2018 NFL Picks, score predictions for Week 1

San Francisco 49ers (0-0) at Minnesota Vikings (0-0)

Sunday, Sept. 9, 1 PM ET

If anyone wanted to see what Jimmy Garoppolo is really made of, they’ll find out for sure in Week 1 when the San Francisco 49ers travel to the Twin Cities to face the Minnesota Vikings. Squaring off with an elite defense should put that $137 million contract to the test.

Garoppolo was a revelation after stepping into a starting role for the 49ers near the end of the 2017 campaign. He won all five of the games he played in, taking one of the league’s worst clubs and turning them into a late-season playoff team killer. With a full offseason to prepare, though, opposing teams will be ready to give San Francisco’s savior a run for his money.

I’m assuming the Vikings will do exactly that, handing him his first loss since joining the 49ers. Whether due to their impenetrable defense or underrated offense, it’s going to be a day full of frustration for San Francisco.

Now don’t get me wrong — Minnesota isn’t exactly going to run roughshod on them. The offense is still building chemistry, and the offensive line will be busy working out some kinks. Overall, though, the Vikings sport the better roster and have the home crowd on their side. A win will help folks realize that this franchise is for real in 2018.

Prediction: Vikings win 21-16