2018 NFL Picks, score predictions for Week 1

Washington Redskins (0-0) at Arizona Cardinals (0-0)

Sunday, Sept. 9, 4:25 PM ET

It seems as though a lot of people are writing off the Arizona Cardinals already. On the surface, it makes some sense. At the same time, if you look at the weapons they have available, it’s not out of the realm of possibility for them to surprise as a fringe playoff team in 2018.

Why? Well, they have a quality (albeit injury-prone) quarterback in Sam Bradford. If David Johnson can return to form, he’ll be one of the NFL’s most dynamic running backs. Larry Fitzgerald is still doing his things as a future Hall of Famer. The offensive line is concerning, but the Cardinals have an underrated defense that could help turn the tide.

As for the Washington Redskins, they’re still trying to find their identity. Is it the smart, calculated approach that usually comes with having Alex Smith under center? Or will they be hoping their young, high-upside defense can deliver? I’m not sure right now, but the lack of a running game is certainly going to hurt.

On paper, this should be another close game between two teams in similar situations. And yet, I’m predicting the Cardinals run away with this one as they assert themselves as a potential problem.

Prediction: Cardinals win 35-18