Picks: The easy life eludes Bills’ pivots

New England (-3) at Chicago The Raiders are off this week, but man is it a joke that one year into Jon Gruden’s hilarious 10-year, $100-million (U.S.) contract, after trading Khalil Mack to the Bears, they are about to burn down the rest of the franchise for the insurance money before taking off for Vegas to start a new life. Pick: Chicago

Buffalo (+7.5) at Indianapolis As Nathan Peterman reappeared last week after Bills starting QB Josh Allen was mercifully injured and therefore temporarily shielded him from ruination, a reminder: Peterman now has nine interceptions in 79 career throws, and the Bills thought he should start the season. Pick: Indianapolis

Carolina (+4.5) at Philadelphia Carson Wentz’s QB rating by game, after coming back from his knee surgery: 84.9, 99.4, 115.3, 122.2. He’s even cracked the top 10, ahead of Kirk Cousins, Aaron Rodgers, and Tom Brady, with a 104.7, which would be tied for 45th best all time. Playing quarterback is easy! Well, not for the Bills. Pick: Philadelphia