(Updated 12:23 pm) NFL Week 3 Sunday - Three of the Best Games to Watch

NFL Week 3 Sunday Games are About to Kick Off

SUNDAY, SEPT. 24

The NFL never ceases to amaze, and Week 3 of the 2023 regular season promises more of the same. Several games to watch today will show us who is here for a good time, and whose here for a long time.

Among these matches, watch out for a former first-round pick eager to make a statement following a sluggish season onset.

As the season unfolds, the sheer number of star players to watch and thrilling games to witness can be overwhelming. But fear not, we've got your back, offering all the insights you need as we head into the NFL's third Sunday of the 2023 season.

It’s almost game time. Let’s get it!

1. Sunday Games to Watch

2. Sunday Matchups

3. 1 P.M. Games Inactive Lists

Steelers at Raiders
Where: Allegiant Stadium (Las Vegas)
When: 8:20 p.m. ET | NBC, NFL+, Universo
Moneyline: Steelers: +126 | Raiders: -150
Spread: Raiders -2.5 | O/U: 43
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Things to know:

• Historic rivals clash: Las Vegas (1-1) vs. Pittsburgh (1-1).

• Las Vegas aims to recover from a 38-10 loss to the Bills.

• Pittsburgh's offense is keen to dominate after underperforming in the first two weeks.

Pittsburgh's Game Plan:

• Kenny Pickett, the Steelers' QB, has faced criticism and is expected to enhance his gameplay, potentially playing faster and looking downfield.

• Increased targets for George Pickens, but Pickett will also aim to distribute to other skill players.

• Expect a boost in Steelers' running game against the Raiders' 27th ranked run defense.

Las Vegas' Strategy:

• Jimmy Garoppolo to focus on quick passes, challenging the Steelers' secondary which has shown vulnerability.

Our Take

During their recent win against Cleveland, the Steelers scored both their initial and final points from outside linebacker plays. However, repeating such a performance in consecutive weeks is unlikely. Given their top receiver's injury and an inconsistent offense, Pittsburgh's scoring source this Sunday is uncertain. In contrast, trusting Josh Jacobs to exploit Pittsburgh's weak run defense in the Raiders' home opener seems more plausible than Kenny Pickett finding success against Las Vegas' vulnerable secondary.

Falcons at Lions
Where: Ford Field (Detroit)
When: 1 p.m. ET | FOX
Moneyline: Falcons: +143 | Lions: -170
Spread: Lions -3 | O/U: 46
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Things to Know

• While a Falcons-Lions 1 p.m. matchup isn't typically a headline game, current circumstances change that.

  • Falcons are undefeated at 2-0.

  • Lions experienced an overtime loss after a significant win over the reigning champion Chiefs.

Key Matchup:

• Lions' 10th ranked scoring offense vs. Falcons' eighth-ranked scoring defense.

• Lions' QB Jared Goff should be wary of Falcons safety, Jessie Bates III:

  • Former Bengals standout.

  • Already boasts two interceptions and a forced fumble this season.

Rookies to Watch:

• Falcons' Bijan Robinson:

  • Averaging a remarkable 6.2 yards per carry.

• Lions' Jahmyr Gibbs:

  • Set to see increased action due to David Montgomery's injury.

Our Take

The Lions' eagerly awaited home opener was a letdown. Despite a revamped defense, they struggled against Geno Smith and Seattle, with Goff's impressive streak ending in an unfortunate interception. Injuries, including a possibly season-ending one for C.J. Gardner-Johnson, added to their woes. The Seahawks even turned CJGJ's pregame antics into a mocking postgame gesture. Despite these setbacks, the Lions have an opportunity to change the narrative and win against the emerging Falcons by ensuring a strong run defense against Arthur Smith's potent offense.

Chargers at Vikings
Where: U.S. Bank Stadium (Minneapolis)
When: 1 p.m. ET | FOX
Moneyline: Chargers: -105 | Vikings: -115
Spread: Vikings -1 | O/U: 54
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Things to Know

• Today’s a battle between two 0-2 teams in a must-win scenario for both.

Offensive Showdown:

• Chargers, under Justin Herbert, possess the NFL's sixth-best scoring offense.

• Vikings, with Kirk Cousins, boast the NFL's second-ranked passing offense.

Key Differences:

• Chargers could miss their starting running back Austin Ekeler.

• Vikings might feature new addition Cam Akers, acquired in a trade with the Rams.

Our Take

This week's uncertain pick is between the Vikings and the Chargers, with both teams having yet to establish early credibility. The Vikings, despite having more prep time after a Thursday loss, have the highest fumbles in two games over two decades. On the other hand, the Chargers started 0-2 even with over 50 points and no giveaways. The game's outcome could see the Vikings playing more efficiently and the Chargers making errors, but it's as unpredictable as a coin toss.

WHERE: M&T Bank Stadium (Baltimore)
WHEN: 1 p.m. ET | CBS
MONEYLINE: Colts: +300 | Ravens: -385
SPREAD: Ravens -8 | O/U: 45
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Our Take

To pull off an upset, the Colts need to make Lamar Jackson commit errors and play strong defense. They also need a standout performance from backup QB Gardner Minshew, especially if Anthony Richardson remains sidelined due to last week's concussion. Despite this, an outstanding showing from Minshew in Baltimore seems unlikely.

WHERE: Cleveland Browns Stadium (Cleveland)
WHEN: 1 p.m. ET | CBS
MONEYLINE: Titans: + 143 | Browns: -170
SPREAD: Browns -3.5 | O/U: 39.5
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Our Take

Despite the Browns' struggles without Nick Chubb and their recent poor performance against the Steelers, they remain favorites at home, especially with Kareem Hunt onboard. However, the game may be closely contested. Although Jim Schwartz's defense is a challenge for the Titans, following a positive game against the Chargers, Tennessee might just have the edge to win.

WHERE: Lambeau Field (Green Bay, Wis.)
WHEN: 1 p.m. ET | FOX
MONEYLINE: Saints: +110 | Packers: -130
SPREAD: Packers -2 | O/U: 42.5
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Our Take

The Packers' young receivers are up against a strong Saints secondary, one of the best in the league. While Marcus Maye's suspension weakens the defense, the Saints have enough talent to compensate. Interestingly, playing in Green Bay might favor the Saints due to Dennis Allen's defenses performing impressively on the road. Since 2018, New Orleans has had stellar defensive stats during away games. Their capacity to perform in challenging venues like Lambeau will be pivotal on Sunday.

WHERE: EverBank Stadium (Jacksonville, Fla.)
WHEN: 1 p.m. ET | FOX
MONEYLINE: Texans: +320 | Jaguars: -420
SPREAD: Jaguars -8.5 | O/U: 44
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Our Take

In Week 2, Trevor Lawrence's team struggled in the red zone, often settling for field goals. To win, they'll need more than that, even against a novice quarterback. Jacksonville is expected to up their offensive game against Houston's defense, which has been giving up an average of 28 points per game. While rookie C.J. Stroud had a commendable performance last week, he needs better protection, having been sacked 11 times in two weeks. Jacksonville's defense is likely to capitalize on the Texans' weak offensive line.

WHERE: Hard Rock Stadium (Miami Gardens, Fla.)
WHEN: 1 p.m. ET | CBS
MONEYLINE: Broncos: +235 | Dolphins: -292
SPREAD: Dolphins -6.5 | O/U: 48.5
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Our Take

In the first two weeks, Miami showcased a versatile offensive prowess, effective both in passing and rushing. In Week 1, Tagovailoa and Hill dominated the Chargers through aerial attacks. In Week 2, the Patriots focused on Miami's receivers, allowing RB Mostert to excel on the ground. The challenge now lies with the Broncos' defensive coordinator, Vance Joseph, whose unit has been under scrutiny. Given Miami's form, Sunday's game might not offer him any respite.

WHERE: MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, N.J.)
WHEN: 1 p.m. ET | CBS
MONEYLINE: Patriots: -150 | Jets: +126
SPREAD: Patriots -2.5 | O/U: 36.5
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Our Take

The Patriots' offense seems shaky, particularly in their upcoming match. If Belichick can't strategize to counteract Zach Wilson, troubles may deepen for New England. While Wilson's track record against the Patriots is notably poor, with a 0-4 record and subpar stats, it's still a challenge for the Patriots. Despite the odds indicating a potential 0-3 record for Mac Jones and his team, making a definite prediction is challenging.

WHERE: FedEx Field (Landover, Md.)
WHEN: 1 p.m. ET | CBS
MONEYLINE: Bills: -292 | Commanders: +235
SPREAD: Bills -6.5 | O/U: 43.5
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Our Take

After a commendable performance last Sunday, confidence in Sam Howell is high, especially with his recent fourth-quarter comebacks. Facing the robust Buffalo defense, the onus is on offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy to devise strategies for Howell to effectively distribute the ball to his talented playmakers. The goal is to utilize their playmaking ability in open spaces. If Howell remains focused and Washington can pressure Josh Allen using only their defensive line, they might surprise everyone, reaching a 3-0 start for the first time since 2005.

1:00 p.m. Games

Falcons

• n/a

Lions

• Kerby Joseph (S)

• David Montgomery (RB)

• Emmanuel Moseley (CB)

Colts

• Anthony Richardson (QB)

Ravens

• Odell Beckham Jr. (WR)

• Justice Hill (RB)

• Marlon Humphrey (CB)

• Odafe Oweh (DE)

• Marcus Williams (S)

Texans

• Jalen Pitre (S)

• Tavierre Thomas (CB)

• Denzel Perryman (LB)

• Derek Rivers (DE)

• Dare Ogunbowale (RB)

• Case Keenum (QB)

Jaguars

• Zay Jones (WR)

• Antonio Johnson (S)

• Parker Washington (WR)

• Elijah Cooks (WR)

• JaMycal Hasty (RB)

Bills

• n/a

Commanders

• Logan Thomas (TE)

Titans

• Kearis Jackson (WR)

Browns

• Greg Newsome II (CB)

Saints

• Foster Moreau (TE)

• Paulson Adebo (CB)

• Jamaal Williams (RB)

Packers

• Aaron Jones (RB)

• Christian Watson (WR)

• Zayne Anderson (LB)

Chargers

• Austin Ekeler (RB)

• Eric Kendricks (LB)

Vikings

• Marcus Davenport (DE)

Broncos

• Frank Clark (DE)

• Justin Simmons (S)

Dolphins

• Jaylen Waddle (WR)

Patriots

• Jonathan Jones (CB)

Jets

• Tony Adams (S)