With four teams on a bye week, we have 14 games in Week 5 of the NFL, and here you can read the Week 5 NFL Picks Breakdown!
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Atlanta Falcons Prediction NFL Picks 10/3/24
Buccaneers at Falcons at 8:15 PM ET
After experiencing a disappointing loss to the Denver Broncos two games ago, the Buccaneers rebounded impressively against the Philadelphia Eagles. They surged to a 14-0 lead in the first quarter and continued to dominate, culminating in a 33-16 victory. Baker Mayfield had a standout performance, completing 30 of his 47 attempts for 347 yards, with two touchdowns and no interceptions. The running game was somewhat erratic, yet Bucky Irving managed to achieve 10 carries for 49 yards and a touchdown. Mike Evans, who had not been heavily involved in the first three games, made a significant impact against the Eagles, finishing with eight receptions for 94 yards and a touchdown. Throughout the season, the Buccaneers are averaging 24.45 points per game, while their defense concedes 19.5 points per game. The offense is currently ranked 9th in the league, while the defense is positioned 12th.
The Falcons have exhibited significant inconsistency at the beginning of the season; however, they recently achieved a notable victory on Sunday. In their matchup against the New Orleans Saints, they managed to secure a narrow win with a score of 26-24. Kirk Cousins completed 21 out of 35 passes, accumulating 238 yards, with no touchdowns and one interception. His performance has not yet demonstrated the level of comfort expected, and it is essential for him to improve in this regard. A noteworthy aspect of the game was the running attack, where Tyler Allgeier recorded eight carries for 60 yards, while Bijan Robinson had seven carries for 28 yards. Additionally, Drake London had a commendable performance, making six receptions for 64 yards. Currently, the Falcons are averaging 18.8 points per game, while their defense concedes an average of 21.3 points. The offense is positioned 21st in the league rankings, whereas the defense holds the 15th position.
The Pick:
The Buccaneers must not be underestimated, as they are likely to find success in this game. Kirk Cousins has been inconsistent this season, and it is expected that he will struggle in this matchup. Meanwhile, Baker Mayfield is playing with renewed confidence and is anticipated to have a standout performance. The Falcons will find it difficult to respond effectively, leading to a comfortable victory for the Buccaneers. It is prudent to place your support behind the Buccaneers on the money line for a successful wager.
New York Jets vs Minnesota Vikings Prediction NFL Picks 10/6/24
Jets at Vikings at 9:30 AM ET
The New York Jets suffered a loss to the Broncos but managed to defeat the Patriots. They have recorded five losses in their last seven games played away from home. Aaron Rodgers has a completion percentage of 64.1, with 849 yards, five touchdowns, and one interception to his name. Allen Lazard and Garrett Wilson have together achieved 397 receiving yards and four touchdowns, while Breece Hall has tallied 18 receptions. The Jets' ground attack averages 91.5 yards per game, with Hall leading the charge with 174 yards and two touchdowns.
Recently, the Minnesota Vikings triumphed over the Texans and the Packers. They have demonstrated strong performance in their last ten away games, winning seven of them. Sam Darnold is achieving a completion rate of 68.9 percent, totaling 932 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. The duo of Justin Jefferson and Aaron Jones has combined for 481 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns, while Jalen Nailor has made 8 receptions. Additionally, the Vikings' ground game is averaging 123.8 yards per game, with Jones at the forefront, contributing 321 yards and 1 touchdown.
The Pick:
This season, the New York Jets have achieved two victories against teams that hold a combined record of 2-6 straight up, and their recent home loss to the Broncos raises significant concerns. Aaron Rodgers seemed to exhibit a lack of agility and youthfulness last week, and I am doubtful that a transatlantic trip will enhance his performance. The Minnesota Vikings have been a pleasant surprise this season, but it is hard to contest their effectiveness, given their top-five rankings in both scoring offense and scoring defense. Although international games can be unpredictable due to travel and often poor field conditions, I will refrain from overanalyzing the situation and will place my trust in the Vikings with the small spread.
Miami Dolphins vs New England Patriots Prediction NFL Picks 10/6/24
Dolphins at Patriots at 1 PM ET
After suffering a loss to the Tennessee Titans with a score of 31-12, the Miami Dolphins find themselves with a 1-3 record this season. In the game, the Dolphins were outgained by 244 yards to 184 yards. Both teams recorded one turnover each, but the Dolphins faced challenges on third down, managing to convert just 2 out of 12 opportunities. Tyler Huntley contributed by throwing for 96 yards on 14 completions and rushing for 40 yards, including one touchdown.
The New England Patriots currently hold a record of 1-3 for the season following their defeat against San Francisco, which ended with a score of 30-13 last week. In this matchup, the Patriots were significantly outgained, with a total yardage of 431 to 216. They also struggled in the turnover department, losing 3-2, and converted only 5 out of 16 attempts on third down. Quarterback Jacoby Brissett recorded 168 passing yards, accompanied by one touchdown and one interception, while Antonio Gibson contributed with three receptions totaling 67 yards.
The Pick:
The situation regarding the Dolphins' quarterback is far from ideal; nonetheless, should Huntley be the one leading the offense, he might experience increased comfort this week. New England has also shown a lack of competitiveness in their previous two games, although they will be playing at home for this encounter. While both teams face challenges with their quarterbacks, I lean toward the Dolphins, who have a more robust offensive arsenal. Therefore, I am choosing Miami for this matchup.
Baltimore Ravens vs Cincinnati Bengals Prediction NFL Picks 10/6/24
Ravens at Bengals at 1 PM ET
Although the Ravens possess a 2-2 record, they made a notable impact in their latest game. In a matchup against the Buffalo Bills, they scored 35 points, resulting in a decisive 25-point victory. One of the most significant off-season acquisitions was Derrick Henry, who showcased his talent against the Bills with 24 carries for 199 yards and one touchdown. Lamar Jackson was efficient, completing 13 of his 18 passes for 156 yards and two touchdowns. Justice Hill led the receiving corps with six catches for 78 yards and a touchdown. The Ravens are currently averaging 26.5 points per game, while their defense allows 22 points per game. Their offense ranks 5th in the league, while the defense is ranked 19th.
The Bengals have finally secured their inaugural win of the season in their latest game, and it is crucial for them to build upon this success to initiate a winning streak. In their previous match against the Panthers, the game was not particularly impressive, yet the Bengals emerged victorious with a score of 34-24. Joe Burrow appeared more at ease, completing 22 of 31 passes for 232 yards, achieving two touchdowns, and recording one interception. The offense seems to have found a promising element in Chase Brown, who carried the ball 15 times for 80 yards and scored two touchdowns. Ja'Marr Chase also made a notable impact, catching three passes for 85 yards and one touchdown. This season, the Bengals are averaging 25.5 points per game, while their defense is conceding an average of 26 points. The offense is currently ranked 9th in the league, while the defense holds the 27th position.
The Pick:
While both offenses have had their moments of effectiveness, the Ravens' defense revealed signs of improvement in their latest game, which bodes well for their prospects here. Burrow's performance has shown some enhancement, yet his inconsistency this season makes it difficult to place trust in his abilities for this game. The total points are unlikely to reach 20; instead, a conclusion in the low 40s is expected. Consequently, backing the Under is a wise choice.
Cleveland Browns vs Washington Commanders Prediction NFL Picks 10/6/24
Browns at Commanders at 1 PM ET
The Cleveland Browns are coming off recent losses to the Giants and Raiders. They have lost 4 out of their last 6 games played on the road. Deshaun Watson is completing 61.5 percent of his passes, with a total of 727 yards, 4 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. The combination of Jerry Jeudy and Amari Cooper has resulted in 345 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns, while Jerome Ford has recorded 17 receptions. The Browns' rushing game averages 94.8 yards per game, with Ford leading the charge with 203 yards and 1 touchdown.
The Washington Commanders have recently secured victories against the Bengals and the Cardinals. However, it is noteworthy that the Commanders have suffered defeats in 7 of their last 8 home games. Quarterback Jayden Daniels boasts an impressive completion rate of 82.1 percent, accumulating 897 passing yards, along with 3 touchdowns and 1 interception. In the receiving department, Terry McLaurin and Zach Ertz have collectively achieved 341 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns, while Austin Ekeler has recorded 9 receptions. The Commanders' rushing offense is averaging 169.3 yards per game, with Brian Robinson Jr. leading the team with 307 yards and 3 touchdowns.
The Pick:
The Washington Commanders are currently enjoying a streak of three consecutive victories. Although there are concerns regarding the defense, Jayden Daniels has effectively energized the offense. Having played three of their first four games away from home, the Commanders are expected to arrive at a well-attended and enthusiastic venue. It is difficult to find any positive aspects in the performance of the Browns. I will confidently support the Commanders by laying the field goal.
Indianapolis Colts vs Jacksonville Jaguars Prediction NFL Picks 10/6/24
Colts at Jaguars at 1 PM ET
The Indianapolis Colts maintained their momentum by defeating the Steelers last weekend. They entered halftime with a significant advantage of 17-3 but had to persevere to clinch the game with a score of 27-24. Joe Flacco completed the game with 168 yards and two touchdown passes, while Jonathan Taylor led the ground attack with 21 carries for 88 yards and one touchdown.
In a closely fought encounter last weekend, Jacksonville faced the Texans but unfortunately came up short. The Jaguars were outscored by a touchdown in the fourth quarter, leading to a 24-20 loss. Trevor Lawrence amassed 169 passing yards and threw two touchdown passes, while Tank Bigsby led the rushing attack with seven carries for 90 yards.
The Pick:
The Colts surrendered 404 total yards, comprising 282 passing yards, and allowed the Steelers to achieve 23 first downs in their latest victory. Nevertheless, they effectively utilized a few defensive fumble recoveries to enhance an otherwise competent offensive effort. If they can deliver a similar performance this Sunday, the Colts will find themselves in a favorable position. On the other hand, Jacksonville did not excel on either side of the ball against Houston, yet they were still in contention for victory as the game progressed. The Jaguars amassed 313 yards, with 155 coming from the passing game, and struggled with a 4-of-12 conversion rate on third downs, although they did benefit from 12 penalties against the Texans. Should the Colts manage to protect the football and achieve a higher rate of third-down conversions, they are likely to cover the spread and secure a win on the road.
Carolina Panthers vs Chicago Bears Prediction NFL Picks 10/6/24
Panthers at Bears at 1 PM ET
Last weekend, Carolina regrettably suffered another defeat against the Bengals. The Panthers were trailing by only a touchdown at halftime but ultimately lost the game with a final score of 34-24. Quarterback Andy Dalton recorded 220 passing yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Chuba Hubbard was the standout in the rushing department, accumulating 104 yards and one touchdown on 18 carries.
In Week 4, the Chicago Bears secured another victory, bringing their overall record to 2-2. This win was achieved against the Rams, as the Bears transformed a 10-6 lead at halftime into a final score of 24-18. Caleb Williams passed for 157 yards and recorded one touchdown, while D’Andre Swift contributed 93 yards and a touchdown on 16 carries.
The Pick:
The Bears accumulated a total of 264 yards, with 133 yards attributed to passing, and remarkably did not register any turnovers. Nonetheless, they faced challenges on third downs, achieving only 3 conversions out of 9 attempts, and were penalized 10 times for a total of 84 yards. On the defensive side, they did manage to create a couple of turnovers and exhibited a generally solid performance. Meanwhile, the Carolina Panthers surrendered 373 yards, including 232 yards in the air, allowing an average of 6.0 yards per play, and conceded 24 first downs while converting 7 out of 13 third downs in their latest loss. While the Panthers' offense was not entirely ineffective, it was insufficient to keep up with the Bengals. I expect this weekend's contest to be closely contested for much of the duration, with Chicago ultimately succeeding in covering the spread.
Buffalo Bills vs Houston Texans Prediction NFL Picks 10/6/24
Bills at Texans at 1 PM ET
The Buffalo Bills head into this game determined to recover from their first loss of the season, which they experienced against the Baltimore Ravens, resulting in a 35-10 defeat and leaving them with a 3-1 record. Josh Allen has thrown for 814 yards and 7 touchdowns, boasting a completion percentage of 69.3%, while also rushing for 106 yards and 2 touchdowns. James Cook is the team's leading rusher with 227 yards and 3 touchdowns, and Khalil Shakir leads in receptions with 18 catches for 230 yards and 2 touchdowns. Additionally, Dalton Kincaid, Keon Coleman, and Cook have all achieved over 100 receiving yards this season.
The Houston Texans come into this game with the intention of extending their successful 3-1 record, following a 24-20 triumph over Jacksonville in their last outing. C.J. Stroud has thrown for a total of 1,054 yards, recording 6 touchdowns and 2 interceptions, with a passing accuracy of 67.6%. Joe Mixon leads the team in rushing with 184 yards, while Cam Akers has added 106 rushing yards. In the receiving category, Nico Collins has the highest number of receptions on the team, totaling 30 for 489 yards and 2 touchdowns, while Stefon Diggs has also made a notable impact with 25 receptions for 233 yards and 2 touchdowns this season.
The Pick:
I have reservations that this road trip could serve as a reality check for the Buffalo Bills. They began the season with a relatively easy schedule, allowing them to achieve a 3-0 record. However, they are now set to compete against more formidable opponents. The Texans, particularly at home, have proven to be a challenging team, and their strong defense may effectively hinder Josh Allen's performance. Therefore, I will support Houston in this matchup.
Las Vegas Raiders vs Denver Broncos Prediction NFL Picks 10/6/24
Raiders at Broncos at 4:05 PM ET
As of now, the Las Vegas Raiders have a season record of 2-2 after securing a 20-16 win against Cleveland in their most recent game. The Raiders outperformed the Browns in total yardage, amassing 268 yards against Cleveland's 241. Both teams finished with one turnover each, and the Raiders managed to convert 4 of their 12 third-down opportunities. Gardner Minshew recorded 130 passing yards on 14 completions, and Jakobi Meyers had five receptions for 49 yards.
The Denver Broncos currently hold a record of 2-2 for the season, following their narrow victory over the Jets, which ended with a score of 10-9 last week. In that match, the Broncos were outgained by a margin of 248 yards to 186 yards, managed to equalize the turnover count at one, and converted only 3 out of 14 attempts on third down. Bo Nix completed 60 passing yards and achieved one touchdown, while Courtland Sutton recorded three receptions for 60 yards and one touchdown.
The Pick:
Both teams are coming off wins from last week, yet neither exhibited commendable performances. Denver recorded only 186 total yards, while Las Vegas capitalized on a questionable holding call to achieve their victory. The Broncos have been competitive in every game this season, indicating that a close contest is anticipated. While the Denver offense has not been particularly striking, they have allowed just 29 points in their last three games and will confront a subpar Las Vegas offense. Consequently, I foresee a win for the Broncos.
Arizona Cardinals vs San Francisco 49ers Prediction NFL Picks 10/6/24
Cardinals at 49ers at 4:05 PM ET
The Arizona Cardinals faced losses to the Lions and the Commanders. They have now lost eight out of their last ten games played on the road. Kyler Murray is currently completing 69.4 percent of his passes, totaling 777 yards, six touchdowns, and one interception. Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson have collectively amassed 381 receiving yards and five touchdowns, while Greg Dortch has made 15 receptions. The ground game for the Cardinals is averaging 153.3 yards per game, with James Conner at the forefront, having gained 293 yards and scored three touchdowns.
The San Francisco 49ers suffered a loss to the Rams but managed to defeat the Patriots. They have recorded seven victories in their last ten home games. Brock Purdy has shown proficiency, completing 68.9 percent of his passes for a total of 1,130 yards, along with five touchdowns and two interceptions. Jauan Jennings and Deebo Samuel have combined for 586 receiving yards and three touchdowns, while Brandon Aiyuk has tallied 13 receptions. The ground game for the 49ers is averaging 141.8 yards per game, with Jordan Mason leading the team with 447 yards and three touchdowns.
The Pick:
The skilled and robust defense of the 49ers is likely to dominate the Cardinals' offense. Furthermore, the Cardinals have conceded over 30 points in two of their initial four games and struggle to defend against the run. The 49ers have triumphed in their last four encounters with the Cardinals, successfully covering a double-digit spread in each of those matches. Although the spread is not as significant this time, I anticipate a victory by the 49ers by a margin of ten points or more.
Green Bay Packers vs LA Rams Prediction NFL Picks 10/6/24
Packers at Rams at 4:25 PM ET
The Green Bay Packers are currently at a 2-2 standing this season after their recent loss to the Minnesota Vikings, which concluded with a score of 31-29. In this contest, the Packers outgained the Vikings in total yardage, recording 465 yards compared to Minnesota's 374. However, they were unable to overcome a turnover deficit, finishing the game with a 4-3 turnover ratio against them, and they struggled on third down, converting only 4 of 12 attempts. Jordan Love had a strong outing, throwing for 389 yards, achieving four touchdowns, and unfortunately, three interceptions. Additionally, Jayden Reed had an impressive performance, catching seven passes for 139 yards and one touchdown.
This season, the Los Angeles Rams have a record of 1-3 after suffering a loss to the Chicago Bears, who triumphed with a score of 24-18 in their most recent game. The Rams managed to outgain the Bears in total yardage, amassing 322 yards against Chicago's 264. Nonetheless, they were unable to overcome the turnover disadvantage, finishing the game with a 2-0 deficit in that category, and converting only 5 of their 11 third-down opportunities. Matthew Stafford passed for 224 yards and threw one interception, while Tutu Atwell had four receptions for a total of 82 yards.
The Pick:
The Green Bay team began their match against Minnesota at a sluggish pace; however, their performance significantly improved during the second half. The Packers' offense has demonstrated considerable potential at the start of the season, yet I believe that Stafford will also achieve some success in this contest, leading me to favor the Over in this instance.
New York Giants vs Seattle Seahawks Prediction NFL Picks 10/6/24
Giants at Seahawks at 4:25 PM ET
The New York Giants enter this matchup seeking to recover from their disappointing 1-3 record, following a 20-15 defeat to Dallas in their most recent game. Quarterback Daniel Jones has accumulated 881 passing yards, with 4 touchdowns and 3 interceptions, completing 63.2% of his attempts. On the ground, Devin Singletary leads the team with 221 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns. In the receiving department, Malik Nabers tops the roster with 35 receptions for 386 yards and 3 touchdowns, while Wan’Dale Robinson has recorded 26 receptions for 194 yards, and Darius Slayton has contributed with 122 receiving yards this season.
The Seattle Seahawks arrive at this game with the intention of recovering from their first loss of the season, holding a record of 3-1 after a 42-29 defeat to the Detroit Lions in their most recent match. Geno Smith has recorded 1,182 passing yards, along with 4 touchdowns and 4 interceptions, boasting a completion rate of 72.3%. Kenneth Walker leads the team in rushing with 183 yards and 4 touchdowns, while Zach Charbonnet adds 156 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns. In the receiving category, DK Metcalf leads with 366 receiving yards, 24 receptions, and 2 touchdowns, while Jaxon Smith-Njigba has 25 receptions for 226 yards, and Tyler Lockett has made 18 catches for 199 yards this season.
The Pick:
The Seahawks are set to host the Giants, a team that has only remained competitive in their losses due to the errors made by their rivals, such as the missed kick by Dallas's Aubrey in a crucial moment. I believe Seattle will take control of the game at home, achieving both the win and the cover. I support the Seahawks in this matchup.
Dallas Cowboys vs Pittsburgh Steelers Prediction NFL Picks 10/6/24
Cowboys at Steelers at 8:20 PM ET
In a closely contested Game 4, the Dallas Cowboys emerged victorious on the road against the New York Giants, finishing with a score of 20-15. The Cowboys were able to score in each quarter, although they also permitted points in every quarter. Dak Prescott achieved 221 passing yards and threw two touchdown passes, while CeeDee Lamb recorded seven receptions for 98 yards and one touchdown.
The Pittsburgh Steelers encountered difficulties during their recent road game against the Indianapolis Colts. By halftime, the Steelers found themselves trailing 17-3 and ultimately lost the contest with a final score of 27-24. Justin Fields recorded 312 passing yards and one touchdown, in addition to leading the rushing attack with 10 carries for 55 yards and two additional touchdowns.
The Pick:
The Pittsburgh Steelers accumulated a total of 404 yards, including 282 through the air, and achieved 23 first downs in their matchup against the Colts. However, a sluggish start and a few critical fumbles severely undermined their chances of success in that contest. Additionally, Pittsburgh allowed the Colts to convert eight out of 15 third-down attempts and failed to secure any turnovers on defense. Overall, the performance was lackluster for both teams throughout the game. The Steelers will be looking for a strong recovery this weekend. In contrast, the Dallas Cowboys did not exhibit overwhelming dominance in their victory over a struggling Giants team last weekend. They recorded 293 total yards, with only 80 coming from rushing, and managed 14 first downs, but were penalized 11 times for a total of 89 yards. Nevertheless, their defense performed admirably, conceding just 26 rushing yards, and 16 first downs, and allowing the Giants to convert 5 out of 16 third-down opportunities. This upcoming game has the potential to be a low-scoring battle if both defenses perform effectively. Go with Under.
New Orleans Saints vs Kansas City Chiefs Prediction NFL Picks 10/7/24
Saints at Chiefs at 8:15 PM ET
The New Orleans Saints faced losses to the Eagles and the Falcons. Over their past eight road games, the Saints have recorded five losses. Derek Carr is currently completing 72 percent of his passes, totaling 824 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. The duo of Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed has combined for 517 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns, while Alvin Kamara has made 17 receptions. The Saints' ground attack is averaging 147.5 yards per game, with Kamara at the forefront, amassing 362 yards and 5 touchdowns.
The Kansas City Chiefs secured victories against both the Falcons and the Chargers. They are aiming for their first 5-0 start since the 2018 season. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes has achieved a completion rate of 68.6 percent, accumulating 904 passing yards, along with 6 touchdowns and 5 interceptions. Receivers Rashee Rice and Travis Kelce have collectively garnered 446 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns, while Xavier Worthy has recorded 9 receptions. The Chiefs' rushing attack averages 112.5 yards per game, with Isiah Pacheco leading the team with 135 yards and 1 touchdown.
The Pick:
This season, every game involving the Chiefs has been determined by a margin of 7 points or less, and they will be missing Rashee Rice for this upcoming contest. The New Orleans Saints are entering this game after two consecutive losses, both of which were decided by a mere total of 5 points. They feature the league's most prolific scoring offense, which should find success against a Chiefs defense that ranks 23rd in pass coverage. Additionally, the Saints have demonstrated strong performance as underdogs, boasting a 7-2 record against the spread in their last 9 outings. I am willing to place my confidence in the Saints and the points as they head into the Monday night matchup.