Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Sep 23
Chiefs, Seahawks Lead 16-Game NFL Week 3 Confidence Picks
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Sep 23

Chiefs, Seahawks Lead 16-Game NFL Week 3 Confidence Picks

3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Sep 23

Summary

  • Kansas City and Seattle sit atop the Week 3 confidence rankings, with the Chiefs favored over Miami and the Seahawks backed against Washington despite uncertainty over Seattle’s starting quarterback.
  • Washington’s outlook worsened after Jayden Daniels suffered a dislocated elbow, while the Chiefs draw support from Miami’s poor early-season form and Patrick Mahomes’ strong return.
  • Other high-confidence straight-up picks include the 49ers over the Cardinals, Bills over the Chargers and Eagles over the Bears, with Chicago facing quarterback injury concerns around Caleb Williams and Tyson Bagent.
  • The analyst’s betting card also leans toward the Saints, Jaguars, Rams, Panthers, Vikings, Texans, Jets and Steelers against the spread, while calling Titans-Giants the least certain game.
  • The rankings follow a shaky Week 2 for the picker—9-7 straight up and 4-6 on wagers—and frame Week 3 as a reset rather than a reaction to the season’s first two weeks.

Insights

As Patrick Mahomes regains his elite form, what hidden flaws in Miami's collapsing defense will Kansas City exploit in Week 3?
Will the shocking quarterback injuries to Jayden Daniels and Caleb Williams completely upend the early-season NFL playoff picture?
With a devastating elbow injury sidelining Jayden Daniels, can Marcus Mariota miraculously save Washington's season against a fierce Seattle defense?