Bob Balfe:
NFL
1:00 PM EST
Rotation # 455
Steelers -3 over Jets
The storyline for today’s game will be Aaron Rodgers facing his old team, but it’s not even about the Steelers’ new quarterback. The Jets sport a new coaching staff, breaking in a new quarterback in Justin Fields. I don’t trust the Jets’ offense enough to crack the Steelers’ defense. It will be a challenge early in the year for Fields to move the ball up and down the field and get on the same page as new offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand. The Steelers’ running game is nothing to write home about, but we will trust veteran QB Aaron Rodgers to manage the game, and for Justin Fields to make more mistakes. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin and his experienced staff must take advantage of the inexperience on the other side. Take the Steelers.
NFL
1:00 PM EST
Rotation # 463-464
Bengals/Browns Over 47.5
Neither offensive line is projected to be great, but one thing they have going for them is their massive size. The Browns have the most experienced offensive line in the NFL, and size alone should be able to open up running lanes for Jerome Ford. Chase Brown will look to get going on the Bengals’ side of the ball, which will open up the passing game. Defenses are typically ahead of offenses early in the season, but I am not sure that is the case today, especially on the Bengals’ defensive side. Joe Flacco knows the Browns’ system, as he was their QB in 2023, and should get his chances to go after a weaker defense. Look for both teams to do enough to make it a high-scoring game. Take the Over.
NFL
1:00 PM EST
Rotation # 469-470
Bucs/Falcons Over 47.5
The Buccanners return their starting offensive line from a year ago, running back Bucky Irving, Rachaad White, and signal caller Baker Mayfield. Mayfield has a host of tools at receiver and will get the green light behind new offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard, who was the pass game coordinator a year ago. Tampa will look to exploit Jeff Ulbrich in his first season as the Falcons’ defensive coordinator. Atlanta will look to learn from their late-season collapse from a season ago as Raheem Morris enters his 2nd year as head coach. QB Michael Penix Jr looks to elevate his game in his second year. The Falcons have the luxury of Kirk Cousins in the backup role, as he knows the system and can operate the playbook. Bijan Robinson had a fantastic season a year ago, as his ability to move the chains leaves defenses guessing. Atlanta has a host of good receivers who can move the chains. Look for a higher-scoring game. Take the Over.
