The 2022 NFL season has arrived, and we’ve got NFL picks and score predictions to prepare you for Week 1.
It’s over! The long, agonizing wait for the return of NFL football is finally over. The 2022 season officially gets underway this week, and what better way to start you off than with a fresh batch of NFL picks and score predictions for Week 1?
As has been the case for the last few years, we’ve got you covered with the Week 1 edition of NFL picks and score predictions. It’s been the same in seasons passed — I’ll never claim to know what the future holds. Realistically, odds are high that at least a few of my NFL picks will be completely wrong on a weekly basis. I will, however, make my selections based on research, experience, and careful consideration.
While I don’t want to rest on my laurels, the results speak for themselves. This past season, I finished with a 169-107-1 record. It could certainly be better, but it also takes the cake when compared to many other “professionals” out there.
This is football — if there were a crystal ball that told the future, it wouldn’t be worth watching.
Now that we’ve gotten all of that out of the way, here are my NFL picks and score predictions for Week 1. Just keep in mind that I assume no responsibility if you choose to place wagers based on my picks — that’s your decision, not mine.
Week 1 Byes: None
NFL picks for Week 1 Buffalo Bills vs. Los Angeles Rams on Thursday Night
Buffalo Bills (0-0) at Los Angeles Rams (0-0)
Thursday, September 8, 8:20PM ET
There’s no denying that this Los Angeles Rams team still looks loaded coming off their impressive Super Bowl victory last season. With that said, do they have enough talent to overcome a Buffalo Bills team that many are hyping as the cream of the crop in the AFC?
Honestly, I’m not sure. One of my primary concerns right now is the health of Matthew Stafford, whose elbow injury has limited his ability to throw the ball nearly all offseason. As good as the rest of the roster is, Stafford was a driving force for this squad last year. Can they muster enough offense if he isn’t on his game?
Even if they can, it’s not going to be easy slowing down a Buffalo offense run by Josh Allen, who seems to get better every year. The young gunslinger is eager to get his group over the hump in 2022, and will get plenty of help from his offensive playmakers as well as the Bills’ loaded defense.
Either way, this game will not be a full indication of what’s to come for the Bills and Rams this season. It’s only Week 1, but you better believe they’ll both be looking to set the tempo and assert their dominance. Buffalo does just that with a hard-fought victory.
Prediction: Bills win 20-17
New Orleans Saints (0-0) at Atlanta Falcons (0-0)
Sunday, September 11, 1PM ET
I know many people are expecting the New Orleans Saints to be the clear-cut No. 2 in the NFC South this season. It’s a reasonable stance and one that I wouldn’t necessarily oppose. However, there’s still a very good chance they suffer an upset in Week 1 at the hands of the Atlanta Falcons.
Believe it or not, the Falcons possess sneaky potential to earn one of the final NFC playoff spots. Much of their success depends on the performance of Marcus Mariota, the Falcons starting quarterback who’s on a short leash. If he can step up and prove that he deserves to stay atop the depth chart, we could see Atlanta win more games than expected in 2022.
As for the Saints, I wouldn’t be surprised if they got off to a slow start. Jameis Winston is coming off a season-ending injury, and Alvin Kamara is dealing with his own set of issues. While the New Orleans defense has the talent to make life difficult for Mariota and the Falcons, I’m confident the former No. 2 overall pick can work with Kyle Pitts and Co. to score often in Week 1.
This one comes down to the wire, as many Falcons-Saints showdowns do. Ultimately, a late-game push by Atlanta winds up in the end zone, securing them a victory in the opener while sending the New Orleans home with an unexpected notch in the loss column.
Prediction: Falcons win 21-20
Cleveland Browns (0-0) at Carolina Panthers (0-0)
Sunday, September 11, 1PM ET
Wouldn’t we all love to see Baker Mayfield welcome the Cleveland Browns into his new home and hand them a big, fat L? It makes for an intriguing storyline, but it’s not something I see coming to fruition in Week 1 in the Carolina Panthers home opener.
Even with Deshaun Watson serving his suspension, there’s plenty to like about this Browns squad — at least from a purely football standpoint. They’ve got one of the best running games in the business, an elite pass rusher in Myles Garrett, and one of the top young secondaries the league has to offer.
Can you say anything similar about the Panthers? Not really. Even after the acquisition of Mayfield (which was a nice upgrade at quarterback, but not a monumental one), Carolina’s offense still lacks much pizazz outside of D.J. Moore and Christian McCaffrey. And we all know the latter hasn’t exactly been reliable over the past couple of seasons.
The Panthers keep it interesting as Mayfield looks to exact revenge on the team that cast him aside so carelessly. Unfortunately, he’s unsuccessful, as the Cleveland defense gets the best of him and Carolina fails to slow down the duo of Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt.
Sorry Panthers fans, but you’re likely in for another season full of disappointment. Best to prepare yourselves now.
Prediction: Browns win 31-20
San Francisco 49ers (0-0) at Chicago Bears (0-0)
Sunday, September 11, 1PM ET
This is going to be an interesting season for the San Francisco 49ers, a team that has the tools to be a contender but could easily fail to meet expectations. One of the main wild cards is Trey Lance, who I’m still not convinced is the answer to the 49ers’ questions at quarterback.
With that said, the Chicago Bears have their own problems that make this a favorable matchup for San Francisco. Even on the road, the 49ers have more than enough talent on both sides of the ball to keep the Bears in check. The Chicago offense has the potential to be one of the worst in the NFL this season, between the uncertainty surrounding Justin Fields and the lackluster front five.
Even if Lance struggles, I don’t see the Bears being able to slow down the 49ers’ wide array of offensive weapons. Deebo Samuel has quickly emerged as one of the league’s top offensive playmakers, and a healthy Elijah Mitchell should be ready to take advantage of Chicago’s uninspiring defensive front.
I’m still skeptical about Lance and his ability to run the show effectively, but this will at least be a good ramp-up game for him. Chicago gets run over in Week 1 as the 49ers look to prove they’re capable of coming away from this season with the NFC West crown.
Prediction: 49ers win 28-13
Pittsburgh Steelers (0-0) at Cincinnati Bengals (0-0)
Sunday, September 11, 1PM ET
Even with the numerous offseason changes the Pittsburgh Steelers’ roster underwent, you simply can’t count out a Mike Tomlin-led team. That’s why, even if you’re not a fan of either team, you’re going to want to watch this matchup — arguably the best of the bunch in Week 1.
It’s always a blast watching two AFC North rivals square off, and these two are guaranteed to leave everything on the field on Sunday. The Cincinnati Bengals come in as favorites having just made it to the Super Bowl, but it’s anyone’s game given the Steelers’ abundance of offensive playmakers and outstanding defense.
With all of that said, I still see the Bengals away with the W in hand. Joe Burrow does what he does best, methodically working the ball down the field and avoiding costly mistakes. The Pittsburgh defense makes a few big plays of its own, but it’s not enough to keep Cincinnati for finding the end zone at least a few times.
Eventually, having Mitchell Trubisky at the helm proves too much for the Steelers to overcome. The former top pick fumbles on Pittsburgh’s final drive, allowing the Bengals to run out the clock and start the season at an unblemished 1-0.
Prediction: Bengals win 31-27
Philadelphia Eagles (0-0) at Detroit Lions (0-0)
Sunday, September 11, 1PM ET
I’m a firm believer the Detroit Lions are going to take a sizable step forward in 2022. They made some impressive offseason moves, and have the look of a sleeper. As long as Jared Goff can play some of his better football, the Lions might actually win a respectable number of games this year.
Unfortunately, I don’t think Week 1 has a win waiting for them. Going up against a quality Philadelphia Eagles club, the Lions will need to play some of their best ball to seal the victory. I just don’t see that happening, especially as this young squad continues to develop chemistry.
Look for the Philadelphia offense to simply overwhelm, with Miles Sanders getting going early and Jalen Hurts looking to connect with new weapon A.J. Brown. While Detroit’s defense has improved significantly, I’m not sure they’re ready to collectively take down an Eagles offense that can score in bunches.
Goff does his best, but a key turnover or two keeps the Lions from ever truly threatening in this one. Still, it’s a fun game to watch that gives us glimpses of both of these teams’ potential in 2022.
Prediction: Eagles win 33-24
Indianapolis Colts (0-0) at Houston Texans (0-0)
Sunday, September 11, 1PM ET
They may have taken small strides this offseason, but let’s not pretend like the Houston Texans are suddenly going to be a threat. They’re still near the bottom of the barrel in the AFC and are going to show us exactly that on Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts.
It’s not like the Colts are a slouch themselves. Jonathan Taylor is one of the most explosive offensive players in the NFL and will be looking to recreate the magic that he created for Indianapolis a season ago. Against a Lovie Smith-led defense, look for Taylor to enjoy success for all 60 minutes.
Just looking at this Texans roster, it’s hard to see them winning many games in 2022. I don’t doubt Davis Mills’ abilities to be a solid starting quarterback, but the options around him are limited at best. And with Houston’s likely defensive struggles, there just isn’t much reason to be optimistic about this group.
The Colts home into Houston and put on a show, leaning on Taylor and their defense to get the job done. The reigning rushing champion goes off for at least 150 yards and two touchdowns, while the Texans simply do what they can to not get laughed off the field.
Prediction: Colts win 35-16
New England Patriots (0-0) at Miami Dolphins (0-0)
Sunday, September 11, 1PM ET
It’s always difficult to count out Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots. However, after the tough offseason the former dynasty underwent, it’s safe to assume we could see a very low (at least, relatively) year for the Patriots as they look to rebound and rebuild.
Meanwhile, the Miami Dolphins did everything in their power this offseason to carve a path toward a deep playoff run. They made a blockbuster trade for Tyreek Hill, filled a few other glaring gaps via free agency, and have basically removed any excuse Tua Tagovailoa has to produce wins this year.
Luckily for the Dolphins, the wins should start accumulating in Week 1 when the Patriots come down to Magic City. Even with Mac Jones under center, a sound running game to rely on, and Belichick always getting the most out of his defense, it’s simply not going to be enough to slow the Dolphins’ dynamic offensive assault.
New England keeps it close with some sound play on the defensive of the ball, but it’s not enough as Tua, Tyreek, and Mike Gesicki prove too much to overcome. Miami gets an early win, and we start to wonder if Belichick shouldn’t just call it a career.
Prediction: Dolphins win 26-17
Baltimore Ravens (0-0) at New York Jets (0-0)
Sunday, September 11, 1PM ET
By the time the 2022 NFL season is in the books, we will have seen some promising signs from the New York Jets. They made massive strides this offseason, and appear to be a team on the rise. That, however, does not mean they’re going to start the campaign with a win.
Instead, the Baltimore Ravens are quickly going to prove that they’re a force to be reckoned with in the AFC. Obviously, Lamar Jackson is always a problem, and the Baltimore run game is one of the league’s top attacks. Then throw in the fact that they’ve got an elite secondary and Mark Andrews, and it’s easy to see why I’m speaking so highly of them.
As for the Jets, they’ve got lots of young, inexperienced playmakers they’ll be relying heavily on this season. Garrett Wilson could prove to be an exciting option out wide, and Breece Hall could make an instant impact on the ground. I’m also looking forward to seeing how Sauce Gardner develops at cornerback. The talent is there, but it’s going to take time for it all to come together.
Especially with Zach Wilson still dealing with a knee injury, the Jets look a little sluggish coming out of the gate. Joe Flacco tries to stick it to his former team but ends up having a rough day as the Baltimore defense causes at least three turnovers while the Ravens cruise on offense.
Prediction: Ravens win 36-17
Jacksonville Jaguars (0-0) at Washington Commanders (0-0)
Sunday, September 11, 1PM ET
Everyone knows what a dumpster fire the Jacksonville Jaguars’ 2021 campaign was. Urban Meyer quickly ran the team into the ground, and now a new regime has stepped in to hopefully right the ship. Can we expect a quick turnaround, or will this be another year to forget for the Jaguars?
At this point, it’s hard to tell. Clearly, Jacksonville has invested both cash and draft capital in being more competitive this season. How it translates on Sundays, though, is still to be seen. With Doug Pederson leading the charge and some key contributors back from injury, there’s potential for the Jaguars to exceed expectations in 2022.
Many people would put the Washington Commanders in the same boat, but I’m not so sure. Carson Wentz is a liability at times under center, and the running back position seems out of sorts. Even though D.C.’s defense is one worth taking seriously, the absence of Chase Young to start the season will take its toll.
These are two teams that could go either way this season. In hopes of getting things started on the right foot, the Jaguars come out swinging. Trevor Lawrence reminds us all why he was the No. 1 overall pick, and Jacksonville earns a much-needed win on the road.
Prediction: Jaguars win 23-18
New York Giants (0-0) at Tennessee Titans (0-0)
Sunday, September 11, 4:25PM ET
I’m sorry, but I’m having a hard time buying the New York Giants coming into the 2022 campaign. They’ve got issues aplenty along the offensive line, Daniel Jones is always an unknown, and the defense can only carry so much of the load on its own.
As for the Tennessee Titans, there are also some significant concerns about their longevity. While Derrick Henry is obviously a monster who can turn the tide in games, Ryan Tannehill has lost some of his swagger in recent years and Brown is gone. Much like the Giants, Tennessee will need to rely on their run game and defense to win games this season.
For Week 1, I see the Titans getting the best of their opponent. Especially with the New York front five in shambles right now, Tennessee should be able to rely on their defensive line to make life miserable for Jones. We all know that, when that happens, bad things tend to happen for the G-Men.
This one is uneventful outside of a few big plays from Henry. Saquon Barkley fails to impress or give the New York offense life, and we see the Giants limp off the starting line with a depressing loss on the road.
Prediction: Titans win 17-7
Kansas City Chiefs (0-0) at Arizona Cardinals (0-0)
Sunday, September 11, 4:25PM ET
You can hate me if you’d like, but I’m not putting much stock in the Arizona Cardinals as a legitimate contender this season. Kyler Murray is too inconsistent, and the Arizona defense has too many weak spots to stop some of the top teams in the league.
Take the Kansas City Chiefs for example. Even with the loss of Hill, the Chiefs still figure to boast one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL in 2022. It all starts with Patrick Mahomes, who is still a top quarterback talent despite some slippage in recent years. He’s also got an excellent offensive line and Travis Kelce, which will keep him dangerous throughout the season.
Furthermore, the Chiefs have a superior defense to that of the Cardinals, which should help them control the game on Sunday. It’s not going to be a blowout by any means, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Kansas City is largely in the driver’s seat from start to finish.
Murray makes a couple of his patented highlight plays, but also takes too many risks and turns the ball over in a key spot. That allows the Chiefs to run out the clock, sealing the deal on their first win of what should be another outstanding season.
Prediction: Chiefs win 36-27
Las Vegas Raiders (0-0) at Los Angeles Chargers (0-0)
Sunday, September 11, 4:25PM ET
How chaotic is the AFC West going to be this season? It has the makings of a bloodbath, with every team offering enough upside to sit atop the division at season’s end. This matchup between the Las Vegas Raiders and Los Angeles Chargers will be our first glimpse at the carnage that could very well ensue.
As much potential as the Raiders possess in 2022, I can’t pick against the Chargers heading into Week 1. They’ve got all of the pieces needed to make a legitimate Super Bowl run this season, from Justin Herbert under center to a dangerous pass-rushing duo. This roster is DEEP, and the Raiders are going to experience first-hand the damage they can do on Sundays.
Now that’s not to say Las Vegas is going to get run over. Derek Carr will make some plays when the offensive line manages to protect him — he does now have Davante Adams to throw to, after all. And while the Raiders have their own dynamic duo on the edge, their defense isn’t nearly as well-rounded as Los Angeles’ is.
This figures to be a high-scoring affair, with the defenses chipping in their own touchdown or two. Ultimately, the Chargers come away with the early season divisional win while putting the rest of the NFL on notice.
Prediction: Chargers win 37-32
Green Bay Packers (0-0) at Minnesota Vikings (0-0)
Sunday, September 11, 4:25PM ET
Believe it or not, we may soon see a shift in power in the NFC North. For the last few years, it’s been nearly all the Green Bay Packers, with a smidge of the Minnesota Vikings and Bears. Now, it’s looking like the Vikings could soon leapfrog the Packers for supremacy.
Why? Well, the departure of Mike Zimmer and the arrival of Kevin O’Connell could play a big part in it. The eventual decline of Aaron Rodgers and the loss of Davante Adams will also hamper the Packers a bit, obviously. All of the signs point towards Green Bay taking a step down from the throne and Minnesota swiping the crown.
This game will be the first step forwards that change. The Vikings offense, led by Kirk Cousins, Dalvin Cook, and Justin Jefferson, will give the Packers D everything it can handle and then some. While Rodgers does his usual thing, a lack of a true No. 1 receiver takes its toll. It also helps that the Vikings have one of the league’s top pass-rushing duos to keep the pressure on the aging gunslinger.
As most Vikings-Packers showdowns do, it comes down to the wire. However, a late push by the Vikings’ offense and failure to capitalize in the final minute by Green Bay gives the home team the edge. O’Connell gets his first win in his head-coaching debut, evidencing the bright future that lies ahead for this Minnesota squad.
Prediction: Vikings win 24-20
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-0) at Dallas Cowboys (0-0)
Sunday, September 11, 8:20PM ET
Every year it seems, we hear prior to Week 1 about how amazing the Dallas Cowboys are going to be. 2022 has been no exception, with the Cowboys yet again being talked up as one of the NFC’s teams to beat. I’m sorry to burst any bubbles, but that won’t be the case.
Instead, we’re going to quickly find out just how beatable Dallas is. In fact, by the time Week 1 is in the books, we’ll be laughing at the idea of Dak Prescott and the Cowboys playing in Glendale come February. Okay maybe that’s a bit dramatic, but you get my point.
What I’m trying to say is the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are going to have their way with their NFC East counterparts this upcoming Sunday, even in the friendly confines of AT&T Stadium. Tom Brady is going to do what he does best — be the GOAT. He’ll get plenty of help from his offensive cohorts, and the Tampa Bay defense will find a way to keep the Cowboys from doing much damage.
When all is said and done, the Cowboys hype will have come crashing back down to Earth while the Buccaneers will yet again garner the early Super Bowl buzz they deserve. It’s a great matchup, but most fans will have changed the channel by the time the clock strikes zero.
Prediction: Buccaneers win 42-17
Denver Broncos (0-0) at Seattle Seahawks (0-0)
Monday, September 12, 8:15PM ET
Especially here in the Pacific Northwest where I live, many folks would love to see the Seattle Seahawks still it to Russell Wilson in his first game with the Denver Broncos. Even with boos raining down upon him at Lumen Field, that’s just not going to happen.
Right now, these two teams are on different planets. The Broncos come into 2022 looking like a legitimate contender, aided by the acquisition of Wilson. Meanwhile, the Seahawks look like they’re a few losses from throwing it into tank mode. Heck, the front office may already have their fingers hovering over the button.
If Seattle truly believes they can slow down this Denver squad, they’ve got another thing coming. Chances are the Broncos will run roughshod on the Seahawks all night long, between Wilson, Javonte Williams, and Cortland Sutton. And there’s no way that Geno Smith is going to have much luck moving the ball against Denver’s outstanding defense.
It’s going to take some time for the Seahawks to bounce back from this awful offseason. In the meantime, look for Wilson to put on a show in his new colors, leading the Broncos to what could be a deep playoff run if all goes as planned.
Prediction: Broncos win 29-10