The NFL is searching for teams able to rediscover their touch on offense. With many teams struggling to put up points consistently, the league has seen criticism of the quality of play, especially in primetime games.
While this trend may even out as the season goes along, the time for the pattern to correct itself is slowly slipping away.
Philadelphia Eagles at Houston Texans
Best Bet: Over 44 Points
The Eagles showed last week against Pittsburgh that they don’t need willing dance partners to drag a total above a number.
Philadelphia’s passing offense looked as good as it has all season, as Jalen Hurts tossed four touchdown passes after only having six entering the game. The Eagles offense is third in the league, averaging 28 points per game.
Houston has struggled all season on both sides of the ball. The Texans are only scoring 16.6 points per game, which is 29th in the league. Houston will still struggle to score, but will put up enough points to help the game go over.
Indianapolis Colts at New England Patriots
Colts vs. Patriots Predictions
Best Bet: Under 39.5 Points
The Colts and Patriots have both been inconsistent all season. Neither has found a way to maintain a consistent offensive output. With New England quarterback Mac Jones struggling and Indianapolis starting Sam Ehlinger, this game may be won by a team that gets to 20 first.
Both teams have solid options in the running game and will look to grind the clock.
Los Angeles Chargers at Atlanta Falcons
Chargers vs. Falcons Predictions
Best Bet: Over 49 Points
The Falcons brought in veteran quarterback Marcus Mariota in the offseason to replace franchise legend Matt Ryan.
While no one will confuse Mariota with being a Hall of Famer, he has brought a spark into the offense with how he can utilize his legs. Atlanta, which has seen the over hit in five out of its eight games, has been happy to engage in slugfests with opponents this season.
The Chargers are similar to the Falcons. Four of the Chargers seven games have gone over the total.
The Chargers rank 12th in the league, scoring 23.4 points per game, while this defense is second-worst in the league, allowing 27 points per game.
Seattle Seahawks at Arizona Cardinals
Seahawks vs. Cardinals Predictions
Best Bet: Under 50 Points
When these two teams met in Seattle, each side leaned on its defense and the Seahawks were able to grind out a 19-9 victory.
The Seahawks offense utilizes an excellent mix of the run and passes to keep opponents off-balance. Seattle has seen the total go under and over four times each so far.
The Cardinals have seen the total go under in five of their eight games.
Minnesota Vikings at Washington Commanders
Vikings vs. Commanders Predictions
Best Bet: Over 43.5 Points
The Vikings offense is on a good run. Minnesota has scored 20 or more points in its last five games. Four of those have gone over the total. The Vikings should be in a good position to score against a Commanders team that is starting Taylor Heinicke at quarterback.
While Heinicke is a solid backup, when he starts, he has a tendency to throw interceptions. Minnesota will cash in on those giveaways and Washington will score enough to push this game close to 50 points.