NFL Week 2: Expert Picks Against the Spread for Every Game
Dave Blezow of the New York Post offers his predictions and best bets for all NFL Week 2 matchups, analyzing team performance and potential upsets.
As the NFL season progresses into its second week, betting analyst Dave Blezow of the New York Post has released his predictions against the spread for every game. Blezow, a long-time NFL handicapper with picks dating back to 1994, aims to build on a winning record from the previous season.
Week 2 Matchup Analysis
In the New York Jets vs. Green Bay Packers game, Blezow expressed skepticism about a potential Jets resurgence, referencing historical patterns of short-lived success. Despite this, he is willing to take the Jets with 3.5 points at home, citing their offensive line, running game, and pass rush against a Packers team that lost quarterback Jordan Love under pressure in their previous game. The Packers are also facing injury concerns with key players.
Blezow is backing the New Orleans Saints (+8.5) against the Baltimore Ravens, noting the Saints' comeback attempt in their Week 1 loss to the Lions. He points to Tyler Shough's 410 passing yards and questions the Saints' ability to contain Derrick Henry after allowing significant rushing yards to Jahmyr Gibbs.
The Minnesota Vikings are favored with 4.5 points against the Chicago Bears. Blezow acknowledges the Bears' strong rushing performance in Week 1 but highlights the Vikings' defensive struggles before their late rally against the Packers, suggesting an underdog victory is possible.
For the Pittsburgh Steelers vs. New England Patriots game, Blezow is taking the Steelers with 5 points. He questions the Patriots' offensive firepower, particularly their receiving corps, following their opening loss to the Seahawks.
The Houston Texans are favored by 2.5 points over the Cincinnati Bengals. Blezow anticipates a stronger defensive performance from the Texans, led by Will Anderson Jr. and Derek Stingley Jr., after they allowed significant points to the Bills in Week 1. He also notes an encouraging start for C.J. Stroud.
The Philadelphia Eagles are heavily favored (-7) against the Tennessee Titans, with Blezow pointing to Saquon Barkley's potential against the Titans' run defense, which struggled against the Jets. He also anticipates a strong Eagles fan presence in Nashville.
Blezow favors the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-8.5) over the Cleveland Browns, anticipating Baker Mayfield to perform well in a revenge game. He suggests the Browns should utilize other quarterbacks besides Deshaun Watson.
In the Carolina Panthers vs. Atlanta Falcons matchup, Blezow is taking the Panthers with 2.5 points. He notes the Falcons' uncertainty at the quarterback position and prefers Bryce Young, recalling the Panthers' strong performances against Atlanta last season.
The Jacksonville Jaguars (+2.5) are favored against the Denver Broncos. Blezow cites the Jaguars' previous victory at Mile High and their decisive win over the Browns as reasons for confidence.
For the Las Vegas Raiders vs. Los Angeles Chargers game, Blezow is taking the Raiders with 6.5 points. He expresses concern about the Chargers' offensive strategy and potential absence of top receiver Ladd McConkey, while believing Kirk Cousins can keep the Raiders within the spread.
Blezow is picking the Washington Commanders (+4) against the Dallas Cowboys, referencing the Giants' statistical dominance over Dallas in Week 1 and believing Jayden Daniels can keep the game close.
The San Francisco 49ers are heavily favored (-13.5) against the Miami Dolphins. Blezow acknowledges the 49ers' dominant performance in their season opener but expresses slight concern about the Dolphins' talented rookie class and the 49ers' travel schedule after playing in Australia.
Seattle Seahawks (-4) are favored over the Arizona Cardinals. Blezow points to the Seahawks' defensive performance against the Patriots and their extra rest days.
The Kansas City Chiefs (-6.5) are favored against the Indianapolis Colts. Blezow anticipates a strong defensive performance from the Chiefs' pass rush against Daniel Jones.
Finally, for the Monday night game, Blezow is picking the New York Giants (+7) against the Los Angeles Rams. He admits to initially underestimating the Giants, citing their improved offensive line and playmakers. He also notes the Rams' potential fatigue and distraction following their Week 1 loss and international travel.
Blezow's best bets for Week 2 are the Chiefs, Eagles, and Giants, with the Chiefs also being his lock of the week.