Mac’s Picks got off to a mediocre start, splitting the two games against the spread. We correctly predicted that if you give the New York Jets 2 ½ points you’ll comfortably win. On the flip side, we thought the New York Giants would’ve scored more than six points against the Washington Commanders. Unfortunately, their offensive line failed to show up.
One of the things that separates football from the other three major sports is that it is a sprint, not a marathon. That’s why both teams face added pressure not to fall to 0-2— with the Jets flying to Tampa Bay, and the Giants hosting Kansas City next weekend.
Buffalo Bills (1-0) at New York Jets (0-1)
Sunday 1p CBS
The Buffalo Bills remain one of the favorites to win the AFC. Josh Allen, coming off an electrifying 4Q comeback against the Baltimore Ravens last Sunday night, appears to be at the height of his powers going into his 8th season at the age of 29. With that said, I am still surprised that the point spread is 7 ½ points because the Jets have more than held their own against Allen’s Bills in their last three meetings at MetLife Stadium.
In 2022, Zach Wilson led the Jets to a 20-17 win. In 2023, Aaron Rodgers’ “Wave the Flag; Tear the Achilles” game, the Jets won 22-16 in OT. Last season, a few days after Woody Johnson blew up the locker room by firing Robert Saleh, the Bills squeaked out a 23-20 win. It’s early, but in Week One, during Aaron Glenn’s head coaching debut, the Jets offense impressed in a losing effort.
Therefore, I have no hesitation taking the Jets plus the points. I will admit, there is some hesitation on the money line, but I like the way the Jets handled their business this past week. It’ll be another close game, but this time they will come out on top.
New York Jets 31 Buffalo Bills 30
Mac’s Pick – Jets +7 ½
New York Giants (0-1) at Dallas Cowboys (0-1)
Sunday 1p FOX
Since the Cowboys drafted Dak Prescott in the fourth round of the 2016 NFL Draft, they haven’t had a losing record in any of the seven seasons in which he’s played at least 50% of the Cowboys’ snaps:
2016 (13-3)
2017 (9-7)
2018 (10-6)
2019 (8-8)
2020 Played only 5 games
2021 (12-5)
2022 (12-5)
2023 (12-5)
2024 Played only 8 games
Prescott is not on anyone’s list of elite QBs, but when healthy, he’s been extremely productive. This season he is surrounded by talent including CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens, and Javonte Williams. More importantly, he has something that the Giants do not have. A young, promising offensive line led by Tyler Smith. The Cowboys took a hit defensively with the trade of Micah Parsons, but they still have the ability to outscore any team.
Meanwhile, whether it’s Russell Wilson or Jaxson Dart at QB, or Tyrone Tracy, Jr, Devin Singletary or Cam Skattebo in the backfield, the Giants will not be productive if their offensive line doesn’t rebound from their opening day “performance”.
Dallas Cowboys 27 New York Giants 14
Mac’s Pick – Cowboys -3 ½
MAC’S PICKS SEASON RECORD
Versus the point spread: 1-1
On the money line: 1-1
MAC’S PICKS DISCLAIMER
Mac’s Picks is written for entertainment purposes only. While “Mac” comes from gambling lineage, he’s only placed three football bets since 1989. Plus, while “Mac” strongly believes he’s fully qualified to scout and draft players, make free agent signings, negotiate trades and develop game strategy, he is aware that he cannot actually predict the future. Therefore, please use this information at your own risk.
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