NFL Game Picks Week 2

Story posted September 15, 2021 in CommRadio, Sports by Carlos Garcia

After an opening week of action in the NFL that saw firecracker offenses, shocking upsets, and interesting storylines, week 2 dawns upon us.

Let’s take a look at some predictions for the top games this week:

New York Giants (0-1) vs. Washington Football Team (0-1)

The “Daniel Jones experiment” in New York needs to end. The Giants gave Jones all the weapons he needed to make that next step going into his third season, and he hasn't shown any signs of promise. Jones will have to lead a team that has four guys questionable to play, and one of those being starting running back Saquon Barkley.

For Washington, they aren’t healthy either, as quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick was placed on IR and is out for six to eight weeks. On Thursday night, Washington will have to ride their stellar defense to a win, while New York tries to utilize all offensive weapons.

Prediction: Washington 17, New York 10

Los Angeles Rams (1-0) vs. Indianapolis Colts (0-1)

Matthew Stafford is the answer. After an incredible debut at SoFi Stadium, the Rams have shown that they are Super Bowl contenders once again. Alongside the great defensive impact that Aaron Donald and Jalen Ramsey had, other role-players stepped up and impacted the game.

Newly acquired quarterback Carson Wentz made his Colts debut on Sunday. He had a solid performance: 251 passing yards with two touchdowns. It seems that Wentz and this offense may start to grow closer and better, which should make for a great game Sunday.

Prediction: Rams 28, Colts 14

Tennessee Titans (0-1) vs. Seattle Seahawks (1-0)

The Titans were awful in Week 1. They couldn't score, they couldn't stop Arizona’s scoring, they were just flat. Julio Jones made little impact on the game, hauling in only three catches for 29 yards. The offensive line was a major issue, giving up five sacks to Chandler Jones alone, and six in total. Tennessee needs to be better and take accountability for its weaknesses.

Seattle on the other hand is just fine. Quarterback Russell Wilson has already started his MVP campaign, throwing for four touchdowns on Sunday. DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett are solidifying themselves as a top receiver duo in the league. Expect a big game from this trio.

Prediction: Seahawks 35, Titans 17

Kansas City Chiefs (1-0) vs. Baltimore Ravens (0-1)

The defending AFC champs had a wake-up call on Sunday when they were down 22-10 going into halftime against the Cleveland Browns. Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs showed why they’ve been to the Super Bowl the last two years, swinging the momentum of the game and winning 33-29. Mahomes tossed three touchdowns to complement his 337 passing yards. Wide receiver Tyreek Hill had 11 catches for 179 yards and a nice stroll into the endzone.

The Baltimore Ravens had a complete meltdown on Monday night, where they blew a 14 point lead and would eventually lose in overtime to the Raiders. Lamar Jackson held his own, throwing for 235 yards and one touchdown, and rushing for 86 yards. Expect a shootout in this star-studded Sunday night matchup.

Prediction: Chiefs 42, Ravens 31

Detroit Lions (0-1) vs. Green Bay Packers (0-1)

What is going on in Green Bay? After an NFC championship appearance and Aaron Rodgers’ MVP season, the Packers were a disaster on Sunday. Green Bay had just three points and did not generate any offense. Is it premature to overreact to this meltdown? Maybe, but the Packers face a Detroit Lions team that does not have a strong defense, so expect a bounce-back game for Rodgers and company.

The Lions, led by newly acquired quarterback Jared Goff, were surprisingly good on Sunday vs. the 49ers. After going down by 28 in the 3rd quarter, Goff commanded the offense to a near-comeback win. The Lions may be a surprise team to watch this year, and after the Packers’ issues, we may see an upset.

Prediction: Lions 21, Packers 20

Carlos Garcia is a second year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email him at cag6082@psu.edu.