NFL Week 5 picks, predictions, schedule, odds, fantasy ideas

The Week 5 NFL schedule for the 2025 season brings some thrilling matchups.

Browns rookie QB Dillon Gabriel is making his NFL debut in London in opposition to the Vikings. Old teammates in Carolina, QBs Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold, will face off once more within the Bucs-Seahawks matchup. And Commanders QB Jayden Daniels makes his return from harm in opposition to the Chargers.

We have you ever coated with every thing you want to know. Our NFL Nation reporters take you contained in the locker room with the very best factor they heard this week, and ESPN Research supplies a key stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest. Plus, analytics author Seth Walder makes a daring prediction for every matchup, and fantasy analyst Eric Moody shares fantasy soccer intel. We even have Football Power Index (FPI) matchup high quality rankings (out of 100) and recreation projections, and three analysts — Pamela Maldonado, Moody and Walder — give us remaining rating picks for each recreation.

Let’s get into the total Week 5 slate, which culminates with a “Monday Night Football” matchup between the Chiefs and Jaguars on ESPN. (Game instances are Sunday until in any other case famous.)

Jump to a matchup:
CLE-MIN | DEN-PHI | HOU-BAL
LV-IND | DAL-NYJ | MIA-CAR
NYG-NO | TB-SEA | TEN-ARI
WSH-LAC | DET-CIN | NE-BUF
KC-JAX

Thursday: SF 26, LAR 23 (OT)
Bye: ATL, CHI, GB, PIT

9:30 a.m. ET | NFL Network | Matchup score: 35.2/100
ESPN BET: MIN -3.5 (35.5 O/U)

What we’re listening to on the Browns: The Browns are turning to rookie QB Dillon Gabriel in hopes of jump-starting the league’s second-lowest-scoring offense (14 factors per recreation). Gabriel’s first begin is available in a little bit of an uncommon spot — he’ll grow to be the primary quarterback to make his first begin in a world recreation — however Cleveland believes the third-round choose has ready effectively for the second. Expect the Browns to extend their use of rollouts and RPOs to benefit from Gabriel’s mobility and accuracy. “[Gabriel] knows where to go with the ball. He knows what the coaching staff wants within the offense,” vast receiver Jerry Jeudy stated. — Daniel Oyefusi

What we’re listening to on the Vikings: The Vikings spent their week in London sorting by choices for an injury-ravaged offensive line, a very regarding growth given the power of the Browns’ defensive entrance. At the very least, the Vikings will likely be with out RT Brian O’Neill (proper knee), C Ryan Kelly (concussion) and LG Donovan Jackson (left wrist). Backup C Michael Jurgens (hamstring) sat out follow Wednesday and Thursday, making him very questionable for Sunday’s recreation. In a worst-case situation, the Vikings might be left with their No. 3 heart, their No. 3 left guard and their No. 2 proper deal with in opposition to a protection that leads the NFL in go rush win charge (56%) and run cease win charge (37.7%). — Kevin Seifert

Stat to know: The Browns have scored 17 or fewer factors in 9 straight video games relationship to final season, which is tied for the longest streak in franchise historical past. — ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Browns DT Mason Graham will document his first full sack as a professional. It’s laborious to get a greater alternative than this, as QB Carson Wentz has taken sacks at an enormous 11.5% clip to date this season. — Walder

Injuries: Browns | Vikings

Fantasy nugget: Vikings RB Jordan Mason has had 16 or extra touches in consecutive video games with Aaron Jones Sr. (hamstring) out. The excellent news: He’s seeing heavy utilization. The unhealthy information: The Vikings’ offensive line has been devastated by accidents and faces a Browns defensive entrance that beforehand shut down the Ravens’ Derrick Henry and the Packers’ Josh Jacobs. Cleveland’s protection has allowed simply 2.9 yards per carry and the second-fewest dashing yards to backs. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Vikings are 14-7 ATS (in opposition to the unfold) of their previous 21 highway/impartial video games. Read extra. — ESPN Research

Maldonado’s choose: Browns 24, Vikings 19
Moody’s choose: Vikings 20, Browns 14
Walder’s choose: Browns 18, Vikings 15
FPI prediction: MIN, 62.9% (by a mean of 4.8 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Browns bench Flacco, flip to Gabriel as beginning QB … Vikings’ plan for week between Dublin and London … Vikings’ O’Neill, Kelly injured in opposition to Steelers

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1 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup score: 77.8/100
ESPN BET: PHI -3.5 (43.5 O/U)

What we’re listening to on the Broncos: QB Bo Nix has had many weekly exams in his time because the starter. And this week Nix’s persistence will likely be examined as a lot because it ever has in opposition to an Eagles protection directed by coordinator Vic Fangio. Fangio, who once more has two rookie starters on protection (LB Jihaad Campbell and S Andrew Mukuba), will drive Nix to stay with the beneath throws. Before final week’s win, Nix had not discovered a lot success pushing the ball downfield to kick-start the offense. Nix was extra settled Monday evening, with higher footwork and extra persistence. That will likely be a necessity on this one as effectively, given Fangio figures to offer Nix a gentle weight-reduction plan of simulated pressures and protection seems to be that morph after the snap. Fangio has been a selected problem to quarterbacks within the purple zone. — Jeff Legwold

What we’re listening to on the Eagles: The Eagles must get WR A.J. Brown going. He was held to 2 catches for 7 yards on 9 targets final week and created a stir with a cryptic tweet postgame. Brown has been held to 27 or fewer yards in three of 4 video games. Unsurprisingly, the passing recreation ranks thirty first within the NFL. “I see that we’re struggling and I’m a guy that wants the ball in those times when we can’t find a way. Give it to me,” Brown stated Wednesday. — Tim McManus

Stat to know: The Broncos’ protection ranks first in QBR (40.5) and sacks (15), in addition to second in pressures (62). — ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Broncos edge Jonathon Cooper will document a sack in opposition to Eagles RT Lane Johnson. That’s a tall job contemplating the opposition, however Cooper has the quickest go rush get-off within the NFL (amongst these with not less than 50 go rushes), crossing the road of scrimmage in 0.69 seconds, per NFL Next Gen Stats. — Walder

Injuries: Broncos | Eagles

Fantasy nugget: Eagles TE Dallas Goedert posted a season-high 19.7 fantasy factors in Week 4, regardless of seeing simply 4 targets. He had solely two targets in Week 1, missed Week 2 and noticed simply two in Week 3, but he has totaled 41.4 fantasy factors. Even although the Broncos’ protection is hard, Denver has allowed not less than 10 fantasy factors to tight ends in two of its previous three video games. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Eagles are 9-3 ATS of their previous 12 video games as favorites. Read extra. — ESPN Research

Maldonado’s choose: Eagles 13, Broncos 10
Moody’s choose: Eagles 27, Broncos 23
Walder’s choose: Broncos 23, Eagles 21
FPI prediction: PHI, 61.2% (by a mean of 4.2 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Jones’ infinite power catalyst for Broncos’ protection … Inside the champagne issues of the Eagles offense

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1 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup score: 64.9/100
ESPN BET: HOU -2.5 (40.5 O/U)

What we’re listening to on the Texans: The Texans know they are going in opposition to a foe that they’ve struggled with. The Ravens have a 13-2 document in opposition to Houston, however coach DeMeco Ryans stated, “The past is the past.” Wideout Nico Collins acknowledged the 31-2 blowout loss they suffered on Christmas to Baltimore however stated it is time to “turn the page.” — DJ Bien-Aime

What we’re listening to on the Ravens: The Ravens are 3-0 in opposition to Texans QB C.J. Stroud, holding him to a mean of seven factors per recreation. But that is anticipated to be a a lot totally different Baltimore protection Sunday. The Ravens have six defensive starters coping with accidents, together with Pro Bowlers in S Kyle Hamilton (groin), MLB Roquan Smith (hamstring) and CB Marlon Humphrey (calf). With all the brand new gamers filling in on protection, OLB Tavius Robinson stated, “It’s just about doing a little extra in communication.” — Jamison Hensley

Stat to know: The Ravens have allowed 35 factors in three of 4 video games this season, tied for essentially the most such video games in a season in franchise historical past (1996 and 2021). — ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Ravens RB Derrick Henry will document a season-high 22-plus rush makes an attempt. The Texans have a ferocious go rush however wrestle to cease the run. QB Lamar Jackson (hamstring) might be out, so the Ravens are going to need to lean on the bottom recreation. — Walder

Injuries: Texans | Ravens

Fantasy nugget: Texans RB Woody Marks capitalized on a positive matchup in opposition to Tennessee final week, ending with 21 touches and 27.9 fantasy factors. It was the primary recreation by which he out-touched Nick Chubb. He made it rely, placing up an excellent efficiency regardless of a Texans offensive line that ranks twenty fourth in run block win charge (68.8%). The excellent news? Marks has one other favorable matchup this week in opposition to a Ravens protection that has allowed the sixth-most dashing yards per recreation to backs (141.3). See Week 5 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Texans are the one crew to go beneath the full in all 4 video games this season, and the Ravens are the one crew to go over the full in each recreation. Read extra. — ESPN Research

Maldonado’s choose: Ravens 23, Texans 14
Moody’s choose: Ravens 23, Texans 20
Walder’s choose: Ravens 20, Texans 17
FPI prediction: BAL, 56.0% (by a mean of two.2 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Emergence of rookie RB Marks offers spark to Texans … How the Ravens received to 1-3 and the place they go from right here … Texans look to beat Ravens for first time since 2014 … What’s improper with the 1-3 Ravens? Injuries, consistency, extra

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1 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup score: 48.6/100
ESPN BET: IND -6.5 (47.5 O/U)

What we’re listening to on the Raiders: The offensive line is coming off its finest efficiency of the season, however it took an enormous hit within the course of. After the unit allowed simply three pressures whereas paving the way in which for rookie RB Ashton Jeanty to document 138 yards, it misplaced beginning LT Kolton Miller to a excessive ankle sprain. Miller’s absence is premature for the reason that Colts are ranked eight in dashing yards allowed per recreation (96). Coach Pete Carroll is assured that backup OT Stone Forsythe can step up. “He started 14 games … and started on the left side four or five times. So, we’re confident that he can do the job,” Carroll stated. “That’s why we went after him.” — Ryan McFadden

What we’re listening to on the Colts: Indianapolis has had some of the environment friendly offenses this season, rating fourth in scoring at 30.8 factors per recreation. But that comes regardless of its regarding efficiency within the purple zone, the place the Colts have managed to attain touchdowns solely 47.4% of the time (twenty fifth within the NFL). They’ve had a rash of ill-timed penalties when in scoring place, and that has led to tough down-and-distance conditions. “We’ve got to get that cleaned up, and it’s just fundamentals and technique,” coach Shane Steichen stated. “We’ll address it through practice this week.” — Stephen Holder

Stat to know: Colts rookie Tyler Warren leads all tight ends in receiving yards this season (263), which is essentially the most for the place by 4 profession video games within the Super Bowl period. — ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Raiders TE Brock Bowers will document beneath 30 receiving yards. Bowers hasn’t put up large numbers since injuring his knee in Week 1, and the Colts appear like a very powerful opponent. Only 14% of targets in opposition to Indianapolis have gone to tight ends, the fourth-lowest charge within the league. — Walder

Injuries: Raiders | Colts

Fantasy nugget: Colts WR Michael Pittman Jr. has scored 15 or extra fantasy factors in three of 4 video games this season whereas averaging 7.2 targets. He’s arrange for an enormous efficiency in opposition to a protection that has allowed the third-most fantasy factors per recreation to vast receivers. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Raiders are 0-3 ATS of their previous three video games. Read extra. — ESPN Research

Maldonado’s choose: Colts 34, Raiders 28
Moody’s choose: Colts 34, Raiders 24
Walder’s choose: Colts 26, Raiders 21
FPI prediction: IND, 63.9% (by a mean of 5.3 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Why Booker IV and the Raiders’ D-line will likely be crucial to a win in Indianapolis … Howard abruptly retires, citing ‘household first’

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1 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup score: 39.7/100
ESPN BET: DAL -2.5 (47.5 O/U)

What we’re listening to on the Cowboys: Didn’t the Cowboys come off a 40-point efficiency at dwelling, taking part in at a winless crew simply two weeks in the past? They did. And misplaced to the Bears in a listless efficiency. Now coming off a 40-point efficiency in opposition to the Packers, they face the winless Jets. In 2019, the Jets have been additionally 0-4 when going through the Cowboys, and Dallas misplaced 24-22. The Cowboys cannot repeat what occurred to the Bears or what occurred in 2019. “We’re judged on wins. I’d say the consistency’s not been there,” coach Brian Schottenheimer stated. “The thing we’ve got to do, we’ve got to learn how to finish and how to win.” — Todd Archer

What we’re listening to on the Jets: The gloves are happening — actually. On Thursday, coach Aaron Glenn wore a boxing glove throughout a ball-security drill, making an attempt to punch out the ball. The Jets have misplaced a league-high six fumbles, which explains the emphasis in follow. The Jets are a mistake-prone crew — minus-seven turnover differential and 40 penalties (tied-seventh most). They’re searching for to keep away from their third 0-5 begin prior to now 30 years. — Rich Cimini

Stat to know: The Jets have allowed 25-plus factors in each recreation this season (the one crew within the NFL to take action). Another such recreation will likely be tied for the longest streak of permitting 25-plus factors in a season in franchise historical past. — ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Cowboys LB Jack Sanborn will lead the league in tackles this week. The Jets are operating at an outrageous clip and are at present sporting a league-low minus-12% go charge over expectation. As solely gentle underdogs to Dallas, they very effectively might persist with the bottom recreation for 60 minutes, inducing tons of tackling alternatives for Cowboys linebackers. — Walder

Injuries: Cowboys | Jets

Fantasy nugget: Jets QB Justin Fields completed with 27.1 fantasy factors final week and now faces a protection that has allowed essentially the most fantasy factors per recreation to quarterbacks. Dallas has additionally given up essentially the most dashing makes an attempt and the fifth-highest dashing yards per recreation to opposing quarterbacks. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Cowboys QB Dak Prescott is 21-14-1 ATS in his profession as a highway favourite (49-36-2 ATS general as the favourite). Read extra. — ESPN Research

Maldonado’s choose: Jets 24, Cowboys 21
Moody’s choose: Jets 24, Cowboys 23
Walder’s choose: Cowboys 30, Jets 23
FPI prediction: DAL, 63.9% (by a mean of three.5 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Pickens retains impressing Cowboys on, off the sphere … Jets RB Allen out indefinitely with knee harm … Prescott set Cowboys information however is unhappy with tie … Glenn hoping to keep away from being first 0-5 Jets coach in Year 1

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1 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup score: 24.6/100
ESPN BET: MIA -1.5 (44.5 O/U)

What we’re listening to on the Dolphins: Tyreek Hill (knee) won’t return this season, however the Dolphins consider they nonetheless have a No. 1 receiver in Jaylen Waddle — who returns to that unquestioned position in Hill’s absence. Waddle was Miami’s main receiver as a rookie in 2021, when he caught 104 passes for 1,015 yards and 6 touchdowns. Coach Mike McDaniel stated the view of Waddle does not change regardless of Hill’s harm. “I think we’ve looked at him as a wide receiver one,” McDaniel stated. “I think that it’s not necessarily a change from the way we approach it the way we see it.” — Marcel Louis-Jacques

What we’re listening to on the Panthers: Coach Dave Canales likes to have a look at the rash of accidents which have contributed to a 1-3 document as a chance for another person to step up. Unfortunately for him, no one has. Perhaps it will likely be rookie WR Jimmy Horn Jr., who will play for the primary time after being a wholesome scratch the primary 4 video games. He brings pace. Or perhaps it will likely be beginning WR Xavier Legette, returning after lacking two video games with a hamstring harm, regardless that he struggled earlier than the harm. There are loads of alternatives round. — David Newton

Stat to know: Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa has a Total QBR of 19 (thirty third) and averages 6.3 yards per try (twenty fifth) when going through zone protection this season. The Panthers use zone protection 68.8% of the time, the seventh-highest charge within the league this season. — ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Panthers WR Tetairoa McMillan will catch a number of passes of 15 air yards or extra after having caught precisely one such go in every of his first 4 video games. The Dolphins’ protection is permitting 9.6 air yards per try, second most within the league. — Walder

Injuries: Dolphins | Panthers

Fantasy nugget: Since the Dolphins acquired Hill in 2022, 76% of QB Tagovailoa’s completions and 82% of his vast receiver yards have gone to Hill or Waddle. In the one recreation Miami has performed with out Hill throughout that span, Waddle caught eight passes for 142 yards and a landing. He ought to as soon as once more see loads of targets in opposition to the Panthers. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Panthers have coated 4 straight video games following a loss (2-0 ATS this season). They are 7-1 ATS of their previous eight video games following a loss. Read extra. — ESPN Research

Maldonado’s choose: Panthers 33, Dolphins 27
Moody’s choose: Panthers 31, Dolphins 28 
Walder’s choose: Panthers 23, Dolphins 20
FPI prediction: CAR, 51.3% (by a mean of 0.5 factors)

Matchup must-reads: WR Hill dislocates knee in win in opposition to Jets … Panthers search solutions after embarrassing loss to Patriots … Hill harm FAQ: Recovery timetable, his NFL future, how Miami will adapt

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1 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup score: 19.6/100
ESPN BET: NO -1.5 (41.5 O/U)

What we’re listening to on the Giants: The Giants are pumping in crowd noise and dealing on communication at follow all through the week, particularly with this being rookie QB Jaxson Dart’s first profession highway recreation. But Dart famous he performed within the SEC and has performed in a dome earlier than. He’s not trying on the Superdome as any form of particular problem. He’s extra involved with getting the ball out faster, getting by his progressions higher and avoiding sacks in opposition to a Saints protection that has gotten dwelling on a decent 10% of dropbacks. — Jordan Raanan

What we’re listening to on the Saints: Saints TEs Foster Moreau and Taysom Hill returned to follow this week for the primary time since final season, when each sustained severe knee accidents. Though it is unlikely both will play this weekend, coach Kellen Moore did not rule it out utterly. Getting each gamers again will likely be an enormous enhance to the offense. “With 108 seconds left in the 2024 season, I got a helmet to the outside of the knee on a five-step out route, and my offseason is canceled,” Moreau stated. “It’s brutal, and that part of sports is one of the hardest parts. But what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. And I’ve had a hell of an offseason.” — Katherine Terrell

Stat to know: Giants RB Cam Skattebo has 181 dashing yards and 98 receiving yards by 4 profession video games. If he has a productive day Sunday, Skattebo could be the fourth Giants rookie for the reason that 1970 merger with 200 dashing yards and 100 receiving yards by 5 profession video games. — ESPN Research

Bold prediction: The Giants will ship double-digit quarterback hits in a win Sunday. After a little bit of a sluggish begin, edge rusher Abdul Carter appeared dominant final week, and now the Giants face a Saints crew that ranks twenty ninth in go block win charge (51.9%). — Walder

Injuries: Giants | Saints

Fantasy nugget: Dart completed with 19.8 fantasy factors final week, with 11.4 of these factors coming from dashing. This is a superb matchup for Dart, Wan’Dale Robinson and Darius Slayton in opposition to a protection that has allowed the fifth-most fantasy factors per recreation to quarterbacks. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Saints QB Spencer Rattler is 0-10 outright and 2-8 ATS in his profession as a starter. Read extra. — ESPN Research

Maldonado’s choose: Saints 23, Giants 20
Moody’s choose: Saints 20, Giants 18
Walder’s choose: Giants 23, Saints 16
FPI prediction: NO, 53.5% (by a mean of 1.4 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Dart on Saints draft snub: ‘Always a chip in your shoulder’ … Saints ‘received to discover a technique to get a win’ with Giants looming

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4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup score: 57.7/100
ESPN BET: SEA -3.5 (45.5 O/U)

What we’re listening to on the Buccaneers: The Bucs have surrendered touchdowns on the primary defensive possession in three of their 4 video games, however have solely scored on the primary offensive possession as soon as. That is an enormous purpose why they’ve needed to come from behind within the remaining two minutes of their video games, which have all been determined by one rating or much less. QB Baker Mayfield stated of this week’s recreation: “[We’ve] got to start faster, [we’ve] got to be the aggressor, not wait [for] whether it’s chippy or we get hit in the mouth once. We’ve got to come out swinging.” — Jenna Laine

What we’re listening to on the Seahawks: Coach Mike Macdonald stated that by the Seahawks’ in-house metrics, Mayfield might be the very best quarterback within the NFL proper now when it comes to extended-play conditions. “That’s something you have to deal with, but he also plays on time,” Macdonald stated. “He’s extremely accurate, he’s got a great arm, and then when he extends plays, obviously he’s a great competitor.” Mayfield has the eighth-fastest common time earlier than throw at 2.68 seconds. — Brady Henderson

Stat to know: The Bucs have scored and allowed an similar 97 factors to date this season. — ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Seahawks edge Boye Mafe will document a 25% go rush win charge — or higher. When DeMarcus Lawrence (quadriceps) received harm in final week’s recreation, Mafe moved to play extra reverse the fitting deal with. That’s the place you need to be in opposition to the Bucs proper now, with Charlie Heck (80% go block win charge) at present stationed there. Assuming Lawrence both misses the sport or performs much less, that ought to arrange Mafe to make a pass-rushing impression. — Walder

Injuries: Buccaneers | Seahawks

Fantasy nugget: Seahawks QB Sam Darnold has averaged 16.2 fantasy factors over his previous three video games in an offense that ranks fourth in dashing makes an attempt per recreation. Seattle could must lean on the passing recreation in opposition to a defensive entrance that enables the fewest dashing yards to operating backs, however Tampa Bay additionally offers up the eighth-most fantasy factors to quarterbacks. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Bucs are 6-1 ATS after a loss for the reason that begin of final season, and 11-4 ATS after a loss with Mayfield (since 2023). Read extra. — ESPN Research

Maldonado’s choose: Seahawks 35, Buccaneers 25
Moody’s choose: Seahawks 26, Buccaneers 24
Walder’s choose: Seahawks 27, Buccaneers 17
FPI prediction: SEA, 53.9% (by a mean of 1.5 factors)

Matchup must-read: Seahawks signal Darnold’s praises after game-winning drive

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4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup score: 25.2/100
ESPN BET: ARI -7.5 (42.5 O/U)

What we’re listening to on the Titans: The Titans’ protection will do its finest to maintain Cardinals QB Kyler Murray from breaking off lengthy runs by design or circumstance. Defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson stated the go rush needs to be coordinated and disciplined to verify the protection does not go away an escape lane for Murray to leak by. “He tries to get outside the pocket, they have some options with him,” Wilson stated. “Things like that with the run pass option and all those things, so we got to keep ’em in a well, we got to contain ’em.” — Turron Davenport

What we’re listening to on the Cardinals: Murray is making an attempt to maintain his head down and give attention to the current with the state of the Cardinals’ offense, which struggled mightily in seven of its previous eight quarters. Aside from the fourth quarter in a loss to the Seahawks final Thursday evening, Arizona’s offense struggled to maneuver the ball and rating in Weeks 3 and 4. But Murray stated it is laborious and the “human in me” desires to have a look at the totality of Arizona’s points, however specializing in immediately takes self-discipline, he stated. “I try not to look at the big picture, because s— gets you get frustrated looking at the big picture,” Murray stated. — Josh Weinfuss

Stat to know: Titans QB Cam Ward has been sacked an NFL-high 17 instances this season, whereas the Cardinals rank fifth in go rush win charge this season (47%). — ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Cardinals RB Michael Carter will document 80 or extra dashing yards. It’s laborious to know precisely how the Cardinals’ backfield work will shake out in gentle of Trey Benson’s transfer to IR, however whoever will get the frenzy makes an attempt ought to be put in a terrific place for fulfillment: The Titans rank fourth worst when it comes to EPA allowed per opponent rush (.09). — Walder

Injuries: Titans | Cardinals

Fantasy nugget: The Cardinals’ backfield is skinny with Benson (knee) and James Conner out. Emari Demercado is now positioned to guide the Cardinals’ operating again committee. He’s firmly on the flex radar in Week 5 in opposition to a Titans protection that enables the fourth-most fantasy factors to backs. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Titans are 3-18 ATS beneath Brian Callahan, the worst document for any coach within the Super Bowl period (min. 5 video games). Read extra. — ESPN Research

Maldonado’s choose: Cardinals 28, Titans 23
Moody’s choose: Cardinals 27, Titans 16
Walder’s choose: Cardinals 28, Titans 14
FPI prediction: ARI, 73.4% (by a mean of 9.7 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Despite 0-4 begin, Titans nonetheless consider they will proper ship … Cardinals must fill void in injury-depleted operating again room … Ward vents frustration after Titans blanked, fall to 0-4 … Harrison holding belief in self amid inconsistencies

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4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup score: 71.3/100
ESPN BET: LAC -2.5 (48.5 O/U)

What we’re listening to on the Commanders: Washington’s protection continues to be stricken by explosive performs, having allowed an NFL-worst 28 go performs of 15 yards or extra. It has been a mixture of errors: communication and gamers abandoning assignments making an attempt to make an enormous play. They’ll have to protect Chargers QB Justin Herbert, who ranks eleventh with 20 go performs of not less than 15 yards. Of these performs, he has accomplished seven with three touchdowns to WR Quentin Johnston. “If we clean up the explosive passes, we’re playing solid,” stated defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. “Right now we’re playing sloppy. We will clean it up.” — John Keim

What we’re listening to on the Chargers: After a recreation the place Herbert was hit 13 instances and sacked twice, the Chargers might be with out two beginning offensive linemen once more Sunday. LT Joe Alt (ankle) is uncertain for Sunday, and RG Mekhi Becton (concussion) did not play final week. “Just go out there and execute and do what you’ve been trained to do,” Herbert stated of his message to backups. “They’re playmakers, too.” — Kris Rhim

Stat to know: This will likely be a staunch matchup within the purple zone. The Commanders have scored touchdowns on seven of 9 such drives (78%). The Chargers have allowed touchdowns on 4 of 13 such drives (31%). — ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Commanders QB Jayden Daniels will full fewer than 10 passes to vast receivers. Chargers CBs Donte Jackson and Tarheeb Still each rank within the high 5 in lowest yards per protection snap allowed amongst exterior corners with not less than 100 protection snaps, per NFL Next Gen Stats. That will make throwing exterior tough in any circumstance, and much more with Washington lacking WR Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) due to harm. — Walder

Injuries: Commanders | Chargers

Fantasy nugget: Herbert struggled to capitalize in a positive matchup in opposition to the Giants, ending with a season-low 12.5 fantasy factors. However, his fortunes (and people of fantasy managers) might change in opposition to the Commanders, who’ve allowed the seventh-most fantasy factors per recreation to quarterbacks. Herbert additionally has an elite trio of receivers in Johnston, Ladd McConkey and Keenan Allen, who ought to assist him bounce again. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Three straight Chargers video games have gone beneath the full. Read extra. — ESPN Research

Maldonado’s choose: Chargers 20, Commanders 10
Moody’s choose: Chargers 27, Commanders 21
Walder’s choose: Chargers 30, Commanders 17
FPI prediction: LAC, 58.2% (by a mean of three.1 factors)

Matchup must-reads: QB Daniels (knee) plans to play vs. Chargers … Alt uncertain to play Sunday, Harbaugh says … Commanders’ D targeted on execution after flop vs. Falcons … Chargers’ Harbaugh: Hits Herbert taking ‘very regarding’

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4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup score: 66.0/100
ESPN BET: DET -10.5 (49.5 O/U)

What we’re listening to on the Lions: It’ll be an emotional homecoming for Lions RB David Montgomery as he performs in his hometown for the primary time in his NFL profession. He performed the Bengals as soon as in 2021 with the Bears in Chicago (20 rushes, 61 yards), however he has by no means had a highway recreation in opposition to the Bengals. Montgomery attended Mount Healthy (Ohio) High School, the place he earned All-State honors as a dual-threat QB. He is coming off a season-low 12 dashing yards with 9 carries in opposition to Cleveland, however is seeking to get again on observe in a well-known setting in entrance of household and pals. “He’s going to kill it,” Arvie Crouch, Montgomery’s highschool coach, informed ESPN. — Eric Woodyard

What we’re listening to on the Bengals: This recreation will likely be a intestine examine for the Bengals in each means potential. The Lions are anticipated to steamroller Cincinnati, which is in a number of the worst kind in franchise historical past. Detroit is second within the NFL in charge of designed rush performs, per ESPN Research. The Bengals’ rush protection must restrict large performs, and stopping these will come all the way down to deploying fundamental methods. Said defensive coordinator Al Golden: “Just defend your gap, keep the ball on your inside pad. Play with leverage.” — Ben Baby

Stat to know: Bengals WR Ja’Marr Chase is searching for to keep away from going three straight video games with 50 or fewer receiving yards for the second time in his profession. — ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Bengals QB Jake Browning will document a 60-plus QBR. Don’t get me improper: Confidence in Browning has dropped off dramatically from the place it was a couple of weeks in the past. But then once more, the 2 defenses he has performed have been the Vikings and Broncos, and it does not get a lot harder than that. Considering his previous success, I believe there’s nonetheless hope for him and the Bengals. — Walder

Injuries: Lions | Bengals

Fantasy nugget: Lions QB Jared Goff has averaged simply 14.1 fantasy factors per recreation on the highway since 2021. Detroit could be sensible to lean closely on Jahmyr Gibbs, Montgomery and the operating recreation. This matchup additionally has one of many increased totals on the slate, and the Bengals’ protection has given up the second-most fantasy factors per recreation to operating backs. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Lions are 11-2 ATS as highway favorites since 2023. Read extra. — ESPN Research

Maldonado’s choose: Lions 37, Bengals 34
Moody’s choose: Lions 33 Bengals 17
Walder’s choose: Lions 31, Bengals 26
FPI prediction: DET, 76.9% (by a mean of 11.0 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Lions put CB Reed on IR as a consequence of hamstring … QB Browning has Taylor’s ‘unwavering’ confidence … St. Brown-Goff connection shines once more in 2 TD day vs. Browns

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8:20 p.m. ET | NBC | Matchup score: 64.4/100
ESPN BET: BUF -7.5 (49.5 O/U)

What we’re listening to on the Patriots: An surprising harm difficulty popped up with one of many Patriots’ finest gamers, as beginning DT Milton Williams was added to the harm report Wednesday as a restricted participant due to his ankle. Then Williams did not follow Thursday. He has performed 72% of the defensive snaps by 4 video games, has two sacks and has constantly created inside strain. If he does not play, that might thrust Khyiris Tonga right into a beginning position subsequent to Christian Barmore. — Mike Reiss

What we’re listening to on the Bills: How will the dashing offense, which has been key to start out the season, reply to the problem the Patriots’ protection presents? RB James Cook has led Buffalo on the bottom and has 100-plus yards in three straight video games. New England, nonetheless, is tied for second in opponent dashing yards per recreation (77.5) and yards per rush (3.3). “[Cook] has such a really good understanding of what we’re trying to do, and how the guys are blocking and reading it. And he’s really special right now,” offensive coordinator Joe Brady stated. — Alaina Getzenberg

Stat to know: Bills QB Josh Allen has 45 profession video games with each a passing landing and a dashing landing, tied with Cam Newton for essentially the most by any participant in NFL historical past. — ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Patriots rookie RB TreVeyon Henderson will document 64 or extra dashing yards, doubling his present profession excessive. Bills opponents have recorded a minus-14% go charge over expectation this season, by far the bottom within the league. The Bills’ protection induces opponents’ runs. — Walder

Injuries: Patriots | Bills

Fantasy nugget: Bills TE Dalton Kincaid continues to separate snaps and routes with others within the place group. You need to prioritize him in favorable matchups, like this week’s, which options one of many highest level totals on the slate. Kincaid catches passes from Allen in a Bills offense that ranks second in complete yards per recreation. He faces a protection that offers up the ninth-most fantasy factors per recreation to tight ends. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Patriots have coated 4 straight conferences with two outright wins as underdogs. Read extra. — ESPN Research

Maldonado’s choose: Bills 38, Patriots 24
Moody’s choose: Bills 34, Patriots 24
Walder’s choose: Bills 31, Patriots 27
FPI prediction: BUF, 67.5% (by a mean of seven.2 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Diggs’ comeback is underway with the Patriots … Will Bosa’s remaining(?) chapter finish with a cheerful ending in Buffalo?

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Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ESPN | Matchup score: 68.5/100
ESPN BET: KC -3.5 (46.5 O/U)

What we’re listening to on the Chiefs: The Chiefs know that Jaguars star Travis Etienne Jr. would be the finest RB they’ve confronted to date this season — and that record already contains Baltimore’s Derrick Henry and Philadelphia’s Saquon Barkley. Etienne has powered the Jaguars’ offense with 394 dashing yards, the third most within the league. “What’s stuck out to me watching film the past few days is how well he is on the edge,” LB Leo Chenal stated of Etienne. “His stiff-arm is good, but it’s not just setting an edge. You have to have great eyes and continue to press the edge because he’ll bounce it out even if you’ve got a [defensive end] setting the edge two yards up the field. You better be ready to knock down a stiff-arm.” — Nate Taylor

What we’re listening to on the Jaguars: One of the issues being careworn to the defensive gamers this week: Don’t get discouraged. QB Patrick Mahomes is an escape artist who can flip a nasty play into an enormous achieve with an off-schedule throw from a bizarre arm angle. It’s going to occur not less than as soon as, however the secret’s to overlook about it instantly when it does. “We’ve just got to go and huddle up, call the next play, refocus and understand that they’ve got good players, too, and they’re going to make some [big plays],” coach Liam Coen stated. — Michael DiRocco

Stat to know: The Jaguars enter Week 5 main the NFL in drops this season (10) and are the one crew with a double-digit drop complete. — ESPN Research

Bold prediction: Jaguars slot CB Jourdan Lewis won’t permit a single reception to Chiefs WRs Hollywood Brown or JuJu Smith-Schuster whereas overlaying them. Lewis has allowed 0.7 yards per protection snap this season (fifth finest amongst slot corners with not less than 80 protection snaps) together with a minus-17% completion proportion over expectation, per NFL Next Gen Stats. — Walder

Injuries: Chiefs | Jaguars

Fantasy nugget: The Chiefs’ defensive entrance ranks thirty first in run cease win charge (25.5%), whereas the Jaguars’ offensive line ranks second in run block win charge (76.5%). This is a bonus Jacksonville should exploit, and with Etienne, it ought to find a way to take action. He has had 16-plus touches in each recreation this season, and 17-plus fantasy factors in three of them. See Week 5 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Chiefs are 4-1 ATS of their previous 5 video games as favorites. Read extra. — ESPN Research

Maldonado’s choose: Chiefs 24, Jaguars 21
Moody’s choose: Chiefs 23, Jaguars 22
Walder’s choose: Chiefs 24, Jaguars 21
FPI prediction: KC, 62.8% (by a mean of 5.1 factors)

Matchup must-reads: WR Worthy unlocks Chiefs’ offense in return from shoulder harm … Coen has revived the Jaguars’ run recreation … Jaguars’ Walker has wrist surgical procedure, might play vs. Chiefs