Looking for this week’s NFL picks? Below you’ll find our National Football League predictions, including moneyline picks, against-the-spread picks, totals, our best bet of the week, and game-by-game analysis. We update this page throughout the NFL preseason, regular season, and playoffs while tracking our running betting record.
This Week’s NFL Picks (Preseason Week 2)
| Game | Moneyline Pick | ATS Pick | Total Pick | Best Bet |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Las Vegas Raiders vs Houston Texans | Houston Texans | Houston +0.5 | Under 37.5 | ✅ Yes |
| San Francisco 49ers vs Los Angeles Chargers | Los Angeles Chargers | Chargers -1.5 | Under 39.5 | No |
| New York Jets vs Pittsburgh Steelers | Pittsburgh Steelers | Steelers -3 | Over 39.5 | No |
| Carolina Panthers vs Jacksonville Jaguars | Carolina Panthers | Panthers -1.5 | Over 36.5 | No |
| Green Bay Packers vs Denver Broncos | Denver Broncos | Packers +6.5 | Under 39.5 | No |
| Washington Commanders vs Detroit Lions | Washington Commanders | Commanders +3 | Over 37.5 | No |
| Buffalo Bills vs Cleveland Browns | Buffalo Bills | Bills +1.5 | Over 39.5 | No |
| Baltimore Ravens vs Minnesota Vikings | Baltimore Ravens | Ravens +3 | Under 37.5 | No |
| Atlanta Falcons vs Indianapolis Colts | Indianapolis Colts | Colts -2.5 | Under 37.5 | No |
| New York Giants vs Miami Dolphins | New York Giants | Giants -2.5 | Under 37.5 | No |
| New Orleans Saints vs Los Angeles Rams | New Orleans Saints | Saints +1.5 | Over 36.5 | No |
| Chicago Bears vs Cincinnati Bengals | Chicago Bears | Bears +1.5 | Over 40.5 | No |
| Kansas City Chiefs vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Buccaneers -3 | Under 37.5 | No |
| Philadelphia Eagles vs New England Patriots | New England Patriots | Patriots -1.5 | Under 37.5 | No |
| Dallas Cowboys vs Arizona Cardinals | Dallas Cowboys | Cowboys +1.5 | Over 37.5 | No |
| Seattle Seahawks vs Tennessee Titans | Tennessee Titans | Titans -2.5 | Under 38.5 | No |
Lines are based on the available Preseason Week 2 market as of August 17, 2026. Preseason numbers can move considerably after quarterback rotations and starter availability are announced.
NFL Best Bet of the Week
Best Bet: Houston Texans +0.5 vs Las Vegas Raiders
Houston is basically being asked to win the game at home, and that is a number worth taking given how the Texans are approaching their second preseason game. Houston intends to give most of its healthy starters playing time, which gives the Texans an early-game advantage that matters considerably more in August than regular-season power ratings.
The Texans also need a much sharper performance after being handled 27-7 by the Chargers in their opener. Houston should be motivated to establish some offensive rhythm before moving deeper into the preseason, while its quarterback rotation has been adjusted following an injury at the position. At essentially a pick’em price, Houston +0.5 is my strongest Week 2 position.
Las Vegas Raiders vs Houston Texans Pick
The moneyline pick for this matchup is Houston, the ATS pick is Houston +0.5, and the total pick is Under 37.5. Houston’s announced intention to use healthy starters gives the Texans a meaningful preseason edge, particularly early. Las Vegas should be competitive, but Houston has more reason to push for offensive continuity after scoring only seven points in its opener. I prefer the Texans in what should remain a relatively low-scoring game.
San Francisco 49ers vs Los Angeles Chargers Pick
The moneyline pick is Los Angeles, the ATS play is Chargers -1.5, and the total is Under 39.5. Los Angeles looked considerably sharper in its 27-7 opening win, while San Francisco managed only 13 points against Tennessee. The Chargers showed enough depth to justify laying the short home number, but 39.5 still provides room to attack the Under if both coaching staffs become conservative late.
New York Jets vs Pittsburgh Steelers Pick
The moneyline pick is Pittsburgh, the ATS pick is Steelers -3, and the total pick is Over 39.5. Pittsburgh’s backup offense was one of the more impressive units of the opening preseason weekend, producing 28 points against Green Bay. New York showed some offensive life despite losing to Tampa Bay, so this matchup has more scoring potential than several games on the board. Pittsburgh’s quarterback depth gets the deciding edge.
Carolina Panthers vs Jacksonville Jaguars Pick
The moneyline selection is Carolina, the ATS pick is Panthers -1.5, and the total pick is Over 36.5. Carolina is already two games into its preseason because of the Hall of Fame Game, which gives its deeper roster additional live-game work. Jacksonville also showed encouraging offensive depth while rallying past New Orleans. With such a modest total, I prefer the Over while taking Carolina’s extra preseason experience on the side.
Green Bay Packers vs Denver Broncos Pick
The moneyline pick is Denver, the ATS play is Green Bay +6.5, and the total is Under 39.5. Denver deserves to be favored after dominating Atlanta 27-7, but laying nearly a touchdown in preseason football creates unnecessary exposure. Green Bay was beaten badly by Pittsburgh, yet that poor performance has helped inflate this number. Denver can win without covering, making the Packers plus the points and the Under the better combination.
Washington Commanders vs Detroit Lions Pick
The moneyline pick is Washington, the ATS selection is Commanders +3, and the total is Over 37.5. Washington was impressive defensively in a 20-7 opening victory, while Detroit competed well enough in a 16-14 loss to Cincinnati. Both teams should have opportunities against second- and third-unit defenses as the game progresses. Washington showed the better overall balance in Week 1, so getting a field goal makes the Commanders attractive.
Buffalo Bills vs Cleveland Browns Pick
The moneyline pick is Buffalo, the ATS pick is Bills +1.5, and the total is Over 39.5. Buffalo opened its new stadium with a convincing 29-14 win while Cleveland was routed 34-10 by Chicago. Cleveland’s quarterback evaluation could produce better offensive results this time, which pushes me toward the Over, but Buffalo showed enough depth and efficiency to make the Bills attractive as a small underdog.
Baltimore Ravens vs Minnesota Vikings Pick
The moneyline selection is Baltimore, the ATS pick is Ravens +3, and the total pick is Under 37.5. Baltimore’s reserves controlled Philadelphia in a 24-7 victory and traditionally place considerable value on preseason execution. Minnesota won its opener but generated only 13 points. Getting a full field goal with Baltimore is the value side, while both defensive units make the Under appealing.
Atlanta Falcons vs Indianapolis Colts Pick
The moneyline pick is Indianapolis, the ATS pick is Colts -2.5, and the total is Under 37.5. Atlanta’s 27-7 opening loss exposed problems sustaining drives, while Indianapolis played New England to a 13-13 tie. The Colts do not need a major offensive breakthrough to cover a number below three. Until Atlanta’s reserve offense demonstrates more consistency, Indianapolis and the Under are the more trustworthy positions.
New York Giants vs Miami Dolphins Pick
The moneyline pick is New York, the ATS selection is Giants -2.5, and the total is Under 37.5. Neither offense exploded in Week 1, but Miami’s seven-point performance against Washington was especially concerning. The Dolphins also have some uncertainty in their backup quarterback rotation following an injury suffered in the opener. New York lost only 13-10 and should have enough defensive stability to win another low-scoring contest.
New Orleans Saints vs Los Angeles Rams Pick
The moneyline selection is New Orleans, the ATS pick is Saints +1.5, and the total is Over 36.5. The Rams rallied to defeat Kansas City in their opener, but New Orleans also showed the ability to generate points before surrendering a late comeback to Jacksonville. This looks much closer to a true coin flip than a matchup where either side deserves significant separation, making the Saints with the points attractive. The low total creates some value on the Over.
Chicago Bears vs Cincinnati Bengals Pick
The moneyline pick is Chicago, the ATS selection is Bears +1.5, and the total is Over 40.5. Chicago produced one of the most impressive performances of the opening weekend, crushing Cleveland 34-10 and receiving strong production from its reserve offense. Cincinnati won 16-14 but failed to separate from Detroit despite being a sizeable favourite. Chicago’s depth makes the Bears worth backing again, although this is one of the week’s higher totals.
Kansas City Chiefs vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers Pick
The moneyline pick is Tampa Bay, the ATS pick is Buccaneers -3, and the total is Under 37.5. Tampa Bay scored 24 points while beating the Jets in its opener, whereas Kansas City managed only 12 against the Rams. Preseason football often comes down to which reserve quarterback group can consistently finish drives, and Tampa demonstrated the better offensive floor in Week 1. The Buccaneers are playable at -3, with the Under still slightly stronger than the Over.
Philadelphia Eagles vs New England Patriots Pick
The moneyline selection is New England, the ATS pick is Patriots -1.5, and the total is Under 37.5. Philadelphia struggled badly against Baltimore, scoring only seven points, while New England’s 13-13 tie with Indianapolis was hardly explosive but showed more defensive stability. A spread of only 1.5 requires little separation. New England gets the home-field and depth edge in another matchup where points could be difficult to manufacture.
Dallas Cowboys vs Arizona Cardinals Pick
The moneyline pick is Dallas, the ATS selection is Cowboys +1.5, and the total is Over 37.5. Dallas controlled Seattle 17-7 in its opener, while Arizona has already played twice and scored 27 points in each contest. That additional Arizona game experience makes the Over interesting, but Dallas displayed the stronger defensive depth against Seattle. Taking the Cowboys plus the points provides value in what should be one of Saturday’s more competitive games.
Seattle Seahawks vs Tennessee Titans Pick
The moneyline selection is Tennessee, the ATS pick is Titans -2.5, and the total is Under 38.5. Tennessee opened with a 19-13 road victory over San Francisco while Seattle scored only seven points against Dallas. The market is asking Tennessee to win by a field goal at home, which is reasonable given the difference in first-game offensive execution. Seattle should improve, but Tennessee and the Under remain the stronger positions.
NFL Picks Record
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Overall NFL Picks | — |
| Moneyline Picks | — |
| ATS Picks | — |
| Total Picks | — |
| Best Bets | — |
Carry the existing season records from the evergreen NFL picks page into this table after the previous week’s selections have been graded.
NFL Preseason Picks Record
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Overall NFL Picks | 32-18-1 |
| Moneyline Picks | 9-8-0 |
| ATS Picks | 8-8-1 |
| Total Picks | 15-2-0 |
| Best Bets | 0-2 |
The record will begin with the 2026 NFL preseason and will be updated after each completed slate.It will be updated to regular season picks only after the preseason is completed.
How to Bet on NFL Games
The three most popular NFL betting markets are the moneyline, point spread, and game total. Each market provides a different way to wager on a game depending on where you believe the best betting value exists.
A moneyline wager is a bet on which team will win the game outright. The final margin does not matter. Favorites normally come with a higher price, while an underdog moneyline offers a larger potential return.
ATS stands for “against the spread.” The favorite must win by more than the listed point spread to cover, while the underdog can cover by winning outright or losing by fewer points than the spread. If the final margin lands directly on the listed number, the wager is normally graded as a push.
A total wager focuses on the combined number of points scored by both teams. Bettors can select the over if they expect the teams to combine for more points than the posted total or the under if they anticipate a lower-scoring contest.
What We Consider When Making NFL Picks
Our NFL picks are focused on identifying betting value rather than simply selecting the most recognisable team or obvious favourite. We evaluate quarterback play, offensive and defensive efficiency, recent performance, turnover margin, injuries, home-field advantage, scheduling situations, coaching tendencies, weather conditions, and how sportsbooks are pricing each matchup.
During the preseason, we place additional importance on quarterback rotations, projected playing time, roster depth, coaching approach, and the number of established starters expected to participate. Preseason results are less predictable because winning the game is not always a team’s primary objective.
The process changes during the playoffs, when teams shorten their rotations and every possession carries greater importance. Regardless of the point in the season, the goal remains the same: finding a wager where the available odds may not fully reflect the most likely outcome.
NFL Betting Tips
Shopping for the best available line is one of the simplest ways to improve your long-term NFL betting results. A half-point difference may not appear significant, but it can determine whether a point-spread or total wager wins, loses, or pushes.
It is also important to distinguish between predicting a winner and identifying betting value. A team may be likely to win without offering value at its current moneyline or point spread. Likewise, an underdog can be a worthwhile wager even when it is not expected to win outright.
Remain disciplined with your wager sizes and avoid dramatically increasing your stakes after a loss. Successful sports betting is based on making consistent decisions over an entire season rather than trying to win every wager.
NFL Preseason Betting
NFL preseason games require a different approach from regular-season contests. Star players may appear for only a few drives or remain on the sideline for the entire game. Backup quarterbacks, rookies, and players competing for roster spots can determine the final result.
Coaches also have different preseason priorities. Some place greater emphasis on winning, while others focus almost exclusively on player evaluation and installing their systems. Projected quarterback rotations and roster depth can therefore be more useful than a team’s previous regular-season record.
Betting lines may move quickly when information about playing time becomes public. Waiting for reliable reports can provide valuable information, although it may also mean accepting a less favourable number.
NFL Regular-Season Betting
Regular-season NFL betting offers more dependable information about team strength, personnel, coaching tendencies, and player roles. However, bettors should avoid reacting too strongly to one result, particularly during the opening weeks.
Matchups are often more important than overall records. A strong team may encounter difficulties against an opponent whose defensive scheme or offensive style exposes a specific weakness. Travel, rest, weather, injuries, and changes along the offensive line can also influence the betting value.
Because NFL point spreads and totals move throughout the week, the number attached to a wager is just as important as the team being selected.
NFL Playoff Betting
The NFL playoffs feature stronger competition and increased public betting interest. Sportsbooks have extensive information about every remaining team, which can make obvious value more difficult to find.
Home-field advantage, quarterback experience, defensive pressure, weather, and late-game execution become particularly important during elimination games. Bettors should also consider how each team’s style matches up against its opponent rather than relying solely on its regular-season record.
The Super Bowl presents an additional challenge because of the two-week break, neutral venue, increased media attention, and expanded selection of betting markets.
Responsible Gambling Reminder
Sports betting should always be treated as entertainment rather than guaranteed income. Only wager what you can comfortably afford to lose, establish reasonable limits, and never chase losses.
If betting stops being enjoyable or begins causing financial or emotional stress, take a break and seek assistance. Responsible gambling is more important than the outcome of any individual wager.
NFL Picks FAQ
Are these NFL picks updated every week?
Yes. We update this page throughout the NFL preseason, regular season, and playoffs with moneyline picks, ATS picks, total picks, and our best bet.
Do you provide picks for every NFL game?
Yes. Whenever a complete NFL slate is available, we aim to provide picks and analysis for every scheduled game.
What is the best NFL bet this week?
Our favourite wager is featured in the NFL Best Bet of the Week section near the top of the page. The selection may be a moneyline, point spread, total, or another widely available betting market.
Do you track your NFL betting record?
Yes. We maintain running records for our overall NFL picks, moneyline selections, ATS picks, totals, and best bets.
What does ATS mean in NFL betting?
ATS stands for “against the spread.” Instead of merely selecting the winner, you are wagering on whether a team will cover the point spread established by the sportsbook.
What does NFL moneyline mean?
An NFL moneyline wager is a bet on which team will win the game outright. The winning margin does not matter, but favourites and underdogs are offered at different prices.
What is an NFL total?
The total is the projected number of combined points for both teams. Bettors can wager on whether the final combined score will finish over or under that number.
Do you provide NFL preseason picks?
Yes. Our NFL coverage begins with the preseason and continues through the Super Bowl. Because preseason playing time can be unpredictable, we wait for reliable quarterback rotation and personnel information whenever possible.
When should I place an NFL bet?
That depends on the market. Betting early may help you secure a favourable line, while waiting can provide more information about injuries, weather, and projected player availability. Always compare the latest odds before placing a wager.
What is the best way to bet on NFL games?
Most NFL bettors focus on moneylines, point spreads, and totals. The key is identifying value, comparing odds, managing your bankroll, and remaining disciplined throughout the season.
More Free Football Picks
Are you looking for more predictions? Check out our free football picks covering the biggest games from across the sport.
Interested in Canadian football? Visit our free CFL picks for weekly moneyline, ATS, total, and best-bet predictions.
College football more your jam? Check out our free college football picks throughout the regular season, conference championships, and bowl schedule.
If you want to keep up with the latest news and trade rumors then check out the NFL website.
