2018 NFL Picks, score predictions for Week 1

Cincinnati Bengals (0-0) at Indianapolis Colts (0-0)

Sunday, Sept. 9, 1 PM ET

Part of me wants to give Andrew Luck the benefit of the doubt. He’s an elite quarterback talent who suffered a long-term injury, and is just now attempting a tough comeback. It’s a story worth rooting for, but one that carries plenty of risk.

Considering the Colts’ other areas of uncertainty, I can’t roll the dice with them in Week 1. Maybe I’ll feel different after Sunday, but there are just too many unanswered questions at this point. Can Indianapolis move the ball on the ground? Has the defense improved at all after finishing 30th a season ago? Is Luck ready to lead this team back to prominence?

I’m not sure. What I am sure of is that the Cincinnati Bengals have a lot to play for in 2018. Andy Dalton and Marvin Lewis are likely on their last chances. Joe Mixon wants to prove he’s an upper-echelon running back. The defense needs to convince the rest of the league it isn’t still wishing it had Mike Zimmer. The pieces are there for this roster to surprise.

It may not be a statement win for the Bengals, but a win is a win nonetheless. Coming away with a “W” to begin the 2018 campaign will certainly be a step in the right direction for Cincinnati.

Prediction: Bengals win 23-17