Admin September 11, 2024
Joe Burrow and Caleb Williams struggle, Lions take down Rams in OT
Sports Seriously’s Mackenzie Salmon ‘overreacts’ to the biggest storylines from Week 1 of the 2024 NFL season.
Sports Seriously
Although it isn’t wise to overreact to Week 1 performances, the Chicago Bears looked abysmal in Sunday’s win over the Tennessee Titans. Make no mistake, the Bears may have won, but it was not because of rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. Williams failed to reach 100 yards passing on the day, and the team needed a timely pick-6 in order to emerge victorious.
On the other side, the Houston Texans were able to squeak out a narrow victory over AFC South rival Indianapolis. Offseason acquisition Stefon Diggs had two touchdowns as the Texans won 29-27. Much of the team’s offensive outburst came from running back Joe Mixon. The Texans can’t expect 150 yards from Mixon every week though. If they want to compete for a Super Bowl championship, they will need to establish themselves as clear superiors to teams like the Colts.
Here are our experts’ predictions for this Week 2 showdown.
PROP TALK: These are the best prop bets for NFL games this week
Texans vs. Bears odds, moneyline, over/under
The Texans are favorites to defeat the Bears, according to the BetMGM NFL odds. Looking to wager? Check out the best mobile sports betting apps offering NFL betting promos in 2024 including the ESPN BET app and Fanatics Sportsbook promo code.
- Spread: Texans (-7)
- Moneyline: Texans (-350); Bears (+260)
- Over/under: 45.5
Not interested in this game? Our guide to NFL betting odds, picks and spreads has you covered with Thursday Night Football odds and Monday Night Football odds.
New to sports betting? USA TODAY readers can claim exclusive promos and bonus codes with the best online sportsbooks and sports betting sites.
FEELING LUCKY? Here are the best parlay bets and odds for NFL games this week
NFL Week 2 odds, predictions and picks
Dolphins vs. Bills | Ravens vs. Raiders | Panthers vs. Chargers | Cowboys vs. Saints | Lions vs. Buccaneers | Packers vs. Colts | Jaguars vs. Browns | Vikings vs. 49ers | Patriots vs. Seahawks | Titans vs. Jets | Commanders vs. Giants | Cardinals vs. Rams | Chiefs vs. Bengals | Broncos vs. Steelers | Texans vs. Bears | Eagles vs. Falcons
Lorenzo Reyes: Texans 26, Bears 21
I expect Caleb Williams to be much better in Week 2, though many people are overlooking the impact that the dropped Keenan Allen touchdown had in the opener. Still, Houston is a very good team that got better, so they are a safe play on the moneyline. I just think it ends up being closer than a touchdown.
Tyler Dragon: Texans 30, Bears 20
Caleb Williams threw for just 93 yards in his rookie debut. The Bears won because of their defense and special teams. Expect DeMeco Ryans’ defense to contain the Bears’ offense. Chicago is going to have a tough time against C.J. Stroud and the Texans in their home opener.
Richard Morin: Texans 28, Bears 16
Caleb Williams has a rough showing on Sunday Night Football. But don’t worry; his redemption arc will come. Houston wins easily. Take them and the points.
Jordan Mendoza: Texans 25, Bears 20
Caleb Williams isn’t going to be able to always rely on his defense to get him wins. While he picks it up in Week 2, the new additions in Houston continue to shine. C.J. Stroud balls out in primetime to get the best of the rookie.
MOST VALUABLE BET: Who is the favorite to win NFL MVP in 2024?
