NFL Week 4 preview: Picks, predictions, schedule, betting odds, fantasy tips

Week 4 of the 2026 NFL season is here. We'll get a lot of impressive QB duels this week, as Joe Burrow faces Trevor Lawrence, Drake Maye and Josh Allen go head-to-head and Matthew StaffordchallengesJalen Hurts. This week will also bring intra-division showdowns between the Chiefs and Raiders and an NFC South matchup Monday.

We're here to get you ready for the action. First, our NFL Nation reporters take you inside the locker room with the best thing they heard this week, and ESPN Research provides a key stat to know. Then, analytics writer Seth Walder makes a bold prediction for each matchup, NFL analyst Ben Solak gives one reason to tune into each game, fantasy analyst Eric Moody shares fantasy football intel and betting analyst Pamela Maldonado hits betting insights for each contest. We also have Football Power Index (FPI) game projections, and Maldonado, Moody and Walder all give us final score picks for every game.

Let's get into the full Week 4 slate, which culminates with "Monday Night Football" matchup between the Falcons and Saints on ESPN. (Game times are Sunday unless otherwise noted, and all odds are via Draftkings.)

Jump to a matchup:

IND-WSH | JAX-CIN | DAL-HOU

NE-BUF | LAR-PHI | NYJ-CHI

TEN-BAL | GB-TB | ARI-NYG

MIA-MIN | DEN-SF | LAC-SEA

KC-LV | DET-CAR | ATL-NO

Thursday:PIT-CLE

What ESPN Analytics says ...

Colts (1-2) at Commanders (1-2)in London

9:30 a.m. ET | NFL Network | IND -3.5 (47.5 O/U)

What we're hearing on the Colts: QB Daniel Jones is on pace for one of the lowest yards-per-attempt marks of his career, with a current average of 6.2. But that's probably less about Jones' performance and more a reflection of what the Colts look like without WR Alec Pierce(heel). Pierce is expected to sit out several weeks, forcing the Colts to find creative ways to generate big plays, which has been difficult. Look for new acquisition Darius Slayton to make his debut at receiver. -- Stephen Holder

What we're hearing on the Commanders: Washington's run defense ranks third in yards allowed and 12th in yards per carry. When it's just including RBs, the Commanders are sixth in yards per carry and first in fewest gains of 10-plus yards. Now they faceJonathan Taylor, who has averaged 4.9 yards per carry in his career but has a league-high 27 carries of one yard or fewer. "[Taylor] has game-breaking speed, he's physical," defensive coordinator Daronte Jones said. The Commanders' run defense has been keyed by their front seven. DTDaron Payne said it's just about "being real physical and dominating the line." -- John Keim

Stat to know: The Colts' defense is giving up 417.3 total yards per game -- the most in the NFL. -- ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Commanders WR Stefon Diggs will record at least 85 receiving yards. So far, Diggs' season high is 55 yards. He has posted a solid 1.8 yards per route run this season, but the fact that he is being targeted on 33% of his routes suggests his production could be even stronger going forward. -- Walder

Why you should watch this game: You don't need a reason to watch the London game -- it's the only game on at that time, and a great appetizer while you're toasting your bagels and brewing your coffee. -- Solak

Injuries:Colts | Commanders

Fantasy nugget: Commanders QB Marcus Mariota finished with 20.4 fantasy points against a stout Seahawks defense in Week 3 and now faces a Colts defense that has allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to QBs. This matchup sets up well for Mariota and his No. 1 receiver, Terry McLaurin. See Week 4 rankings. -- Moody

Betting insight: Overs are 7-2 in Mariota's starts since the start of last season. I like that trend to continue, as both QBs have openings here. Washington struggles against play-action, giving Jones and TE Tyler Warren a favorable matchup. Meanwhile, Indianapolis has given up 30.3 points per game and Diggs can exploit its slot coverage. Mariota can keep Washington scoring. Read more. -- Maldonado

Maldonado's pick: Colts 27, Commanders 24

Moody's pick: Colts 31, Commanders 23

Walder's pick: Colts 23, Commanders 19

FPI prediction: IND, 54.4% (by an average of 1.3 points)

Matchup must-reads:Injured in warmups, Shrader rallies Colts with FG ... Daniels not worried about re-injuring elbow: 'That's what the brace is for' ... London game remind Mariota of football-soccer connection

Jaguars (2-1) at Bengals (2-1)

1 p.m. ET | CBS | CIN -2.5 (51.5 O/U)

What we're hearing on the Jaguars: Cincinnati is the only AFC team that QBTrevor Lawrencehasn't beaten. He's 0-3 against the Bengals but has put up good numbers against them: 66% completion rate, 733 passing yards, five touchdown passes and only two interceptions. Lawrence said he didn't know he was winless in the series: "You don't really think about that," he said.-- Michael DiRocco

What we're hearing on the Bengals: All eyes will be on the matchup between Cincinnati CBDax Hill and Jacksonville WRParker Washington. Hill moves into the slot after an injury to Jalen Davis(hamstring). Washington has seven catches for 108 yards and two touchdowns while in the slot this season. Hill has experience in that role and will need to be solid as he transitions back inside. -- Ben Baby

Stat to know:After his three-touchdown performance against Pittsburgh last week, Bengals QBJoe Burrowcomes into this game with 28 games with three or more passing TDs since 2021 (most in the NFL). -- ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Jaguars edge Travon Walker will record no more than one pass rush win. That's because Walker will be facing right tackleAmarius Mims, who is off to a hot start with a 92.9% pass block win rate, which ranks third among all tackles. -- Walder

Why you should watch this game: We have a potential Travis Hunter versus Ja'Marr Chase matchup when the Bengals have the ball -- those are two of the best fluid movers in the league against each other. This also might be a playoff preview. -- Solak

Injuries:Jaguars | Bengals

Fantasy nugget:Washington has earned at least five targets and 13 fantasy points in every game this season. Cincinnati's defense leads the league in yards after catch allowed and has the fourth-most missed tackles, which sets up well for a Jaguars offense that has scored touchdowns on 8.6% of its pass attempts. See Week 4 rankings. -- Moody

Betting insight: The Jaguars are 6-3 to the over on the road since last season. That will continue because Burrow gets the ball out quickly, limiting Jacksonville's chances to pressure him and exposing its coverage. Lawrence can answer against a Bengals defense that gives up easy yards on first down, with a competitive game keeping both QBs throwing into the fourth quarter. Read more. -- Maldonado

Maldonado's pick: Bengals 30, Jaguars 27

Moody's pick: Jaguars 34, Bengals 31

Walder's pick: Bengals 27, Jaguars 24

FPI prediction: JAX, 54.6% (by an average of 1.1 points)

Matchup must-reads:Tracking Travis: Are the Jaguars really playing Hunter on both offense and defense? ... Bengals cut WR Williams after costly muffed punt

Cowboys (1-2) at Texans (0-3)

1 p.m. ET | Fox | HOU -3 (48.5 O/U)

What we're hearing on the Cowboys: The Cowboys are doing their best to move on from aheartbreaking loss to Baltimore and the 10-hour flight home from Rio de Janeiro that affected their preparation this week. At 1-2, defensive tackle Kenny Clark said, "We need this win too, so we need to be more desperate." Since 2000, the Cowboys have opened the season with one win in their first four games four times (2025, 2020, 2010, 2000) and did not finish any of those seasons with a winning record. "We feel like this is going to turn, and it's going to turn, and when it does," coach Brian Schottenheimer said, "I think we'll be a tough match." -- Todd Archer

What we're hearing on the Texans: It is essentially do or die for the Texans. But luckily for them, they most likely will get back star wideout Nico Collins. Collins has been out for two weeks because of a hamstring injury, but he practiced Wednesday and Thursday. That is a promising sign for an offense that averaged 11.5 points without him. -- DJ Bien-Aime

Stat to know: Cowboys QB Dak Prescott has a 31.2 total QBR in two career starts against the Texans, his second-lowest total QBR against a single opponent, ahead of only the Colts (29.6). -- ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Texans QB C.J. Stroud will pass for 300 or more yards. The Cowboys' defense ranks 31st in EPA allowed per dropback, and the Texans have struggled to run the ball this season. I expect they'll want to let Stroud throw all day. -- Walder

Why you should watch this game: This is a desperation bowl between the Cowboys and Texans. Since 1990, 1-3 teams have made the playoffs only 14.3% of the time, according to ESPN Research. Don't even ask me what history says about 0-4 teams. -- Solak

Injuries:Cowboys | Texans

Fantasy nugget: Houston has given up the second-most fantasy points per game to WRs, and its defensive front ranks 30th in pass rush win rate. That should give Prescott time to get the ball to WRsCeeDee Lamb and George Pickens. Jake Ferguson is also in a good spot against a Texans defense giving up the fourth-most receiving yards per game to TEs. See Week 4 rankings. -- Moody

Betting insight: The Texans are 0-3 ATS (against the spread) this season, all in games with lines between +3 and -3. That should continue against Dallas because Houston's protection problems and ineffective rushing attack make separation difficult. Prescott and Lamb give the Cowboys a dependable connection to exploit Houston's third-down vulnerabilities, keeping Dallas within the number even if the Texans' pass rush disrupts drives. Read more. -- Maldonado

Maldonado's pick: Cowboys 24, Texans 23

Moody's pick: Cowboys 23, Texans 19

Walder's pick: Texans 27, Cowboys 26

FPI prediction: DAL, 54.3% (by an average of 1.3 points)

Matchup must-reads:Why Steelers traded Porter to Cowboys, what's next? ... Can the 0-3 Texans defy history again to make playoffs? ... This one hurts': How are Cowboys reacting to third straight 1-2 start?

Patriots (1-2) at Bills (3-0)

1 p.m. ET | CBS | BUF -6.5 (48.5 O/U)

What we're hearing on the Patriots: Coach Mike Vrabel pointed out that the Bills have only five punts in their 3-0 start, which he cited as an example of how challenging it can be facing QBJosh Allen. Vrabel also shined the spotlight on an often overlooked group -- the Bills' offensive line of LTDion Dawkins, LGAlec Anderson, CConnor McGovern, RGO'Cyrus Torrence and RTSpencer Brown. "The linemen do a fantastic job of understanding the scheme that they want to run and creating lanes for [James] Cook, who, once he gets cooking -- no pun intended -- they're just tough to stop," he said.-- Mike Reiss

What we're hearing on the Bills: After CBChristian Benford exited last Sunday's game because of a toe injury, rookie Davison Igbinosun impressed with five tackles, a pass breakup and a QB hurry. DC Jim Leonhard prioritized giving rookies rotational reps in the first two weeks so they'd be prepared and undaunted when big opportunities landed in their laps. With Benford continuing to deal with the injury, Igbinosun could get a longer look against the Patriots, and coach Joe Brady is welcoming the possibility: "There'll never be a moment when I'm the head football coach where there's 11 guys on the field that I'm not going to be confident in them." -- Nick Suss

Stat to know:Allen is the fourth player in NFL history with two or more rushing touchdowns in three straight games to start a season (1958 Jim Brown, 1999 Stephen Davis and 2003 Priest Holmes). -- ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Patriots edge Elijah Ponder will record a sack. Ponder has been a bright spot in New England's tough season, with 24% pass rush win rate that ranks 17th at edge. With Harold Landry III on the physically unable to perform list, and Dre'Mont Jonessitting out last week's game because of a shoulder injury, Ponder becomes that much more important for New England. -- Walder

Why you should watch this game: Divisional clashes are always fun, even when one team is reeling the way the Patriots are. Plus, edge rusherGreg Rousseauis also looking to become only the fourth player in NFL history with four consecutive games of two or more sacks. -- Solak

Injuries:Patriots | Bills

Fantasy nugget:Mack Hollins led Patriots receivers in targets (nine) and fantasy points (14.7) in Week 3. QBDrake Mayehas struggled, failing to score more than 9.8 fantasy points in any game this season. New England is an underdog, which could lead to more passing volume, and Hollins draws a Bills defense that has allowed the fifth-most fantasy points per game to WRs. See Week 4 rankings. -- Moody

Betting insight: All three Patriots games have gone under the total with the largest under margin of any NFL team. Maye's turnovers and struggles on third down keep killing drives. New England also gives up the fewest yards per drive, and its aggressive blitzing could test Allen's mobility after his knee injury. I expect Buffalo to lean on Cook, keeping this game low-scoring. Read more. -- Maldonado

Maldonado's pick: Bills 27, Patriots 17

Moody's pick: Bills 30, Patriots 27

Walder's pick: Bills 24, Patriots 20

FPI prediction: BUF, 70.5% (by an average of 5.6 points)

Matchup must-reads:What has gone wrong for the Patriots' offense, Maye? ... Rousseau's sacks, Allen's rushing TDs are on record paces for Bills

Rams (1-2) at Eagles (2-1)

1 p.m. ET | Fox | LAR -3 (43.5 O/U)

What we're hearing on the Rams: Rams DTAaron Donald has played 56% of defensive snaps in the two games he has played this season, and according to ESPN Analytics/NFL Next Gen Stats, his 33% pass rush win rate as interior defender is the second highest in NFL. Donald did not practice Wednesday, as he is dealing with a sore back, coach Sean McVay said. McVay said the team was "taking it a day at a time" with Donald's status for Week 4.-- Sarah Barshop

What we're hearing on the Eagles: The defense is off to a slower start than expected, in part because it has yet to generate a turnover. It's the first time in franchise history the Eagles have been blanked over the first three weeks of the season and they are now the only team in NFL without a takeaway. Ball drills will be part of the focus this week to try to turn pass breakups into interceptions. "Coaches throwing ball drills is almost a waste because they're lollipops," DC Vic Fangio said. "We've got to get them on the jugs or get a real quarterbacks throwing them some balls that have some RPMs, maybe like a [Phillies closerJhoan] Duranfastball rather than a Jamie Moyer." -- Tim McManus

Stat to know:In NFL history, no team without a takeaway in the first four weeks has had a winning record. -- ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Rams RB Blake Corum will rush for 90 or more yards. This is in large part because I'm predicting a runaway win for Los Angeles, and that should give more opportunity for Corum. But also, the Eagles' defense ranks only 22nd in EPA allowed per designed run so far this season. -- Walder

Why you should watch this game: Rams WR Puka Nacua is back and urgently needed. And this 1-2 Rams team is looking for revenge after last season's game between the teams ended on a blocked field goal attempt returned for a touchdown. -- Solak

Injuries:Rams | Eagles

Fantasy nugget: Eagles RB Saquon Barkley has been held under 10 fantasy points in three consecutive games for the first time in his career. He also has yet to surpass 15 rushing attempts in a game. The Rams' defensive front ranks eighth in run stop win rate, so this could be another tough matchup for the Eagles' offensive line and running game. See Week 4 rankings. -- Moody

Betting insight: The Eagles are 0-5 outright and 1-4 ATS as home underdogs under coach Nick Sirianni. Philadelphia's offense keeps getting stuck on third downs. while the Rams consistently move the ball on early downs. Los Angeles also generates pressure despite its low sack total, which could create problems for QBJalen Hurtsbehind an injured line.Matthew Staffordis a tougher challenge than the QBs Philadelphia has recently faced. Read more. -- Maldonado

Maldonado's pick: Rams 24, Eagles 20

Moody's pick: Rams 37, Eagles 26

Walder's pick: Rams 27, Eagles 14

FPI prediction: LAR, 64.3% (by an average of 3.8 points)

Matchup must-reads:Have the Rams improved special teams enough to make a difference? ... Sirianni regrets reaction to hit on QB Hurts in Eagles' loss

Jets (1-2) at Bears (2-1)

1 p.m. ET | Fox | CHI -3.5 (43.5 O/U)

What we're hearing on the Jets:RB Breece Hall(quad), WR Adonai Mitchell(finger)and TE Mason Taylor(thumb) are not expected to play. So the Jets will lean heavily on QB Geno Smith, who's coming off one of the best statistical games of his career. Ball security will be paramount. Smith, who led the NFL with 17 interceptions last season, has yet to throw a pick. But he'll face an opportunistic defense. Since the start of last season, the Bears have eight games with three-plus takeaways, most in the NFL. -- Rich Cimini

What we're hearing on the Bears:Kalif Raymond is the Bears' leading receiver through three games (214 yards) and is averaging 2.8 yards per route (ninth best among WRs with at least 50 routes). Only one of his targets have been under 20 air yards as he continues to establish himself as the go-to deep threat for Bears QBs, recording 186 receiving yards and 105 yards after the catch on those throws. "He's a clinic tape," OC Press Taylor said. "If there's a route on air, he's going to run it exactly the way you want, and then it carries over to a game, and he's going to run exactly the way you want."-- Courtney Cronin

Stat to know: The Jets have suffered one-score losses (decided by eight points or fewer) in each of past two games. New York is 3-7 in one-score games under coach Aaron Glenn, which is tied for fourth worst. -- ESPN Research

Bold prediction: The Jets will catch multiple touchdowns against CB Jaylon Johnson. He has allowed 2.4 yards per coverage snap this season, per NFL Next Gen Stats, by far the worst among all outside CBs with at least 75 coverage snaps this season. -- Walder

Why you should watch this game: It's Glenn versus Ben Johnson in the battle of vaunted ex-Lions coordinators. The Bears were magical on offense last week-- let's see if Tyson BagentorCase Keenumcan keep it going. -- Solak

Injuries:Jets | Bears

Fantasy nugget: The Bears' defensive front ranks last in the league in run stop win rate and has given up the 12th-most rushing yards per game this season. Chicago's secondary has been much better, especially over the past two games. Even with Smith coming off a 24-point fantasy performance against Detroit, the Jets could lean more heavily on the run in this matchup. See Week 4 rankings. -- Moody

Betting insight: The Jets are 8-5-1 ATS under Glenn when not getting at least seven points. Smith gets a defense that blitzes often and plays single-high coverage, two looks he has handled well, which should create opportunities for WR Garrett Wilson. With Chicago potentially starting Bagent at QB, I trust Smith to keep this close enough for New York to be competitive. Read more. -- Maldonado

Maldonado's pick: Bears 23, Jets 20

Moody's pick: Bears 23, Jets 20

Walder's pick: Bears 30, Jets 27

FPI prediction: CHI, 62.5% (by an average of 3.3 points)

Matchup must-reads:Why QB Smith's hot start has been a bright spot for the Jets ... Bears' Johnson: 'Direction already made' on Week 4 QB call

Titans (0-3) at Ravens (2-1)

1 p.m. ET | CBS | BAL -11.5 (42.5 O/U)

What we're hearing on the Titans: Obviously all of the attention will be on RBDerrick Henry, the former face of the franchise. But the Titans are waiting for QBCam Ward to be their next featured player. Ward has struggled and threw his first interception of the season to wrap up last week's loss. Ward showed he's capable of moving the offense, but the Titans have to do it more frequently if they plan to compete with the Ravens. "We saw a glimpse of it in the second half last week where we had three really, really long drives where we looked efficient," coach Robert Saleh said. -- Turron Davenport

What we're hearing on the Ravens: Tackling will be a major factor in how Henry fares in his first game against his former team. This season, Henry has gained 138 rushing yards after first contact, which is the third most in the NFL. The Titans have given up 220 rushing yards after contact, which is the third worst in the league. "It's still like family there, so it's always love," Henry said, "but it's not going to be much love on Sunday though." -- Jamison Hensley

Stat to know: The Titans are averaging 12.3 points, which is the second-worst mark this season (Patriots and Dolphins both average 12.0). -- ESPN Research

Bold prediction:Henry will record at least 40 receiving yards. The Titans play a very zone-heavy defense, which encourages more RB receptions. And though Henry isn't known for his receiving prowess, when he does catch passes, they tend to result in significant chunks of yards. -- Walder

Why you should watch this game:Henry is facing the Titans for the first time in his career. How could you miss that? -- Solak

Injuries:Titans | Ravens

Fantasy nugget: The Titans have given up the ninth-most rushing yards per game this season, so Baltimore could lean heavily on Henry behind an offensive line that ranks third in run block win rate. Mark Andrews is a little tougher to trust in lineups. Tennessee has given up the third-fewest fantasy points per game to TEs and hasn't given up a receiving touchdown to the position. See Week 4 rankings. -- Moody

Betting insight: Double-digit home favorites are 28-16 ATS over the past three seasons and 1-0 ATS this season. Baltimore can keep the ball moving with QB Lamar Jackson and Henry creating big gains before third down. Tennessee punts on nearly 60% of possessions, which should give the Ravens repeated chances to pull away. Ward's struggles offer little reason to expect a late comeback. Read more. -- Maldonado

Maldonado's pick: Ravens 27, Titans 13

Moody's pick: Ravens 28, Titans 19

Walder's pick: Ravens 34, Titans 20

FPI prediction: BAL, 83.8% (by an average of 10.4 points)

Matchup must-reads:Ravens' Henry: 'Always love' for Titans, but not much this Sunday ... QB Jackson, Ravens looking for first home win since before Thanksgiving ... Titans, Henry going in opposite directions

Packers (1-2) at Buccaneers (0-3)

1 p.m. ET | Fox | GB -3.5 (38.5 O/U)

What we're hearing on the Packers:GuardKevin Zeitler's first time at Lambeau Field was not a pleasant one. The Milwaukee-area native was invited to a dinner honoring all-state high school players. "Unfortunately got severe food poisoning from it," Zeitler said. More than 18 years later, he's back in Green Bay as part of an overhaul of the Packers' offensive line this week. They not only signed Zeitler but also fellow onetime first-round picks Laken Tomlinson andMekhi Becton(practice squad) in an effort to turn around what has been the worst blocking unit in the NFL. It's not out of the question that at least one of the newcomers starts Sunday. -- Rob Demovsky

What we're hearing on the Buccaneers: Preparing to make his first NFL start in place of injured Baker Mayfield(thumb), undrafted rookieJalon Danielssaid of taking on this enormous task: "I think that one thing I learned in college was, you can't be the thermometer, you have to be the thermostat. You have to be someone who comes in and is able to set the temperature of the room, not test the room and try to be able to blend in with it. If a team is low, I have to be able to pick it up to be able to make sure that they're even. If we're high, then I have to be able to be low to be able to make sure that we're even. I try to be as even-keel as possible." -- Jenna Laine

Stat to know: Packers WR Matthew Golden has 253 receiving yards to start this season (eighth most in the NFL). He needs 109 more yards to surpass his total of 361 across 14 games during his rookie season last year. -- ESPN Research

Bold prediction:Daniels will record a 70-plus QBR. I have irrational belief in Daniels, stemming from watching him in the preseason and the fact that an undrafted free agent like him would have to go above and beyond to win the backup QB job. I like his chances in his starting debut. -- Walder

Why you should watch this game: The last rookie undrafted free agent QB to start for his team this early in an NFL season was Tyson Bagent in Week 7 of the 2023 season. Now it's Daniels' turn. Is that a reason to watch? Well, it's the best I have. -- Solak

Injuries:Packers | Buccaneers

Fantasy nugget: Bucs RB Bucky Irving has had at least 15 touches in three consecutive games. The Buccaneers could lean more on the running game with Daniels set to start. Green Bay has given up the second-most fantasy points per game to RBs, so this sets up as a favorable matchup for Irving. The Packers gave up 35.3 fantasy points to Falcons' Bijan Robinson last week. See Week 4 rankings. -- Moody

Betting insight: Packers QB Jordan Love is 0-9 ATS when laying at least three points on the road. Green Bay can't run the ball and its struggling offensive line leaves Love under constant pressure. Tampa Bay's aggressive blitzing can disrupt drives, and its stout run defense keeps everything on Love. Even against a rookie QB, these Packers are tough to trust. Read more. -- Maldonado

Maldonado's pick: Packers 20, Buccaneers 17

Moody's pick: Packers 24, Buccaneers 17

Walder's pick: Buccaneers 23, Packers 20

FPI prediction: GB, 67.3% (by an average of 4.6 points)

Matchup must-reads:Packers' O-line leaves QB Love under constant pressure ... Buccaneers' QB Mayfield (thumb) out at least three weeks, Bowles says

Cardinals (1-2) at Giants (2-1)

1 p.m. ET | CBS | ARI -2.5 (44.5 O/U)

What we're hearing on the Cardinals: Arizona hopes this is the week it can get its downfield passing game going. The Cardinals have the fewest amount of plays of 20 yards or longer in the NFL, due in part to their first three opponents playing the highest rate of Cover 2 and zone against them compared to the entire league. That has prevented Arizona from going over the top, and QBJacoby Brissett said this also disrupts the Cardinals' timing. But WR Marvin Harrison Jr. says he expects the Giants to play more man coverage at the line of scrimmage, which could spring Arizona's downfield offense. -- Josh Weinfuss

What we're hearing on the Giants: The Giants seem to know they're not facing the Titans' offense again this week. It was mentioned several times that the Cardinals are "very similar" offensively to the Rams -- who dismantled the Giants two weeks ago -- which DC Dennard Wilson noted because of Arizona coach Mike LaFleur's ties to Sean McVay. New York knows it's going to be a difficult challenge, particularly stopping rookie RBJeremiyah Love, who it had ranked as a top-three player in the 2026 draft. -- Jordan Raanan

Stat to know: Cardinals TE Trey McBride has had nine games with 50 receiving yards and at least one touchdown reception since the start of last season, tied with Lions' Amon-Ra St. Brown for the second most among all players (Seahawks' Jaxon Smith-Njigba, 11). -- ESPN Research

Bold prediction:The Giants' newly acquired backup QB,J.J. McCarthy, will enter late in a blowout loss. Jameis Winston has been very uninspiring playing in Jaxson Dart's stead, and I don't buy the notion that the Giants dealt a fifth-round pick for McCarthy to only be a third-stringer. -- Walder

Why you should watch this game: With the Giants' acquisition of McCarthy, any Winston start might be his last of the season. And that's worth a watch. -- Solak

Injuries:Cardinals | Giants

Fantasy nugget:Love finished Week 3 with season highs in touches (26) and fantasy points (21.9). The Cardinals don't have a strong offensive line, but they will face a defensive front that ranks 27th in run stop win rate. This season, New York has given up 24.2 fantasy points to Cowboys' Javonte Williams, 15.7 to Rams' Kyren Williams and 13.6 to Titans' Tony Pollard. See Week 4 rankings. -- Moody

Betting insight: The Cardinals have not been favored on the road since Week 1 last season, but this matchup justifies it. Without edge rusherBrian Burns(knee), New York's league-worst pressure rate will give Brissett time to find McBride underneath and sustain drives. Winston's accuracy struggles should limit the Giants' response, giving Arizona the steadier passing offense and the edge to cover this spread. Read more. -- Maldonado

Maldonado's pick: Cardinals 20, Giants 17

Moody's pick: Cardinals 20, Giants 13

Walder's pick: Cardinals 29, Giants 6

FPI prediction: ARI, 54.2% (by an average of 1.2 points)

Matchup must-reads:Cardinals rookie RB Love earns bigger role in offense ... Giants' Harbaugh explains reasoning for releasing Beckham

Dolphins (0-3) at Vikings (3-0)

4:05 p.m. ET | Fox | MIN -10.5 (38.5 O/U)

What we're hearing on the Dolphins: Dolphins RBOllie Gordon IIhandled a 20-touch workload once De'Von Achane(knee) went down in Week 3, but that's not necessarily an indication of what his role will be moving forward. Fellow RBJaylen Wright said the foot injury that kept him out of last week's game has healed, and coach Jeff Hafley says he still wants his team to run the ball -- but he also says it's likely the Dolphins employ a split backfield for the foreseeable future. -- Marcel Louis-Jacques

What we're hearing on the Vikings: Five years after being fired as the Dolphins' coach, Brian Flores is coordinating the NFL's top-ranked defense by EPA. The Dolphins' offense ranks No. 27, and as the team moves forward without Achane, the opportunity exists for Flores to embarrass the team he remains in litigation against. But Flores said this week that "I'm actually excited to see some people," before naming a series of football operations staffers who remain from his tenure. "I'm the same every week," Flores said. "It's never about me. It's always about the team." -- Kevin Seifert

Stat to know: The Vikings blitz on 68.4% of opponent dropbacks, more than 20% higher than any other team in the NFL (Commanders, 46.6%). That is on pace to be the highest by any team in a season since ESPN began tracking blitzes in 2006. -- ESPN Research

Bold prediction: The Dolphins will win the game. Minnesota recorded only a 16% success rate on dropbacks last week in QB Kyler Murray's return, third worst among all games since the start of 2025. Miami is a huge long shot, but I wonder if a super run-heavy approach and continued offensive struggles from the Vikings could earn the Dolphins a victory. -- Walder

Why you should watch this game: The best counterattack to a Flores defense might be a QB with elite escapability -- and that's Malik Willis. This is also Flores' first time facing his old team, the Dolphins, as DC of the Vikings. This might be one of those games that you can tell matters just a little more. -- Solak

Injuries:Dolphins | Vikings

Fantasy nugget: Vikings tight endT.J. Hockenson faces a Dolphins defense that has given up the fifth-most receiving yards to TEs this season. Josh Oliver(biceps) is on injured reserve, and wide receiverJustin Jefferson is dealing with an ankle injury, which could lead to more targets for Hockenson. This season, Miami has given up 26.2 fantasy points to the 49ers' George Kittle and 13.9 to the Chiefs' Travis Kelce. See Week 4 rankings. -- Moody

Betting insight: The Vikings have won eight straight games with unders, going 6-2 in that span, and that will continue. Minnesota's relentless blitzing could overwhelm Willis, who struggles against pressure and has thrown only one touchdown pass this season. Meanwhile, the Vikings still struggle to keep drives alive and finish scoring chances. Miami's shaky defense offers help, but Minnesota can control this game without needing a shootout. Read more. -- Maldonado

Maldonado's pick: Vikings 27, Dolphins 10

Moody's pick: Vikings 27, Dolphins 13

Walder's pick: Dolphins 20, Vikings 17

FPI prediction: MIN, 83.1% (by an average of 10.1 points)

Matchup must-reads:Achane tears ACL, will miss rest of season ... Who takes the blame for QB McCarthy exiting Minnesota as a draft bust?

Broncos (2-1) at 49ers (3-0)

4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | SF -3 (47.5 O/U)

What we're hearing on the Broncos:Ask QB Bo Nix about the team's habit of slow starts this season -- the Broncos are last in the league in first-half scoring (3.3 points per game) -- and he points to first downs. "Are we getting first downs early in drives? Or are we just going first down, second down, third down?'' Nix said. "That's just exhausting as an offense." He's on to something since the Broncos' success rate on first down this season -- plays of at least four yards -- is 31.5%. Only the 0-3 Dolphins have been worse. The Broncos probably can't afford to continue to tempt fate against a 49ers offense that is second in the league in scoring.-- Jeff Legwold

What we're hearing on the 49ers:The Niners are well aware that the Broncos have a habit of coming from behind in the second half and pulling off one-score wins -- Denver is 13-2 in those games over the past two seasons. "Denver is one of the best teams in the league at comeback victories and staying in the battle and staying in the fight, one-score games, winning those matchups," LB Fred Warner said. "Every week, we're trying to find the opportunity to just win one game and it takes all three, four hours of that game, whatever it takes. It's just one play at a time, one quarter at a time and let the rest handle itself."-- Nick Wagoner

Stat to know: Broncos WR Jaylen Waddle has a team-high 23% target share this season, which is the second highest of his career through his team's first three games of a season (29% in 2022). -- ESPN Research

Bold prediction: 49ers RBChristian McCaffrey will record 20-plus rush attempts, blowing away his season-high of 15. The 49ers have been the pass-heaviest team in the league in terms of pass rate over expectation (per NFL Next Gen Stats), but I wouldn't expect them to be that extreme going forward -- especially against a Broncos defense that ranks 32nd in EPA allowed per designed carry. -- Walder

Why you should watch this game: Huge heat check game for the 49ers, who look like an absolute wagon through three weeks. But they have enjoyed games against the Dolphins and Cardinals, along with their Melbourne win over the sleepy Rams. We'll learn a lot in this one. -- Solak

Injuries:Broncos | 49ers

Fantasy nugget: The 49ers would be wise to lean on McCaffrey and the running game against the Broncos, especially with the injuries they're dealing with at WR. Denver has given up the fifth-most fantasy points per game to RBs and is tied with the Colts for the third-most receiving yards per game allowed to the position. See Week 4 rankings. -- Moody

Betting insight: The Broncos are 9-2 ATS against nonconference opponents since drafting Nix in 2024. Without edge rusherNick Bosa(calf), San Francisco struggles to pressure QBs, which should give Nix time to settle in and keep drives moving. Denver has held the Chiefs' Patrick Mahomes, Jaguars' Trevor Lawrence and Rams' Matthew Staffordto less than a 60% completion percentage, giving its defense a chance to slow QBBrock Purdy. Read more. -- Maldonado

Maldonado's pick: Broncos 27, 49ers 24

Moody's pick: 49ers 23, Broncos 20

Walder's pick: 49ers 26, Broncos 20

FPI prediction: SF, 77% (by an average of 7.9 points)

Matchup must-reads:Can the Broncos keep pulling off unlikely comeback victories? ... It's fun to be doubted': How Kittle completed his 243-day recovery from torn Achilles ... Evans, Williams, Greenlaw don't have long-term injuries, 49ers say

Chargers (0-3) at Seahawks (2-1)

4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | SEA -7 (42.5 O/U)

What we're hearing on the Chargers: For the the first time in his tenure as Chargers coach, Jim Harbaugh directly critiqued QBJustin Herbert's play this week. Harbaugh said Herbert's decision-making needed to "be better," after a Week 3 loss in which Herbert threw an interception but could have had three if it wasn't for the Bills dropping passes. Herbert echoed Harbaugh's comments Wednesday, acknowledging he has made bad decisions through the first three weeks. -- Kris Rhim

What we're hearing on the Seahawks: The Chargers rank eighth in yards allowed per rush and EPA per rush on defense. It's the one thing they've done well during their 0-3 start. So the Seahawks aren't getting a break in that sense after their RBs combined for only 39 yards on 17 attempts in a Week 3 loss. "I think our guys are running off the rock," coach Mike Macdonald said of Seattle's run game. "I think they're playing hard. ... Sometimes you just don't get the run game off the ground in a certain game and you don't hit the panic button, you just go back to work and try to find more solutions and just keep trying to solve problems and go try to make it better." -- Brady Henderson

Stat to know: Seahawks WRJaxon Smith-Njigbahas had three straight games with 100-plus receiving yards and a touchdown catch, which is tied for second-longest streak to start a season in the Super Bowl era (since 1966) trailing Randy Moss' four straight (2007). -- ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Chargers safety Genesis Smith will record another interception. Last week, he flashed his anticipation and ball skills by picking off Josh Allen twice. I say he takes advantage of a QBSam Darnold mistake in Week 4 to stay hot. -- Walder

Why you should watch this game:Smith-Njigba is on pace for 2,295 receiving yards. Any game he's playing in is worth a watch.-- Solak

Injuries:Chargers | Seahawks

Fantasy nugget:Chargers WRLadd McConkey has had an up-and-down season but still leads all Chargers playmakers in fantasy points. Though the Commanders' Terry McLaurinscored 19.7 fantasy points against Seattle last week, the Seahawks have given up the fourth-fewest fantasy points per game to WRs. McConkey is still a solid option, but the matchup limits his upside. See Week 4 rankings. -- Moody

Betting insight: Five straight Chargers games have gone under the total, the longest active streak in the NFL. Seattle shuts down the run and gives up the fewest yards per pass attempt, leaving Herbert without easy answers. Los Angeles keeps stalling drives with false starts and poor finishing, and Seattle's struggling running game and shaky short-yardage execution should also limit sustained scoring drives. Read more. -- Maldonado

Maldonado's pick: Seahawks 20, Chargers 17

Moody's pick: Seahawks 28, Chargers 21

Walder's pick: Seahawks 26, Chargers 23

FPI prediction: SEA, 74.1% (by an average of 6.8 points)

Matchup must-reads:Chargers' Harbaugh on struggling Herbert: 'Be better' ... Seahawks' Macdonald says team still believes in RB Price

Chiefs (3-0) at Raiders (3-0)

4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | KC -4.5 (47.5 O/U)

What we're hearing on the Chiefs: The Chiefs are still a run-first offense, even with QBPatrick Mahomes. Although RBKenneth Walker III has been impressive during the Chiefs' 3-0 start, OC Eric Bieniemy was able to find an area where the unit can get better: short-yardage plays. Twice in last week's win, the Chiefs were stuffed when giving the ball to Walker and needing less than a full yard. "We should never get shut down in short-yardage situations," Bieniemy said. -- Nate Taylor

What we're hearing on the Raiders: If the Raiders want to have a chance to beat the Chiefs and improve to 4-0, they'll need to improve their run defense. Las Vegas gave up 146 rushing yards against the Saints last week. And opponents have rushed for 4.6 yards per carry in the past two games. The Raiders cannot afford to have inconsistencies in their run defense against Kansas City. Walker has shown big-play ability, with 10 carries of 10-plus yards. "He can hit a home run from anywhere on the field," coach Klint Kubiak said. -- Ryan McFadden

Stat to know: Raiders CB Hezekiah Masses has grabbed three interceptions this season, tied with the Giants' Jevon Holland for the most by any player in the NFL. -- ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Raiders RBAshton Jeanty will record a season-low number of rushing attempts (under 19), and Mike Washington Jr. will record a season high (above seven). Jeanty has recorded minus-15 rush yards over expected this season, per NFL Next Gen Stats. Washington is at plus-33. -- Walder

Why you should watch this game:A divisional game with undefeated teams. Plus, a home game for Las Vegas against the hated Chiefs -- and the first game against them in the Kubiak era. TEBrock Bowers is the newTravis Kelce. This is the game of the week.-- Solak

Injuries:Chiefs | Raiders

Fantasy nugget:Kelce has been reliable this season, scoring at least 10 fantasy points in three straight games, including a 25.1-point performance on 11 targets in Week 2. He now faces a Raiders defense that has given up the third-most fantasy points per game to TEs. Kelce has also averaged 14.4 fantasy points per game over his past 10 meetings with Las Vegas. See Week 4 rankings. -- Moody

Betting insight: Last week, the Chiefs ended a six-game ATS losing streak on the road. Walker can keep them rolling against a Raiders defense giving up 4.5 yards per carry. That should give Mahomes better passing situations and chances to attack off play-action. Las Vegas struggles to run, and Kansas City rarely commits turnovers, which threatens the Raiders' unbeaten start. Read more. -- Maldonado

Maldonado's pick: Chiefs 27, Raiders 20

Moody's pick: Chiefs 30, Raiders 24

Walder's pick: Raiders 24, Chiefs 22

FPI prediction: KC, 70% (by an average of 5.5 points)

Matchup must-reads:Chiefs LT Simmons recovering from bulging disc, Reid says ... Chiefs' play-action plan working perfectly for Mahomes, offense so far

Lions (2-1) at Panthers (1-2)

8:20 p.m. ET | NBC | DET -3.5 (51.5 O/U)

What we're hearing on the Lions: RB Jahmyr Gibbs will be facing his former Alabama teammate, Panthers QBBryce Young,for the first time of his career. When the Lions beat the Panthers in Week 5 of their rookie seasons on Oct. 8, 2023, Gibbs was out because of a hamstring injury but is now looking forward to seeing his old pal on the field. "I've always been rooting for him," Gibbs said of Young. "I know what he can do. I know what he's capable of. I told them, 'I mean, he's like that. Don't be surprised if he starts carving y'all up' but our defense is right. We're gonna hoop. So, I'm not really worried about that too much." -- Eric Woodyard

What we're hearing on the Panthers: The Panthers, down their starting CB duo of Jaycee Horn (quad) and Mike Jackson (groin), will put a lot on the plate of 2026 fourth-round pick Will Lee III on Sunday. Coach Dave Canales says there's no way to replace Horn, but he wants the other CBs to simply do their job. Lee said the best advice he has received from Horn is to have "that confidence in yourself and the 'next play' mentality" when a receiver makes a catch. According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Lee has allowed a catch on eight of 16 targets for team-high 117 yards in the first three games. -- Mike Kaye

Stat to know: The Lions have given up an NFL-worst 31.7 points per game this season. -- ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Panthers TEDarren Waller will catch a touchdown. The Lions are allowing targets to opposing TEs 27% of the time, second most in the NFL and most among teams that haven't faced the Raiders'Brock Bowers. Without Brian Branch(Achilles) and Kerby Joseph(knee), it's reasonable to expect that trend to continue and Waller could be the beneficiary. -- Walder

Why you should watch this game: The Panthers are beat up everywhere. With both starting CBs out against the Lions' passing attack ... and with supersized WRTetairoa McMillan lining up against the Lions' poor defensive backfield ... 60 total points? 70? -- Solak

Injuries:Lions | Panthers

Fantasy nugget:Young has scored at least 24 fantasy points in two of his three games this season. He now faces a Lions defense that has given up the most fantasy points per game to QBs. That matchup also benefits McMillan, with Detroit giving up the third-most fantasy points per game to WRs. See Week 4 rankings. -- Moody

Betting insight: The Lions are 13-3 ATS as road favorites since 2023. Gibbs gets a Carolina defense struggling to stop the run, and injuries to both starting corners give Jared Goff more openings. Detroit's pass rush can attack Carolina's depleted offensive line. Young might find some plays, but Detroit has the better setup to pull away. Read more. -- Maldonado

Maldonado's pick: Lions 31, Panthers 24

Moody's pick: Lions 31, Panthers 28

Walder's pick: Lions 34, Panthers 14

FPI prediction: DET, 60.9% (by an average of 3 points)

Matchup must-reads:These are exciting games': Lions offense leading the way as defense finds footing ... What's level of concern for Panthers' notable injuries before Week 4? ... Lions' Izien leads list of NFL stars with Africa ties

Falcons (1-2) at Saints (1-2)

Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ESPN | NO -2.5 (47.5 O/U)

What we're hearing on the Falcons: Atlanta was expected to have a good offensive line, as it has had significant continuity with the group. But the Falcons have surprisingly dominated the trenches on both sides of the ball despite an unheralded front seven, something the team hopes will continue Monday night against its biggest rival. The Falcons are third in pass rush win rate (61%), sixth in run stop win rate (32%), 11th in pass block win rate (53%) and ninth in run block win rate (74%). -- Marc Raimondi

What we're hearing on the Saints: The Saints will celebrate the 20th anniversary of their return to the Superdome after Hurricane Katrina by recognizing members of the 2006 team, including Steve Gleason, who famously blocked a punt to help the Saints win that game against the Falcons. Though many Saints players are too young to remember that game, they said they have learned about the importance of it and what Gleason means. "Just imagining what it could have been like for all the people and ... the lives lost and ... and what it kind of means and what the Saints mean to the city. We wear that on our sleeve for sure," QBTyler Shoughsaid. -- Katherine Terrell

Stat to know: Falcons RBBijan Robinsonhas had three career primetime games with 200-plus scrimmage yards, which is tied for the most by any player since the 1970 merger (alongside Jerry Rice, Shaun Alexander and Derrick Henry). -- ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Falcons edge Cameron Thomas will record a sack. Thomas has recorded a quick pass rush get off average of 0.76 seconds, per NFL Next Gen Stats. That's the best of his career, and he already has 1.5 sacks this season. Plus, Shough takes sacks at an above-average rate. -- Walder

Why you should watch this game:This is an important calibration game for the Falcons, who looked reinvigorated in their short-week win over the Packers with the return of QBMichael Penix Jr. Can they have the same defensive success against a more functional team? -- Solak

Injuries:Falcons | Saints

Fantasy nugget:Shough is the QB3 in fantasy and has recorded at least 34 pass attempts and 22 fantasy points in three straight games. The Falcons have given up the fourth-most passing yards per game, the sixth-most fantasy points per game to WRs and the ninth-most to TEs. The stage is set for Shough, WRChris Olave and TEJuwan Johnson to have big performances. See Week 4 rankings. -- Moody

Betting insight:Penix is 4-2 ATS as an underdog in his career. Robinson gets a Saints defense giving up 4.7 yards per carry, giving Atlanta a reliable way to move the ball. Penix's return also makes it harder to load up against the run. New Orleans has given up 10 sacks, and Atlanta's run defense can force Shough into tougher passing situations. Read more. -- Maldonado

Maldonado's pick: Falcons 27, Saints 23

Moody's pick: Saints 34, Falcons 31

Walder's pick: Saints 19, Falcons 16

FPI prediction: NO, 62.7% (by an average of 3.4 points)

Matchup must-reads:Falcons sign DT Dexter to four-year extension ... Saints RB Etienne to sit with hamstring injury

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