Week 2 of the 2024 NFL season was filled with unexpected twists, standout performances, and some emerging narratives that are shaping the early part of the 2024 NFL season. Here’s a look at the surprises, disappointments, and key storylines from this week.
Surprises
- Buffalo Bills’ Dominance: Contrary to preseason doubts about their capability to maintain dominance in the AFC East, the Buffalo Bills delivered a commanding performance against the Miami Dolphins. The Bills showcased a methodical offense and a resilient defense, with running back James Cook tying a franchise record by scoring three first-half touchdowns.
- New Orleans Saints’ Offensive Explosion: The New Orleans Saints were a revelation as they scored touchdowns on their first six drives in Dallas, effectively sealing their game by halftime. This offensive outburst was unexpected and has set high expectations for their upcoming matches against tougher opponents like the Dallas Cowboys.
- The Cardinals Find Their Wings: Marvin Harrison Jr exploded into production and the Cardinals surprised every NFL football fan. As Ivan Pirron our resident sports betting expert explains, the rest of the NFL needs to beware Marvin Harrison Jr. and the Arizona Cardinals this season. Do we have a cinderella NFL playoff contender in the making?
Disappointments
- Miami Dolphins’ Setback: The Miami Dolphins faced a significant setback not only with their heavy loss to the Bills but also due to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa suffering another concussion. This injury casts a shadow over the Dolphins’ season, especially given Tagovailoa’s history with concussions and his recent contract extension.
- New York Jets’ Struggles: After being defeated by the San Francisco 49ers in Week 1, the Jets continued to struggle, raising concerns about their competitiveness this season. Their performance has been underwhelming given the expectations set during the offseason.
Emerging Storylines
- Quarterback Health Concerns: Tua Tagovailoa’s concussion has reignited discussions about player safety and long-term health implications for quarterbacks. With his status uncertain for upcoming games, the Dolphins face critical decisions regarding his role moving forward.
- Buffalo’s New Approach: The Bills are adapting with a less explosive but more consistent offensive strategy. This shift might indicate a new phase in their play style that could carry them through tough matchups later in the season.
- Saints as Contenders: With their impressive offensive display, the New Orleans Saints are emerging as potential contenders in the NFC. Their ability to replicate such performances against stronger teams will be closely watched in the coming weeks and the big question being asked is: Can Derek Carr stay healthy for an entire NFL regular season?
NFL Week 3 Matchups, Odds, Picks and Analysis
Week 3 feastures some key games that mmay make or break the regular season for some of the teams. Key Week 3 NFL games to watch:
- Los Angeles Chargers vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
- Baltimore Ravens vs. Dallas Cowboys
- Philadelphia Eagles vs. New Orleans Saints
- Kansas City Chiefs vs. Atlanta Falcons
- San Francisco 49ers vs. Los Angeles Rams
NFL Week 3 Schedule and Free Picks
NFL Week 3 – Ravens vs Cowboys – Betting Odds & Free Pick
The Cowboys are coming of an embarrasing home stand against the New Orleans Saints. Even more embarrasing brought on the by the fact that they recently signed QB Dak Presscott to a record setting $60M USD per year contract.
The quality of play from Dallas is beyond unacceptable (maybe a sign that Jerry Jones needs to steps away from the GM role?) for the investment. Meanwhile, the beat up and beat doiwn Ravens will be looking for something of a redemption arc after a lowly 0-2 start, although granted both of their losses were much closer than the Cowboys.
The Cowboys will continue their race to the bottom and I’m looking for the Ravens to take this one by a touchdown or more.
Ravens Cowboys Week 3 Betting Pick: Ravens on the Moneyline.
NFL Week 3 – Chiefs vs. Falcons – Betting Odds & Free Pick
The Kansas City Chiefs are coming into this game as favorites. However, the betting focus I’m taking here here is on the total points.
The Chiefs’ offense has been effective but not overwhelmingly dominant, averaging 26.5 points per game. Meanwhile, the Falcons have shown resilience, especially in their recent win against the Eagles, but they have only averaged 16 points per game this season.
The Falcons’ defense has been relatively strong, allowing only 19 points per game on average. Given these dynamics, this game is likely to be more of a defensive battle rather than a high-scoring shootout. The Chiefs will be without key players like Isaiah Pacheco, which might limit their offensive explosiveness.
Fun fact: games played on Sunday nights have seen lower scoring trends, with unders hitting in nearly 70% of such games in the previous seasons. Therefore, betting on the under for this matchup seems to be a prudent choice.
Chiefs Falcons Week 3 Betting Pick: Take the Under on Total Points
What is a Sports Betting Exchange?
NFL Week 3 – Niners vs Rams – Betting Odds & Free Pick
The 49ers have dominated this matchup in recent years, winning nine out of their last ten regular-season games against the Rams.
This dominance is reflected in their ability to cover the spread in seven of those games, making them a reliable choice for bettors.
Meanwhile on the Rams side of the field: injuries have plagued the Rams, particularly on offense. Key players like Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua are sidelined, significantly hindering their offensive capabilities against a strong defensive team like San Francisco.
Meanwhile, the 49ers’ defense remains one of their strongest assets, well-equipped to stifle the Rams’ underperforming offense.The Rams have struggled defensively as well, allowing an average of 33.5 points per game this season. This vulnerability presents an opportunity for the 49ers to exploit and potentially cover the spread comfortably.
Niners Rams Week 3 Betting Pick: Niners on the Moneyline. Side bet: take the under on total points.
EN 
ES 
PT 
PT_BR