sportingnews
The 2026 NFL season has reached Week 5, with approximately a quarter of the campaign completed. Teams are still establishing their identities, making point spreads challenging to predict. The Kansas City Chiefs are on a bye, ensuring they remain undefeated heading into Week 6, while the Carolina Panthers also rest, leaving 15 games on the schedule. Two 4-0 teams face difficult road tests, and all five 0-4 teams are in action, with two squaring off against each other. The other three winless teams enter as substantial underdogs.
Game of Midweek: Buccaneers at Cowboys
On Thursday night, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, with undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels starting at quarterback in place of Baker Mayfield, struggle to generate offense. Although they kept it close against the Packers at home, facing a likely healthy Dak Prescott and the Cowboys in Dallas is a different challenge. The Cowboys' offense, which found its rhythm in the second half against Houston, is expected to continue its strong play, potentially hastening the end of Todd Bowles' tenure in Tampa Bay. Prediction: Cowboys win 34-17 and cover the spread.
Game of the Week: Bills at Rams
In a Monday night showdown, the Buffalo Bills aim to rebound from defensive breakdowns and a failed comeback in New England. The Rams, who had offensive struggles until late in Philadelphia, look to build on that momentum. Offensive coordinators Joe Brady and Sean McVay match wits in what promises to be a high-scoring affair. Both defenses are likely to concede significant yards and points, but Josh Allen's rushing ability gives Buffalo the edge over the pocket-bound Matthew Stafford. Prediction: Bills win 34-31.
NFC Game of the Week: 49ers at Seahawks
The San Francisco 49ers, one of the remaining undefeated teams, seek to extend their lead in the NFC West over the Rams and Seahawks. San Francisco's offense is firing on all cylinders with Brock Purdy, George Kittle, Christian McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, and Mike Evans all contributing. Containing such a diverse attack will be a tall order for Seattle's defense, which is also dealing with backfield injuries and limited receiving options outside of Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Prediction: 49ers win 24-20.
Lock of the Week: Bengals over Dolphins
In a week with many tight matchups, the Cincinnati Bengals stand out as a reliable pick. They are expected to clean up their recent turnover issues and provide better support for their defense on the road. With Ja'Marr Chase sidelined, Joe Burrow still has ample weapons, including former Dolphins tight end Mike Gesicki. Prediction: Bengals win 27-14 and cover the spread.
Upset of the Week: Saints over Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings have struggled to find offensive consistency, and Justin Jefferson may miss his return to Louisiana. While Minnesota's defense has capitalized on weaker offenses, New Orleans, with Tyler Shough at quarterback in the Superdome under Kellen Moore, poses a greater threat. The Vikings are due for a loss, and it could come this week, dropping them from the undefeated ranks. Prediction: Saints win 23-20.
Eagles at Jaguars
Playing in London, the Philadelphia Eagles are hampered by significant injuries on offense, making it uncertain who will be available. The Jacksonville Jaguars' defense, led by rising star Travis Hunter, is making impact plays, and Trevor Lawrence and the running game have found another gear under Liam Coen. Jalen Hurts, reminiscent of the 2019 national championship game, is too shorthanded to outduel Lawrence. Prediction: Jaguars win 27-20 and cover the spread.
Bears at Packers
The Chicago Bears are demonstrating the strength of Ben Johnson's offensive system, with backup quarterbacks winning in place of Caleb Williams. Their running game travels well, while the Green Bay Packers struggle to run effectively due to offensive line issues and the absence of Josh Jacobs. Prediction: Bears win 20-17 and cover the spread.
Texans at Titans
Two 0-4 AFC South rivals meet as the Houston Texans visit the Tennessee Titans. The Texans, led by C.J. Stroud, should get a boost offensively, while their defense catches a break against a flustered Cam Ward. Prediction: Texans win 17-14 but fail to cover the spread.
Raiders at Patriots
The Las Vegas Raiders, who pushed the Chiefs to the limit, have an offense that can score with anyone when it protects the ball. However, Drake Maye's mobility will help him break out of his slump, and the Patriots' well-coached defense and running game provide an advantage. Prediction: Patriots win 27-20 and cover the spread.
Browns at Jets
The Cleveland Browns, with Deshaun Watson and a strong defense, are more dangerous than their record suggests. The New York Jets, energized under Aaron Glenn, are playing inspired football. Cleveland comes back to earth while New York secures a win in a winnable game. Prediction: Jets win 23-20 and cover the spread.
Colts at Steelers
The Indianapolis Colts lean heavily on Jonathan Taylor, continuing their success from London against Washington. However, Daniel Jones' compressed passing game may not be enough. The Pittsburgh Steelers have unlocked big plays for Aaron Rodgers and utilize their tight ends effectively, regardless of Michael Pittman Jr.'s contributions. Prediction: Steelers win 20-17 and cover the spread.
Giants at Commanders
The New York Giants are thriving with Jameis Winston, and their defense has saved the day late in the past two weeks. Jaylen Daniels is likely to return for the Washington Commanders, while Marcus Mariota will miss the matchup of 2015 first-round quarterbacks. Washington's defense, under Dan Quinn, will be more active and win the turnover battle at home. Prediction: Commanders win 24-21 but fail to cover the spread.
Broncos at Chargers
The Denver Broncos' offense has been pass-heavy, putting too much on Bo Nix. The Los Angeles Chargers are not overburdening Justin Herbert, but he continues to make critical mistakes. The game hinges on which quarterback gets better support and avoids turnovers. Jim Harbaugh's team shows extra fight, but Sean Payton's squad will ultimately prevail. Prediction: Broncos win 23-20 but fail to cover the spread.
Lions at Cardinals
The Detroit Lions' defense faces Mike LaFleur's relentless passing offense, featuring Jacoby Brissett, Trey McBride, and Michael Wilson. Conversely, Jared Goff will find comfort on the road as Arizona struggles to contain Jahmyr Gibbs, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and Sam LaPorta. Expect fireworks in the desert, with Detroit ready to dominate. Prediction: Lions win 31-27 but fail to cover the spread.
Ravens at Falcons
The Baltimore Ravens saw Lamar Jackson get injured against the Titans, making this a prime-time game focused on running backs Derrick Henry and Bijan Robinson. The Atlanta Falcons' run defense leads the league, providing a tough test for Henry, while Baltimore's front is stout against Robinson. The Ravens' more diverse passing game helps them secure a road win. Prediction: Ravens win 23-20 but fail to cover the spread.
Stats of the Week
- Week 4 straight up record: 9-7
- Week 4 against the spread record: 7-9
- Season-to-date straight up record: 39-25
- Season-to-date against the spread record: 29-35
Originally reported by sportingnews.