NFL Week 7 Preview: Broncos vs. Saints and Key Matchups
As Week 6 of the NFL season wraps up, the excitement for Week 7 is palpable. With 15 games on the slate, the action kicks off with a compelling Thursday Night Football matchup between the Denver Broncos and the New Orleans Saints. Both teams are looking to turn their seasons around, and with rookie quarterbacks likely at the helm, fans can expect an intriguing battle.
Thursday Night Football: Broncos vs. Saints
The Saints (2-4 SU, 3-3 ATS) have struggled significantly since their strong start, losing four consecutive games, including a disheartening 51-27 defeat to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The absence of starting quarterback Derek Carr, who is nursing an injury, has left the team in a precarious position. Rookie Spencer Rattler, making his first career start, threw for 243 yards but also tossed two interceptions against the Bucs. This week, he faces a Denver defense that, while inconsistent, has shown flashes of brilliance.
On the other side, the Broncos (2-4 SU, 4-2 ATS) are also starting a rookie quarterback, Bo Nix, who has had his share of ups and downs. Despite a recent offensive explosion from the Buccaneers, the Saints’ defense is still formidable. If Rattler can improve in his second start, the Saints might just have the edge at home, making them 1.5-point favorites in this matchup.
Jaguars vs. Patriots: A London Showdown
In another intriguing matchup, the Jacksonville Jaguars (1-5, 2-4 ATS) will face the New England Patriots (1-5, 1-4-1 ATS) in London. The Jaguars are laying 5.5 points, a line that raises eyebrows given their struggles this season. Jacksonville has the second-worst point differential in the league at -65, with their only victory coming against a Colts team missing its starting quarterback.
The Patriots, despite their own struggles, have a capable defense and a ground game that could keep them competitive. New England has averaged just 13.4 points per game over their last five outings, but they have the experience and talent to challenge a Jaguars team that has yet to find its footing. This game will be pivotal for both teams as they look to salvage their seasons.
Key ATS Picks for Week 7
With the opening lines now available, here are three of my favorite ATS picks for Week 7:
-
Saints -1.5 (+113) vs. Broncos
The Saints are in desperate need of a win, and playing at home could provide the spark they need. Rattler’s performance will be crucial, but if he can limit mistakes, the Saints’ defense should be able to stifle the Broncos’ offense. The line being set at 1.5 points suggests that the oddsmakers believe this will be a close contest, but I see the Saints pulling away. -
Patriots +5.5 (-108) vs. Jaguars
The Jaguars being favored by 5.5 points feels excessive given their current form. The Patriots have the defensive chops to keep this game close, and with a ground game that can control the clock, they could very well cover the spread. New England’s experience in high-pressure situations could also play a significant role in this matchup. - Giants +3.5 (-108) vs. Eagles
The Giants are coming off a close loss to the Bengals, and their performance was better than the scoreline suggests. They outgained Cincinnati and had opportunities to win. The Eagles, while sitting above .500, have struggled offensively and are vulnerable on defense. With rookie WR Malik Nabers likely returning, the Giants could surprise and cover the spread at home.
Monday Night Football Doubleheader
Week 7 also features a Monday Night Football doubleheader, with the Baltimore Ravens taking on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at 8:15 PM ET, followed by the Los Angeles Chargers facing the Arizona Cardinals at 9:00 PM ET. This unique scheduling offers fans a full night of football action, making it a perfect way to cap off the week.
As we look ahead to Week 7, keep an eye on the shifting lines and public betting trends. The NFL landscape is ever-changing, and with so many teams vying for a turnaround, the stakes are high. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, this week promises to deliver excitement and drama on the gridiron.