Picks for 10/1/23
1:00 PM EST
Rotation #261
Steelers -3 over Texans (loss)
The Texans have improved much from last year but have yet to see a defense like the Steelers. CJ Stroud has shown so far that he can be the face of the Texans, but he is at a severe disadvantage with 3 of his five offensive linemen out today. The Steelers’ defense has all-star talent at each level and should bring the heat on the young rookie QB. Steelers QB Kenny Pickett is improving and can hit you with a sneaky deep pass at any moment. Najee Harris should have a big day on the ground. Pittsburgh fans travel well, so road games are never authentic road games. Take the Steelers.
NFL
1:00 PM EST
Rotation #266
Saints -3.5 over Bucs (loss)
The Saints have not scored over 20 points in their last nine games, but they can have a big day, as Baker Mayfield might not be the future quarterback for Tampa and could leave short fields with turnovers. The Philadelphia Eagles humbled the Bucs last week, and I expect the Saints’ defense to do the same thing. Derek Carr should start today, but Jameis Winston would love a crack at his old team if he can’t go. Alvin Kamara will give New Orleans the spark they need in the running and passing game, and the New Orleans defense should get to Mayfield multiple times today. Take the Saints.
NFL
1:00 PM EST
Rotation #269
Bengals -2.5 over Titans (loss)
The Bengals had a big second half last week but allowed a dreaded backdoor cover to take us from a win to a push. That has happened more than enough times this year for our liking! Joe Burrow is a week healthier and will face a Titans offense with their problems. Titans running back Derrick Henry isn’t what he used to be. It’s not entirely his fault, but their offensive line is one of the worst, if not the worst, in football. The Bengals should be able to move the ball today as they have great receivers, and their offensive line has improved since last year. The Titans Organization is on a downward slope, and changes are soon coming. Take the Bengals.
NFL
4:25 PM EST
Rotation #276
49ers -14 over Cardinals (win)
Arizona has been impressive this year, considering how shorthanded they are. The Cardinals beat up the Cowboys, who were supposed to be a playoff-caliber team. It was a signature win, but it was at home. The Cardinals take the road to play the 49ers, a Super Bowl favorite. Trying to win on the road is another animal. Cardinals QB Joshua Dobbs has looked better than a rookie, but reality will set this afternoon at Levi Stadium. The 49ers defense is smothering and will put tremendous pressure on the rookie, leading to mistakes. The 49ers could be healthier at the receiver position, but they have an excellent running game, and Brock Purdy still has quality receivers that should be open. The Cardinals have the worst offensive line in the NFC, which will slow them up today. Avoid looking at the high spread and let the game play out. Take the 49ers.