NFL Week 1 2022: A case for each underdog
With Week 1 of the 2022 NFL season finally upon us, let’s look at how each underdog can outright win, or at least cover, their spreads.
Buffalo Bills (-2.5) at Los Angeles Rams
We’re talking about the Super Bowl champs, at home, unveiling their banner on national television. This game should be a PICK’EM at worst.
New Orleans Saints (-5.5) at Atlanta Falcons
Rivalries always bring tight games, and that’s good new for Falcons fans, since Atlanta won’t be in many of them this season.
San Francisco 49ers (-7) at Chicago Bears
We have no idea what to expect from Trey Lance. If he makes few mistakes, it could leave the Bears with a chance to cover or possibly even win.
Pittsburgh Steelers at Cincinnati Bengals (-6.5)
Believe in Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin and their nasty defense. Pittsburgh’s offense isn’t great, but the defense could keep the game within reach.
Philadelphia Eagles (-4) at Detroit Lions
Detroit is starting to build something real under second-year head coach Dan Campbell. Philadelphia has the better roster, but it’s a road game with the Lions amped up.
Want $250 to bet on NFL Week 1?
New England Patriots at Miami Dolphins (-3.5)
Bill Belichick isn’t about to roll over despite a lackluster roster. Also, can Tua Tagovailoa get the job done?
Baltimore Ravens (-7) at New York Jets
This is a tough case to make. Perhaps Baltimore is out of sync after all the injuries from a year ago?
Jacksonville Jaguars at Washington Commanders (-2.5)
This is the most even matchup of the week. Just take the points and move on.
Cleveland Browns at Carolina Panthers (-2)
Baker Mayfield might be pissed, but even with Jacoby Brissett as the starting quarterback, Cleveland. has the better roster.
Indianapolis Colts (-7) at Houston Texans
The Colts have never won a season opener under head coach Frank Reich. And the Texans are going to be frisky all year.
New York Giants at Tennessee Titans (-5.5)
Tennessee is without edge rusher Harold Landry and receiver A.J. Brown after an injury and trade, respectively. Meanwhile, the Giants have renewed hope under head coach Brian Daboll.
Green Bay Packers (-1.5) at Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings have a new coach, they’re at home, and the Packers are still looking for someone to catch passes from Aaron Rodgers.
Kansas City Chiefs (-6) at Arizona Cardinals
Kyler Murray has to prove the homework clause was nonsense, and what better way than to beat Patrick Mahomes? Tall order, but Arizona has weapons.
Las Vegas Raiders at Los Angeles Chargers (-3.5)
The game is in Los Angeles, but this will sound like a home game for the Raiders. Good spot to take the points.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-2.5) at Dallas Cowboys
The Bucs’ offensive line is a mess and both teams have lost pieces from a year ago. The Dallas defense could have a big day.
Denver Broncos (-6.5) at Seattle Seahawks
If there’s ever a night for the 12s to make themselves heard, this is it.
