NFL 2024 Week 3 Picks

 Hello readers! Another week of National Football League action is coming soon upon us yet again. The first two weeks are in the books and we have seen the first step in the marathon that is the NFL regular season. The games I'm keeping an eye on for this week are: Patriots-Jets, Texans-Vikings, Chargers-Steelers, Ravens-Cowboys and Chiefs-Falcons. In this post I'll do a Week 3 preview, the picks for the games and the Early & Late TV Broadcasting pairings for Week 3. Let's get to work!

Week 3 Preview

The 3rd week in the National Football League's regular season will start in East Rutherford, New Jersey and finish up in Cincinnati, Ohio. The week features a 16-game slate where all 32 teams will play. There will be a Thursday night game, seven early games, five late games, a Sunday night game and two Monday night games. Week 3 features 10 AFC vs NFC contests, two division matchups, two AFC matchups and two NFC matchups. No teams are on a bye this week. CBS will have the regional, single game and FOX will carry the doubleheader this week. Let's get to the picks! 

Week 3 Picks

Note: All game times are in US Eastern. TW is me 

New England (1-1) @ NY Jets (1-1) (Amazon; 8:15 pm): TW: Patriots

The Patriots lost to the Seahawks and the Jets beat the Titans last week. Week 3 starts with a somewhat intriguing matchup in the AFC East. New England comes off a gut-wrenching loss to Seattle. They had their opportunities to score touchdowns in the game but sadly missed them. At least they played a competitive game against a really good team. New England's defense needs to get better. The Jets last week got a big win in the Aaron Rodgers era. Their offense put up enough points in the win against Tennessee but I feel they could've been better. The defense took to task and kept the Titans from really coming back into the game and tying it. New York should just be better on offense but something seems off with them. I'll take the Patriots. 

All-time series: Patriots lead 74-55-1

Chicago (1-1) @ Indianapolis (0-2) (CBS; 1:00 pm): TW: Colts

Both teams lost last week as the Bears lost to the Texans and the Colts lost to the Packers. Another week, another AFC South opponent for the Bears. Chicago last week had their opportunities to win as they really were the least penalized team. Pass protection really broke down for Chicago as Caleb Williams was sacked seven times. They need to get better in that department and Williams needs to get the ball out quicker. The Colts last week against Green Bay didn't do so bad but they didn't do great either. Anthony Richardson so far has more interceptions than touchdowns in two games thus far. If they can cut back on the turnovers they can possibly win a game. Alec Pierce has been a solid contributor to the offense thus far. I think if there's an opportunity for the Colts to get into the win column, it'll be this game. If Indy's defensive line ravages the Bears, it'll be a long day for them. 

All-time series: Colts lead 25-19

Denver (0-2) @ Tampa Bay (2-0) (FOX; 1:00 pm): TW: Buccaneers

The Broncos lost to the Steelers and the Buccaneers beat the Lions last week. Denver and bad starts is like a beautiful marriage that no one wants. Sadly for Broncos fans, they're likely used to it by now. I think the issue with them is that their offense expects Bo Nix to do many great things but he is just a rookie. He does deserve some of the blame though. Tampa is off to a great start. They had a big win against a great Lions team that were picked to win (yeah I know I picked Detroit). Confidence has to be riding high with them for sure. The season has been a bit of a weird one where underdogs have won a bit. I think I'll take the Buccaneers. 

All-time series: Broncos lead 7-3

Green Bay (1-1) @ Tennessee (0-2) (FOX; 1:00 pm): TW: Packers

The Packers beat the Colts and the Titans lost to the Jets last week. Green Bay had a big win against the Colts in a game where they didn't have Jordan Love at quarterback. Malik Willis did alright, he wasn't Aaron Rodgers out there but he wasn't Brett Favre on a bad day either. He got a touchdown pass and that was really all that was needed. The Packers defense really helped win last week. They can have a decent shot to win against Tennessee. The Titans have had their chances to win games and/or play competitive ball. They lost both of their games by a 24-17 score (kind of weird). If the Titans score more than 17 points, they might actually win a game. I think the Packers are the better team on offense with the talent they have outside of the quarterback. Jordan Love won't likely play in this one. 

All-time series: Titans lead 8-6

Houston (2-0) @ Minnesota (2-0) (CBS; 1:00 pm): TW: Vikings

The Texans beat the Bears and the Vikings beat the 49ers last week. Houston has cruised along so far in this young season. They haven't looked the best that some people have expected. Penalties were a factor in last week's win against the Bears as they had 12 infractions. DeMeco Ryans will have to have his troops more disciplined against a very formidable opponent. Minnesota had a solid win against San Francisco. They took charge on defense and made the 49ers offense uncomfortable and they made the most of their offense on a 97-yard deep play to Justin Jefferson. Jefferson did have a quadriceps injury during the game and he might be inactive for this game. Which could be a troubling sign. Minnesota has yet to lose to Houston in their series. Keep in mind that the Texans 1st season was in 2002. I'll take the Vikes in a safe bet. 

All-time series: Minnesota leads 5-0

LA Chargers (2-0) @ Pittsburgh (2-0) (CBS; 1:00 pm): TW: Steelers

The two teams won last week as the Chargers beat the Panthers and the Steelers beat the Broncos. Home opener for the Yinzers. The Chargers ahve been the most impressive team thus far as they really went from a passing team where Justin Herbert threw for 40 to 50 times to a ground and pound team under the leadership of Jim Harbaugh. They face a stiff test as they take on the vaunted Steelers defense. Pittsburgh and defense has been a cornerstone for the franchise since probably day one. At least in the 1970's it was. Justin Fields has done enough to help the offense but I feel the Yinzers want more from him and that he can't become the next Ben Roethlisberger. Russell Wilson has yet to play for the Steelers which most people seem to forget a bit. This is a toughie but I think the Steelers will try to win it by forcing Justin Herbert to beat you. It's a tall task but I'll take the Steelers. 

All-time series: Steelers lead 24-11

NY Giants (0-2) @ Cleveland (1-1) (FOX; 1:00 pm): TW: Giants

The Giants lost to the Commanders and the Browns beat the Jaguars last week. New York has had a rough go of it in 2024 so far. They've spent most of the last few seasons with an 0-2 mark with the exception of the 2022 season. Their offense has been lackluster and just hasn't played very good football. Daniel Jones deserves some of the blame with his turnovers. The Browns found some drive and beat a solid Jaguars team on the road. Their defense made a few stops and their offense helped out a defense that needed the offense to pick up the slack. DeShaun Watson actually played a game where he didn't totally shit the bed and even scored a rushing touchdown. I feel it's bound to happen for the Giants to win a game and I'll take them. 

All-time series: Browns lead 28-22-2

Philadelphia (1-1) @ New Orleans (2-0) (FOX; 1:00 pm): TW: Saints

The Eagles lost to the Falcons and the Saints beat the Cowboys last week. Philadelphia really had a chance to put the nail on the coffin in the Falcons but a dropped pass by Saquon Barkley really reversed the fortunes of that game. Enough for the Eagles defense to give up a game-winning touchdown with less than a minute to go. Not also to mention Jalen Hurts throwing a pick when the Eagles still had a chance to hit a game-winning field goal. New Orleans had a big win against the Cowboys. It gave Cowboys fans PTSD of last January in the loss against Green Bay. The Saints currently have the highest scoring offense putting up 45.5 points/game in two games. They've done it with a big total offense with the 3rd ranked total yardage in 405.5 yards/game. I think the game will bring those stats a bit lower but I think the Saints will take it. 

All-time series: Eagles lead 19-16

Carolina (0-2) @ Las Vegas (1-1) (CBS; 4:05 pm): TW: Raiders

The Panthers lost to the Chargers and the Raiders beat the Ravens last week. Carolina made a big bold step in benching Bryce Young in favor of the journeyman quarterback Andy Dalton. Yep he's still in the league. The push for change was somewhat needed as Young seems lost at times and the offense has sputtered to a halt. I think the Panthers will put up some better numbers but the Raiders defense will keep them in check I think. Las Vegas hung around and beat the Ravens and sent them to their 0-2 record last week. They really did it with a defense and offense that mostly featured the passing game. As well as scoring three straight drives in the 4th quarter. Maybe the Panthers can pull off the upset after going 0-2 to start the year but I'll take the Raiders. 

All-time series: Raiders lead 4-3

Miami (1-1) @ Seattle (2-0) (CBS; 4:05 pm): TW: Seahawks

The Dolphins lost to the Bills and the Seahawks beat the Patriots last week. Miami lost in a big way last week. Not just the game either. Tua Tagovailoa will be out for this game with a concussion suffered from a hit by Damar Hamlin. If the Dolphins were smart he should not play at all or at least for over a month. The guy doesn't know how to slide. Skylar Thompson will get the start for the Dolphins. I think he should do okay-ish. He still has an offense that is still solid. He just has to throw it to them. Seattle is coming off a tough win against the Patriots. New England gave a bit more of a fight than Seattle probably wanted to admit. Suffice to say, they are 2-0 in the Mike MacDonald era. Seattle has done it with their offense and a bend but don't break defense. Geno Smith has had a solid year so far in 2024 with 498 passing yards with two touchdown passes. I don't trust Skylar Thompson enough to give him the nod to win this one. I'll take the Seahawks. 

All-time series: Dolphins lead 10-6

Baltimore (1-1) @ Dallas (1-1) (FOX; 4:25 pm): TW: Ravens

The Ravens lost to the Raiders and the Cowboys lost to the Saints last week. Baltimore really faltered last week against Las Vegas. They had a game where they should've won it and ran out the clock. Fortunately they have a shot to beat one of the better teams in the NFC. I think the Ravens just need to gameplan around Micah Parsons who can wreck havoc if you let him. Dallas suffered one of the roughest losses so far this season. The Saints win over them in a 44-19 rout was reminiscent of the Packers rout last January. Turnovers were a bit of a factor for the Boys so if they want to win this one, they need to limit it to a zero. The running game of the Ravens will give Mike Zimmer, the Cowboys defensive coordinator, work cut out for him. I'll take the Ravens. 

All-time series: Ravens lead 5-1

Detroit (1-1) @ Arizona (1-1) (FOX; 4:25 pm): TW: Lions

The Lions lost to the Buccaneers and the Cardinals beat the Rams last week. Detroit kind of had a letdown last week. Their offense which usually does well only put up 16 points last week. The offense deserves the blame as Jared Goff hit two interceptions in the loss. Despite the loss, the Lions defense kept the Bucs to 20 points. So if the offense can actually play well, they should win games. Arizona had a big surprise as they didn't just win against the Rams, they ran them out of the stadium with a 41-10 win. The biggest loss in the Sean McVay era in Los Angeles. Kyler Murray is hitting it on all cylinders with a running and passing game that is playing really well. James Conner had a great game and Marvin Harrison Jr. finally broke through and had a monster game last week. I think the biggest challenge for the Lions is the matchup between the secondary and Marvin Harrison Jr. if they can force everyone else to beat you, I think they should take care of business. I'll take the Motor City Kitties. 

All-time series: Lions lead 35-28-6

San Francisco (1-1) @ LA Rams (0-2) (FOX; 4:25 pm): TW: 49ers

The 49ers lost to the Vikings and the Rams lost to the Cardinals last week. San Francisco fell back to earth last week in the loss to Minnesota. to make matters a little worse is that Christian McCaffrey is hurt and on the Injured Reserve. Have no fear 49ers fans, Jordan Mason has been a steady replacement for the star running back. Brock Purdy has stayed relatively the same but could use some more touchdowns under his belt. Los Angeles suffered probably the biggest loss in the Sean McVay era. The defense really got outplayed against a Cardinals team that looks nearly unstoppable. Matthew Stafford to needs to get going as well as the Rams offense has sputtered a bit. It doesn't help that Puka Nacua hasn't played a lot if not at all this season. Worser news for the Rams was the news that Cooper Kupp is on the IR. Safe to say the two teams are feeling the hurt. I'll take the 49ers. 

All-time series: 49ers lead 78-69-3

Kansas City (2-0) @ Atlanta (1-1) (NBC; 8:20 pm): TW: Chiefs

The Chiefs beat the Bengals and the Falcons beat the Eagles last week. The defending champs didn't look so hot last week against Cincinnati. Still they managed to come back and win it with some luck. They gave up the ball quite a few times in the win. Goes to show how they can play ugly but still manage to win. Atlanta managed to get a win against a good Eagles team. They also had some luck on their side. That luck being Saquon Barkley dropping a pass that the Eagles are paying good money for him type of dropped pass. Atlanta I think is still searching within themselves on what kind of team they are as well as Kirk Cousins adapting to his new surroundings. The Cousins-London connection is something to behold though. I'm kind of torn between these two. I do think that the Chiefs are the better team but they need to stop turning it over and not play stupid football. I'll take the Chiefs. 

All-time series: Chiefs lead 7-3

Jacksonville (0-2) @ Buffalo (2-0) (ESPN; 7:30 pm): TW: Bills

The Jaguars lost to the Browns and the Bills beat the Dolphins last week. Jacksonville has been a train wreck since their collapse late last year. They should be better than they are but are somehow 0-2 for the season. Jacksonville's offense has been off by a bit as Trevor Lawrence is hitting just above 50% of his passes and he hasn't gotten better. The Jags have a chance to get their season going but they are facing a tough challenge. Buffalo last played on the 12th of September and this game will be played on the 23rd. They'll have quite a bit of rest for this one. Is it possible that the Bills will feel the rust in this game, maybe. Josh Allen certainly hasn't missed a beat so far in 2024. Passing two touchdowns and rushing for two touchdowns as well is helpful as well. Maybe some rust will happen but I feel Buffalo will win. 

All-time series: Jaguars lead 10-9

Washington (1-1) @ Cincinnati (0-2) (ABC; 8:15 pm): TW: Bengals

The Commanders beat the Giants and the Bengals lost to the Chiefs last week. Washington didn't score a touchdown at all last week. Not even one. All of the scoring was seven field goals from Austin Seibert. They even did it with 425 total yards of offense of all things. Washington has done it with a balance of offense on pass and run. It seems that it is helping with Jayden Daniels' development. Cincinnati has been on a torrid start since 2020 as they are 1-9 since that season. They did run into some tough luck in playing tough opponents but this season they had a good chance to put the Patriots to bed before they really effectively shut down the Bengals offense. Last week against Kansas City, they looked like they might win there again and Burrowhead might become a reality again. Then the Bengals bungled and let the Chiefs comeback and beat them. I'm staring at the play of the pass interference where the defender hit the wide receiver. You had better luck letting him try to catch the ball and then make the tackle. Sadly this isn't the case. I think the Bengals will find a way to win as they usually have had their a-ha moment and go on a roll. Or they just lay down and take a cat nap. I'll take the Bengals. 

All-time series: Series tied 5-5-1

Early & Late Game TV Broadcast Pairings

Note: Games in bold are being shown in my area, check local listings

CBS Single 

LA Chargers @ Pittsburgh 

Jim Nantz, Tony Romo

Houston @ Minnesota
Ian Eagle, Charles Davis

Chicago @ Indianapolis
Andrew Catalon, Tiki Barber, Jason McCourty

Miami @ Seattle (Late)
Kevin Harlan, Trent Green

Carolina @ Las Vegas (Late)

Spero Dedes, Adam Archuleta 

FOX Early

Philadelphia @ New Orleans
Joe Davis, Greg Olson

NY Giants @ Cleveland
Kenny Albert, Jonathan Vilma

Green Bay @ Tennessee
Kevin Kugler, Daryl Johnston

Denver @ Tampa Bay

Tim Brando, Matt Millen

FOX Late

Baltimore @ Dallas

Kevin Burkhardt, Tom Brady

San Francisco @ LA Rams
Adam Amin, Mark Sanchez

Detroit @ Arizona

Chris Myers, Mark Schlereth

For more information on which game is being shown in your area check out: NFL Week 3 Maps

Records

2024:
Week 1: 14-2
Week 2: 10-6

Total: 24-8

2012: 164-90-2

2013: 162-92-1

2014: 172-83-1

2017: 164-92

2018: 156-98-2
2019: 161-94-1

2020: 167-88-1 

2021: 173-98-1
2022: 166-103-2
2023: 161-111

See you all after the Monday night game for the Week # Recap! Enjoy the games!

-Tom

NFL 2021 Week 3 Picks

 Hello readers! The 3rd week of National Football League action is soon upon us. The week that is features some fun matchups to keep an eye for. I'll keep an eye on the Chargers-Chiefs, Seahawks-Vikings, and Buccaneers-Rams matchups for this week. In this post I'll do a preview of the week and the picks to the games. Let's get to work!

Week 3 Preview

Week 3 of the NFL's regular season starts in Houston, Texas and finishes up in Arlington, Texas. It will be a 16-game slate where all 32 teams will play. The week will have a Thursday night game, nine early games, four late games, a Sunday night game, and a Monday night game. FOX will have the doubleheader and CBS will have the single game this week. No teams are on a bye. Let's get to the picks!

Week 3 Picks

Note: TW is me, CV is Cardinal Viking is my former roommate. All times are in US Eastern.

Carolina (2-0) @ Houston (1-1) (NFL Network; 8:20 pm): TW: Panthers; CV: Panthers
The Panthers beat the Saints and the Texans lost to the Browns last week. Week 3 starts with an intriguing matchup in the running back position as you have Christian McCaffrey for Carolina and Mark Ingram for the Texans. Carolina seems to be the better team at stopping the run so far this season. I wouldn't underestimate Tyrod Taylor however as he has proven to play well so far in the year. I'll take Carolina on a whim. 

Arizona (2-0) @ Jacksonville (0-2) (FOX; 1:00 pm): TW: Cardinals; CV: Cardinals
The Cardinals beat the Vikings and the Jaguars lost to the Broncos. Kyler Murray and the Cardinals look like a tough team for the Jaguars to beat. Any indication of the Cards faltering would be slim but in any given Sunday, anything can happen. Trevor Lawrence has been so far a one-man show on offense with not a lot of help. It just seems like a lost cause for the Jags to win. 

Atlanta (0-2) @ NY Giants (0-2) (FOX; 1:00 pm): TW: Giants; CV: Falcons
Both teams lost last week as the Falcons lost to the Buccaneers and the Giants lost to the Football Team. The game just looks like a bad game on paper. Both teams don't really have great defenses as both seem to be willing to give up 30+ points a game. I trust the Giants a bit more as the aforementioned defense of New York doesn't seem to lay down a lot. 

Baltimore (1-1) @ Detroit (0-2) (CBS; 1:00 pm): TW: Ravens; CV: Ravens
The Ravens beat the Chiefs and the Lions lost to the Packers last week. Baltimore won a close game against Kansas City and this game should be a bit of an easier matchup for Lamar Jackson and company. The Lions just seem to have some things together but just can't play well enough to win games. Seems like a mismatch with the Ravens offense vs Lions defense. 

Chicago (1-1) @ Cleveland (1-1) (FOX; 1:00 pm): TW: Browns; CV: Browns
Both teams won last week as the Bears beat the Bengals and the Browns beat the Texans. Justin Fields would see more playtime last week than so far in his young career. He will get his official start against the Browns. Normally the Browns defense of past years has been a cakewalk but they have studs on the defensive line like Myles Garrett and Jadeveon Clowney. Could be a better passing day for Fields but they're not gonna get on the field a lot if the Bears defense can't contain the Browns running attack. 

Cincinnati (1-1) @ Pittsburgh (1-1) (CBS; 1:00 pm): TW: Steelers; CV: Bengals
Both teams lost last week as the Bengals lost to the Bears and the Steelers lost to the Raiders. The health of TJ Watt and Ben Roethlisberger is in question for this one. The question remains is can a banged up Steelers team can overcome a relatively healthy Bengals team. It seems likely that Watt will play and it is possible that Big Ben will play as well. Cincy is decent at stopping the run. Joe Burrow could have a good day but I tend to lean not really in this one. I'll trust the Steelers.

Indianapolis (0-2) @ Tennessee (1-1) (CBS; 1:00 pm): TW: Titans; CV: Titans
The Colts lost to the Rams and the Titans beat the Seahawks last week. It was looking like a good game of two AFC South giants (I could've gone with titans but that wouldn't be fair) but right now, it doesn't look that great. Carson Wentz is now playing on not just one roughed up ankle but two roughed up ankles. Ryan Tannehill isn't playing injured. It'll remain a contest between Jonathan Taylor and Derrick Henry. I feel Henry will win out that battle most times than not. 

LA Chargers (1-1) @ Kansas City (1-1) (CBS; 1:00 pm): TW: Chiefs; CV: Chiefs
Both teams lost last week as the Chargers lost to the Cowboys and the Chiefs lost to the Ravens. Other than the Raiders, this game seemed like the game to watch out for in the AFC West. With the resurgence of the Raiders and the Broncos, I'm not so sure. Ultimately, both quarterbacks are the stars of this game and it will come down to who can shut down the other. Hard to not take Patrick Mahomes as he can do things beyond the ordinary joe. 

New Orleans (1-1) @ New England (1-1) (FOX; 1:00 pm): TW: Patriots; CV: Patriots
The Saints lost to the Panthers and the Patriots beat the Jets last week. Jameis Winston had a good game in Week 1 but old habits die hard in Week 2. Mac Jones has been playing steady football for New England, not necessarily Tom Brady level but much more consistency than last year. New England's defense has gotten better than last year as well and that doesn't spell good news for the Saints. 

Washington (1-1) @ Buffalo (1-1) (FOX; 1:00 pm): TW: Bills; CV: Bills
Last week both teams picked up wins as the Football Team beat the Giants and the Bills beat the Dolphins. Intriguing matchup for Taylor Heinicke and Washington as it'll be a good test how well their offense can do against a very physical Bills defense. Washington's defense is good but can they make a few turnovers on the Bills offense. Doesn't seem likely. 

Miami (1-1) @ Las Vegas (2-0) (CBS; 4:05 pm): TW: Raiders; CV: Raiders
The Dolphins lost to the Bills and the Raiders beat the Steelers last week. Tua Tagovailoa will not be available to play due to a rib injury suffered last week. Jacoby Brissett will start for the Dolphins. Las Vegas has been a pleasant surprise so far this season getting key wins against the Ravens and Steelers. It seems like a tough spot for Miami to be in after much hope that they'd do good things this year. 

NY Jets (0-2) @ Denver (2-0) (CBS; 4:05 pm): TW: Broncos; CV: Broncos
The Jets lost to the Patriots and the Broncos beat the Jaguars last week. Teddy Bridgewater has done well and may have been the answer to John Elway's quarterback problems. Zach Wilson has shown promise if he has the help that his counterpart has. The Jets are set to have a horrid season and I just don't think they have a lot to hope for to beat Denver. Any given Sunday though. 

Seattle (1-1) @ Minnesota (0-2) (FOX; 4:25 pm): TW: Vikings; CV: Vikings
Both teams lost last week as the Seahawks lost to the Titans and the Vikings lost to the Cardinals. Both of Minnesota's losses have come within three points. This game could very well come down to that once again. I think its high time for the Vikings to pick up their first win of the year. Greg Joseph needs to find the middle of the goalposts to get points though. I don't doubt the Seahawks in this one but if Dalvin Cook has a good game, this one could spell doom for the Seahawks. 

Tampa Bay (2-0) @ LA Rams (2-0) (FOX; 4:25 pm): TW: Buccaneers; CV: Rams
Both teams won last week as the Buccaneers beat the Falcons and the Rams beat the Colts. The marquee game of the week features two unbeatens in the NFC. Tom Brady and company look to continue their quest for a repeat and the Matthew Stafford-led Rams. Good defense usually wins out against good offense. The Rams defense seems to be the better of the two by a slim margin but I like the Bucs as a road team. 

Green Bay (1-1) @ San Francisco (2-0) (NBC; 8:20 pm): TW: 49ers; CV: 49ers
Both teams won last week as the Packers beat the Lions and the 49ers beat the Eagles. The last time both teams had meet was a Thursday night matchup and most of the 49ers starters were banged up and it ended up being a Green Bay blowout. This one is reminiscent of their contest in 2019 during the regular season. The Packers defense will need to shut down the many weapons of the 49ers if they have a shot to win. Aaron Rodgers struggled to get going in their game against the Lions during the first half. They'll need to put together a complete game. 

Philadelphia (1-1) @ Dallas (1-1) (ESPN; 8:15 pm): TW: Cowboys; CV: Cowboys
The Eagles lost to the 49ers and the Cowboys beat the Chargers last week. Jalen Hurts has been a one-man offensive crew with his arm and legs. Philly's offense can hang around against the Dallas Cowboys but how long can they really hang around with Dak Prescott and company. Dallas has been alright on offense and much of the same on defense. It'll be a close one but I think the Cowboys pull it off. 

Local TV Schedule (courtesy of 506sports.com): 

CBS Single:
LA Chargers @ Kansas City
Jim Nantz, Tony Romo

FOX Early:
Chicago @ Cleveland
Kevin Burkhardt, Greg Olson

FOX Late:
Seattle @ Minnesota
Kevin Kugler, Mark Sanchez

For more information on which game is being shown in your area, check out: NFL 2021: Week 3 Maps

2021 Pick'em Records:

My record:

Week 1: 7-9
Week 2: 10-6

Total: 17-15

Cardinal Viking's record:

Week 1: 6-10
Week 2: 12-4

Total: 18-14

Previous Picking Records:

Cardinal Viking:

2017: 167-89
2018: 156-98-2
2019: 151-104-1
2020: 163-92-1

My record: 

2012: 164-90-2

2013: 162-92-1

2014: 172-83-1

2017: 164-92

2018: 156-98-2

2019: 161-94-1

2020: 167-88-1 

See you all on Monday/Tuesday for the Week 3 recap post! Enjoy the games!

-Tom

NFL 2019 Week 3 Picks

Hello readers! The third week of the National Football League regular season is soon upon us! There's bound to be some good matchups this week, some average ones, and some probably bad ones. Nevertheless we will talk about them this week as well as a NFL 100 spotlight, highlighting one of the biggest gaffes in NFL history. Let's get to work!

NFL 100: A Spotlight

When it comes to gaffes in NFL history, you have The Butt Fumble in 2012, Garo Ypremian's attempted pass in Super Bowl VII, or Leon Lett's attempt to recover the ball in the 1993 Thanksgiving game against the Dolphins. None of them can really compare to Jim Marshall's Wrong Way Play.

On October 25th, 1964, the 3-3 Minnesota Vikings traveled to Kezar Stadium in San Francisco to take on the 2-4 San Francisco 49ers. The Vikings are entering their 4th season in existence since they became an expansion team in 1961. The 49ers had a decent quarterback in John Brodie who was entering into his 8th season as a quarterback.

The game started out well for the 49ers with San Fran striking first with a Brodie 2-yard run to give the 49ers a 7-0 lead. Vikings kicker Fred Cox got the Vikings on the board with a field goal, 7-3 49ers. John Brodie would hit Dave Parker for a 80-yard touchdown, Brodie's only touchdown pass on the day, 14-3 49ers. Running back Tommy Mason ran it into the endzone on a 7-yard play for the Vikings, reducing the lead to 14-10. Tommy Davis of the 49ers hit a field goal to give the 49ers a 17-10 lead going into halftime. Fred Cox was called in to hit a field goal again for the Vikings, he hits it, reducing the lead to 17-13 in favor of San Francisco. Minnesota would finally get on the board with an 8-yard run from quarterback Fran Tarkenton, 20-17 Vikings. Jim Marshall's linemate, Carl Eller, would get a touchdown from a fumble, 27-17 Vikings.

The play itself was a pass play that John Brodie would throw to running back Billy Kilmer. Kilmer was stripped and in the chaos Jim Marshall would grab the ball in the direction that Kilmer was heading, towards the endzone that was in Vikings territory. Marshall had thought he had scored a touchdown but it ended up being a safety due to the fact he was running the wrong way. Reducing the Viking lead to 27-19.

The Vikings would ultimately win the game 27-22 but the game and play would live on in NFL lore as one of the biggest gaffes in NFL history. What stands out to me is that Marshall would go on to play the game until 1979, nearly 20 years in the NFL. Sadly his team would go onto four Super Bowls and losing all four. Here's a clip of the play:

At the end of the season the Vikings would post their first winning record in franchise history. They wouldn't win a division title until 1968 and they would win their first and only NFL championship in 1969. For the 49ers in 1964 it would be their third straight losing season but they would post a 7-6-1 record in 1965. They wouldn't make the playoffs until 1970 and they won't win their first Super Bowl until Super Bowl XVI

Week 3 Picks!

Week 3 of the NFL regular season starts in Jacksonville, Florida and ends in Landover, Maryland. There will be a Thursday night game, eight early games, five late games, a Sunday night game, and a Monday night game. No teams are on a bye week. FOX will have the single game while CBS will have the double-header. Let's get to the picks!

Note: TW is me, CV is Cardinal Viking, my roommate

Tennessee (1-1) @ Jacksonville (0-2) (NFL Network): TW: Jaguars; CV: Titans

Both teams lost last week as the Titans lost to the Colts and the Jaguars lost to the Texans. The game is a tough one to pick, both teams haven't shown real flashes of spectacular play. Gardner Minshew has been a bright spot for the Jaguars since Nick Foles got injured in Week 1. If the Jaguars want to win they need Leonard Fournette to have a good game and have the defense continue its play. I'm willing to give the Jags a chance.

Denver (0-2) @ Green Bay (2-0) (FOX): TW: Packers; CV: Broncos

Last week the Broncos lost to the Bears and the Packers beat the Vikings. The big matchup is going to be Aaron Rodgers vs the Broncos defensive front. Denver's secondary isn't that great so I certainly expect the Packers offense continue to gel in Matt LeFleur's offense. I give the Packers defense the edge over the Broncos defense in this game. Denver is not a slouch I'll give them that.

Cincinnati (0-2) @ Buffalo (2-0) (CBS): TW: Bills; CV: Bills

The Bengals lost to the 49ers and the Bills beat the Giants last week. Josh Allen has been an underrated quarterback in the league and the Bills are a surprising 2-0 so far this season. The Bengals offense feels somewhat limited with AJ Green not in the lineup, so I feel the Bills defense has an edge in that department. Josh Allen needs to continue to play well and have their running game do well against a 30th ranked rush defense. I'll take the Bills.

Detroit (1-0-1) @ Philadelphia (1-1) (FOX): TW: Eagles; CV: Eagles

The Lions got a win against the Chargers and the Eagles lost to the Falcons last week. Philly has some injuries and the Lions have a huge test to prove just how well they can play against a quality opponent. The Eagles pass defense needs to play better against the 7th ranked pass offense in the Lions. I feel Wentz and company find a way to get it done.

NY Jets (0-2) @ New England (2-0) (CBS): TW: Patriots; CV: Patriots

The Jets lost to the Browns and the Patriots beat the Dolphins last week. Luke Falk didn't show much on Monday night and I can't expect the Jets offense to get a lot on the Patriots. Tom Brady would have to have a bad game to give the Jets an edge in the game, which doesn't happen a lot. I don't trust the Jets but I trust fellow Tom to get it done.

Oakland (1-1) @ Minnesota (1-1) (FOX): TW: Vikings; CV: Vikings

Both teams took losses last week as the Raiders lost to the Chiefs and the Vikings lost to the Packers. Kirk Cousins hasn't done a lot to prove that he is a good quarterback as his running game has carried the load. I feel it'll change in this game but I won't hold my breath if he throws an interception early in the game. The Vikings defense will keep the Raiders offense in check.

Baltimore (2-0) @ Kansas City (2-0) (CBS): TW: Chiefs; CV: Chiefs

Both teams got wins last week as the Ravens beat the Cardinals and the Chiefs beat the Raiders. This game somehow isn't on the late slate as its probably the best game of the week. I expect a shootout in the game as both teams have great offenses. While I do feel the Ravens defense is better than the Chiefs defense, the quarterback matchup certainly leans towards the Chiefs.

Miami (0-2) @ Dallas (2-0) (FOX): TW: Cowboys; CV: Cowboys

The Dolphins lost to the Patriots and the Cowboys beat the Redskins. I feel another blowout loss is in order for the Dolphins, not that I hate the Dolphins but reality hurts.

Atlanta (1-1) @ Indianapolis (1-1) (CBS): TW: Colts; CV: Falcons

Both teams got wins last week as the Falcons beat the Eagles and the Colts beat the Titans. Jacoby Brissett vs the Falcons pass defense is going to be the big matchup in the game. I feel it will also depend on which running game gets going. Tough game to call but I will go with the home team in their home opener.

Carolina (0-2) @ Arizona (0-2) (FOX): TW: Cardinals; CV: Panthers

Both teams took losses last week as the Panthers lost to the Buccaneers and the Cardinals lost to the Ravens. The game will depend on the health of Cam Newton, if he's in the Panthers have a good shot to win, if he's not it could be a Cardinals win. I'm leaning towards Cam Newton not playing so I'll take the Cardinals. Kyle Allen could have a stellar day against the Cards defense but the Panthers offense didn't get a lot of yardage last week.

NY Giants (0-2) @ Tampa Bay (1-1) (FOX): TW: Buccaneers; CV: Buccaneers

The Giants lost to the Bills and the Buccaneers won against the Panthers last week. Daniel Jones era begins in earnest in New York. Tampa's defense has been doing well so far on the year, I'll take a chance on the Buccaneers. I still don't trust Jameis Winston to guide this team to good things.

Houston (1-1) @ LA Chargers (1-1) (CBS): TW: Chargers; CV: Texans

The Texans beat the Jaguars and the Chargers lost to the Lions last week. Houston's offense hasn't been spectacular so far on the year and the Chargers have a top-10 pass defense so I would expect the Chargers to send some defenders to DeShaun Watson via blitzing. The Chargers had a fluke loss last week and I feel they have a good chance to win this game but it'll be close.

New Orleans (1-1) @ Seattle (2-0) (CBS): TW: Seahawks; CV: Seahawks

The Saints lost to the Rams and the Seahawks beat the Steelers last week. Had Drew Brees not gotten injured last week, this game could be a good one but Teddy Bridgewater is starting in place of Brees. Sadly this is the marquee game of the week and unless Teddy Bridgewater plays like Drew Brees, I feel the Seahawks will win by 10 or more.

Pittsburgh (0-2) @ San Francisco (2-0) (CBS): TW: 49ers; CV: 49ers

The Steelers lost to the Seahawks and the 49ers beat the Bengals last week. Mason Rudolph will make his first start and he is up for a huge test against an improved 49ers defense that is ranked 9th in total defense. If Ben Roethlisberger was in the game the game could be more evenly matched but I can't trust Rudolph enough to give Pittsburgh its first win of the season.

LA Rams (2-0) @ Cleveland (1-1) (NBC): TW: Rams; CV: Rams

Both teams got wins last week as the Rams beat the Saints and the Browns beat the Jets. Cleveland got back into winning form last week against a below average Jets team, The Rams however, have been doing well so far in the season. The pressure is on Baker Mayfield and the Browns offense to beat a pretty good Rams defense. The game will be close but I feel in big game matchups, I feel the Rams will have an edge.

Chicago (1-1) @ Washington (0-2) (ESPN): TW: Bears; CV: Bears

The Bears won against the Broncos and the Redskins lost to the Cowboys last week. The week finishes off with an okay matchup on Monday Night Football. If there was a week where Mitch Trubisky finally gets off on the right foot, it would be this game. Washington's total offense is ranked 30th so far this season. They have a tough division and they need to get all the wins they can get.

Local TV Schedule (courtesy of 506sports.com; subject to change:

FOX Single:
Oakland @ Minnesota
Dick Stockton, Mark Schlereth

CBS Early:
Baltimore @ Kansas City
Ian Eagle, Dan Fouts

CBS Late:
New Orleans @ Seattle
Jim Nantz, Tony Romo

For more information on which game is played in your area, check out: NFL Week 3 Maps

Cardinal Viking:

2017: 167-89

2018: 156-98-2

2019:

Week 1: 11-4-1

Week 2: 10-6

Overall: 21-10-1

My record: 

2012: 164-90-2

2013: 162-92-1

2014: 172-83-1

2017: 164-92

2018: 156-98-2

2019:

Week 1: 12-3-1

Week 2: 10-6

Overall: 22-3-1

See you guys on Monday for the Week 3 recap! 

-Tom