NFL Week 7 picks, schedule, odds, injuries, fantasy tips

NFL Nation, ESPNOct 18, 2024, 06:40 AM ET

The Week 7 NFL schedule for the 2024 season is stacked with nice matchups, and we now have you lined with what it’s essential know heading into the weekend.

Our NFL Nation reporters deliver us the most important keys to each sport, and analytics author Seth Walder makes a daring prediction for every matchup. The ESPN Analysis staff offers an enormous stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest, whereas our Soccer Energy Index (FPI) goes contained in the numbers with sport projections. Fantasy analyst Eric Moody finds fantasy soccer X components, and three analysts — Kalyn Kahler, Moody and Walder — give us remaining rating picks for each sport. Every thing you wish to know is right here in a single spot that will help you prepare for a loaded weekend of NFL soccer.

Let’s get into the total Week 7 slate, together with the Lions visiting the Vikings and large receiver Davante Adams’ Jets debut versus the Steelers. All of it culminates with a pair of “Monday Evening Soccer” matchups between the Ravens and Buccaneers (8:15 p.m. ET) on ABC/ESPN and the Chargers visiting the Cardinals (9 p.m. ET) on ESPN+. (Recreation occasions are Sunday until in any other case famous.)

Thursday: DEN 33, NO 10Byes: CHI, DAL

9:30 a.m. p.m. ET | NFL Community | ESPN BET: JAX -5.5 (42.5 O/U)

Patriots storyline to observe: Rookie QB Drake Maye threw for 243 yards in his first profession begin in Week 6 and now faces a Jaguars move protection that ranks final within the NFL, permitting a median of 276.7 passing yards per sport. Maye grew to become the primary QB to make certainly one of his first two profession begins in a sport exterior the USA because the NFL began taking part in worldwide regular-season video games in 2005. — Mike Reiss

Jaguars storyline to observe: Will the Jaguars change their method on protection towards one other rookie QB in Maye? Jacksonville opted to sit down again and minimally blitz Chicago’s Caleb Williams final week (simply eight occasions in 32 dropbacks) and acquired shredded, permitting him to throw for 226 yards and 4 TDs. The Jaguars have the second-worst blitz share (17.6) within the NFL, nevertheless it appears like prime nook Tyson Campbell (hamstring) can be again, in order that beefs up the secondary a bit and would possibly make defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen just a little extra aggressive. — Mike DiRocco

Stat to know: The Patriots enter this matchup on a five-game shedding streak, which is tied for the longest by New England over previous 30 seasons.

Editor’s Picks

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Daring prediction: Patriots DL Keion White will sack QB Trevor Lawrence. White has a powerful 20% move rush win charge, and each Jaguars tackles rank within the backside 10 in move block win charge. — Walder

Accidents: Patriots | Jaguars

Fantasy X issue: Jaguars RB Tank Bigsby. Bigsby is in line for an even bigger function with Travis Etienne Jr. coping with a hamstring harm. Bigsby ought to deal with early downs and short-yardage conditions, whereas D’Ernest Johnson steps in because the receiving again. The Patriots hand over the sixth-most fantasy factors to operating backs. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Jaguars are 1-3 outright and ATS when favored in a London sport. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Patriots 24, Jaguars 17Moody’s choose: Patriots 27, Jaguars 26Walder’s choose: Jaguars 27, Patriots 23FPI prediction: JAX, 69.5% (by a median of 8.0 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Patriots’ offense was energized in Maye’s first begin … Jaguars’ 2024 free agent class off to tough begin … NFL homeowners approve Jaguars’ $1.4B stadium renovation

1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: ATL -3 (51.5 O/U)

Seahawks storyline to observe: Coach Mike Macdonald will not be an enormous blitzer, preferring as a substitute to ship solely 4 rushers more often than not. Seattle is Twenty second in blitz charge this yr, whereas the Ravens ranked twenty fifth over his two seasons as their defensive coordinator (2022-2023). However will Macdonald flip up the warmth towards QB Kirk Cousins? The Falcons have allowed the bottom strain charge in non-blitz conditions, and the Seahawks must discover a solution to create extra takeaways after recording just one of their previous 5 video games. — Brady Henderson

Falcons storyline to observe: Falcons RBs Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier each had breakout video games in Week 6, combining for 200 yards and three touchdowns on the bottom. The Seahawks have allowed the fifth-most dashing yards (868) within the league and 5.0 yards per carry, tied for the third-worst mark. Atlanta would possibly look to be a run-first staff for the second straight week with its formidable one-two punch. — Marc Raimondi

Stat to know: The Seahawks have scored 20-plus factors in all six video games this season. The Ravens and Commanders are the one different groups to do the identical.

Daring prediction: Falcons OLB Matthew Judon will file at the very least 1.5 sacks towards QB Geno Smith. Judon will get pleasure from going through Stone Forsythe, who ranks 63rd out of 66 tackles in move block win charge. — Walder

Accidents: Seahawks | Falcons

Fantasy X issue: Seahawks WR DK Metcalf. He’ll face Falcons CB A.J. Terrell, and that is thrilling information for fantasy managers. Terrell struggled towards George Pickens, DeVonta Smith, Mike Evans and Diontae Johnson. Whereas Metcalf has been quiet over the previous two weeks, this matchup provides him an amazing alternative to get again on observe. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Falcons have gone over the whole in three straight video games (all wins). Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Falcons 28, Seahawks 21Moody’s choose: Falcons 31, Seahawks 27Walder’s choose: Seahawks 28, Falcons 27FPI prediction: ATL, 58.2% (by a median of three.1 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Seahawks commerce for DT Robertson-Harris … Falcons’ London rising as elite WR … Seahawks lose one other key defender in Jenkins to IR

Is the over or the beneath the higher play in Seahawks-Falcons?

Tyler Fulghum previews why he leans towards the over within the Week 7 matchup between Seattle and Atlanta.

1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: BUF -9.5 (40.5 O/U)

Titans storyline to observe: The Titans’ passing sport has gotten off to a horrible begin, together with a 95-yard passing efficiency by QB Will Levis final week. By means of 5 video games, Tennessee’s offense is averaging 135 passing yards per sport, thirty first within the league. Offensive coordinator Nick Holz stated the unit watched each passing play to determine what is going on on. Search for the Titans to get into the passing sport early towards the Payments, with Levis particularly trying to get the ball to receiver Calvin Ridley. — Turron Davenport

Payments storyline to observe: The Payments made an enormous transfer this week to enhance the large receiver group by including Amari Cooper. How a lot of a task he can have this week in such restricted time with the staff is to be seen, however the problem, irrespective of how a lot Cooper performs towards the Titans, is placing collectively drives. Tennessee’s protection leads the NFL with 248.8 yards allowed per sport, whereas the Payments have averaged 290.3 yards per sport up to now three video games and never scored greater than 23 factors. Altering that pattern can be key. — Alaina Getzenberg

Stat to know: The Titans lead the NFL in whole protection (248.8 yards per sport), which is their third-fewest yards allowed per sport within the first 5 video games since 1976.

Daring prediction: Cooper will file a 40-plus-yard reception in his Payments debut. The Browns efficiently used Cooper as extra of a deep risk final yr. Buffalo can be glad to have one other deep choice for QB Josh Allen. — Walder

Accidents: Titans | Payments

Fantasy X issue: Titans RB Tony Pollard. He has scored 15 or extra fantasy factors in 4 out of 5 video games. He has been one of many few constant fantasy choices for the Titans and is poised for a large workload as Tyjae Spears offers with a hamstring harm. Pollard faces a Payments protection that has allowed the second-most fantasy factors per sport to operating backs. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Payments are 1-6 ATS of their previous seven video games laying at the very least a landing. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Payments 27, Titans 21Moody’s choose: Payments 27, Titans 10Walder’s choose: Payments 27, Titans 13FPI prediction: BUF, 71.4% (by a median of 8.6 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Titans nonetheless attempting to determine what works finest with QB Levis … WR Cooper excited for ‘recent starting’ with Payments

1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: CIN -5.5 (41.5 O/U)

Bengals storyline to observe: No participant has impacted QB Joe Burrow greater than Browns DE Myles Garrett. Garrett has sacked Burrow probably the most (eight), hit him twice as a lot as anybody else (16) and likewise held Burrow to a 28.6 completion share when pressuring him. Burrow on going through the Browns: “We’ll must get bodily, run the ball rather well, play-action and simply play an total staff sport.” — Ben Child

Browns storyline to observe: RB Nick Chubb is predicted to make his season debut as he returns from final yr’s extreme knee harm. Whereas Chubb in all probability can be on a snap depend, he may assist a struggling offense that also hasn’t discovered an identification by six video games. The Bengals’ protection ranks final within the NFL in success charge on run performs (47.3%). — Daniel Oyefusi

Stat to know: The Bengals have an NFL-worst 47% defensive success charge towards the run. All different groups within the NFL are above 50%.

Daring prediction: Bengals DE Trey Hendrickson will sack QB Deshaun Watson thrice. Watson is taking sacks at an outrageous 12.4% charge. With this massive efficiency, Hendrickson will launch himself into the now open Defensive Participant of the 12 months race. — Walder

Accidents: Bengals | Browns

Fantasy X issue: Bengals RB Chase Brown. He has emerged as the highest again in Cincinnati, scoring 14-plus fantasy factors in every of the previous three video games. Final week towards the Giants, Brown performed extra snaps than Zack Moss for the primary time this season. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Browns have gone beneath their staff whole in all six video games this season. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Bengals 28, Browns 14Moody’s choose: Bengals 27, Browns 20Walder’s choose: Bengals 33, Browns 16FPI prediction: CIN, 61.8% (by a median of 4.7 factors)

Matchup must-reads: RB Brown including dynamic component to Bengals’ assault … Browns commerce WR Cooper to Payments … What RB Chubb’s return can imply for Browns’ offense

Chris Canty requires Browns to commerce Myles Garrett

Chris Canty explains why the Browns don’t have any hope and may commerce star DE Myles Garrett.

1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: GB -2.5 (47.5 O/U)

Texans storyline to observe: Coach DeMeco Ryans stated earlier within the week that Packers QB Jordan Love “would be the finest quarterback we have seen this yr.” And Love’s strongest capability is play-action, as he has the second highest passer score (132.1) in these conditions. Additionally, the Texans battle defending it as they’ve allowed the third-highest passer score (126). — DJ Bien-Aime

Packers storyline to observe: Whereas a lot of the main focus final week was on the return of WR Romeo Doubs from his one-game suspension, the Packers’ most constant receiver has been Jayden Reed. He has a team-high 27 catches on 34 targets this season, and his 79% reception charge is seventh finest within the NFL. The Packers’ offense will look to problem a Texans protection that’s permitting 163.2 passing yards per sport, the fourth-best mark. — Rob Demovsky

Stat to know: DE Will Anderson Jr.’s 5.5 sacks this season are probably the most by a Houston participant by six video games since J.J. Watt in 2018 (7.0).

Week 7: Chargers at Cardinals on ESPN+

The Chargers tackle the Cardinals on “Monday Evening Soccer” on Oct. 21 at 9 p.m. ET completely on ESPN+. Subscribe to ESPN+ to observe and get entry to evaluation, highlights, originals and extra.

Daring prediction: Texans LB Henry To’oTo’o will file 10-plus mixed tackles. To’oTo’o ranks 14th out of 52 in deal with charge on run performs amongst off-ball linebackers who’ve performed at the very least 70% of snaps this season. — Walder

Accidents: Texans | Packers

Fantasy X issue: Love. He has scored 25 or extra fantasy factors in two of his previous three video games. The matchup with the Texans at Lambeau Subject is projected to be excessive scoring. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: NFC North groups are 17-3 ATS in non-division video games this season, together with 3-0 ATS in Week 6. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Texans 30, Packers 28Moody’s choose: Packers 30, Texans 24Walder’s choose: Packers 27, Texans 24FPI prediction: GB, 57.7% (by a median of three.1 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Texans’ offense, RB Mixon explode regardless of not having WR Collins … Packers’ Love proving he ‘trusts your complete receiving corps’ … McManus grateful to hitch Packers after ‘troublesome time’

1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: IND -3 (43.5 O/U)

Dolphins storyline to observe: In QB Tyler Huntley’s third begin of the season, control tight finish Jonnu Smith, whom Huntley focused eight occasions in Miami’s win over the Patriots in Week 5. The Dolphins spent the bye week arising with methods to get him extra concerned, and the Colts have allowed the Tenth-most receiving yards to opposing tight ends this season. Huntley and the Dolphins can open up the passing sport by establishing the run — particularly after dashing for a season-high 193 yards in Week 5. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

Colts storyline to observe: The Colts have managed to carry only one opponent to fewer than 100 dashing yards this season and have in any other case been disappointing towards the run. Can they handle to maintain the Dolphins in verify given Miami’s underwhelming dashing assault that’s producing 3.9 yards per carry? The Colts’ rush protection has stabilized a bit since its two opening video games, when it allowed 474 mixed yards. If Indianapolis can restrict the bottom sport, it places extra strain on Miami’s passing sport with its unstable quarterback state of affairs. — Stephen Holder

Stat to know: Miami’s 12 factors per sport (60 whole factors) are the worst in NFL. It has scored fewer than 75 factors in six straight video games solely thrice in franchise historical past.

Daring prediction: Colts WR Josh Downs will file a fourth straight sport with 65 or extra receiving yards. Downs has been productive working with QB Joe Flacco, however I feel he’ll stay efficient even with Anthony Richardson. His 80 open rating suggests his route operating has taken a step up. — Walder

Accidents: Dolphins | Colts

Fantasy X issue: Dolphins WR Tyreek Hill. He led Miami in targets (10), receptions (six) and receiving yards (69) in Week 5 earlier than the bye. This week, Hill will look to construct extra chemistry with Huntley. The matchup is just too juicy to move up. Indianapolis’ protection has given up the Eleventh-most fantasy factors per sport to large receivers. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Colts are 5-1 ATS this season, together with 3-0 ATS at house. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Colts 24, Dolphins 14Moody’s choose: Colts 23, Dolphins 17Walder’s choose: Dolphins 22, Colts 21FPI prediction: IND, 72.2% (by a median of 8.9 factors)

Matchup must-reads: McDaniel expects Tua to play once more in 2024 … Colts count on QB Richardson to begin vs. Dolphins … Why Miami’s offense is sputtering with out Tua, and what might be mounted

1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: MIN -1.5 (50.5 O/U)

Lions storyline to observe: Detroit’s offense will enter Minnesota on a roll beneath the management of QB Jared Goff, who has 5 landing passes and 0 interceptions in his previous two video games. The Lions have gained three straight towards the Vikings however are 2.5-point underdogs for the primary time this season. — Eric Woodyard

Vikings storyline to observe: It is arduous to think about the Vikings profitable if they are not in a position to gradual the Lions’ run sport. Minnesota’s protection has allowed the NFL’s second-fewest dashing yards per sport (67.2) and the fewest dashing touchdowns (0.2 per sport), whereas Detroit ranks fourth with a median of 157.8 dashing yards per sport. When the Lions are in a position to run on offense, they’re extraordinarily troublesome to beat. — Kevin Seifert

Stat to know: In eight profession video games towards the Lions, WR Justin Jefferson has totaled 1,073 receiving yards. That is probably the most by any participant in his first eight video games versus an opponent in NFL historical past.

Rex Ryan: Hutchinson harm ‘may need misplaced the Tremendous Bowl’ for Lions

Rex Ryan and Dan Orlovsky clarify how the Lions’ lack of Aidan Hutchinson may influence their Tremendous Bowl possibilities.

Daring prediction: The Lions will maintain Sam Darnold to a QBR beneath 50, even with out DE Aidan Hutchinson. Do not get me mistaken, Hutchinson was wonderful, however Detroit’s defensive renaissance is about extra than simply him. They will step up with out Hutchinson. — Walder

Accidents: Lions | Vikings

Fantasy X issue: Lions WR Jameson Williams. Is he flying beneath the radar? Amon-Ra St. Brown is a should begin for fantasy managers, however I do get requested a number of questions on whether or not to begin or sit Williams. Whereas he has had 9 or extra targets in solely two video games this season, Williams has scored 14-plus fantasy factors in 5 out of six video games. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Vikings are 5-0 ATS this season, looking for to be the primary staff to win and canopy their first six video games since 2009. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Lions 28, Vikings 27Moody’s choose: Lions 24, Vikings 19Walder’s choose: Lions 24, Vikings 16FPI prediction: DET, 57.1% (by a median of two.8 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Lions prolong DT McNeill for 4 years, $55M assured … Will Lions’ bodily type gradual Vikings’ WR Jefferson? … Lions will not depend out Hutchinson returning after damaged leg … Vikings’ 5 greatest surprises that led to stunning 5-0 begin

1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: PHI -3 (42.5 O/U)

Eagles storyline to observe: It is the Saquon Barkley sport. The operating again returns to MetLife Stadium for the primary time as an Eagle after six years because the marquee participant for the Giants. He has been as marketed for Philadelphia up to now with 482 yards and 5 whole touchdowns. He is uncertain of what the atmosphere can be like towards him however stated no matter it’s, he hopes “it provides me just a little additional juice” to assist his staff win. — Tim McManus

Giants storyline to observe: The Giants’ run protection has been an issue this season, permitting 5.2 yards per carry. Solely the Payments have allowed extra (5.3). Defensive coordinator Shane Bowen famous that with Barkley it is about avoiding the house run. They will have their work reduce out for them on this revenge sport. — Jordan Raanan

Stat to know: Eagles QB Jalen Hurts has 43 profession dashing touchdowns, which is tied with Corridor of Famer Steve Younger for the third most in NFL historical past.

Daring prediction: Giants QB Daniel Jones will set a season excessive for passing yards. Jones’ highest yardage sport (281) was towards the Cowboys in Week 4.The Eagles rank simply twenty sixth in EPA per dropback, and I can see New York falling behind and taking part in catchup by the air. — Walder

Accidents: Eagles | Giants

Fantasy X issue: Giants WR Wan’Dale Robinson. He continues to be a dependable goal for Jones. Robinson has seen eight or extra targets in 4 straight video games and has scored 10-plus fantasy factors in every of these contests, together with two with 16 or extra. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: That is the sixteenth straight assembly the Eagles have been favored in, together with the playoffs, which is the longest streak by both staff on this matchup within the Tremendous Bowl period. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Eagles 21, Giants 20Moody’s choose: Eagles 26, Giants 23Walder’s choose: Eagles 27, Giants 17FPI prediction: PHI, 63.5% (by a median of 5.2 factors)

Matchup must-reads: How Barkley went from ‘Large for all times’ to Eagles

4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: LAR -7 (43.5 O/U)

Raiders storyline to observe: The Raiders, who spent 1982 to 1994 in Los Angeles and preserve an enormous and dependable following within the metropolis, are anticipated to carry a major crowd benefit towards the Rams. However the Raiders are simply 1-5 at SoFi Stadium, with their lone win in Inglewood coming with no followers in 2020. Getting rookie Brock Bowers, who leads all NFL tight ends in catches (37) and receiving yards (384), going early and sometimes towards the Rams’ NFL-worst passing protection by way of passer score allowed (117.2) will go a good distance to assist flip that tide. — Paul Gutierrez

Rams storyline to observe: If Sean McVay earns his 79th profession win Sunday, he would tie John Robinson for probably the most by a head coach in Rams historical past. Based on ESPN Analysis, McVay, 38, can be the second man because the 1970 merger to be the winningest coach of a franchise earlier than turning 40. He can be part of John Madden, who grew to become the Raiders’ all-time wins chief at age 36 in 1972. — Sarah Barshop

Stat to know: The Raiders rank thirty first within the NFL in dashing yards per sport (79.5), whereas the Rams’ protection provides up probably the most dashing yards per sport (157.6).

Observe the NFL all season lengthy

• Full schedule » | Standings »• Depth charts for each staff »• Transactions » | Accidents »• Soccer Energy Index »• Playoff image projections »Extra NFL protection »

Daring prediction: A Rams large receiver will file 100-plus receiving yards. I do not know if Cooper Kupp (ankle) can be energetic, however I do know that the Raiders have a defensive open rating towards receivers of 30, which ranks fourth worst within the league. If Kupp does return to motion, it ought to be a pleasant spot to supply straight away. — Walder

Accidents: Raiders | Rams

Fantasy X issue: Bowers. He leads all tight ends with 16 or extra fantasy factors in two straight video games. This week, Bowers faces a Rams protection that permits the second-most fantasy factors per sport to tight ends, making him a must-start. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Rams are 0-7 ATS on additional relaxation since 2022. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Rams 22, Raiders 17Moody’s choose: Rams 31, Raiders 14Walder’s choose: Rams 27, Raiders 20FPI prediction: LAR, 63.8% (by a median of 5.4 factors)

Matchup must-reads: How will the WR Adams period go down in Raiders historical past? … Rams WR Kupp nears return, however is Week 7 life like? … House owners approve Brady’s bid to purchase into Raiders

4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: WSH -8 (51.5 O/U)

Panthers storyline to observe: It is a nightmare matchup for the Carolina protection even when it does get again three gamers (ILB Josey Jewell, OLB Jadeveon Clowney and S Sam Franklin) from accidents. The Commanders rank fifth in whole offense (378 yards per sport) and rush offense (157.3) and are second in scoring (29.7 factors per sport). The Panthers rank twenty ninth in whole protection (379.8 yards per sport), Thirtieth towards the run (153.5) and final in factors allowed (33.8 factors per sport). Rookie QB Jayden Daniels’ capability to make off-schedule performs creates much more of an issue for Carolina. — David Newton

Commanders storyline to observe: Washington has been hit arduous by accidents alongside the line of defense, with DT Jonathan Allen (pectoral) out for the yr and DE Dorance Armstrong coping with a rib harm which may sideline him Sunday. Rotational DE Javontae Jean-Baptiste (ankle) was simply positioned on injured reserve. That would result in a difficult sport Sunday. Prior to now 4 video games with QB Andy Dalton beginning, the Panthers rank eighth in dashing yards per sport (130) and seventh in yards per carry (5.0). Dalton is Tenth in QBR throughout this era. — John Keim

Stat to know: Commanders QB Jayden Daniels has gone 4 straight video games with 70-plus Whole QBR, which is tied for the second-longest streak by rookie beginning QB since 2006, when Whole QBR was launched (solely longer streak was six video games by Matt Ryan in 2008).

Daring prediction: Panthers WR Xavier Legette will file a profession excessive in receiving yards (66). The Commanders are weak at nook, and that ought to current a possibility for the rookie. — Walder

Accidents: Panthers | Commanders

Fantasy X issue: Panthers RB Chuba Hubbard. He is making fantasy managers neglect Carolina drafted Jonathon Brooks with the way in which he is taking part in. Hubbard has logged 22 or extra touches in three of his previous 4 video games, and he has scored 17 or extra fantasy factors in every of these contests. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Commanders have lined 5 straight video games, which is tied for his or her longest cowl streak up to now decade (2020). Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Commanders 40, Panthers 17Moody’s choose: Commanders 38, Panthers 21Walder’s choose: Commanders 42, Panthers 24FPI prediction: WSH, 72.9% (by a median of 9.1 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Panthers RB Hubbard: ‘I simply wish to be nice’ … Commanders’ protection hasn’t stored up with offense … Third-down struggles proceed to hamstring Panthers’ protection … Commanders RB Robinson practices: ‘I really feel nice’

What would Brian Robinson Jr.’s return imply for fantasy managers?

Daniel Dopp, Subject Yates and Mike Clay are optimistic about Brian Robinson’s fantasy prospects if he returns vs. the Panthers.

4:25 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: SF -1.5 (46.5 O/U)

Chiefs storyline to observe: First staff to attain a crimson zone landing wins? Each groups have had issues getting touchdowns whereas contained in the 20-yard-line, with the Chiefs being fourth worst within the league (38.9%) and the 49ers not significantly better (44.4%). The staff that does higher within the crimson zone will get a determined benefit in what in any other case ought to be an in depth sport. — Adam Teicher

49ers storyline to observe: No quarterback who has began at the very least 4 video games towards the Niners has averaged extra passing yards than Patrick Mahomes, who’s posting 339 yards per sport towards San Francisco. The problem this week can be for the Niners to deal with significantly better than they’ve in current weeks. Kansas Metropolis leads the NFL in yards after catch per completion (7.1), whereas the Niners rank twenty sixth within the NFL in YAC allowed per reception (6.0). If the Niners are to lastly recover from the hump and beat the Chiefs and Mahomes for the primary time beneath coach Kyle Shanahan, a lot will hinge on how properly they deal with in area. — Nick Wagoner

Stat to know: The Chiefs are 5-0 regardless of outscoring their opponents by solely 33 factors, which is the bottom level differential by any 5-0 staff because the 2004 Jets (plus-31).

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Daring prediction: The 49ers will not permit greater than 4 yards to a display screen move. The Chiefs run screens 7% of the time, the third-highest charge within the league. However the 49ers are the perfect NFL protection towards screens by way of EPA per play. Samples, in fact, are tiny. However it’s one thing to control. — Walder

Accidents: Chiefs | 49ers

Fantasy X issue: Chiefs WR JuJu Smith-Schuster. After WR Rashee Rice’s season-ending knee harm, Smith-Schuster stepped up. He had a powerful displaying earlier than the staff’s Week 6 bye, ending with eight targets and 20 fantasy factors towards the Saints. Whereas the 49ers’ protection presents a problem, he ought to nonetheless see loads of targets from Mahomes. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: 49ers QB Brock Purdy is making his twenty eighth regular-season begin, and he has by no means been an underdog. The one time Purdy has ever closed as an underdog was within the 2022 NFC Championship Recreation (+3 at Eagles in a sport the Niners misplaced 31-7). Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Chiefs 28, 49ers 24Moody’s choose: 49ers 28, Chiefs 21Walder’s choose: 49ers 26, Chiefs 20FPI prediction: SF, 51.5% (by a median of 0.3 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Amid trades, Chiefs content material with WR room … 49ers ‘moved on’ from Tremendous Bowl loss to Chiefs … How RB Hunt went from FA to powerhouse in Chiefs return

8:20 p.m. ET | NBC/Peacock | ESPN BET: NYJ -2 (38.5 O/U)

Jets storyline to observe: Newly acquired WR Davante Adams is predicted to make his Jets debut in what could possibly be a make-or-break sport for 2-4 New York. He seems wholesome after a three-week hamstring harm, so do not be shocked if he has a major workload. The coaches consider he is forward of the training curve due to his background with QB Aaron Rodgers. A sobering stat: The Jets’ six-game level whole (113) is identical because it was final season with Zach Wilson at quarterback. Go safety has been an issue (30 QB hits up to now three video games), they usually must take care of LB T.J. Watt (4.5 sacks). — Wealthy Cimini

Steelers storyline to observe: With Russell Wilson wholesome, the Steelers face one other vital quarterback resolution towards Jets protection that is tied for third with 20 sacks this season. Justin Fields has been sacked 16 occasions, tied for sixth most within the NFL. The Steelers’ offensive line can be poised to begin its fifth mixture in seven video games with Ryan McCollum taking up at heart for injured rookie starter Zach Frazier. Fields’ mobility undoubtedly helps a banged-up offensive line, however Tomlin has expressed a need to discover an offense with Wilson because the signal-caller. — Brooke Pryor

Stat to know: Rodgers has 28 consecutive video games with fewer than 300 passing yards, which is the longest energetic streak within the NFL and the longest in his profession.

Daring prediction: Followers at Acrisure Stadium can be calling for Fields to retake the beginning QB job earlier than the sport’s finish. — Walder

Accidents: Jets | Steelers

Fantasy X issue: Adams. He has a well-documented rapport with Rodgers. Adams has averaged 8.6 targets and 16.6 fantasy factors per sport when taking part in with Rodgers in Inexperienced Bay. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Unders are 32-10 on “Sunday Evening Soccer” since 2022, together with 6-0 this season. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Jets 21, Steelers 17Moody’s choose: Jets 20, Steelers 17Walder’s choose: Jets 23, Steelers 13FPI prediction: PIT, 50.7% (by a median of 0.2 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Contained in the Jets’ break up with Saleh, subsequent steps … Wilson or Fields? Case for Steelers to begin both QB … Can QB Rodgers and WR Adams recreate their magic? … Fields: No QB debate if I play higher

Stephen A., Dan Orlovsky get heated throughout Jets debate

Stephen A. Smith and the “First Take” crew are emphatic when discussing whether or not this season is Tremendous Bowl or bust for the Jets.

8:15 p.m. ET | ESPN/ABC/ESPN+ | ESPN BET: BAL -3.5 (49.5 O/U)

Ravens storyline to observe: This marks the ninth assembly between QBs Baker Mayfield and Lamar Jackson, two Heisman Trophy-winning quarterbacks who have been chosen with the primary and final picks of the primary spherical within the 2018 draft. Jackson leads the head-to-head matchups towards Mayfield 6-2, profitable the previous three. — Jamison Hensley

Buccaneers storyline to observe: The Ravens and Bucks are first and second within the NFL in scoring. The Ravens lead the league with 21 offensive touchdowns, and the Bucs have 20. Tampa Bay in all probability will not depend on the newly found floor sport that mustered 277 yards towards the Saints contemplating the Ravens’ protection is surrendering simply 59 yards on the bottom per sport. That is the place the Bucs’ protection must be the difference-maker. Within the video games they’ve misplaced this yr — to the Broncos and Falcons — it has been due largely to poor tackling. — Jenna Laine

Stat to know: Since ESPN launched Whole QBR in 2006, 45 QBs have began at the very least 5 video games on “Monday Evening Soccer.” None of them posted the next mark than Jackson (85.4).

Daring prediction: There can be at the very least 57 mixed factors scored. We all know the Ravens can rating, however the Bucs are a pass-heavy staff with success within the air. Baltimore’s protection performs proper into that, rating twenty seventh in EPA allowed per opponent dropback. — Walder

Accidents: Ravens | Buccaneers

Fantasy X issue: Mayfield. Mayfield has been a shock this season, averaging 22.5 fantasy factors per sport — second solely to Jackson (23.9). Baltimore’s protection has given up the second-most fantasy factors to QBs this yr. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Prime-time unders are 81-52-1 over the previous three seasons. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Buccaneers 35, Ravens 27Moody’s choose: Ravens 35, Buccaneers 28Walder’s choose: Ravens 34, Buccaneers 26FPI prediction: BAL, 58.0% (by a median of three.3 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Lamar, Ravens ‘being humble’ as No. 1 offense booms

8:45 p.m. ET | ESPN+ | ESPN BET: LAC -2.5 (43.5 O/U)

Chargers storyline to observe: QB Justin Herbert is coming off his finest sport of the season, with season highs in passing yards (237), completions (21) and makes an attempt (34). The Cardinals are permitting the Eleventh-most passing yards per sport (220.3) within the NFL this season, and offensive coordinator Greg Roman may look to construct on Herbert’s efficiency final week with one other passing outburst. The Chargers may additionally get large receiver DJ Chark Jr., who has been on injured reserve all season, again Monday night time. — Kris Rhim

Cardinals storyline to observe: The Cardinals have not discovered a solution to be constant, however Monday night time could be the time they determine it out if they will make the most of the Chargers’ weaknesses. Los Angeles is averaging 187 passing yards per sport (twenty ninth within the NFL) and 6.6 passing yards per play (twenty fourth). Arizona must enhance on its Twenty second-ranked 220.3 passing yards allowed per sport and Thirtieth-ranked 7.78 passing yards allowed her play, however Herbert has thrown for greater than 200 yards simply as soon as this season. — Josh Weinfuss

Stat to know: The Chargers haven’t allowed a single level off turnovers. The one different staff that may say the identical is the Steelers.

Better of NFL Nation

• How Adams lastly grew to become a NY Jet• Falcons’ London rising as elite WR• Colts consider in Latu regardless of gradual begin• Seahawks seek for solutions to turnovers• Rams’ Kupp nears return, however when?

Daring prediction: Cardinals QB Kyler Murray will common beneath 6.5 air yards per move try. The Chargers run two-high protection 58% of the time (third most) and have at the very least one exterior nook in press protection solely 25% of the time (least usually). That ought to result in shorter passes. — Walder

Accidents: Chargers | Cardinals

Fantasy X issue: Chargers RB J.Okay. Dobbins. He has had 17 or extra touches in 4 out of 5 video games. With Gus Edwards on injured reserve, Dobbins is about to see an enormous workload shifting ahead. Additionally, the Cardinals’ protection permits the second-most dashing yards per sport to operating backs. See Week 7 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Murray is 15-22 ATS in his profession at house; Herbert is 20-13 ATS in his profession on the highway. Learn extra.

Kahler’s choose: Chargers 21, Cardinals 20Moody’s choose: Chargers 20, Cardinals 16Walder’s choose: Cardinals 26, Chargers 24FPI prediction: ARI, 51.7% (by a median of 0.6 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Chargers’ Harbaugh ‘assured’ coronary heart situation beneath management … What QB Murray, Cardinals discovered from sloppy loss vs. Packers

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