NFL picks Week 3: Falcons-Cowboys and every other game

Sep 21, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; New York Jets running back Bilal Powell (29) runs past Indianapolis Colts defenders in the second half at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports

Jacksonville Jaguars at New England Patriots (-14)

If I get this wrong, I give up trying to predict NFL games. The Patriots beat down one of the league’s best defenses on the road a week ago, and they will have no trouble maintaining their perfect start at home to the Jaguars.

Pick: New England 42, Jacksonville 21

San Diego Chargers at Minnesota Vikings (-2.5)

This one is tough to predict, and it’s all down to which Vikings team turn up. If it’s the unit that got beaten down by the 49ers, they will lose. If it’s the team that controlled the Lions at home with a heavy dose of Adrian Peterson, it’s a victory for the home team. You’re only as good as your last game, right? I’m picking Peterson at home.

Pick: Minnesota 28, San Diego 24

Philadelphia Eagles at New York Jets (-2.5)

If you were to tell me one of the Eagles and Jets would enter this game 2-0 and the other 0-2, I wouldn’t have expected it to be the way round it is. This New York defense was always going to be good, but it’s been dominant, forcing ten turnovers in two games. It’s one thing doing it against the Browns at home, but to beat down the Colts on the road is the sign of an elite defense. The Eagles’ woes continue and their season is in tatters.

Pick: New York 20, Philadelphia 10

Pittsburgh Steelers (-2) at St. Louis Rams

The Rams can be a tough team to beat at home, just ask the Seahawks. But a Steelers offense—which has already looked dominant—with a returning Le’Veon Bell spells trouble for St. Louis. I think the Rams are capable of winning a game like this, but I’m giving the edge to the road team.

Pick: Pittsburgh 24, St. Louis 18

Next: More early games