2018 NFL Picks, score predictions for Week 1

New York Jets (0-0) at Detroit Lions (0-0)

Monday, Sept. 10, 7:10 PM ET

Neither of these teams are expected to be contenders in 2018, so it’s easy to overlook this matchup. However, if you look at it closely, it has the potential to be an excellent showdown between two teams that seem to be moving in the right direction.

The obvious draw here will be the first career start for Sam Darnold, the Jets’ new franchise quarterback. They saw plenty of promising play from the rookie during the preseason. This game against the Detroit Lions will be his first 60-minute test against a first-team defense. Expect a mix of highlight-reel plays and rookie mistakes.

As for Lions, they’ll be breaking in a new coaching staff and defense. Matthew Stafford and the Detroit offense should do its normal thing against a middle-of-the-road New York Jets defense. That doesn’t mean the Lions will move the ball with ease, but don’t be surprised to see them put together at least a couple of dominant offensive drives.

In the end, this could be one of the best games of Week 1. Two evenly matched clubs trying to convince the rest of the league they’re worth taking seriously. Unfortunately for the Jets, the veteran quarterback with home-field advantage should come out on top.

Prediction: Lions win 24-21