NFL Week 1 2018: Picks and predictions

NEW ORLEANS, LA. - DECEMBER 24: New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) points out Atlanta Falcons middle linebacker Deion Jones (45) during the first quarter on December 24, 2017 at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, LA. New Orleans Saints defeated Atlanta Falcons 23-13. (Photo by Stephen Lew/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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The NFL season is finally here after months of waiting, and it’s time to make some picks on who will win their Week 1 matchups.

The NFL schedule is always fun to parse and predict. Which teams are going to get off to strong starts? Which squads are going to be in a hole early? Which games are going to mean the most when we look back on it all?

Of course, all the prognostications in the world mean jack squat. We’re all going to be wrong in one way or another, and in my case, potentially many ways. Still, it’s fun to pick the games, and you’re here to either support my choice of your team winning this week, or to laugh at me for somehow overlooking their great talents.

Alright, let’s get this party started.

All the lines are courtesy of OddsShark.

Atlanta Falcons at Philadelphia Eagles (-1.5)

The Eagles are defending champs and deserve respect. Then again, each year is unto itself, and Philadelphia is playing with a backup quarterback in Nick Foles, championship and all. The Falcons have arguably the best roster in the league, and with revenge on their mind, I smell the minor upset.

Pick: Atlanta 23, Philadelphia 21

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at New Orleans Saints (-9.5)

This is the biggest line of the week and for good reason. The Saints are stacked to the hilt with playmakers and a Hall of Fame quarterback. The Buccaneers are trotting Ryan Fitzpatrick out there with little running game to speak of. Tampa Bay has a better team than many realize, but it’s not enough here.

Pick: New Orleans 31, Tampa Bay 20

San Francisco 49ers at Minnesota Vikings (-6)

Everybody loves the 49ers. San Francisco is the trendy pick in many corners because of the beautiful Jimmy Garoppolo and a quality head coach in Kyle Shanahan. This will serve as a reminder that the Vikings are a complete team with years ripening on the vine, something San Francisco must do before getting to their level.

Pick: Minnesota 27, San Francisco 19

Buffalo Bills at Baltimore Ravens (-7)

Nathan Peterman is starting for the Bills. He’s started once, and threw five interceptions in a single half before being yanked. This time, Peterman will play better, but he’s still going to lose in Baltimore against a Ravens team much better than advertised.

Pick: Baltimore 19, Buffalo 13