Game Previews and Predictions

Cincinnati @ Carolina

Analysis: Both teams had strong seasons last year with Cincinnati finishing 11-4 and Carolina also at 11-4. Cincinnati's offense averaged 26.3 points per game, while Carolina was slightly stronger at 34.3. Given the higher salary cap of Cincinnati, their more balanced roster could provide them with an edge in this matchup. While it's expected to be a high-scoring affair, Carolina's scoring potential at home may prove decisive.

Predicted Score: Carolina 31, Cincinnati 28

Indianapolis @ New York (N)

Analysis: Indianapolis finished 10-5 last season, while New York (N) also wrapped up with a 10-5 record. However, New York (N) showcased a higher scoring offense averaging 28.9 points per game, yet Indianapolis was also competitive at 25.1. This matchup could be very competitive, but New York (N)'s home advantage and marginal scoring edge could tilt the game in their favor.

Predicted Score: New York (N) 27, Indianapolis 24

Tennessee @ Washington

Analysis: Tennessee struggled with a 6-9 record while Washington ended at 7-8. Both teams have faced challenges, especially on offense. Washington's slight salary cap advantage provides them with better overall talent which might pave the way for a close victory against Tennessee.

Predicted Score: Washington 23, Tennessee 20

Pittsburgh @ Philadelphia

Analysis: Pittsburgh had a rough season finishing 4-11, while Philadelphia ended at 5-10, making this matchup particularly interesting. With a slight salary advantage for Philadelphia alongside marginally better scoring, they should find ways to exploit Pittsburgh's weaknesses and secure a win at home.

Predicted Score: Philadelphia 25, Pittsburgh 21

Denver @ Dallas

Analysis: Denver and Dallas both finished with poor records, Denver at 3-12 and Dallas at 1-14. Overall, Denver outperformed Dallas last season. The salary cap also favors Denver, making them slight favorites in what could be a low-scoring game.

Predicted Score: Denver 22, Dallas 18

Jacksonville @ Chicago

Analysis: Jacksonville concluded their perfect season at 15-0, while Chicago finished at 13-2. This matchup features one of the best offenses in Jacksonville against a solid defense from Chicago. Even with Chicago's strong showing, Jacksonville's elite status and superior salary allocation create a significant edge.

Predicted Score: Jacksonville 28, Chicago 24

Buffalo @ Green Bay

Analysis: Buffalo rounded out their season with a 10-5 record, while Green Bay ended at 11-4. Both teams have solid offensive potential, but Buffalo has been slightly less consistent. Given their higher scoring average, Green Bay at home should have the advantage.

Predicted Score: Green Bay 29, Buffalo 27

New Orleans @ Tampa Bay

Analysis: New Orleans finished at 8-7 while Tampa Bay struggled, ending their season at 5-10. New Orleans has displayed better offensive capacity compared to Tampa Bay's difficulties. With a superior point differential and a stronger roster, New Orleans is expected to take this matchup.

Predicted Score: New Orleans 26, Tampa Bay 20

Cleveland @ Minnesota

Analysis: Cleveland secured a season finish of 9-6, whereas Minnesota ended at 5-10. Cleveland's advantages can be seen in both the salary cap and performance metrics from last year. A combination of better offensive consistency and defensive capabilities should lead to a Cleveland victory.

Predicted Score: Cleveland 27, Minnesota 19

Miami @ Detroit

Analysis: Miami had a disastrous season at 1-13-1, while Detroit concluded at 4-10-1. With both teams having their issues, but Detroit's performance being more stable, they should pull through in this matchup against a rebuilding Miami team.

Predicted Score: Detroit 24, Miami 14

Las Vegas @ Los Angeles (N)

Analysis: Las Vegas was one of the strongest teams last season at 14-1, while Los Angeles (N) also finished with a respectable 11-4 record. However, Las Vegas's scoring prowess with an average of over 33 points per game significantly outranks Los Angeles (N). Expect the Las Vegas offense to run rampant in this game.

Predicted Score: Las Vegas 35, Los Angeles (N) 27

San Francisco @ Arizona

Analysis: Both teams finished with disappointing 5-10 records last season. Despite their similar standings, Arizona's slightly higher salary cap provides a bit of depth. Nonetheless, San Francisco's marginally better performances last season should result in a close victory.

Predicted Score: San Francisco 23, Arizona 21

Kansas City @ Los Angeles (A)

Analysis: Kansas City concluded their season at 5-10, while Los Angeles (A) had an 8-7 record. The Kansas City offense is more explosive, but Los Angeles (A) showed more consistency. Expect a competitive matchup, but Kansas City's scoring ability should give them the edge.

Predicted Score: Kansas City 28, Los Angeles (A) 26

Seattle @ Atlanta

Analysis: Both teams had disappointing seasons, with Seattle finishing at 3-12 and Atlanta at 3-12 as well. Given the overall roster allocation and recent performance levels, Atlanta may fill the gap with home-field advantage.

Predicted Score: Atlanta 23, Seattle 19