2022 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 3

New Orleans Saints (1-1) at Carolina Panthers (0-2)

Sunday, September 25, 1PM ET

Is anyone surprised the Carolina Panthers have limped out of the gates to an 0-2 start? Not I. Chances are they end up with one of the worst records in the NFL in 2022, and they’ll take one step closer to that fate in Week 3 when they host the New Orleans Saints.

That’s not to say the Saints are a Super Bowl contender either. They’re much closer to that category than Carolina is, but there are still some serious concerns — especially after their Week 2 loss. Jameis Winston isn’t the answer, and he’ll continue to cost New Orleans games as long as he’s the man under center.

Regardless, I’m confident the Saints get the W against the Panthers. Their defense should make life extremely difficult for Baker Mayfield, Christian McCaffrey, and the Carolina offense, just as they did with Tom Brady this past Sunday. A couple of key turnovers keep the Panthers from ever pulling ahead.

Don’t get too excited — the Saints are still a ways away from “contender” status. However, another win here at least puts them in an early position to make a playoff push. That is, assuming Winston’s questionable decision-making doesn’t drag them too deep.

Prediction: Saints win 20-17