Expert NFL picks Week 3 against the spread – Del’s selections

Del and Doc Brown took an unfortunate step back in Week 2 after getting off to a strong start to the NFL season, but what do you expect when teams like the Bucs, Raiders and Jaguars all beat their opponents outright? That just goes to show you how competitive the NFL can be on a week to week basis.

Needless to say, we’re shaking it off. There are a ton of low spreads this week, which means we should be in for a good slate of games. Here are Del’s Week 3 NFL Picks, with analysis of this week’s locks below.

Has anyone watched the Saints play this season? Even with a healthy Drew Brees, I would expect the Panthers and their impressive defense to cover a 3-point spread at home against New Orleans. As it stands right now, Brees is either going to play hurt or not play at all. One report claims he is dealing with a serious shoulder injury, which could mean Luke McCown will be getting the start in Carolina. The Saints’ offense is nowhere near what it used to be. On the flip side, Cam Newton looked pretty good against the Texans last weekend and is back to his fearlessness with running the ball. I just can’t come up with a logical reason for why the Saints should keep this close.

For the second time in two weeks, Aaron Rodgers gets a chance to shine in primetime at Lambeau Field. Although Eddie Lacy being banged up is a concern, Rodgers always seems to play well in night games at home. The Chiefs are getting some respect with the line hovering below a touchdown and trending in Kansas City’s direction, but I don’t envision Alex Smith manufacturing enough points to keep up. Take the Pack.

Some other notes: I’m willing to give Sam Bradford and the Eagles one more chance. The Jets are off to a great 2-0 start and the Eagles are a disappointing 0-2. DeMarco Murray is dealing with a hamstring issue and might not play. So why the hell are you picking Philly, Del? I simply refuse to believe the Eagles are as bad as they showed last week. I also don’t think the Jets are as good as they showed against the Colts. The NFL has a way of working these things out.

Speaking of the Colts, they are basically facing a must-win in their first divisional game. Their defense has not been good, but they have a chance to rebound against a rookie quarterback in Marcus Mariota. Andrew Luck is still one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL, and he has thrown five interceptions and just three touchdowns through the first two games. He knows he has to be better, and I think he will be starting in Week 3.