2021 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 2

New England Patriots (0-1) at New York Jets (0-1)

Sunday, September 19, 1PM ET

Neither of these clubs got off to the hot start they were hoping for in 2021. And yet, both showed promise in their initial outings and still have the potential to pile up wins before the season is over. And yet, one of them has to lose in Week 2 when they go toe to toe.

My money is on the New England Patriots, who are a more complete team at this point. Mac Jones looked great in his rookie debut, and Damien Harris has the ground game firing on all cylinders. Even though the New England defense had a tough time slowing the Miami Dolphins, they showed enough to keep it close.

Against another rookie gunslinger in Zach Wilson, I expect the Patriots D to enjoy an improved performance that sees a couple of turnovers and a handful of sacks tallied before Sunday is over. That’s not to say Wilson won’t make some plays — he’s clearly got the arm talent to put points on the board. Still, it won’t be enough in Week 2.

The Patriots aren’t a legitimate contender in 2021, even with Bill Belichick still running the show and the New England defense looking like one of the NFL’s best. Still, getting past their divisional rivals and putting their first notch in the win column seems to be in the cards right now.

Prediction: Patriots win 26-16