Monday Night Football Preview Week 2

Texans vs. Buccaneers — Both of these teams are playoff-caliber but are not considered true Super Bowl contenders. If the Texans are going to win this game, they will need an effective running game to keep drives alive and avoid stalling out. Nick Chubb needs to return to better form, especially with Mixon out, if they want sustained success. On the other hand, the Buccaneers' success largely depends on how well Baker Mayfield is at ripping the ball down the field. They have one of the better receiving cores in the league, top to bottom, maybe only behind the Packers. 

I think the Texans come out fast, not wanting to start the season 0-2, and this game could turn into a shootout. I expect a huge game from Mike Evans, who is from the area and will have many friends and family in attendance. This might be his last game in Houston. He also hasn't scored in Houston in his previous two career games against the Texans, so I believe he’ll be looking to make a statement. 

Prediction: Houston wins 35-31.

Raiders vs. Chargers — Today is Raiders coach Josh McDaniels' birthday, which may give the team some added motivation to play well for him. However, I don’t think that will be enough to beat the Chargers, who are better at nearly every position on the field except tight end. The Chargers will likely run right through the teeth of the Raiders’ defense, opening up play-action opportunities for one of the league’s best quarterbacks to pick them apart.

I don’t see this game being close; I predict the Chargers will win 31-17.

Best Bets for the Day

Mike Evans Anytime TD +150  

Nick Chubb Anytime TD +125  

Chargers ML -190  

Texans ML -120  

O. Hampton Anytime TD -115