NFL Week 5: Picks, predictions and more

The NFL heads into October with a good slate of games and one of the best primetime matchups yet with the Texans hosting the Chiefs on Sunday night.

After getting off the mat with an 11-5 week last time around, let’s try to keep the good vibes going. This week won’t be easy with a group of very close games on paper, but that’s no excuse. Let’s get after it.

All lines courtesy of our great partner, SportsBook Review.

New England Patriots (-5.5) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

What to make of the Patriots (2-2)? This team was supposed to be super, but so far has stumbled behind the league’s worst defense. Meanwhile, the Buccaneers (2-1) attempt to make a statement in primetime. Ultimately, it’s tough to pick Tom Brady losing two games in five days.

Pick: New England 34, Tampa Bay 31

Arizona Cardinals at Philadelphia Eagles (-7)

This is a mismatch. The Cardinals (2-2) can’t protect Carson Palmer, as evidenced by the six sacks they allowed against San Francisco. The Eagles (3-1) might have the league’s best front seven and without David Johnson on the other side, Philadelphia can tee off on Palmer.

Pick: Philadelphia 27, Arizona 16

Buffalo Bills at Cincinnati Bengals (-2.5)

The Bengals (1-3) are favored over the streaking Bills (3-1), and there’s obvious reasons why. Buffalo has a terrific defense but the offense can’t do much outside of LeSean McCoy. Conversely, the Cincinnati offense has come alive since the firing of Ken Zampese. This will be an ugly game, but the desperate home team finds a way.

Pick: Cincinnati 19. Buffalo 16

Carolina Panthers at Detroit Lions (-1)

The Lions (3-1) continue to be the most disrespected team in football. Detroit is legitimately good on both sides of the ball and is only favored by a point at home? The Panthers (3-1) still have plenty to prove offensively, despite an outburst against a rancid Patriots defense.

Pick: Detroit 26, Carolina 20