It can be impossible to predict games in the National Football League and Week 2 presented that with some crazy games. The Vikings upset the 49ers, the Cards blew out the Rams, and Dallas was sent packing by the Saints. Sometimes, it takes 6-7 weeks to really get a read on how these teams will be this early in the season, but it also makes the NFL that much more interesting to watch. Here are our Top 3 2024 NFL Games Week 3.
Philadelphia Eagles vs New Orleans Saints
Are the Saints for real? Is Jalen Hurts losing it? Lots of questions to be answered there and this matchup could be a good test. The Eagles suffered a shocking loss on Monday night after allowing the Falcons to complete a comeback that no one saw coming. This week, they will have to fend off a Saints squad that is putting up major points at the expense of opposing defenses. Maybe Derek Carr has turned a new leaf, or maybe the performances against a lousy Carolina team and maybe an overrated Dallas defense aren’t enough of a sample size. The Eagles had major issues on offense last week and without A.J. Brown, they could continue to struggle. This game is really a coin toss for me, but I like the home team, especially the one that plays in one of the loudest environments in the NFL. Prediction: Eagles 24 Saints 28
Houston Texans vs Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings are off to a quick 2-0 start and their defense looks stout as ever. They limited the 49ers to 7 points last week and Brock Purdy was overheard complimenting defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ scheme after the game. Minnesota could be legit this year if Sam Darnold acts as the compliant game manager that they want him to be as he is surrounded by an abundance of weapons in Aaron Jones and Justin Jefferson. The Texans were sloppy on offense last week. They gutted out a win against the Bears, but the offense managed just 19 points and they are now dealing with injuries at running back that could limit them moving forward. Minnesota has an incredible home-field advantage and should begin their year 3-0. Prediction: Texans 17 Vikings 20
Baltimore Ravens vs Dallas Cowboys
This is an interesting matchup. Both teams suffered terrible losses last week. The Cowboys were far worse. They were blown out at home by the Saints, 44-19. Everything that could go wrong went wrong and it looked like the Packers playoff game from last season all over again. The Ravens were taken to overtime by the Raiders where Gardner Minshew was able to pull off a huge upset and get the win. I see a shootout in this game. This Dallas defense is not the same without Dan Quinn and Lamar Jackson can exploit that. Dallas will be far more aggressive on defense and look to get CeeDee Lamb involved early and often. Dallas has been terrible in their last two home games, so I am leaning towards Baltimore. Prediction: Ravens 30 Cowboys 24