The NFL moves into its second week of the 2026 season with teams seeking to build on early performances and address shortcomings revealed in the opening games. Analysts and models offer a range of projections as teams prepare for Sunday and Monday matchups across the league.
In Tampa Bay, the Buccaneers, who fell in their opener for the first time since 2020, are favored by 8.5 points at home against the Cleveland Browns. The Browns, coming off a poor road loss at Jacksonville, may see this as a chance to improve, with some experts noting that Cleveland could keep the game closer than the spread suggests. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Eagles, after a strong offensive showing under new coordinator Shurmur in Week 1, are expected to continue their success on the road against the Tennessee Titans, who struggled defensively in their season opener. The Eagles are favored by seven points, with many projecting a solid win behind quarterback Jalen Hurts.
Green Bay travels to face the New York Jets with the Packers favored by 3.5 points. The Packers face challenges protecting quarterback Jordan Love and overcoming a string of losses since a key injury last season. Weather conditions, including rain, may also play a factor in this matchup, potentially limiting offensive effectiveness. The Jets’ secondary has been identified as a weakness, but they hope to capitalize on the environment and recent struggles by Green Bay.
In Houston, the Texans are slight favorites over the Cincinnati Bengals, with a 2.5-point spread. While Cincinnati has bolstered their defense, concerns remain regarding quarterback Joe Burrow’s health and the defensive pressure posed by Texans’ players like Will Anderson Jr. Analysts caution that turnovers and protecting the football will be key on both sides.
Other notable matchups include the New England Patriots hosting the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Patriots are favored by 5.5 points, though questions remain about quarterback Drake Maye’s performance and the Steelers’ ability to support Aaron Rodgers without key offensive weapons. The Minnesota Vikings are slight underdogs on the road against the Chicago Bears, with the Vikings’ defense expected to provide resistance against the Bears’ high-scoring aspirations.
The Carolina Panthers visit Atlanta with a narrow spread favoring Carolina. Panthers quarterback Bryce Young’s strong start contrasts with concerns about Atlanta’s quarterback situation, potentially tipping the scales. In Baltimore, the Ravens, featuring Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry, are favored over the New Orleans Saints, though the Saints might challenge the Ravens’ defense, especially with wide receiver Zay Flowers’ availability in question.
Sunday’s late games include matchups with implications for playoff positioning and team morale: Denver hosts Jacksonville with a slight edge; Los Angeles Chargers are favored against Las Vegas; and Miami faces a tough test at San Francisco with a large spread favoring the 49ers.
Monday night concludes the week with the New York Giants visiting the Los Angeles Rams. The Rams, despite home-field advantage and rest, have shown inconsistencies, allowing the Giants a potential opportunity to secure a win.
As the season progresses, teams are adapting to injuries, new coordinators, and shifting dynamics. While some favorites appear solid, others face questions about consistency and execution, promising competitive games as NFL action continues.