2019 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 1

KANSAS CITY, MO - JANUARY 12: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs points to the sidelines in celebration after throwing a touchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first quarter of the AFC Divisional Round playoff game at Arrowhead Stadium on January 12, 2019 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) /

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Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images /

Los Angeles Rams (0-0) at Carolina Panthers (0-0)

Sunday, September 8, 1PM ET

I want to believe the Carolina Panthers can win this game. I mean, technically, they can. Still, when I toss around the idea of them handing the Los Angeles Rams in Week 1, it just never sits quite right. Can an injured Cam Newton really lead this team to victory against the Rams?

Sorry. Nope. Not happening. It’ll be a great game with an excellent entertainment factor, even if there is some of the usual Week 1 slop. And yet, with two dynamite offenses and defenses capable of creating their own sparks, it’s sure to be one worth watching.

The deciding factor is the strength of the Los Angeles offense, though. With Jared Goff at the helm, Todd Gurley in the backfield and plenty of capable pass-catchers out wide, the going will be good for the Rams. Even if Newton and Christian McCaffrey make plenty of plays, it probably won’t be enough to keep up on the scoreboard.

Tie that in with the disruptive force that is Aaron Donald, and you have to pin the win on the Rams here. The Panthers should keep this one close for most of the game, but a defensive splash play or two will allow Los Angeles to pull away in the fourth quarter and mark their first tally in the win column.

Prediction: Rams win 37-26

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