Las Vegas Raiders (0-1) vs. Buffalo Bills (0-1)
As we gear up for a thrilling Week 2 in the NFL, two teams desperate for their first win will clash in a Sunday showdown. The Las Vegas Raiders (0-1) travel to Highmark Stadium to face off against the Buffalo Bills (0-1). As both teams aim to bounce back from disappointing Week 1 performances, let’s delve into what the experts are saying in their NFL Week 2 daily picks.
Josh Jacobs, Oakland Raiders running back Josh Jacobs didn’t set the world on fire in Week 1. Averaging only 48 rushing yards out of 19 attempts and an unimpressive 2.5 average yards per carry average, Jacobs managed three key first downs while remaining fumble-free. Yet, they will need him more if they wish to defeat Buffalo’s defense effectively. Jakobi Meyers has quickly become one of Jimmy Garoppolo’s favorite targets. With 9 receptions on 10 targets for 81 yards and two touchdowns, Meyers was an oasis in an otherwise lackluster performance for the Raiders. If Meyers can maintain this level of dependability and significant play ability against the Buffalo Bills’ secondary, he’ll become an essential weapon against them.
James Cook turned in a solid performance in Week 1, amassing 46 yards on 12 attempts and posting an average yards-per-carry mark of 3.8, showing potential and could pose a problem for a Raiders defense that struggled against running last week. Cook’s first-down efficiency also plays a pivotal role. Stefon Diggs remains a beacon for the Buffalo Bills’ passing game. Diggs made 10 receptions for 102 yards during Week 1, providing quarterback Josh Allen with reliable weapons to reach his scoring potential. But more touchdowns must be reached to realize Buffalo’s scoring potential; Diggs must stretch the field as much as possible against an aggressive Raiders defense.
Las Vegas Raiders vs. Buffalo Bills Game Info
| When: | Sunday, September 17, 2023 at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Highmark Stadium |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream | NFL Game Pass |
Jimmy Garoppolo QB vs. Josh Allen QB
Jimmy Garoppolo had an admirable Week 1 performance for the Raiders, showing efficiency that Josh Allen lacked. Completing 76.9% of his passes for 200 yards at an efficiency rating of 107.5 and connecting two touchdowns while throwing only one interception, Garoppolo displayed impressive control in their passing game that they hope continues through 2019. Jakobi Meyers may emerge as a significant threat if their offensive line protects Garoppolo effectively and ensures zero sacks during week 1. If this holds, their passing game could provide a foundational solid effort towards offensive efforts.
Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen had an off-putting performance in Week 1, throwing three interceptions and only one touchdown pass – raising questions about his consistency and a passer rating of 62.7, making a statement about their team as title contenders this season. Sacked five times (losing 19 yards in total), Allen needs time and space to regain the form that made him an MVP candidate last season, thus making this quarterback matchup one that showcases two players searching to establish themselves against their opposition: Garoppolo for himself while Allen for Buffalo Bills;
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Buffalo Bills -410, Total odds: 47
The betting odds heavily favor Buffalo, with a spread of -9.5 and a Moneyline of -410. However, the Raiders are 6-3 ATS in their last nine games, which could suggest that the game might be closer than the odds indicate. The total of 47 suggests that bookmakers are expecting a moderately high-scoring game, and given both teams’ recent trends, this seems likely.
Las Vegas Raiders Betting Trends
The Raiders have had great success against the spread in recent games, going 6-3 against it over their last nine contests. HOWEVER, their SU record in those six contests was less impressive at just 2-4, and 5 of their last 7 total games ended up going UNDER as well, suggesting their offense may not be as potent.
Buffalo Bills Betting Trends
Buffalo has struggled against the spread, going 2-5 against it in its last seven games. Yet their record against Las Vegas stands out at an impressive 8-2, showing they usually find a way to victory. Their games tend to be high-scoring affairs; 4 of their last 6 total went over.
Las Vegas Raiders vs. Buffalo Bills 9/17/23 Betting Picks
Based on trends and key players, the Bills will win, although not necessarily by as large of an edge as suggested by their spread. As an alternative strategy, betting on Raiders’ covering may be wise if placing your bet with a top sportsbook. The Bills may hold the home-field advantage and recent team performance advantage, but the Raiders promise an exciting, hard-fought encounter.
Free Pick and Prediction: Buffalo Bills will win 28-21
