Week 1 NFL straight up, against the spread, and survivor pool picks
Key Points:
- Historical data shows no strong Week 1 trends for Super Bowl winners (7-3 record) or losers (6-4 record) in the following season, indicating unpredictability in these matchups.
- The Patriots-Seahawks game is seen as a test of coaching and team regression, with the Patriots considered somewhat lucky Super Bowl champions and likely to fall short against the Seahawks.
- The Rams are favored over the 49ers due to superior talent and an aging Niners roster, while the Browns' decision to start Deshaun Watson is criticized despite a promising young roster.
- Several games have notable storylines, including the Bengals favored over the Buccaneers despite Baker Mayfield's new contract, and the Colts viewed as potentially underrated against the Ravens.
- Key Week 1 picks include the Cowboys over the Giants based on historical dominance, the Chargers over the Cardinals due to the Cardinals' weak team, and skepticism about the Bills and Texans despite high power rankings.