The Chiefs & Bucs look to Bounce Back, While the Ravens Face the Perfect Broncos
Kansas City Chiefs @ Philadelphia Eagles – Chiefs -7
Two team heading into week 4 with a 1-2 record. Two teams who are on a 2 game losing skid but only one of them sits at the foot of their division – and it’s not the Philadelphia Eagles.
That’s right, the Chiefs are the basement team in the AFC West after a sloppy, 4 turnover display at home to the Chargers last weekend and they head to Philly with a point to prove. There’ll be no sympathy to be found in the City of Brotherly Love but nor will they need it. Expect a ruthless display from KC. No way will we see the same mistakes that have riddled this team over the last two weeks. If the Chiefs play a clean game, they win this by double digits.
Jalen Hurts is prone to errors when forced to play from the pocket. The Eagles are themselves coming off a 41-21 thrashing in Dallas and simply stated, Kansas City are the better team. Chiefs -7
Baltimore Ravens @ Denver Broncos – Ravens +1
Denver fans aren’t going to like me for saying this, but I think this spread is skewed by their record. They have a perfect 3-0 record and while you can only beat the team in front of you, look at who they’ve played – the Giants, Jaguars and Jets. You should be 3-0!
This week the Ravens provide their first true test. Obviously winning in Detroit, on a last second, record breaking field goal isn’t impressive but it backed up a prime time win over Kansas City. Lamar Jackson is an improved passer, his ability to make plays with his legs is obvious and frankly, I just can’t see Baltimore being as poor as they were last weekend. Throw into the equation the injuries Denver have suffered on offense… the only way they beat Baltimore is through defense. They’re good, they’ve given up just 26 points this season but I’m not yet a believer. Ravens +1
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ New England Patriots – Under 49 Total Points
It’s the game everyone has had circled in their schedule since it was released in the spring. Tom Brady returns to the building where he helped deliver 6 Lombardi Trophies for the first time since leaving for Tampa Bay 18 months ago.
His heir apparent, Mac Jones was drafted in April but he’s still learning on the job and Bill Belichick knows it. Expect the Patriots game plan to be one of short passes, if possible, time chewing drives in an attempt to keep Brady and the Bucs’ explosive offense off the field. Buc’s WR Mike Evans has already said they view this as a prove it game themselves, coming off a loss to the Rams last weekend. So, while Tampa are big favourites to win, I’m not sure this will be a points bonanza in New England. Take the under in this one. Under 49 total points
