NFL Week 3 picks against the spread

Los Angeles Rams (-3) at Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns found their swagger against a hapless New York Jets team on Monday night. Without Sam Darnold, it was pretty clear who was winning that matchup. The Browns have one of the hardest schedules coming up, especially when there are so many bad teams in the NFL. After the Rams, the Browns play the Ravens, 49ers, Seahawks and Patriots all in a row. Baker Mayfield found a way to feed Odell Beckham Jr. If he can do that week after week, those other teams might be in more trouble than the Browns.

The Rams got lucky in Week 2 when Drew Brees left the game with a thumb injury. We thought this could be one of the games of the year, but it fell very flat. The Rams also survived Week 1 against a Panthers team we’re not sure if they’re good.

This feels like the spot the Browns have to get their marquee win. Mayfield has a better chance of getting the big win over Jared Goff. Beckham found his stride, and will look to blow past another opponent. It will be harder, since the Rams are one of three teams that have yet to give up a touchdown to a receiver, but this is a different kind of talent than what’s on the Panthers (the Saints game we won’t count). The Browns defense looked great led by Myles Garrett. We really just like getting home underdog when it’s a team that loves its ego. Pick: Cleveland (+3)

Chicago Bears (-4) at Washington Redskins

The Chicago Bears came out of Mile High Stadium with a win, but also a ton of questions. This offense looks very, very bad. The scheme they are using feels even worse. What are they doing with Tarik Cohen? Mitch Trubisky still doesn’t look good. They were saved by Eddie Pinero and his magical foot.

The Washington Redskins have been competitive with Case Keenum at quarterback, but they still find themselves at 0-2. The biggest storyline for their season is the misuse of running back legend Adrian Peterson. Jay Gruden needs to start coaching with his head instead of with his ego. Maybe he didn’t want Peterson on this team. Who cares. He’s the best you have right now.

This is a matchup in front of the bright lights. Both these coaches have a lot of proving to do, and if they don’t it will be all anyone talks about on Tuesday. They can’t hide among 13 others games when they are the only one on TV. Now let’s get to the pick. We like Keenum, but definitely not against this defense. Chicago could absolutely stop them from making any moves, and then the Bears will have a ton of chances to finally get the offense going. Pick: Chicago (-4)