OK to back sagging Pack
SUNDAY
Packers (-5.5) over COMMANDERS: At this point, you have to consider that Aaron Rodgers’ peak days are pretty much behind him. He has had a great career under center with “command of the table,” as poker players say, but we’re not sure the Pack as currently constituted can bring home one more. Still, this price is within reach, thanks to this modest foe.
Giants (+3) over JAGUARS: More than a little surprised at the opener — given the Jags’ respectable straight-up losses vs. NFC-based opponents. Though the Giants did drop their last pair against this foe, Jacksonville has had sustained issues in games leading into their trips to London. Underdog is splendidly coached.
Jets (-1) over BRONCOS: With young Jet QB Zach Wilson off to a running start guiding the fledgling J-E-T-S, will follow the money and ride against a Broncos outfit that is hardly taking full advantage of its home-sweet-home Mile High setting. We’re not at all afraid to buck the Broncos when they’re operating outside the NFC West.
COWBOYS (-7) over Lions: Dallas could hardly have picked a more suitable opponent at this juncture of the schedule. The Lions are improved, and though their offense is nothing to sneeze at, there’s a significant class difference between these two rosters, and this favorite should continue to prosper against this caliber of opponent.
Colts (+2.5) over TITANS: Colts QB Matt Ryan is difficult to fault. The Titans are on a threegame winning stretch against this divisional foe, including Week 4 at Indianapolis, and they’re off their bye to boot. This looms as no cinch either way, but given the surrounding psychology and the price, will go with the head start.
Falcons (+6) over BENGALS: Atlanta has gained confidence in its new and improved offensive balance, which has made new QB Marcus Mariota and his allies difficult to defend. As Mariota prospers, so should we, and surrounding talent should be better for it. We like Bengals QB Joe Burrow and respect his potential, but this spread is a lot of wood to chop.
RAVENS (-6.5) over Browns: In this kind of stout, deep, blood rivalry — and it certainly is that — must grant a long look at the side with the superior personnel and the ability to kick the opponent in question while it is down. This is anything but a vintage Browns outfit, and not sure they have the horses to make good here.
Buccaneers (-11) over PANTHERS: A sustained power team coming off a loss is hard to resist if the competition is less than stellar. It could happen, surely, but we’d be surprised if that situation could be turned around quickly. This is by no means a lead-pipe cinch, but at the moment, it’s Bucs or pass.
RAIDERS (-7) over Texans: This looks relatively within reach without undue stress — and it wouldn’t surprise us were it precisely that. We don’t quite believe it’s box-worthy, though, given it may take a sustained measure of defensive intensity to put it away.
49ERS (+3) over Chiefs: This is certainly likely to be entertaining, but they’re not giving you the store here ... and given that you’re bucking Patrick Mahomes, you’ll have to work hard for the reward.
Both coaches give very little away, so it should be competitive to the wire. The acquisition of Christian McCaffrey is a possible Niners masterstroke.
Seahawks (+6.5) over CHARGERS: Seattle has been underrated virtually from the get-go this season, so you’re getting a little bit of the best of it when they’re playing fair with the Seahawks. One thing’s for certain — you’re getting the superior coach with this visitor.
Steelers (+7) over DOLPHINS: Expecting the Dolphins will be getting back QB Tua Tagovailoa from concussion protocol. After Steelers rookie QB Kenny Pickett got dinged last week, Mitch Trubisky came on in relief. This should be an entertaining, competitive matchup, unless the weather grants Miami some measure of significant competitive advantage.
MONDAY
PATRIOTS (-8) over Bears: Chicago has put the bulk of its chips on the defense square on the layout, and the visitor is dedicated to the proposition, but the Bears will still be hard-pressed to hang within the number. LAST WEEK: 7-4-2 SEASON: 39-36-3