For the second week in a row, the Los Angeles Rams make the "Games of the Week". If you haven't caught on yet, they are my darkhorse team for the year. I fully expect them to win the NFC West as long as QB Wang can stay healthy. On the opposite side of the field is the Carolina Panthers. There has been a lot of discussion about the Panthers and their offseason. As many know, they went all out this year signing WR OBJ, SS Collins, and QB Mariota. Some in the organization are calling this a "revenge" game, as the Rams flat out embarrassed the Panthers in previous seasons by 60+ points. The Rams put up a very impressive week 1 victory versus the much improved Dolphins. If the Panthers can limit turnovers, this one could be interesting but I don't see that happening. Revenge is cute, but if the Rams strike early...what's the counter punch? My Projection - Rams 35, Panthers 17
Bills (0-1) @ Cardinals (0-1)
If you would have told me going in to week 2 that both these teams were 0-1, I would have called you crazy. These are two playoff-caliber teams who could be real threats in their conference. The Buffalo Bills went into the offseason prepared to trade virtually anyone on their roster. Their roster has taken a downslide this offseason and they are starting QB Jared Trattou under center. If you didn't know who that is, don't worry...either do Buffalo fans. In Arizona, they have also found some QB drama as starter Mike McClure had turnovers for breakfast and decided he wanted to share. Having multiple interceptions and fumbles could make this game an absolute disaster start for Arizona. Both of these teams seasons are hanging in the balance and an 0-2 start could be too much to overcome in their respected divisions. I know it's early in the season, but the loser of this game will not make the playoffs. You heard it here first.... Cardinals 24, Bills 20
Vikings (0-1) @ Packers (0-1)
Ahhh.... One of the best RZ rivalries in the league. The Minnesota Vikings versus the Green Bay Packers. Before last season, I would say this rivalry was dead and there wasn't much competition between the two. Somehow, someway.... the Packers SWEPT the Vikings last season and finished 8-8. They also found an absolute stud in WR Spencer Dixon. Was last year a fluke? Or will the Packers finally be able to compete in the divison? Both of these teams lost in killer fashion week 1. The Vikings lost on a blocked last second field goal while the Packers were destroyed by the Lions. My gut feeling says last year was a fraud and the Packers will return to a 3-4 win team but what if? If the Packers fall to 0-2, that will tell you all you need to know for them on the season. The schedule also doesn't do any favors for the Packers. In their first 7 games, they have 5 divison games and an early bye. Yikes! Vikings get their first win on the season this week and could easily be 2-0 if it weren't for a special teams blunder. Vikings 35, Packers 10