By Nick Ferraro
Last Week: 3-1
Season: 3-1
Panthers -3 vs. Bears
Both teams surprised last week, but the Panthers are the best bet to sustain week one’s success. The Bears played well, but the Colts were hardly ready after a preseason without many of their top players including Peyton Manning. The Panthers will throttle the Bears running game, something the Colts couldn’t do. That means Orton has to win it for the Bears, and I don’t see it happening.
Panthers 24 Bears 10
Seahawks -7 vs. 49ers
The Niners offense was pathetic last week at home, so there’s no reason to think they do any better in Seattle. The Seahawks were embarrassed by the Bills, and they should play with a chip on their shoulders this week at home.
Seahawks 27 49ers 6
Texans -4.5 vs. Ravens
The Texans spoiled a perfect week for me on Sunday, but I’m going to ride with them one more time. This is more about picking against the Ravens than picking the Texans. Cincinnati has no defense, and the Ravens had fits moving the ball last week at home. The Texans will stop Flacco and company and wear down Baltimore’s tired defense.
Texans 23 Ravens 3
Patriots at Jets -1.5
I have no idea. I’m just going to enjoy it. If you can pick this thing, my hat’s off to ya. We got a seldom-used backup QB for the Pats, and new faces everywhere for Gang Green. I’d grab the Jets if they weren’t hanging on for dear life last week in Miami. That win, against the one-win Fish, didn’t inspire confidence. I also can’t see picking New England after Herm’s woeful bunch stayed close on the road, Brady or no Brady.