NFL Week 5 Predictions

DISCLAIMER: These are NOT TechTakes.ai certified picks

October 3rd, 2024

By: Jack Weisberg

NFL Week 5 Predictions

Week 5 of the 2024 NFL season has arrived, and there are some exciting matchups on the slate. Here’s a game-by-game breakdown of how I see each contest playing out.

Buccaneers (+2.5) vs. Falcons

This is one of the best matchups of the week. This Falcons team has been in a lot of close games, and I don't think this one will be any different. When it comes down to the clutch, though, I trust both the Bucs' offense and defense to make the necessary plays.

Prediction: Buccaneers win 24-23

Jets (+2.5) vs. Vikings

I have the Jets winning this one in a defensive battle. The Vikings' momentum has to slow down somehow, and if Aaron Rodgers and the Jets want any chance of a happy ending, they need to get on the same page now.

Prediction: Jets win 15-9

Panthers (+4.5) vs. Bears

Give me the Bears to rely on their defense to squeak away with a win in a 21-17 victory over the Panthers. Andy Dalton will make this one close, but it won’t be enough.

Prediction: Bears win 21-17

Browns vs. Commanders (-3)

The Commanders are red hot, and the Browns are ice cold. Seems like too easy of a pick for me, even though the matchup probably favors the Browns. Give me the Commanders to lay it on and get the ball to their playmakers in the open field.

Prediction: Commanders win 24-16

Dolphins vs. Patriots (-1)

The Dolphins are a dumpster fire without Tua. I know they have Tyler Huntley starting this week, but will that be enough of a positive change from Skylar Thompson to beat one of the worst teams in the league? Huntley might add another dimension to this explosive Dolphins offense, but I’m betting on a continued struggle to find their weapons in a timely manner.

Prediction: Patriots win 23-20

Colts (-3) vs. Jaguars

Give me the Colts regardless of whether Joe Flacco or AR is starting. I think this Colts team is starting to figure it out, while this Jags team is just in the wrong place at the wrong time to find their first win of the season.

Prediction: Colts win 27-23

Bills vs. Texans (+1)

Game of the Week! I think this is the game of the week, and I think the Texans get it done, winning 27-24 in a close one. This one’s going to be a thriller!

Prediction: Texans win 27-24

Ravens (-2.5) vs. Bengals

Ravens to win 34-31 in a shootout. I have it going this way because I think both of these teams' defenses are vulnerable at this time. The Bengals need this win badly, but I just don't think they have it figured out enough on offense to get it done.

Prediction: Ravens win 34-31

Raiders (+2.5) vs. Broncos

Give me the Raiders to win despite all the drama going on in that locker room with Devante Adams pending departure. I think this is a great matchup, but the Broncos have gotten lucky each of the past two weeks, and I think the Raiders have something to prove—that even without Devante, this offense has the star power to win big games.

Prediction: Raiders win 20-13

Cardinals vs. 49ers (-7.5)

49ers will beat the Cardinals 33-20 in a blowout from the beginning. I think the Cardinals' defense is really struggling right now, and I don't believe that playing the 49ers is going to help with that issue whatsoever.

Prediction: 49ers win 33-20

Giants vs. Seahawks (-6.5)

I think the Seahawks will torment the Giants' defense and win 34-17 in a blowout victory.

Prediction: Seahawks win 34-17

Packers (-3) vs. Rams

For this one, I have the Packers winning and being able to control this game from the start. Jordan Love should look more comfortable from the beginning in this one and secure the win.

Prediction: Packers win 30-17

Cowboys (+2.5) vs. Steelers

Give me the Cowboys to take the win in this one, 23-17. I think they are getting it figured out and can take this huge win vs. the Steelers, who are in the middle of their QB controversy with Russ coming back and vying for a starting spot on a contending team.

Prediction: Cowboys win 23-17

Saints (+5.5) vs. Chiefs

Derek Carr finds himself in a matchup with his former rivaled team during his time with the Raiders in a game The Saints need a huge victory to stay in contention for the division. The Chiefs are hot and should win this game, but I have the Saints pulling it off in clutch fashion.

Prediction: Saints win 26-23