2020 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 1

Chicago Bears (0-0) at Detroit Lions (0-0)

Sunday, September 13, 1PM ET

Neither of these teams lived up to expectations in 2019, and I’m sure either will in 2020. However, as we get this new season going, one of them has to come away from Week 1 with the win. Since I’m making the predictions, I’m going with the Lions.

The Chicago Bears obviously have an outstanding defense that allowed them to stay competitive a season ago. That group hasn’t changed much, which should keep this club from falling apart in 2020. With that said, we can’t overlook a Lions team led by a hungry Matthew Stafford and some underrated offensive weapons.

On top of that, Detroit’s defense did get better this offseason, especially with the additions of Desmond Trufant and Jeff Okudah. That gives me a sliver of confidence in their ability to keep the Bears offense in check. Plus, it’s not like Chicago was exactly exceptional at moving the ball and putting the points on the board a season ago — Mitchell Trubisky starting won’t help that.

There shouldn’t be a ton of scoring, but the Lions find a way to get the W despite Chicago’s outstanding defense. A last-minute connection between Stafford and Kenny Golladay proves too much for the Bears to overcome.

Prediction: Lions win 20-17