As we enter this stage of the NFL season, it’s important to keep track of your office pool standings. Consistently beating the spread is a challenge, but by following this column, you’ll have all the information you need to succeed. Last week, the favorites had a record of 9-6-1 Against the Spread (ATS), marking the second consecutive week of success. Let’s take a look at all 14 matchups this week, along with predicted score lines and ATS picks.
Washington Commanders (-6.5) Over Chicago Bears:
Despite coming into this game on a two-game losing streak, the Commanders are nearly a touchdown favorite, which speaks to the weakness of the Bears. Washington has shown signs of improvement against top teams this season and should have no trouble defeating the Bears at home. Predicted score: Commanders 28, Bears 10.
Jacksonville Jaguars (+5.5) Over Buffalo Bills:
After a convincing victory over the Falcons in Week 4, the Jaguars will look to continue their strong performance in London. The Bills have had three straight blowout wins, but the hungry Jaguars team will keep this game close. Predicted score: Jaguars 25, Bills 24.
Pittsburgh Steelers (+4.5) Over Baltimore Ravens:
While the Ravens are expected to remain atop the AFC North, the Steelers always play tough football against their division rival. In a home game, the Steelers’ defense will step up and make it difficult for Lamar Jackson to find passing lanes. The Ravens will win, but not cover the spread. Predicted score: Ravens 20, Steelers 17.
Carolina Panthers (+9) Over Detroit Lions:
The Lions have been led by their offense this season, but their weak pass defense will be exposed by Bryce Young and the Panthers. The Lions may have a comfortable lead in the final quarter, but their soft coverage will allow the Panthers to cover the spread. Predicted score: Lions 27, Panthers 23.
Houston Texans (-1) Over Atlanta Falcons:
The Falcons started the season strong with a 2-0 record but suffered demoralizing losses in their last two games. Their weak performance has made them underdogs against the Texans, who have scored 67 points in their last two games while the Falcons have only scored 13. The Texans will continue their surprising start with a win. Predicted score: Texans 24, Falcons 13.
New Orleans Saints (+1.5) Over New England Patriots:
Both teams have question marks at the quarterback position, which can affect their performance. However, the complete Saints offense will have the edge and secure the win as slight underdogs. Alvin Kamara’s return will boost the Saints’ offense, while the Patriots continue to struggle. Predicted score: Saints 20, Patriots 12.
Miami Dolphins (-11) Over New York Giants:
The Dolphins’ offense, which scored 10 touchdowns against the Broncos a few weeks ago, will only need one touchdown to secure a victory against the struggling Giants. Despite the large spread, the Dolphins will cover it comfortably as an angry Tua Tagovailoa leads the charge. Predicted score: Dolphins 38, Giants 17.
Tennessee Titans (+1) Over Indianapolis Colts:
Both the Titans and Colts have had solid starts to the season, making this game a close call. However, the Titans have a knack for winning games like these and will find a way to edge out a victory. Predicted score: Titans 23, Colts 21.
Cincinnati Bengals (-3) Over Arizona Cardinals:
The Bengals have had a tough time getting going on both offense and defense. However, facing the struggling Cardinals will give them a chance to keep their faint playoff hopes alive. If the Bengals can get a lead, their defense should be able to hold on and cover the spread. Predicted score: Bengals 24, Cardinals 17.
Philadelphia Eagles (-4.5) Over LA Rams:
Jalen Hurts has lost only one regular-season game in his career, and the Eagles’ offense is strong and unstoppable. They will have no trouble against the Rams’ defense, which ranks 18th against the run. The Eagles will dominate on the ground, gaining over 200 rushing yards. Predicted score: Eagles 38, Rams 21.
Kansas City Chiefs (-5) Over Minnesota Vikings:
Both teams secured victories in Week 4, but neither impressed. The Chiefs will be able to get their offense going against the Vikings, and Justin Jefferson won’t be able to do enough to bring his team over the line. The backdoor cover is a concern, but the Chiefs will hold on for the win. Predicted score: Chiefs 41, Vikings 30.
New York Jets (+2) Over Denver Broncos:
The Broncos’ status as favorites for the second week in a row is a bit confusing, as they have not proven themselves deserving. Zach Wilson showed signs of improvement against the Chiefs, and the Jets’ defense remains solid. The Jets will secure the victory as slight underdogs. Predicted score: Jets 21, Broncos 13.
San Francisco 49ers (-3.5) Over Dallas Cowboys:
The Dallas defense still has a lot to prove before being considered the best in the league. They have faced weak offenses so far, and the 49ers will be their toughest test yet. The 49ers’ offense, led by Christian McCaffrey, will have no trouble against the Cowboys’ defense. Predicted score: 49ers 28, Cowboys 17.
Las Vegas Raiders (+2) Over Green Bay Packers:
The Raiders’ home field advantage will be limited as the Packers come to town. However, the Raiders’ unit as a whole will not give up easily. With Jimmy Garoppolo expected back in the lineup, the Raiders have a good chance of winning a close game. Predicted score: Packers 28, Raiders 27.
