2022 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 3

Atlanta Falcons (0-2) at Seattle Seahawks (1-1)

Sunday, September 25, 4:25PM ET

I can’t help but feel that, after their performance in Week 2, the Seattle Seahawks’ opening win against Wilson and the Broncos was a fluke. They had extra motivation to come out victorious, and that motivation no longer exists now that their former franchise quarterback isn’t on the other side of the field.

I’ll probably regret it, but that’s why I’m going with the Atlanta Falcons in Week 3.

Despite their 0-2 record, the Falcons have played some quality football this season. Marcus Mariota is playing well back in a starting role and is utilizing all of the weapons around him to put points on the board. He’s helped keep the Falcons alive in both of their two losses, and I think that resilience pays off against the Seahawks.

I knew Geno Smith playing excellent football wouldn’t last long. While he wasn’t terrible against the 49ers, he also didn’t do anything to elevate the Seattle offense beyond serviceable. The fact that the running game failed to gain any traction didn’t help either.

The Seahawks’ opening win was fool’s gold. As I called before the season began, they’re going to be one of the more uninspiring clubs of the 2022 campaign. The Falcons come to Seattle and earn their first victory.

Prediction: Falcons win 30-24