X
Lost password?

Don't have an account?
Gain Access Now

X

Receive free daily analysis

NFL
NBA
NHL
NASCAR
CFB
MLB
MMA
PGA
ESPORTS
BETTING

Already have an account? Log In

X

Forgot Password


POPULAR FANTASY TOOLS

Expert Advice
Articles & Tools
Import Your Leagues
Draft Rankings
Draft Simulator
Enter League Settings
Value Picks
Compare Any Players
News and Alerts

Top NFL Betting Expert Picks for Week 2 (9/15/19)

Steve Janik's NFL betting picks for 9/15/19. He analyzes NFL Vegas lines and recommends the top expert bets including spreads and over/unders.

We're back for Week 2 of the NFL season. While Week 1 didn't go as well as hoped, there was a lot learned about how teams will operate this year.

We're here to dive into the numbers, teams, and picks setup for the NFL this week. There is nothing quite like waking up on Sunday morning, checking out the lines, and throwing down some fun money to make watching those games a little more enjoyable.

Follow me on Twitter @sgjanik_6 to chat about football and my picks. I’m also on the Action App @sgjanik6 where I’ll post all the picks below and more this season. Here’s the motto we’ll take through the year: Bet. Sweat. Keep the wallet wet. 

Editor's Note: Access RotoBaller’s trusted fantasy football rankings for PPR, Standard, Dynasty, Super Flex, and Best Ball formats. Get tiered cheat sheets, expert analysis, and player outlooks to dominate your draft from every angle.

 

Seattle at Pittsburgh (-4)

O/U: 46.5

Seattle struggled a bit in Week 1. Facing the banged up Cincinnati Bengals, the Seahawks were favored by -9.5 and won, by a narrow one-point margin, 21-20. Russell Wilson went just 14-for-20 for 196 yards and two scores, while Chris Carson and Rashaad Penny combined for just 64 yards and a score on the ground. Something didn't seem right in this one, as one of the top run-blocking offensive lines couldn't create lanes, which stalled both aspects of the offense. These Seahawks were top-eight in the NFL last season with 26.8 points per game, so there is more to be had here. Rookie receiver D.K. Metcalf stole the majority of Wilson's attention, while Tyler Lockett hauled in a 44-yard touchdown for his only reception. Defensively, Seattle could be in for a long year if their season opener is any indication. 418 yards allowed through the air is a long ways away from the Legion of Boom years; this defense has taken a pretty severe step back.

The Steelers suffered one of their most embarrassing loses in recent memory, if not in all of the Mike Tomlin-era, in Week 1 to the Patriots. Pittsburgh's defense had no answer for Tom Brady on defense, and their own version of the offense was pitiful. Ben Roethlisberger struggled with accuracy, James Conner struggled finding running lanes, and Donte Moncrief dropped a handful of passes (pun intended), including a touchdown in the third. Overall, this team was just not prepared for the confines of Gillette Stadium. Luckily for the Steelers, they're back at home for Week 2. Since 2015, they're 24-10 at home. Yes, Antonio Brown and Le'Veon Bell aren't around town anymore, but Conner and JuJu Smith-Schuster are and they've proven to be some of the best at their positions. The Steelers Defense has some real talent but there are very clearly some holes that teams will be able to exploit, including the fact that cornerback Joe Haden (shoulder) may miss the game.

The Steelers first game without Brown and Bell wasn't great, but this offense is not as bad as they showed inNew England. This is bounce-back territory for Pittsburgh. Seattle will also be traveling to the east coast which has been known to create some jet lag. However, this offense didn't even get into a rhythm Week 1 and still scored 21 so as the offensive line gets into form, this top-notch run game will also round into shape. With Pittsburgh as home favorites in 2018, the over went 5-2, while the over went 4-2 with Seattle listed as road underdogs. Both teams have a ton to prove, but the Steelers' offense will especially be looking to get points on the board.

Pick: Over 46.5

 

Minnesota at Green Bay (-3)

O/U: 44

Minnesota threw 10 passes in a Week 1 28-12 win over Atlanta, which isn't something that happens often. Their commitment to the ground game was astounding, rushing for 172 yards on 38 carries and three scores. When Dalvin Cook is healthy, he's proven to be one of the top backs in football so the Vikings will continue to feed him. When they do need to throw, Adam Thielen and Stefon Diggs are quite a duo for Kirk Cousins. Cornerback Mackensie Alexander (elbow) is out Sunday which is a huge loss for the Vikings, but the front seven did a good job pressuring the quarterback in Week 1.

The Packers squeaked out a 10-3 victory over the Bears to open the 2019 season, but man was it ugly. The offensive line couldn't protect Aaron Rodgers to save his life, and their effectiveness in run blocking was just as bad. Even when he did have time, Rodgers struggled to find his weapons as Davante Adams had just four receptions for 36 yards. Coach Matt LaFleur's new offense was about what it was in Tennessee, anemic and unexciting. Granted this was against a stout Bears Defense, but Green Bay looked awful on all fronts offensively. Luckily their defense was able to bail them out for the win, holding Chicago to just 254 yards of offense.

Between Minnesota establishing the run and the plethora of problems for the Packers, it's hard to expect a high total in this one. Over the last 10 matchups between these teams, the total has been under seven times. In four of Green Bay's last six home games, the total has gone under, while in three of Minnesota's last four road games, the under has hit. It seems that Green Bay is still working out some kinks in a new offense, while Minnesota has found a new love for a ground-and-pound offense. Take the under.

Pick: Under 44

 

Los Angeles Chargers at Detroit (+2.5)

O/U: 47.5

The Chargers are without their two top red zone threats in Mike Williams and Hunter Henry. Yes, you could say they are without their top running back too, but Austin Ekeler (154 total yds, 3TD) has shown that Melvin Gordon is replaceable. However, those two main omissions from the offense are big losses for the Chargers. The team was able to sneak out an overtime win against the Colts in Week 1 because Adam Vinatieri forgot how to kick after all these years. I don't expect Ekeler to have the same production against a better defensive line, and Rivers has some pretty significant home/road splits.

The Lions blew a 17-3 halftime lead to the Cardinals in Week 1, which resulted in a tie, and nothing has ever surprised you less. New offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell loves to run the ball but for some reason Matthew Stafford threw 45 passes last week, while Kerryon Johnson and CJ Anderson nearly split carries and the duo still couldn't get over 100 yards combined. They seem to have found the next Gronk in T.J. Hockenson, while Danny Amendola, Kenny Golladay, and Marvin Jones Jr. all fight for attention. Defensively, the unit doesn't get enough credit as Damon "Snacks" Harrison and Darius Slay are two of the best at their position. If the Lions can get the offense together, the team could shock some people down the stretch.

In the five games that Detroit was listed as the home underdog last season, the under hit all five times, while the under hit in six out of their eight home games last season. While the total went over in six of LA's eight road games last year, the offense is going to have a tough time replacing Henry and Williams, placing a lot of weight on Rivers and Ekeler. Both teams will have a lot to figure out in this one, which I think keeps it a low-scoring affair.

Pick: Under 47.5

 

Indianapolis at Tennessee (-3)

O/U: 44

The Colts likely would have won in regulation last week if Adam Vinatieri didn't miss two field goals and an extra point last week, but instead, they lost in overtime to the Chargers. Marlon Mack rushed for a career-high 174 yards, while Jacoby Brissett threw for 190 yards and two scores. Brissett still isn't getting the credit he deserves but the offense didn't skip a beat to open the season. If Andrew Luck were still around this team would be favored in this one, but Brissett will continue to get disrespected until the Colts win a big game.

Tennessee was great at home last year, going 6-2 and they return much of their cast from 2018. They dismantled the Browns on the road last week 43-13, but that was more because of the Browns ineptitude (and 18 penalties) than the Titans' ability. The offense runs through Derrick Henry, who rushed for 84 yards and a score last week. He has just one touchdown in five career games against the Colts.

Expect Indy to force the issue of stopping Henry early. If they can keep him contained and force Marcus Mariota to throw more than he's comfortable with, that would be a smart gameplan for the Colts. Brissett and company should have no problems covering, and I might even take them on the money line (+150).

Pick: Indy +3

More Football Analysis




POPULAR FANTASY TOOLS

Expert Advice
Articles & Tools
Import Your Leagues
Draft Rankings
Draft Simulator
Enter League Settings
Value Picks
Compare Any Players
News and Alerts

REAL-TIME FANTASY NEWS

Travis Etienne Jr.

Needs to Bounce Back in 2025
Wan'Dale Robinson

Wants More Downfield Opportunities this Season
Quinshon Judkins

Arrested on Saturday for Battery and Domestic Violence
Terry McLaurin

Could be a Holdout at Training Camp
Roger McCreary

a Candidate for a Contract Extension?
Max Fried

Exits Start With Blister
Mike Evans

Buccaneers Could Have Difficult Time Retaining Mike Evans
Charles Cross

Could Sign Extension Before Training Camp
Xavier Restrepo

One to Watch Going into Training Camp
Calvin Ridley

Appears Re-Energized
Mark Andrews

Still a Key Piece in Ravens Offense
Ndamukong Suh

Officially Announces his Retirement
Jaylen Waddle

Motivated After Disappointing Season
Tre Harris

Still Unsigned
Hunter Dobbins

to Miss Rest of Season With Torn ACL
Nolan Arenado

Held Out of Lineup on Saturday
Alexandre Sarr

Plays Well in Summer League Loss to Phoenix
Yang Hansen

Looks Good on Friday Night
Carlos Correa

Sitting on Saturday
Austin Riley

Placed on 10-Day Injured List
Nolan Arenado

Exits Friday's Contest With Sprained Finger
Jake Burger

Expects to Play on Saturday
Erik Karlsson

Open to Move Away From Pittsburgh
Zach Hyman

Hopes to be Ready for Start of Next Season
SJ

Jeff Skinner Joins Sharks on One-Year Contract
Wyatt Langford

Records Four-Hit Night
Cal Raleigh

Homers Twice, Drives in Five
Cody Bellinger

Swats Three Homers in Victory
Jake Burger

Leaves With Quad Discomfort on Friday
Carlos Correa

Exits Game With Mild Ankle Sprain
Edward Cabrera

Dealing with Posterior Elbow Discomfort
Austin Riley

Leaves Game Early on Friday With Abdominal Tightness
Kon Knueppel

Struggles in Summer League Win
Rafael Devers

Dealing With Back Inflammation
Walter Clayton Jr.

Plays Well on Friday Night
Cody Williams

Scores 21 Points in Summer League Loss
Kyle Filipowski

Leads the Way on Friday Night
Teoscar Hernández

Teoscar Hernandez Returning on Friday
Sauce Gardner

Wants to be Highest-Paid Cornerback
Rhamondre Stevenson

Heading into an Important Season
Minnesota Vikings

Josh Metellus, Vikings Have Mutual Interest in Extension
Tua Tagovailoa

2025 Could be Tua Tagovailoa's Last Season in Miami
Rashawn Slater

has "Full Confidence" a Deal Will Get Done
Byron Buxton

Returns on Friday
Isaiah Jackson

Signs Three-Year Extension
Jake Meyers

Placed on 10-Day Injured List With Calf Strain
Brandon Lowe

Placed on 10-Day Injured List With Oblique Tightness
Kodai Senga

Reinstated to Start on Friday
Alex Bregman

Officially Activated and Starting on Friday
Marvin Bagley III

Joining the Wizards
Herbert Jones

Signing Extension with Pelicans
Jacob Toppin

Returning to Hawks
Chicago Bears

Bears Extend General Manager Ryan Poles
Dalton Knecht

Avoids Serious Injury
MarShawn Lloyd

in a "Much Better Spot" Heading Into Training Camp
Javon Small

Signs Two-Way Deal
Dustin Hopkins

Browns Still Counting on Dustin Hopkins
Ryan Reaves

Traded to Sharks
Vladislav Kolyachonok

Moves to Dallas
Matt Dumba

Lands in Pittsburgh
Mackie Samoskevich

Re-Signs with Panthers on One-Year Deal
Josh Manson

Inks Two-Year Extension with Avalanche
EDM

Isaac Howard Signs Three-Year, Entry-Level Contract With Oilers
Tallison Teixeira

Set For His First UFC Main Event
Derrick Lewis

Set To Headline UFC Nashville
Gabriel Bonfim

Looks For His Third UFC Win
Stephen Thompson

Returns At UFC Nashville
Steve Garcia

Looks To Extend His Win Streak
Calvin Kattar

In Dire Need Of Victory
Morgan Charrière

Morgan Charriere A Favorite At UFC Nashville
Nate Landwehr

Aims To Bounce Back
MMA

Austen Lane Looks To Get Back In The Win Column
Vitor Petrino

Set For His Heavyweight Debut
Tuco Tokkos

Set To Open Up UFC Nashville Main Card
Junior Tafa

Set For Light-Heavyweight Bout
Jalen Williams

Signs Contract Extension With Thunder
Alijah Martin

Agrees to Two-Way Deal With Raptors
Tristan Vukcevic

Set to Return to Washington
Anfernee Simons

Celtics Are "Actively Trying to Trade" Anfernee Simons
NBA

Alex Ducas Heading to Australia
Dominick Barlow

Inks Two-Way Deal With 76ers
Jordan McLaughlin

Spurs Re-Sign Jordan McLaughlin to One-Year Deal
Dylan Harper

Out Thursday, Expected to Play Saturday
VJ Edgecombe

Diagnosed with a Sprained Thumb
Gary Woodland

Looking to Find Rhythm at Scottish Open
Aaron Rai

Brings Consistent Play to Scottish Open
Maverick McNealy

a Solid Value Play at Scottish Open
Aldrich Potgieter

Making Scottish Open Debut
Tom Kim

Looks to Rebound at Scottish Open
Brian Harman

a Safe Option at Scottish Open
Luke Clanton

a Sneaky Value Play at Scottish Open
Sam Burns

Looking to Stay Hot at Scottish Open
Nicolai Hojgaard

May Feel More at Home in Europe
Harry Hall

Showing Fine Form Heading to Scotland
Ryan Fox

Playing Well Since Early Spring Struggles
Max Greyserman

has Solid History at the Genesis Scottish Open
Harris English

Aims High for Scotland Next
Corey Conners

Primed for the Genesis Scottish Open
Daniel Brown

Attempts the Scottish Swing Again
Jacob Bridgeman

Needs Putter to Work at Genesis Scottish Open
Scottie Scheffler

Headlines Field at Genesis Scottish Open
Rory McIlroy

a Smart Play for Scottish Open
Adam Scott

Looking to Build on History at The Renaissance Club
NASCAR

Sepp Straka Not Likely to Find Momentum at Scottish Open
Justin Rose

Hopes Month Hiatus Helps Him Bounce Back at Scottish Open
NHL

Tyler Johnson Retires After 13 NHL Seasons
Jack McBain

Inks New Five-Year Deal with Mammoth
Cam York

Re-Signs with Flyers for Five Years
Jake Knapp

Fits the Mold for Success at The Renaissance Club
Ty Gibbs

Finishes Second at Chicago and Advances in In-Season Challenge
Alex Bowman

Defeats Bubba Wallace in In-Season Challenge, but Not Without Controversy
Alex Bowman

Bubba Wallace Wrecked by Alex Bowman Again, Putting Playoffs in Doubt
Michael McDowell

Throttle Failure Ends Michael McDowell's Chances to Win at Chicago
Austin Hill

Earns First NASCAR Cup Series Top Ten at Chicago
Tyler Reddick

Scores a Strong Third-Place Run at Chicago
Kyle Busch

Matches his Best Career Finish At Chicago on Sunday
Denny Hamlin

Fights his Way to a Top-5 Finish at Chicago
William Byron

has his Worst Weekend of the Season at Chicago
RANKINGS
C
1B
2B
3B
SS
OF
SP
RP

RANKINGS

QB
RB
WR
TE
K
DEF