2021 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 1

Denver Broncos (0-0) at New York Giants (0-0)

Sunday, September 12, 4:25PM ET

Personally, I feel like folks are sleeping on the Denver Broncos in 2021. Yes, they’re coming off a lackluster season and don’t exactly have the most inspiring situation under center, but they’ve got enough talent across the board to make waves across the league.

Then again, the same could be said for the New York Giants. Daniel Jones is a huge question mark, but a breakout season is possible for the young gunslinger. Saquon Barkley is back and healthy, and the Giants do have a couple of intriguing options in the passing game as well. The defense is a work in progress, but could surprise this season as well.

So why am I going with the Broncos in this one? Simple. They’ve got the upper hand on both sides of the ball. I’m a believer in Teddy Bridgewater, who went 5-0 as a starter last season for the Saints. Call him a game manager if you want, but 5-0 seems like some excellent management. Having Jerry Jeudy, Courtland Sutton and Noah Fant to throw to will certainly help.

Ultimately, the Broncos’ offensive firepower and defensive prowess are too much for the Giants to handle. Jones has a decent day slinging the pigskin, but New York can’t muster enough points to come out on top.

Prediction: Broncos win 26-24