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NFL Nation, ESPN
The Week 7 NFL schedule for the 2024 season is stacked with nice matchups, and we’ve you lined with what you could know heading into the weekend.
Our NFL Nation reporters convey us the largest keys to each recreation, and analytics author Seth Walder makes a daring prediction for every matchup. The ESPN Analysis staff offers an enormous stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest, whereas our Football Power Index (FPI) goes contained in the numbers with recreation projections. Fantasy analyst Eric Moody finds fantasy football X components, and three analysts — Kalyn Kahler, Moody and Walder — give us last rating picks for each recreation. Every thing you need to know is right here in a single spot that will help you prepare for a loaded weekend of NFL football.
Let’s get into the complete Week 7 slate, together with the Lions visiting the Vikings and huge receiver Davante Adams‘ Jets debut versus the Steelers. All of it culminates with a pair of “Monday Evening Soccer” matchups between the Ravens and Buccaneers (8:15 p.m. ET) on ABC/ESPN and the Chargers visiting the Cardinals (9 p.m. ET) on ESPN+. (Sport instances are Sunday until in any other case famous.)
Bounce to a matchup:
NE-JAX | SEA-ATL | TEN-BUF
CIN-CLE | HOU-GB | MIA-IND
DET-MIN | PHI-NYG | LV-LAR
CAR-WSH | KC-SF | NYJ-PIT
BAL-TB | LAC-ARI
Thursday: DEN 33, NO 10
Byes: CHI, DAL
9:30 a.m. p.m. ET | NFL Community | ESPN BET: JAX -5.5 (42.5 O/U)
Patriots storyline to observe: Rookie QB Drake Maye threw for 243 yards in his first profession begin in Week 6 and now faces a Jaguars go protection that ranks final within the NFL, permitting a median of 276.7 passing yards per recreation. Maye turned the primary QB to make certainly one of his first two profession begins in a recreation exterior america for the reason that NFL began enjoying worldwide regular-season video games in 2005. — Mike Reiss
Jaguars storyline to observe: Will the Jaguars change their method on protection in opposition to one other rookie QB in Maye? Jacksonville opted to sit down again and minimally blitz Chicago’s Caleb Williams final week (simply eight instances in 32 dropbacks) and bought shredded, permitting him to throw for 226 yards and 4 TDs. The Jaguars have the second-worst blitz proportion (17.6) within the NFL, however it seems to be like high nook Tyson Campbell (hamstring) can be again, in order that beefs up the secondary a bit and would possibly make defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen a little bit extra aggressive. — Mike DiRocco
Stat to know: The Patriots enter this matchup on a five-game dropping streak, which is tied for the longest by New England over previous 30 seasons.
Daring prediction: Patriots DL Keion White will sack QB Trevor Lawrence. White has a robust 20% go rush win price, and each Jaguars tackles rank within the backside 10 in go block win price. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Jaguars RB Tank Bigsby. Bigsby is in line for an even bigger position with Travis Etienne Jr. coping with a hamstring injury. Bigsby ought to deal with early downs and short-yardage conditions, whereas D’Ernest Johnson steps in because the receiving again. The Patriots surrender the sixth-most fantasy factors to operating backs. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Jaguars are 1-3 outright and ATS when favored in a London recreation. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Patriots 24, Jaguars 17
Moody’s choose: Patriots 27, Jaguars 26
Walder’s choose: Jaguars 27, Patriots 23
FPI prediction: JAX, 69.5% (by a median of 8.0 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Patriots’ offense was energized in Maye’s first start … Jaguars’ 2024 free agent class off to rough start … NFL owners approve Jaguars’ $1.4B stadium renovation
1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: ATL -3 (51.5 O/U)
Seahawks storyline to observe: Coach Mike Macdonald will not be an enormous blitzer, preferring as a substitute to ship solely 4 rushers more often than not. Seattle is Twenty second in blitz price this yr, whereas the Ravens ranked twenty fifth over his two seasons as their defensive coordinator (2022-2023). However will Macdonald flip up the warmth in opposition to QB Kirk Cousins? The Falcons have allowed the bottom strain price in non-blitz conditions, and the Seahawks need to discover a solution to create extra takeaways after recording just one of their previous 5 video games. — Brady Henderson
Falcons storyline to observe: Falcons RBs Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier each had breakout video games in Week 6, combining for 200 yards and three touchdowns on the bottom. The Seahawks have allowed the fifth-most speeding yards (868) within the league and 5.0 yards per carry, tied for the third-worst mark. Atlanta would possibly look to be a run-first staff for the second straight week with its formidable one-two punch. — Marc Raimondi
Stat to know: The Seahawks have scored 20-plus factors in all six video games this season. The Ravens and Commanders are the one different groups to do the identical.
Daring prediction: Falcons OLB Matthew Judon will report at the least 1.5 sacks in opposition to QB Geno Smith. Judon will get pleasure from dealing with Stone Forsythe, who ranks 63rd out of 66 tackles in go block win price. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Seahawks WR DK Metcalf. He’ll face Falcons CB A.J. Terrell, and that is thrilling information for fantasy managers. Terrell struggled in opposition to George Pickens, DeVonta Smith, Mike Evans and Diontae Johnson. Whereas Metcalf has been quiet over the previous two weeks, this matchup offers him an important alternative to get again on monitor. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Falcons have gone over the full in three straight video games (all wins). Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Falcons 28, Seahawks 21
Moody’s choose: Falcons 31, Seahawks 27
Walder’s choose: Seahawks 28, Falcons 27
FPI prediction: ATL, 58.2% (by a median of three.1 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Seahawks trade for DT Robertson-Harris … Falcons’ London emerging as elite WR … Seahawks lose another key defender in Jenkins to IR
0:30
Is the over or the below the higher play in Seahawks-Falcons?
Tyler Fulghum previews why he leans towards the over within the Week 7 matchup between Seattle and Atlanta.
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: BUF -9.5 (40.5 O/U)
Titans storyline to observe: The Titans’ passing recreation has gotten off to a horrible begin, together with a 95-yard passing efficiency by QB Will Levis final week. By 5 video games, Tennessee’s offense is averaging 135 passing yards per recreation, thirty first within the league. Offensive coordinator Nick Holz mentioned the unit watched each passing play to determine what is going on on. Search for the Titans to get into the passing recreation early in opposition to the Payments, with Levis particularly trying to get the ball to receiver Calvin Ridley. — Turron Davenport
Payments storyline to observe: The Payments made an enormous transfer this week to enhance the huge receiver group by adding Amari Cooper. How a lot of a task he can have this week in such restricted time with the staff is to be seen, however the problem, regardless of how a lot Cooper performs in opposition to the Titans, is placing collectively drives. Tennessee’s protection leads the NFL with 248.8 yards allowed per recreation, whereas the Payments have averaged 290.3 yards per recreation previously three video games and never scored greater than 23 factors. Altering that development can be key. — Alaina Getzenberg
Stat to know: The Titans lead the NFL in whole protection (248.8 yards per recreation), which is their third-fewest yards allowed per recreation within the first 5 video games since 1976.
Daring prediction: Cooper will report a 40-plus-yard reception in his Payments debut. The Browns efficiently used Cooper as extra of a deep menace final yr. Buffalo can be glad to have one other deep possibility for QB Josh Allen. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Titans RB Tony Pollard. He has scored 15 or extra fantasy factors in 4 out of 5 video games. He has been one of many few constant fantasy choices for the Titans and is poised for a large workload as Tyjae Spears offers with a hamstring harm. Pollard faces a Payments protection that has allowed the second-most fantasy factors per recreation to operating backs. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Payments are 1-6 ATS of their previous seven video games laying at the least a landing. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Payments 27, Titans 21
Moody’s choose: Payments 27, Titans 10
Walder’s choose: Payments 27, Titans 13
FPI prediction: BUF, 71.4% (by a median of 8.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Titans still trying to figure what works best with QB Levis … WR Cooper excited for ‘fresh beginning’ with Bills
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: CIN -5.5 (41.5 O/U)
Bengals storyline to observe: No participant has impacted QB Joe Burrow greater than Browns DE Myles Garrett. Garrett has sacked Burrow probably the most (eight), hit him twice as a lot as anybody else (16) and in addition held Burrow to a 28.6 completion proportion when pressuring him. Burrow on dealing with the Browns: “We will need to get bodily, run the ball rather well, play-action and simply play an total staff recreation.” — Ben Child
Browns storyline to observe: RB Nick Chubb is anticipated to make his season debut as he returns from final yr’s extreme knee harm. Whereas Chubb in all probability can be on a snap depend, he may assist a struggling offense that also hasn’t discovered an identification by six video games. The Bengals’ protection ranks final within the NFL in success price on run performs (47.3%). — Daniel Oyefusi
Stat to know: The Bengals have an NFL-worst 47% defensive success price in opposition to the run. All different groups within the NFL are above 50%.
Daring prediction: Bengals DE Trey Hendrickson will sack QB Deshaun Watson 3 times. Watson is taking sacks at an outrageous 12.4% price. With this massive efficiency, Hendrickson will launch himself into the now open Defensive Participant of the Yr race. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Bengals RB Chase Brown. He has emerged as the highest again in Cincinnati, scoring 14-plus fantasy factors in every of the previous three video games. Final week in opposition to the Giants, Brown performed extra snaps than Zack Moss for the primary time this season. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Browns have gone below their staff whole in all six video games this season. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Bengals 28, Browns 14
Moody’s choose: Bengals 27, Browns 20
Walder’s choose: Bengals 33, Browns 16
FPI prediction: CIN, 61.8% (by a median of 4.7 factors)
Matchup must-reads: RB Brown adding dynamic element to Bengals’ attack … Browns trade WR Cooper to Bills … What RB Chubb’s return can mean for Browns’ offense
1:43
Chris Canty requires Browns to commerce Myles Garrett
Chris Canty explains why the Browns haven’t any hope and may commerce star DE Myles Garrett.
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: GB -2.5 (47.5 O/U)
Texans storyline to observe: Coach DeMeco Ryans mentioned earlier within the week that Packers QB Jordan Love “would be the finest quarterback we have seen this yr.” And Love’s strongest skill is play-action, as he has the second highest passer ranking (132.1) in these conditions. Additionally, the Texans wrestle defending it as they’ve allowed the third-highest passer ranking (126). — DJ Bien-Aime
Packers storyline to observe: Whereas a lot of the main focus final week was on the return of WR Romeo Doubs from his one-game suspension, the Packers’ most constant receiver has been Jayden Reed. He has a team-high 27 catches on 34 targets this season, and his 79% reception price is seventh finest within the NFL. The Packers’ offense will look to problem a Texans protection that’s permitting 163.2 passing yards per recreation, the fourth-best mark. — Rob Demovsky
Stat to know: DE Will Anderson Jr.’s 5.5 sacks this season are probably the most by a Houston participant by six video games since J.J. Watt in 2018 (7.0).
Daring prediction: Texans LB Henry To’oTo’o will report 10-plus mixed tackles. To’oTo’o ranks 14th out of 52 in deal with price on run performs amongst off-ball linebackers who’ve performed at the least 70% of snaps this season. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Love. He has scored 25 or extra fantasy factors in two of his previous three video games. The matchup with the Texans at Lambeau Discipline is projected to be excessive scoring. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: NFC North groups are 17-3 ATS in non-division video games this season, together with 3-0 ATS in Week 6. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Texans 30, Packers 28
Moody’s choose: Packers 30, Texans 24
Walder’s choose: Packers 27, Texans 24
FPI prediction: GB, 57.7% (by a median of three.1 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Texans’ offense, RB Mixon explode despite not having WR Collins … Packers’ Love proving he ‘trusts the entire receiving corps’ … McManus grateful to join Packers after ‘difficult time’
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: IND -3 (43.5 O/U)
Dolphins storyline to observe: In QB Tyler Huntley‘s third begin of the season, control tight finish Jonnu Smith, whom Huntley focused eight instances in Miami’s win over the Patriots in Week 5. The Dolphins spent the bye week developing with methods to get him extra concerned, and the Colts have allowed the Tenth-most receiving yards to opposing tight ends this season. Huntley and the Dolphins can open up the passing recreation by establishing the run — particularly after speeding for a season-high 193 yards in Week 5. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Colts storyline to observe: The Colts have managed to carry only one opponent to fewer than 100 speeding yards this season and have in any other case been disappointing in opposition to the run. Can they handle to maintain the Dolphins in examine given Miami’s underwhelming speeding assault that’s producing 3.9 yards per carry? The Colts’ rush protection has stabilized a bit since its two opening video games, when it allowed 474 mixed yards. If Indianapolis can restrict the bottom recreation, it places extra strain on Miami’s passing recreation with its unstable quarterback scenario. — Stephen Holder
Stat to know: Miami’s 12 factors per recreation (60 whole factors) are the worst in NFL. It has scored fewer than 75 factors in six straight video games solely 3 times in franchise historical past.
Daring prediction: Colts WR Josh Downs will report a fourth straight recreation with 65 or extra receiving yards. Downs has been productive working with QB Joe Flacco, however I feel he’ll stay efficient even with Anthony Richardson. His 80 open score suggests his route operating has taken a step up. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Dolphins WR Tyreek Hill. He led Miami in targets (10), receptions (six) and receiving yards (69) in Week 5 earlier than the bye. This week, Hill will look to construct extra chemistry with Huntley. The matchup is simply too juicy to go up. Indianapolis’ protection has given up the Eleventh-most fantasy factors per recreation to huge receivers. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Colts are 5-1 ATS this season, together with 3-0 ATS at residence. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Colts 24, Dolphins 14
Moody’s choose: Colts 23, Dolphins 17
Walder’s choose: Dolphins 22, Colts 21
FPI prediction: IND, 72.2% (by a median of 8.9 factors)
Matchup must-reads: McDaniel expects Tua to play again in 2024 … Colts expect QB Richardson to start vs. Dolphins … Why Miami’s offense is sputtering without Tua, and what can be fixed
1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: MIN -1.5 (50.5 O/U)
Lions storyline to observe: Detroit’s offense will enter Minnesota on a roll below the management of QB Jared Goff, who has 5 landing passes and 0 interceptions in his previous two video games. The Lions have gained three straight in opposition to the Vikings however are 2.5-point underdogs for the primary time this season. — Eric Woodyard
Vikings storyline to observe: It is laborious to think about the Vikings successful if they are not capable of sluggish the Lions’ run recreation. Minnesota’s protection has allowed the NFL’s second-fewest speeding yards per recreation (67.2) and the fewest speeding touchdowns (0.2 per recreation), whereas Detroit ranks fourth with a median of 157.8 speeding yards per recreation. When the Lions are capable of run on offense, they’re extraordinarily troublesome to beat. — Kevin Seifert
Stat to know: In eight profession video games in opposition to the Lions, WR Justin Jefferson has totaled 1,073 receiving yards. That is probably the most by any participant in his first eight video games versus an opponent in NFL historical past.
1:45
Rex Ryan: Hutchinson harm ‘may need misplaced the Tremendous Bowl’ for Lions
Rex Ryan and Dan Orlovsky clarify how the Lions’ lack of Aidan Hutchinson may impression their Tremendous Bowl probabilities.
Daring prediction: The Lions will maintain Sam Darnold to a QBR below 50, even with out DE Aidan Hutchinson. Do not get me fallacious, Hutchinson was wonderful, however Detroit’s defensive renaissance is about extra than simply him. They’re going to step up with out Hutchinson. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Lions WR Jameson Williams. Is he flying below the radar? Amon-Ra St. Brown is a should begin for fantasy managers, however I do get requested a variety of questions on whether or not to begin or sit Williams. Whereas he has had 9 or extra targets in solely two video games this season, Williams has scored 14-plus fantasy factors in 5 out of six video games. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Vikings are 5-0 ATS this season, searching for to be the primary staff to win and canopy their first six video games since 2009. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Lions 28, Vikings 27
Moody’s choose: Lions 24, Vikings 19
Walder’s choose: Lions 24, Vikings 16
FPI prediction: DET, 57.1% (by a median of two.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Lions extend DT McNeill for 4 years, $55M guaranteed … Will Lions’ physical style slow Vikings’ WR Jefferson? … Lions won’t count out Hutchinson returning after broken leg … Vikings’ 5 biggest surprises that led to shocking 5-0 start
1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: PHI -3 (42.5 O/U)
Eagles storyline to observe: It is the Saquon Barkley recreation. The operating again returns to MetLife Stadium for the primary time as an Eagle after six years because the marquee participant for the Giants. He has been as marketed for Philadelphia to date with 482 yards and 5 whole touchdowns. He is uncertain of what the surroundings can be like towards him however mentioned no matter it’s, he hopes “it offers me a little bit additional juice” to assist his staff win. — Tim McManus
Giants storyline to observe: The Giants’ run protection has been an issue this season, permitting 5.2 yards per carry. Solely the Payments have allowed extra (5.3). Defensive coordinator Shane Bowen famous that with Barkley it is about avoiding the house run. They’re going to have their work reduce out for them on this revenge recreation. — Jordan Raanan
Stat to know: Eagles QB Jalen Hurts has 43 profession speeding touchdowns, which is tied with Corridor of Famer Steve Younger for the third most in NFL historical past.
Daring prediction: Giants QB Daniel Jones will set a season excessive for passing yards. Jones’ highest yardage recreation (281) was in opposition to the Cowboys in Week 4.The Eagles rank simply twenty sixth in EPA per dropback, and I can see New York falling behind and enjoying catchup by the air. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Giants WR Wan’Dale Robinson. He continues to be a dependable goal for Jones. Robinson has seen eight or extra targets in 4 straight video games and has scored 10-plus fantasy factors in every of these contests, together with two with 16 or extra. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: That is the sixteenth straight assembly the Eagles have been favored in, together with the playoffs, which is the longest streak by both staff on this matchup within the Tremendous Bowl period. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Eagles 21, Giants 20
Moody’s choose: Eagles 26, Giants 23
Walder’s choose: Eagles 27, Giants 17
FPI prediction: PHI, 63.5% (by a median of 5.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: How Barkley went from ‘Giant for life’ to Eagles
4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: LAR -7 (43.5 O/U)
Raiders storyline to observe: The Raiders, who spent 1982 to 1994 in Los Angeles and keep an enormous and dependable following within the metropolis, are anticipated to carry a major crowd benefit in opposition to the Rams. However the Raiders are simply 1-5 at SoFi Stadium, with their lone win in Inglewood coming with no followers in 2020. Getting rookie Brock Bowers, who leads all NFL tight ends in catches (37) and receiving yards (384), going early and infrequently in opposition to the Rams’ NFL-worst passing protection when it comes to passer ranking allowed (117.2) will go a great distance to assist flip that tide. — Paul Gutierrez
Rams storyline to observe: If Sean McVay earns his 79th profession win Sunday, he would tie John Robinson for probably the most by a head coach in Rams historical past. Based on ESPN Analysis, McVay, 38, could be the second man for the reason that 1970 merger to be the winningest coach of a franchise earlier than turning 40. He can be part of John Madden, who turned the Raiders’ all-time wins chief at age 36 in 1972. — Sarah Barshop
Stat to know: The Raiders rank thirty first within the NFL in speeding yards per recreation (79.5), whereas the Rams’ protection offers up probably the most speeding yards per recreation (157.6).
Daring prediction: A Rams huge receiver will report 100-plus receiving yards. I do not know if Cooper Kupp (ankle) can be energetic, however I do know that the Raiders have a defensive open rating in opposition to receivers of 30, which ranks fourth worst within the league. If Kupp does return to motion, it needs to be a pleasant spot to supply immediately. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Bowers. He leads all tight ends with 16 or extra fantasy factors in two straight video games. This week, Bowers faces a Rams protection that enables the second-most fantasy factors per recreation to tight ends, making him a must-start. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Rams are 0-7 ATS on additional relaxation since 2022. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Rams 22, Raiders 17
Moody’s choose: Rams 31, Raiders 14
Walder’s choose: Rams 27, Raiders 20
FPI prediction: LAR, 63.8% (by a median of 5.4 factors)
Matchup must-reads: How will the WR Adams era go down in Raiders history? … Rams WR Kupp nears return, but is Week 7 realistic? … Owners approve Brady’s bid to buy into Raiders
4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: WSH -8 (51.5 O/U)
Panthers storyline to observe: This can be a nightmare matchup for the Carolina protection even when it does get again three gamers (ILB Josey Jewell, OLB Jadeveon Clowney and S Sam Franklin) from accidents. The Commanders rank fifth in whole offense (378 yards per recreation) and rush offense (157.3) and are second in scoring (29.7 factors per recreation). The Panthers rank twenty ninth in whole protection (379.8 yards per recreation), Thirtieth in opposition to the run (153.5) and final in factors allowed (33.8 factors per recreation). Rookie QB Jayden Daniels‘ skill to make off-schedule performs creates much more of an issue for Carolina. — David Newton
Commanders storyline to observe: Washington has been hit laborious by accidents alongside the line of defense, with DT Jonathan Allen (pectoral) out for the yr and DE Dorance Armstrong coping with a rib harm that may sideline him Sunday. Rotational DE Javontae Jean-Baptiste (ankle) was simply positioned on injured reserve. That might result in a tough recreation Sunday. Prior to now 4 video games with QB Andy Dalton beginning, the Panthers rank eighth in speeding yards per recreation (130) and seventh in yards per carry (5.0). Dalton is Tenth in QBR throughout this era. — John Keim
Stat to know: Commanders QB Jayden Daniels has gone 4 straight video games with 70-plus Complete QBR, which is tied for the second-longest streak by rookie beginning QB since 2006, when Complete QBR was launched (solely longer streak was six video games by Matt Ryan in 2008).
Daring prediction: Panthers WR Xavier Legette will report a profession excessive in receiving yards (66). The Commanders are weak at nook, and that ought to current a chance for the rookie. — Walder
Accidents: Panthers | Commanders
Fantasy X issue: Panthers RB Chuba Hubbard. He is making fantasy managers overlook Carolina drafted Jonathon Brooks with the best way he is enjoying. Hubbard has logged 22 or extra touches in three of his previous 4 video games, and he has scored 17 or extra fantasy factors in every of these contests. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Commanders have lined 5 straight video games, which is tied for his or her longest cowl streak previously decade (2020). Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Commanders 40, Panthers 17
Moody’s choose: Commanders 38, Panthers 21
Walder’s choose: Commanders 42, Panthers 24
FPI prediction: WSH, 72.9% (by a median of 9.1 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Panthers RB Hubbard: ‘I just want to be great’ … Commanders’ defense hasn’t kept up with offense … Third-down struggles continue to hamstring Panthers’ defense … Commanders RB Robinson practices: ‘I feel great’
1:36
What would Brian Robinson Jr.’s return imply for fantasy managers?
Daniel Dopp, Discipline Yates and Mike Clay are optimistic about Brian Robinson’s fantasy prospects if he returns vs. the Panthers.
4:25 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: SF -1.5 (46.5 O/U)
Chiefs storyline to observe: First staff to attain a purple zone landing wins? Each groups have had issues getting touchdowns whereas contained in the 20-yard-line, with the Chiefs being fourth worst within the league (38.9%) and the 49ers not significantly better (44.4%). The staff that does higher within the purple zone will get a determined benefit in what in any other case needs to be an in depth recreation. — Adam Teicher
49ers storyline to observe: No quarterback who has began at the least 4 video games in opposition to the Niners has averaged extra passing yards than Patrick Mahomes, who’s posting 339 yards per recreation in opposition to San Francisco. The problem this week can be for the Niners to deal with significantly better than they’ve in latest weeks. Kansas Metropolis leads the NFL in yards after catch per completion (7.1), whereas the Niners rank twenty sixth within the NFL in YAC allowed per reception (6.0). If the Niners are to lastly recover from the hump and beat the Chiefs and Mahomes for the primary time below coach Kyle Shanahan, a lot will hinge on how effectively they deal with in area. — Nick Wagoner
Stat to know: The Chiefs are 5-0 regardless of outscoring their opponents by solely 33 factors, which is the bottom level differential by any 5-0 staff for the reason that 2004 Jets (plus-31).
Daring prediction: The 49ers will not enable greater than 4 yards to a display go. The Chiefs run screens 7% of the time, the third-highest price within the league. However the 49ers are the perfect NFL protection in opposition to screens when it comes to EPA per play. Samples, after all, are tiny. But it surely’s one thing to control. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Chiefs WR JuJu Smith-Schuster. After WR Rashee Rice‘s season-ending knee injury, Smith-Schuster stepped up. He had a robust displaying earlier than the staff’s Week 6 bye, ending with eight targets and 20 fantasy factors against the Saints. Whereas the 49ers’ protection presents a problem, he ought to nonetheless see loads of targets from Mahomes. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: 49ers QB Brock Purdy is making his twenty eighth regular-season begin, and he has by no means been an underdog. The one time Purdy has ever closed as an underdog was within the 2022 NFC Championship Sport (+3 at Eagles in a recreation the Niners misplaced 31-7). Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Chiefs 28, 49ers 24
Moody’s choose: 49ers 28, Chiefs 21
Walder’s choose: 49ers 26, Chiefs 20
FPI prediction: SF, 51.5% (by a median of 0.3 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Amid trades, Chiefs content with WR room … 49ers ‘moved on’ from Super Bowl loss to Chiefs … How RB Hunt went from FA to powerhouse in Chiefs return
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC/Peacock | ESPN BET: NYJ -2 (38.5 O/U)
Jets storyline to observe: Newly acquired WR Davante Adams is anticipated to make his Jets debut in what might be a make-or-break recreation for 2-4 New York. He seems wholesome after a three-week hamstring harm, so do not be stunned if he has a major workload. The coaches consider he is forward of the training curve due to his background with QB Aaron Rodgers. A sobering stat: The Jets’ six-game level whole (113) is similar because it was final season with Zach Wilson at quarterback. Move safety has been an issue (30 QB hits previously three video games), and so they need to cope with LB T.J. Watt (4.5 sacks). — Wealthy Cimini
Steelers storyline to observe: With Russell Wilson wholesome, the Steelers face one other vital quarterback resolution in opposition to Jets protection that is tied for third with 20 sacks this season. Justin Fields has been sacked 16 instances, tied for sixth most within the NFL. The Steelers’ offensive line can also be poised to begin its fifth mixture in seven video games with Ryan McCollum taking on at heart for injured rookie starter Zach Frazier. Fields’ mobility undoubtedly helps a banged-up offensive line, however Tomlin has expressed a need to discover an offense with Wilson because the signal-caller. — Brooke Pryor
Stat to know: Rodgers has 28 consecutive video games with fewer than 300 passing yards, which is the longest energetic streak within the NFL and the longest in his profession.
Daring prediction: Followers at Acrisure Stadium can be calling for Fields to retake the beginning QB job earlier than the sport’s finish. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Adams. He has a well-documented rapport with Rodgers. Adams has averaged 8.6 targets and 16.6 fantasy factors per recreation when enjoying with Rodgers in Inexperienced Bay. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Unders are 32-10 on “Sunday Evening Soccer” since 2022, together with 6-0 this season. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Jets 21, Steelers 17
Moody’s choose: Jets 20, Steelers 17
Walder’s choose: Jets 23, Steelers 13
FPI prediction: PIT, 50.7% (by a median of 0.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Inside the Jets’ split with Saleh, next steps … Wilson or Fields? Case for Steelers to start either QB … Can QB Rodgers and WR Adams recreate their magic? … Fields: No QB debate if I play better
2:12
Stephen A., Dan Orlovsky get heated throughout Jets debate
Stephen A. Smith and the “First Take” crew are emphatic when discussing whether or not this season is Tremendous Bowl or bust for the Jets.
8:15 p.m. ET | ESPN/ABC/ESPN+ | ESPN BET: BAL -3.5 (49.5 O/U)
Ravens storyline to observe: This marks the ninth assembly between QBs Baker Mayfield and Lamar Jackson, two Heisman Trophy-winning quarterbacks who had been chosen with the primary and final picks of the primary spherical within the 2018 draft. Jackson leads the head-to-head matchups in opposition to Mayfield 6-2, successful the previous three. — Jamison Hensley
Buccaneers storyline to observe: The Ravens and Bucks are first and second within the NFL in scoring. The Ravens lead the league with 21 offensive touchdowns, and the Bucs have 20. Tampa Bay in all probability will not depend on the newly found floor recreation that mustered 277 yards in opposition to the Saints contemplating the Ravens’ protection is surrendering simply 59 yards on the bottom per recreation. That is the place the Bucs’ protection must be the difference-maker. Within the video games they’ve misplaced this yr — to the Broncos and Falcons — it has been due largely to poor tackling. — Jenna Laine
Stat to know: Since ESPN launched Complete QBR in 2006, 45 QBs have began at the least 5 video games on “Monday Evening Soccer.” None of them posted a better mark than Jackson (85.4).
Daring prediction: There can be at the least 57 mixed factors scored. We all know the Ravens can rating, however the Bucs are a pass-heavy staff with success within the air. Baltimore’s protection performs proper into that, rating twenty seventh in EPA allowed per opponent dropback. — Walder
Accidents: Ravens | Buccaneers
Fantasy X issue: Mayfield. Mayfield has been a shock this season, averaging 22.5 fantasy factors per recreation — second solely to Jackson (23.9). Baltimore’s protection has given up the second-most fantasy factors to QBs this yr. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Prime-time unders are 81-52-1 over the previous three seasons. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Buccaneers 35, Ravens 27
Moody’s choose: Ravens 35, Buccaneers 28
Walder’s choose: Ravens 34, Buccaneers 26
FPI prediction: BAL, 58.0% (by a median of three.3 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Lamar, Ravens ‘being humble’ as No. 1 offense booms
8:45 p.m. ET | ESPN+ | ESPN BET: LAC -2.5 (43.5 O/U)
Chargers storyline to observe: QB Justin Herbert is coming off his finest recreation of the season, with season highs in passing yards (237), completions (21) and makes an attempt (34). The Cardinals are permitting the Eleventh-most passing yards per recreation (220.3) within the NFL this season, and offensive coordinator Greg Roman may look to construct on Herbert’s efficiency final week with one other passing outburst. The Chargers may additionally get huge receiver DJ Chark Jr., who has been on injured reserve all season, again Monday evening. — Kris Rhim
Cardinals storyline to observe: The Cardinals have not discovered a solution to be constant, however Monday evening is likely to be the time they determine it out if they will benefit from the Chargers’ weaknesses. Los Angeles is averaging 187 passing yards per recreation (twenty ninth within the NFL) and 6.6 passing yards per play (twenty fourth). Arizona must enhance on its Twenty second-ranked 220.3 passing yards allowed per recreation and Thirtieth-ranked 7.78 passing yards allowed her play, however Herbert has thrown for greater than 200 yards simply as soon as this season. — Josh Weinfuss
Stat to know: The Chargers haven’t allowed a single level off turnovers. The one different staff that may say the identical is the Steelers.
Daring prediction: Cardinals QB Kyler Murray will common below 6.5 air yards per go try. The Chargers run two-high protection 58% of the time (third most) and have at the least one exterior nook in press protection solely 25% of the time (least usually). That ought to result in shorter passes. — Walder
Accidents: Chargers | Cardinals
Fantasy X issue: Chargers RB J.K. Dobbins. He has had 17 or extra touches in 4 out of 5 video games. With Gus Edwards on injured reserve, Dobbins is about to see an enormous workload shifting ahead. Additionally, the Cardinals’ protection permits the second-most speeding yards per recreation to operating backs. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Murray is 15-22 ATS in his profession at residence; Herbert is 20-13 ATS in his profession on the highway. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Chargers 21, Cardinals 20
Moody’s choose: Chargers 20, Cardinals 16
Walder’s choose: Cardinals 26, Chargers 24
FPI prediction: ARI, 51.7% (by a median of 0.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Chargers’ Harbaugh ‘confident’ heart condition under control … What QB Murray, Cardinals learned from sloppy loss vs. Packers
