The pads are popping again — sort of. It’s NFL Preseason Week 1, and while the stakes don’t hit the standings, they’re huge for players fighting for roster spots. Starters? Expect cameos. Playbooks? Vanilla. Betting lines? Volatile. Here’s the full slate:
Giants at Bills (1:00 PM)
Buffalo’s pass-rush depth is elite (27.6% pressure rate in 2023). Giants backups get a trial by fire, while fans may only see Josh Allen for one series. Lean Under on the 45.5 total if third-string QBs close the game.
Texans at Vikings (4:00 PM)
C.J. Stroud vs. Brian Flores’ blitz-heavy scheme would be fun… if they play more than a drive. Davis Mills could be Houston’s preseason edge — he’s one of the most experienced QB2s in the league.
Cowboys at Rams (7:00 PM)
Dallas will likely lean on Cooper Rush and Trey Lance after Dak Prescott exits early. The Rams’ offensive line depth gets a big test after allowing the 5th-most QB hits last season.
Steelers at Jaguars (7:00 PM)
Kenny Pickett’s development is the big regular-season story, but Mason Rudolph vs. Kyle Trask-type battles will define this one. Jacksonville’s WR depth is under the microscope.
Titans at Buccaneers (7:30 PM)
Both teams are juggling QB depth — Will Levis is set for extended snaps. Tampa Bay’s run defense depth could be tested by rookie RB Tyjae Spears.
Chiefs at Cardinals (8:00 PM)
Patrick Mahomes’ preseason workload is famously light, so this is more about Kansas City’s WR battles. Arizona’s defense has new personnel but was 31st in EPA/play allowed last season — a chance for K.C.’s backups to shine.
Jets at Packers (8:00 PM)
Aaron Rodgers faces his old team… probably from the sideline. Rookie QB Jordan Travis (Packers) and Zach Wilson (Jets) could eat up the second-half reps.
Broncos at 49ers (8:30 PM)
Sean Payton wants depth tested in live action. San Francisco’s QB2 battle between Sam Darnold and Brandon Allen is worth watching.
Betting reality check: In the preseason, QB2 and QB3 depth often determine the result. Teams with experienced backups and stable offensive lines tend to cover. If you’re betting, bet depth — not logos.
