NFL Week 5 picks, predictions, schedule, odds, fantasy ideas
The Week 5 NFL schedule for the 2025 season brings some thrilling matchups.
Browns rookie QB Dillon Gabriel is making his NFL debut in London towards the Vikings. Outdated teammates in Carolina, QBs Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold, will face off once more within the Bucs-Seahawks matchup. And Commanders QB Jayden Daniels makes his return from harm towards the Chargers.
We’ve got you lined with every little thing you want to know. Our NFL Nation reporters take you contained in the locker room with the most effective factor they heard this week, and ESPN Analysis gives a key stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest. Plus, analytics author Seth Walder makes a daring prediction for every matchup, and fantasy analyst Eric Moody shares fantasy soccer intel. We even have Soccer Energy Index (FPI) matchup high quality rankings (out of 100) and recreation projections, and three analysts — Pamela Maldonado, Moody and Walder — give us remaining rating picks for each recreation.
Let’s get into the total Week 5 slate, which culminates with a “Monday Evening Soccer” matchup between the Chiefs and Jaguars on ESPN. (Sport instances are Sunday until in any other case famous.)
Leap to a matchup:
CLE-MIN | DEN-PHI | HOU-BAL
LV-IND | DAL-NYJ | MIA-CAR
NYG-NO | TB-SEA | TEN-ARI
WSH-LAC | DET-CIN | NE-BUF
KC-JAX
Thursday: SF 26, LAR 23 (OT)
Bye: ATL, CHI, GB, PIT
9:30 a.m. ET | NFL Community | Matchup score: 35.2/100
ESPN BET: MIN -3.5 (35.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Browns: The Browns are turning to rookie QB Dillon Gabriel in hopes of jump-starting the league’s second-lowest-scoring offense (14 factors per recreation). Gabriel’s first begin is available in a little bit of an uncommon spot — he’ll grow to be the primary quarterback to make his first begin in a world recreation — however Cleveland believes the third-round choose has ready nicely for the second. Anticipate the Browns to extend their use of rollouts and RPOs to benefit from Gabriel’s mobility and accuracy. “[Gabriel] is aware of the place to go along with the ball. He is aware of what the teaching employees desires throughout the offense,” large receiver Jerry Jeudy stated. — Daniel Oyefusi
What we’re listening to on the Vikings: The Vikings spent their week in London sorting by choices for an injury-ravaged offensive line, a very regarding growth given the power of the Browns’ defensive entrance. On the very least, the Vikings will probably be with out RT Brian O’Neill (proper knee), C Ryan Kelly (concussion) and LG Donovan Jackson (left wrist). Backup C Michael Jurgens (hamstring) sat out observe Wednesday and Thursday, making him very questionable for Sunday’s recreation. In a worst-case state of affairs, the Vikings might be left with their No. 3 middle, their No. 3 left guard and their No. 2 proper sort out towards a protection that leads the NFL in go rush win fee (56%) and run cease win fee (37.7%). — Kevin Seifert
Stat to know: The Browns have scored 17 or fewer factors in 9 straight video games relationship to final season, which is tied for the longest streak in franchise historical past. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Browns DT Mason Graham will document his first full sack as a professional. It is arduous to get a greater alternative than this, as QB Carson Wentz has taken sacks at a large 11.5% clip to date this season. — Walder
Fantasy nugget: Vikings RB Jordan Mason has had 16 or extra touches in consecutive video games with Aaron Jones Sr. (hamstring) out. The excellent news: He is seeing heavy utilization. The dangerous information: The Vikings’ offensive line has been devastated by accidents and faces a Browns defensive entrance that beforehand shut down the Ravens’ Derrick Henry and the Packers’ Josh Jacobs. Cleveland’s protection has allowed simply 2.9 yards per carry and the second-fewest dashing yards to backs. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Vikings are 14-7 ATS (towards the unfold) of their previous 21 street/impartial video games. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Browns 24, Vikings 19
Moody’s choose: Vikings 20, Browns 14
Walder’s choose: Browns 18, Vikings 15
FPI prediction: MIN, 62.9% (by a median of 4.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Browns bench Flacco, flip to Gabriel as beginning QB … Vikings’ plan for week between Dublin and London … Vikings’ O’Neill, Kelly injured towards Steelers
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup score: 77.8/100
ESPN BET: PHI -3.5 (43.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Broncos: QB Bo Nix has had many weekly exams in his time because the starter. And this week Nix’s endurance will probably be examined as a lot because it ever has towards an Eagles protection directed by coordinator Vic Fangio. Fangio, who once more has two rookie starters on protection (LB Jihaad Campbell and S Andrew Mukuba), will power Nix to dwell with the beneath throws. Earlier than final week’s win, Nix had not discovered a lot success pushing the ball downfield to kick-start the offense. Nix was extra settled Monday night time, with higher footwork and extra endurance. That will probably be a necessity on this one as nicely, given Fangio figures to offer Nix a gentle food plan of simulated pressures and protection appears that morph after the snap. Fangio has been a selected problem to quarterbacks within the purple zone. — Jeff Legwold
What we’re listening to on the Eagles: The Eagles must get WR A.J. Brown going. He was held to 2 catches for 7 yards on 9 targets final week and created a stir with a cryptic tweet postgame. Brown has been held to 27 or fewer yards in three of 4 video games. Unsurprisingly, the passing recreation ranks thirty first within the NFL. “I see that we’re struggling and I am a man that wishes the ball in these instances once we cannot discover a approach. Give it to me,” Brown stated Wednesday. — Tim McManus
Stat to know: The Broncos’ protection ranks first in QBR (40.5) and sacks (15), in addition to second in pressures (62). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Broncos edge Jonathon Cooper will document a sack towards Eagles RT Lane Johnson. That is a tall job contemplating the opposition, however Cooper has the quickest go rush get-off within the NFL (amongst these with a minimum of 50 go rushes), crossing the road of scrimmage in 0.69 seconds, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. — Walder
1:07
Why Dan Orlovsky says Ravens-Texans is a must-win for Baltimore
Dan Orlovsky rips the Ravens and explains why Sunday’s recreation towards the Texans is a must-win, even when Lamar Jackson is sidelined.
Fantasy nugget: Eagles TE Dallas Goedert posted a season-high 19.7 fantasy factors in Week 4, regardless of seeing simply 4 targets. He had solely two targets in Week 1, missed Week 2 and noticed simply two in Week 3, but he has totaled 41.4 fantasy factors. Although the Broncos’ protection is hard, Denver has allowed a minimum of 10 fantasy factors to tight ends in two of its previous three video games. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Eagles are 9-3 ATS of their previous 12 video games as favorites. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Eagles 13, Broncos 10
Moody’s choose: Eagles 27, Broncos 23
Walder’s choose: Broncos 23, Eagles 21
FPI prediction: PHI, 61.2% (by a median of 4.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Jones’ infinite power catalyst for Broncos’ protection … Contained in the champagne issues of the Eagles offense
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup score: 64.9/100
ESPN BET: HOU -2.5 (40.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Texans: The Texans know they are going towards a foe that they’ve struggled with. The Ravens have a 13-2 document towards Houston, however coach DeMeco Ryans stated, “The previous is the previous.” Wideout Nico Collins acknowledged the 31-2 blowout loss they suffered on Christmas to Baltimore however stated it is time to “flip the web page.” — DJ Bien-Aime
What we’re listening to on the Ravens: The Ravens are 3-0 towards Texans QB C.J. Stroud, holding him to a median of seven factors per recreation. However that is anticipated to be a a lot completely different Baltimore protection Sunday. The Ravens have six defensive starters coping with accidents, together with Professional Bowlers in S Kyle Hamilton (groin), MLB Roquan Smith (hamstring) and CB Marlon Humphrey (calf). With all the brand new gamers filling in on protection, OLB Tavius Robinson stated, “It is nearly doing a little bit additional in communication.” — Jamison Hensley
Stat to know: The Ravens have allowed 35 factors in three of 4 video games this season, tied for essentially the most such video games in a season in franchise historical past (1996 and 2021). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Ravens RB Derrick Henry will document a season-high 22-plus rush makes an attempt. The Texans have a ferocious go rush however wrestle to cease the run. QB Lamar Jackson (hamstring) might be out, so the Ravens are going to wish to lean on the bottom recreation. — Walder
3:11
Contained in the anatomy of Tyreek Hill’s knee harm with Stephania Bell
Utilizing Digital Medication, Stephania Bell examines Tyreek Hill’s season-ending knee harm from an anatomical perspective.
Fantasy nugget: Texans RB Woody Marks capitalized on a good matchup towards Tennessee final week, ending with 21 touches and 27.9 fantasy factors. It was the primary recreation wherein he out-touched Nick Chubb. He made it depend, placing up an excellent efficiency regardless of a Texans offensive line that ranks twenty fourth in run block win fee (68.8%). The excellent news? Marks has one other favorable matchup this week towards a Ravens protection that has allowed the sixth-most dashing yards per recreation to backs (141.3). See Week 5 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Texans are the one group to go below the entire in all 4 video games this season, and the Ravens are the one group to go over the entire in each recreation. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Ravens 23, Texans 14
Moody’s choose: Ravens 23, Texans 20
Walder’s choose: Ravens 20, Texans 17
FPI prediction: BAL, 56.0% (by a median of two.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Emergence of rookie RB Marks provides spark to Texans … How the Ravens received to 1-3 and the place they go from right here … Texans look to beat Ravens for first time since 2014 … What’s improper with the 1-3 Ravens? Accidents, consistency, extra
1 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup score: 48.6/100
ESPN BET: IND -6.5 (47.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Raiders: The offensive line is coming off its finest efficiency of the season, but it surely took a giant hit within the course of. After the unit allowed simply three pressures whereas paving the way in which for rookie RB Ashton Jeanty to document 138 yards, it misplaced beginning LT Kolton Miller to a excessive ankle sprain. Miller’s absence is premature because the Colts are ranked eight in dashing yards allowed per recreation (96). Coach Pete Carroll is assured that backup OT Stone Forsythe can step up. “He began 14 video games … and began on the left facet 4 or 5 instances. So, we’re assured that he can do the job,” Carroll stated. “That is why we went after him.” — Ryan McFadden
What we’re listening to on the Colts: Indianapolis has had probably the most environment friendly offenses this season, rating fourth in scoring at 30.8 factors per recreation. However that comes regardless of its regarding efficiency within the purple zone, the place the Colts have managed to attain touchdowns solely 47.4% of the time (twenty fifth within the NFL). They’ve had a rash of ill-timed penalties when in scoring place, and that has led to tough down-and-distance conditions. “We have to get that cleaned up, and it is simply fundamentals and approach,” coach Shane Steichen stated. “We’ll handle it by observe this week.” — Stephen Holder
Stat to know: Colts rookie Tyler Warren leads all tight ends in receiving yards this season (263), which is essentially the most for the place by 4 profession video games within the Tremendous Bowl period. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Raiders TE Brock Bowers will document below 30 receiving yards. Bowers hasn’t put up massive numbers since injuring his knee in Week 1, and the Colts appear like a very robust opponent. Solely 14% of targets towards Indianapolis have gone to tight ends, the fourth-lowest fee within the league. — Walder
Fantasy nugget: Colts WR Michael Pittman Jr. has scored 15 or extra fantasy factors in three of 4 video games this season whereas averaging 7.2 targets. He is arrange for an enormous efficiency towards a protection that has allowed the third-most fantasy factors per recreation to large receivers. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Raiders are 0-3 ATS of their previous three video games. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Colts 34, Raiders 28
Moody’s choose: Colts 34, Raiders 24
Walder’s choose: Colts 26, Raiders 21
FPI prediction: IND, 63.9% (by a median of 5.3 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Why Booker IV and the Raiders’ D-line will probably be essential to a win in Indianapolis … Howard abruptly retires, citing ‘household first’
1 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup score: 39.7/100
ESPN BET: DAL -2.5 (47.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Cowboys: Did not the Cowboys come off a 40-point efficiency at dwelling, taking part in at a winless group simply two weeks in the past? They did. And misplaced to the Bears in a listless efficiency. Now coming off a 40-point efficiency towards the Packers, they face the winless Jets. In 2019, the Jets have been additionally 0-4 when dealing with the Cowboys, and Dallas misplaced 24-22. The Cowboys cannot repeat what occurred to the Bears or what occurred in 2019. “We’re judged on wins. I would say the consistency’s not been there,” coach Brian Schottenheimer stated. “The factor we have got to do, we have got to learn to end and learn how to win.” — Todd Archer
What we’re listening to on the Jets: The gloves are occurring — actually. On Thursday, coach Aaron Glenn wore a boxing glove throughout a ball-security drill, making an attempt to punch out the ball. The Jets have misplaced a league-high six fumbles, which explains the emphasis in observe. The Jets are a mistake-prone group — minus-seven turnover differential and 40 penalties (tied-seventh most). They’re searching for to keep away from their third 0-5 begin previously 30 years. — Wealthy Cimini
Stat to know: The Jets have allowed 25-plus factors in each recreation this season (the one group within the NFL to take action). One other such recreation will probably be tied for the longest streak of permitting 25-plus factors in a season in franchise historical past. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Cowboys LB Jack Sanborn will lead the league in tackles this week. The Jets are working at an outrageous clip and are at the moment sporting a league-low minus-12% go fee over expectation. As solely mild underdogs to Dallas, they very nicely may stick to the bottom recreation for 60 minutes, inducing tons of tackling alternatives for Cowboys linebackers. — Walder
Fantasy nugget: Jets QB Justin Fields completed with 27.1 fantasy factors final week and now faces a protection that has allowed essentially the most fantasy factors per recreation to quarterbacks. Dallas has additionally given up essentially the most dashing makes an attempt and the fifth-highest dashing yards per recreation to opposing quarterbacks. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Cowboys QB Dak Prescott is 21-14-1 ATS in his profession as a street favourite (49-36-2 ATS general as the favourite). Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Jets 24, Cowboys 21
Moody’s choose: Jets 24, Cowboys 23
Walder’s choose: Cowboys 30, Jets 23
FPI prediction: DAL, 63.9% (by a median of three.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Pickens retains impressing Cowboys on, off the sector … Jets RB Allen out indefinitely with knee harm … Prescott set Cowboys information however is unhappy with tie … Glenn hoping to keep away from being first 0-5 Jets coach in Yr 1
1 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup score: 24.6/100
ESPN BET: MIA -1.5 (44.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Dolphins: Tyreek Hill (knee) won’t return this season, however the Dolphins imagine they nonetheless have a No. 1 receiver in Jaylen Waddle — who returns to that unquestioned position in Hill’s absence. Waddle was Miami’s main receiver as a rookie in 2021, when he caught 104 passes for 1,015 yards and 6 touchdowns. Coach Mike McDaniel stated the view of Waddle would not change regardless of Hill’s harm. “I believe we have checked out him as a large receiver one,” McDaniel stated. “I believe that it isn’t essentially a change from the way in which we method it the way in which we see it.” — Marcel Louis-Jacques
What we’re listening to on the Panthers: Coach Dave Canales likes to take a look at the rash of accidents which have contributed to a 1-3 document as a possibility for another person to step up. Sadly for him, no one has. Maybe will probably be rookie WR Jimmy Horn Jr., who will play for the primary time after being a wholesome scratch the primary 4 video games. He brings velocity. Or possibly will probably be beginning WR Xavier Legette, returning after lacking two video games with a hamstring harm, regardless that he struggled earlier than the harm. There are many alternatives round. — David Newton
Stat to know: Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa has a Complete QBR of 19 (thirty third) and averages 6.3 yards per try (twenty fifth) when dealing with zone protection this season. The Panthers use zone protection 68.8% of the time, the seventh-highest fee within the league this season. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Panthers WR Tetairoa McMillan will catch a number of passes of 15 air yards or extra after having caught precisely one such go in every of his first 4 video games. The Dolphins’ protection is permitting 9.6 air yards per try, second most within the league. — Walder
1:20
Smith-Njigba on Seattle’s offense: Darnold has been subsequent stage
Seahawks WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba joins “The Wealthy Eisen Present” to clarify why Seattle’s offense has began to click on this season.
Accidents: Dolphins | Panthers
Fantasy nugget: Because the Dolphins acquired Hill in 2022, 76% of QB Tagovailoa’s completions and 82% of his large receiver yards have gone to Hill or Waddle. In the one recreation Miami has performed with out Hill throughout that span, Waddle caught eight passes for 142 yards and a landing. He ought to as soon as once more see loads of targets towards the Panthers. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Panthers have lined 4 straight video games following a loss (2-0 ATS this season). They’re 7-1 ATS of their previous eight video games following a loss. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Panthers 33, Dolphins 27
Moody’s choose: Panthers 31, Dolphins 28
Walder’s choose: Panthers 23, Dolphins 20
FPI prediction: CAR, 51.3% (by a median of 0.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: WR Hill dislocates knee in win towards Jets … Panthers search solutions after embarrassing loss to Patriots … Hill harm FAQ: Restoration timetable, his NFL future, how Miami will adapt
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup score: 19.6/100
ESPN BET: NO -1.5 (41.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Giants: The Giants are pumping in crowd noise and dealing on communication at observe all through the week, particularly with this being rookie QB Jaxson Dart‘s first profession street recreation. However Dart famous he performed within the SEC and has performed in a dome earlier than. He is not wanting on the Superdome as any form of particular problem. He is extra involved with getting the ball out faster, getting by his progressions higher and avoiding sacks towards a Saints protection that has gotten dwelling on a decent 10% of dropbacks. — Jordan Raanan
What we’re listening to on the Saints: Saints TEs Foster Moreau and Taysom Hill returned to observe this week for the primary time since final season, when each sustained severe knee accidents. Although it is unlikely both will play this weekend, coach Kellen Moore did not rule it out fully. Getting each gamers again will probably be a giant increase to the offense. “With 108 seconds left within the 2024 season, I received a helmet to the surface of the knee on a five-step out route, and my offseason is canceled,” Moreau stated. “It is brutal, and that a part of sports activities is among the hardest components. However what would not kill you makes you stronger. And I’ve had a hell of an offseason.” — Katherine Terrell
Stat to know: Giants RB Cam Skattebo has 181 dashing yards and 98 receiving yards by 4 profession video games. If he has a productive day Sunday, Skattebo can be the fourth Giants rookie because the 1970 merger with 200 dashing yards and 100 receiving yards by 5 profession video games. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: The Giants will ship double-digit quarterback hits in a win Sunday. After a little bit of a gradual begin, edge rusher Abdul Carter regarded dominant final week, and now the Giants face a Saints group that ranks twenty ninth in go block win fee (51.9%). — Walder
Fantasy nugget: Dart completed with 19.8 fantasy factors final week, with 11.4 of these factors coming from dashing. It is a nice matchup for Dart, Wan’Dale Robinson and Darius Slayton towards a protection that has allowed the fifth-most fantasy factors per recreation to quarterbacks. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Saints QB Spencer Rattler is 0-10 outright and 2-8 ATS in his profession as a starter. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Saints 23, Giants 20
Moody’s choose: Saints 20, Giants 18
Walder’s choose: Giants 23, Saints 16
FPI prediction: NO, 53.5% (by a median of 1.4 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Dart on Saints draft snub: ‘At all times a chip in your shoulder’ … Saints ‘received to discover a strategy to get a win’ with Giants looming
4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup score: 57.7/100
ESPN BET: SEA -3.5 (45.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Buccaneers: The Bucs have surrendered touchdowns on the primary defensive possession in three of their 4 video games, however have solely scored on the primary offensive possession as soon as. That may be a massive purpose why they’ve needed to come from behind within the remaining two minutes of their video games, which have all been determined by one rating or much less. QB Baker Mayfield stated of this week’s recreation: “[We’ve] received to begin sooner, [we’ve] received to be the aggressor, not wait [for] whether or not it is chippy or we get hit within the mouth as soon as. We have to return out swinging.” — Jenna Laine
What we’re listening to on the Seahawks: Coach Mike Macdonald stated that by the Seahawks’ in-house metrics, Mayfield might be the most effective quarterback within the NFL proper now when it comes to extended-play conditions. “That is one thing it’s important to take care of, however he additionally performs on time,” Macdonald stated. “He is extraordinarily correct, he is received a fantastic arm, after which when he extends performs, clearly he is a fantastic competitor.” Mayfield has the eighth-fastest common time earlier than throw at 2.68 seconds. — Brady Henderson
Stat to know: The Bucs have scored and allowed an equivalent 97 factors to date this season. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Seahawks edge Boye Mafe will document a 25% go rush win fee — or higher. When DeMarcus Lawrence (quadriceps) received harm in final week’s recreation, Mafe moved to play extra reverse the best sort out. That is the place you wish to be towards the Bucs proper now, with Charlie Heck (80% go block win fee) at the moment stationed there. Assuming Lawrence both misses the sport or performs much less, that ought to arrange Mafe to make a pass-rushing affect. — Walder
1:49
Stephen A.: Bengals’ season is a ‘wash’ with out Burrow
Stephen A. Smith breaks down the struggles dealing with the Bengals with star quarterback Joe Burrow injured.
Accidents: Buccaneers | Seahawks
Fantasy nugget: Seahawks QB Sam Darnold has averaged 16.2 fantasy factors over his previous three video games in an offense that ranks fourth in dashing makes an attempt per recreation. Seattle could must lean on the passing recreation towards a defensive entrance that permits the fewest dashing yards to working backs, however Tampa Bay additionally provides up the eighth-most fantasy factors to quarterbacks. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Bucs are 6-1 ATS after a loss because the begin of final season, and 11-4 ATS after a loss with Mayfield (since 2023). Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Seahawks 35, Buccaneers 25
Moody’s choose: Seahawks 26, Buccaneers 24
Walder’s choose: Seahawks 27, Buccaneers 17
FPI prediction: SEA, 53.9% (by a median of 1.5 factors)
Matchup must-read: Seahawks signal Darnold’s praises after game-winning drive
4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup score: 25.2/100
ESPN BET: ARI -7.5 (42.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Titans: The Titans’ protection will do its finest to maintain Cardinals QB Kyler Murray from breaking off lengthy runs by design or circumstance. Defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson stated the go rush needs to be coordinated and disciplined to verify the protection would not go away an escape lane for Murray to leak by. “He tries to get outdoors the pocket, they’ve some choices with him,” Wilson stated. “Issues like that with the run go choice and all these issues, so we received to maintain ’em in a nicely, we received to comprise ’em.” — Turron Davenport
What we’re listening to on the Cardinals: Murray is making an attempt to maintain his head down and concentrate on the current with the state of the Cardinals’ offense, which struggled mightily in seven of its previous eight quarters. Other than the fourth quarter in a loss to the Seahawks final Thursday night time, Arizona’s offense struggled to maneuver the ball and rating in Weeks 3 and 4. However Murray stated it is arduous and the “human in me” desires to take a look at the totality of Arizona’s points, however specializing in in the present day takes self-discipline, he stated. “I strive not to take a look at the large image, as a result of s— will get you get pissed off wanting on the massive image,” Murray stated. — Josh Weinfuss
Stat to know: Titans QB Cam Ward has been sacked an NFL-high 17 instances this season, whereas the Cardinals rank fifth in go rush win fee this season (47%). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Cardinals RB Michael Carter will document 80 or extra dashing yards. It is arduous to know precisely how the Cardinals’ backfield work will shake out in mild of Trey Benson‘s transfer to IR, however whoever will get the frenzy makes an attempt ought to be put in a fantastic place for achievement: The Titans rank fourth worst when it comes to EPA allowed per opponent rush (.09). — Walder
Fantasy nugget: The Cardinals’ backfield is skinny with Benson (knee) and James Conner out. Emari Demercado is now positioned to guide the Cardinals’ working again committee. He is firmly on the flex radar in Week 5 towards a Titans protection that permits the fourth-most fantasy factors to backs. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Titans are 3-18 ATS below Brian Callahan, the worst document for any coach within the Tremendous Bowl period (min. 5 video games). Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Cardinals 28, Titans 23
Moody’s choose: Cardinals 27, Titans 16
Walder’s choose: Cardinals 28, Titans 14
FPI prediction: ARI, 73.4% (by a median of 9.7 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Regardless of 0-4 begin, Titans nonetheless imagine they’ll proper ship … Cardinals must fill void in injury-depleted working again room … Ward vents frustration after Titans blanked, fall to 0-4 … Harrison conserving belief in self amid inconsistencies
4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup score: 71.3/100
ESPN BET: LAC -2.5 (48.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Commanders: Washington’s protection continues to be affected by explosive performs, having allowed an NFL-worst 28 go performs of 15 yards or extra. It has been a mix of errors: communication and gamers abandoning assignments making an attempt to make a giant play. They will have to protect Chargers QB Justin Herbert, who ranks eleventh with 20 go performs of a minimum of 15 yards. Of these performs, he has accomplished seven with three touchdowns to WR Quentin Johnston. “If we clear up the explosive passes, we’re taking part in stable,” stated defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. “Proper now we’re taking part in sloppy. We are going to clear it up.” — John Keim
What we’re listening to on the Chargers: After a recreation the place Herbert was hit 13 instances and sacked twice, the Chargers might be with out two beginning offensive linemen once more Sunday. LT Joe Alt (ankle) is uncertain for Sunday, and RG Mekhi Becton (concussion) did not play final week. “Simply go on the market and execute and do what you’ve got been educated to do,” Herbert stated of his message to backups. “They’re playmakers, too.” — Kris Rhim
Stat to know: This will probably be a staunch matchup within the purple zone. The Commanders have scored touchdowns on seven of 9 such drives (78%). The Chargers have allowed touchdowns on 4 of 13 such drives (31%). — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Commanders QB Jayden Daniels will full fewer than 10 passes to large receivers. Chargers CBs Donte Jackson and Tarheeb Nonetheless each rank within the high 5 in lowest yards per protection snap allowed amongst outdoors corners with a minimum of 100 protection snaps, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. That may make throwing outdoors tough in any circumstance, and much more with Washington lacking WR Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) due to harm. — Walder
Accidents: Commanders | Chargers
Fantasy nugget: Herbert struggled to capitalize in a good matchup towards the Giants, ending with a season-low 12.5 fantasy factors. Nonetheless, his fortunes (and people of fantasy managers) may change towards the Commanders, who’ve allowed the seventh-most fantasy factors per recreation to quarterbacks. Herbert additionally has an elite trio of receivers in Johnston, Ladd McConkey and Keenan Allen, who ought to assist him bounce again. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Three straight Chargers video games have gone below the entire. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Chargers 20, Commanders 10
Moody’s choose: Chargers 27, Commanders 21
Walder’s choose: Chargers 30, Commanders 17
FPI prediction: LAC, 58.2% (by a median of three.1 factors)
Matchup must-reads: QB Daniels (knee) plans to play vs. Chargers … Alt uncertain to play Sunday, Harbaugh says … Commanders’ D targeted on execution after flop vs. Falcons … Chargers’ Harbaugh: Hits Herbert taking ‘very regarding’
4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup score: 66.0/100
ESPN BET: DET -10.5 (49.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Lions: It’s going to be an emotional homecoming for Lions RB David Montgomery as he performs in his hometown for the primary time in his NFL profession. He performed the Bengals as soon as in 2021 with the Bears in Chicago (20 rushes, 61 yards), however he has by no means had a street recreation towards the Bengals. Montgomery attended Mount Wholesome (Ohio) Excessive College, the place he earned All-State honors as a dual-threat QB. He’s coming off a season-low 12 dashing yards with 9 carries towards Cleveland, however is trying to get again on monitor in a well-recognized setting in entrance of household and mates. “He will kill it,” Arvie Crouch, Montgomery’s highschool coach, informed ESPN. — Eric Woodyard
What we’re listening to on the Bengals: This recreation will probably be a intestine test for the Bengals in each approach doable. The Lions are anticipated to steamroller Cincinnati, which is in a few of the worst kind in franchise historical past. Detroit is second within the NFL in fee of designed rush performs, per ESPN Analysis. The Bengals’ rush protection must restrict massive performs, and stopping these will come all the way down to deploying primary strategies. Stated defensive coordinator Al Golden: “Simply defend your hole, maintain the ball in your inside pad. Play with leverage.” — Ben Child
Stat to know: Bengals WR Ja’Marr Chase is searching for to keep away from going three straight video games with 50 or fewer receiving yards for the second time in his profession. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Bengals QB Jake Browning will document a 60-plus QBR. Do not get me improper: Confidence in Browning has dropped off dramatically from the place it was a number of weeks in the past. However then once more, the 2 defenses he has performed have been the Vikings and Broncos, and it would not get a lot harder than that. Contemplating his previous success, I believe there’s nonetheless hope for him and the Bengals. — Walder
1:35
Why Worthy desires similar chemistry with Mahomes as Kelce
Xavier Worthy joins “The Wealthy Eisen Present” to share his favourite Patrick Mahomes second and displays on why taking part in with him is a blessing.
Fantasy nugget: Lions QB Jared Goff has averaged simply 14.1 fantasy factors per recreation on the street since 2021. Detroit can be sensible to lean closely on Jahmyr Gibbs, Montgomery and the working recreation. This matchup additionally has one of many increased totals on the slate, and the Bengals’ protection has given up the second-most fantasy factors per recreation to working backs. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Lions are 11-2 ATS as street favorites since 2023. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Lions 37, Bengals 34
Moody’s choose: Lions 33 Bengals 17
Walder’s choose: Lions 31, Bengals 26
FPI prediction: DET, 76.9% (by a median of 11.0 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Lions put CB Reed on IR on account of hamstring … QB Browning has Taylor’s ‘unwavering’ confidence … St. Brown-Goff connection shines once more in 2 TD day vs. Browns
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC | Matchup score: 64.4/100
ESPN BET: BUF -7.5 (49.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Patriots: An surprising harm subject popped up with one of many Patriots’ finest gamers, as beginning DT Milton Williams was added to the harm report Wednesday as a restricted participant due to his ankle. Then Williams did not observe Thursday. He has performed 72% of the defensive snaps by 4 video games, has two sacks and has constantly created inside strain. If he would not play, that would thrust Khyiris Tonga right into a beginning position subsequent to Christian Barmore. — Mike Reiss
What we’re listening to on the Payments: How will the dashing offense, which has been key to begin the season, reply to the problem the Patriots’ protection presents? RB James Cook dinner has led Buffalo on the bottom and has 100-plus yards in three straight video games. New England, nevertheless, is tied for second in opponent dashing yards per recreation (77.5) and yards per rush (3.3). “[Cook] has such a extremely good understanding of what we’re making an attempt to do, and the way the fellows are blocking and studying it. And he is actually particular proper now,” offensive coordinator Joe Brady stated. — Alaina Getzenberg
Stat to know: Payments QB Josh Allen has 45 profession video games with each a passing landing and a dashing landing, tied with Cam Newton for essentially the most by any participant in NFL historical past. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Patriots rookie RB TreVeyon Henderson will document 64 or extra dashing yards, doubling his present profession excessive. Payments opponents have recorded a minus-14% go fee over expectation this season, by far the bottom within the league. The Payments’ protection induces opponents’ runs. — Walder
Accidents: Patriots | Payments
Fantasy nugget: Payments TE Dalton Kincaid continues to separate snaps and routes with others within the place group. You wish to prioritize him in favorable matchups, like this week’s, which options one of many highest level totals on the slate. Kincaid catches passes from Allen in a Payments offense that ranks second in whole yards per recreation. He faces a protection that offers up the ninth-most fantasy factors per recreation to tight ends. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Patriots have lined 4 straight conferences with two outright wins as underdogs. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis
Maldonado’s choose: Payments 38, Patriots 24
Moody’s choose: Payments 34, Patriots 24
Walder’s choose: Payments 31, Patriots 27
FPI prediction: BUF, 67.5% (by a median of seven.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Diggs’ comeback is underway with the Patriots … Will Bosa’s remaining(?) chapter finish with a cheerful ending in Buffalo?
Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ESPN | Matchup score: 68.5/100
ESPN BET: KC -3.5 (46.5 O/U)
What we’re listening to on the Chiefs: The Chiefs know that Jaguars star Travis Etienne Jr. would be the finest RB they’ve confronted to date this season — and that record already consists of Baltimore’s Derrick Henry and Philadelphia’s Saquon Barkley. Etienne has powered the Jaguars’ offense with 394 dashing yards, the third most within the league. “What’s caught out to me watching movie the previous few days is how nicely he’s on the sting,” LB Leo Chenal stated of Etienne. “His stiff-arm is sweet, but it surely’s not simply setting an edge. It’s important to have nice eyes and proceed to press the sting as a result of he’ll bounce it out even in case you’ve received a [defensive end] setting the sting two yards up the sector. You higher be able to knock down a stiff-arm.” — Nate Taylor
What we’re listening to on the Jaguars: One of many issues being confused to the defensive gamers this week: Do not get discouraged. QB Patrick Mahomes is an escape artist who can flip a foul play into an enormous achieve with an off-schedule throw from a bizarre arm angle. It may occur a minimum of as soon as, however the secret is to neglect about it instantly when it does. “We have simply received to go and huddle up, name the following play, refocus and perceive that they have good gamers, too, and they’ll make some [big plays],” coach Liam Coen stated. — Michael DiRocco
Stat to know: The Jaguars enter Week 5 main the NFL in drops this season (10) and are the one group with a double-digit drop whole. — ESPN Analysis
Daring prediction: Jaguars slot CB Jourdan Lewis won’t permit a single reception to Chiefs WRs Hollywood Brown or JuJu Smith-Schuster whereas protecting them. Lewis has allowed 0.7 yards per protection snap this season (fifth finest amongst slot corners with a minimum of 80 protection snaps) together with a minus-17% completion proportion over expectation, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. — Walder
Fantasy nugget: The Chiefs’ defensive entrance ranks thirty first in run cease win fee (25.5%), whereas the Jaguars’ offensive line ranks second in run block win fee (76.5%). This is a bonus Jacksonville should exploit, and with Etienne, it ought to find a way to take action. He has had 16-plus touches in each recreation this season, and 17-plus fantasy factors in three of them. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody Betting nugget: The Chiefs are 4-1 ATS of their previous 5 video games as favorites. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis Maldonado’s choose: Chiefs 24, Jaguars 21 Matchup must-reads: WR Worthy unlocks Chiefs’ offense in return from shoulder harm … Coen has revived the Jaguars’ run recreation … Jaguars’ Walker has wrist surgical procedure, may play vs. Chiefs
Moody’s choose: Chiefs 23, Jaguars 22
Walder’s choose: Chiefs 24, Jaguars 21
FPI prediction: KC, 62.8% (by a median of 5.1 factors)
