When the new NFL schedule is released, we all tend to do the same things. First, we take a look at the schedule for the team that we follow, trying to figure out how the season is likely to go. Secondly, at least if you love to wager on the NFL, we start to look at which games might be the ones that require our attention throughout the season. Of course, the games that we deem to be important and high on the betting list will change once the games actually start being played, but it is still fun to look ahead and pick out the big games on the schedule in all 17 weeks of the season. We have already had a look at Week 1, so let’s now jump ahead to Week 2 of the upcoming NFL season so you can start planning ahead your bets against their NFL odds.
NFL Betting Preview for Games in Week 2
Cincinnati Bengals at Cleveland Browns
The Thursday night game in Week 2 is an AFC North clash that may not seem all that glamorous at first glance, but which is particularly crucial for the Browns. The Baltimore Ravens are the team to beat in this divisions, but with 7 playoff spots now available, finishing in second might just be enough to secure a Wild Card spot. The Cleveland Browns have been a team on the brink of having a successful season for a couple of years now, but can they finally live up to the promise? This is a game that they should win against a rebuilding Bengals team, so we might just learn what Cleveland is all about this season in this one.
Atlanta Falcons at Dallas Cowboys
Atlanta is coming off a 7-9 season, and while many believed that it would be the end of the road for coach Dan Quinn, a 4-game winning streak to end the year quite possibly saved his skin. Whether the Falcons can carry that momentum over into the new season remains to be seen, but this is a stern test that should give us some idea. The Dallas Cowboys were all over the offseason headlines, but they now have a team that has to be considered a contender in the NFC. Can they get off to a fast start and make believers of the doubters?
Baltimore Ravens at Houston Texans
This one features a pair of division winners from last season, with both looking to repeat and perhaps do a better job in the playoffs. The Baltimore Ravens have been one of the most exciting offensive teams in the league over the past couple of season, but they have made early postseason exits in both of those years. The Texans took advantage of a weak AFC South last season and did win in the playoffs before exiting. Both teams will be looking to set the tone early in the coming season, and a win here would be huge.
New Orleans Saints at Las Vegas Raiders
The NFL officially lands in Sin City on Monday night in Week 2, with the New Orleans Saints on the road to face the Raiders. While some of the glitz and glamor of this event is going to be missing with no fans in attendance, it’s still a game worth watching. The Raiders had some moments last season when they looked ready to compete, but can they take a step forward this season? This will be a tough home test for them, as the Saints look to be locked and loaded again.