for a complimentary $60 account with a guarantee!
Source link
