Free NFL Week 2 Predictions

Alright people, another week and another chance to establish this corner as a viable money-maker. We had only one of three picks right in Week 1, but feel as though we were duped by the Titans. How on earth do you start a quarterback if he is not ready in the offense? No matter, we are on to bigger and better predictions. Here are my three selections for this week.

Panthers (PK) @ Minnesota

Are you kidding me? One week does not make a team or a season and the Vikings will find this one out on Sunday. Steve Smith could be back for the Panthers and that changes everything! He was the best receiver in the league last season and expect Carolina's aerial game to be much more wide open. Even if he is not back, this team will be more efficient on offense. Factor in a bounce back effort from DeShaun Foster and you have the makings of a good pick here.

I didn't like the less than three yards-per-carry average that Chester Taylor displayed against the Redskins last week and I think he'll have the same problems in Week 2. Minnesota does have a good o-line, but it will be tested when Mr. Peppers comes to town. Take Carolina for the spread and money line

Lions (+8.5) @ Bears

Look out, the Bears may actually have a passing game. Sure Rex Grossman was playing a porous secondary in Green Bay last week, but we expect his maturation to keep growing. Musin Muhammed looks great and he appears to be getting along well with his QB. Defensively, Chicago is right back where they were in 2005 and that means trouble for Detroit.

Defensively, the Lions are much improved. However, we don't like how little Mr. Kitna throws downfield. When you have the Amazing Kreskin...err.. I mean Roy Williams, you have to try and stretch defenses. Moreoever, I just don't see Kevin Jones setting up the passing game with a great running attack. This guy gets more second chances than Jeff Weaver. Take Chicago and lay the points.

Steelers (-2) @ Jacksonville

I don't really care if Big Ben plays or not, he just isn't that impactful a player. His strength is managing the game and making the right decision. I believe Charlie Batch is probably at least 75% as good as him (3-0 as a Pitt starter). However, this team needs to get even more out of the running game if Roethlisberger doesn't suit up. Pittsburgh was a little sloppy in their first game, but has had a long layoff before Week 2. They will be well rested.

Conversely, the Jags are already banged up on defense and have lost Reggie Haywood for the season. However, this team has a ton of guts and determination, and they do all the intangibles well. Jack Del Rio's team will be fired up and will continue to play with that "we deserve more respect," attitude in this game. Young WR Matt Jones is learning how to use his body to shield the ball from defenders (a quarterback converted to receiver) and that spells trouble for Steelers defensive backs. Take the points with Jacksonville.

Last Week: 1-2
Overall: 1-2

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