The return of NFL was a much-needed boost for the USA this weekend, and the expectation levels are sky-high in some parts of the country.
Kansas City Chiefs fans are still on a high after their Super Bowl success and week one so far has showed that they and plenty of other teams will be competing for the playoffs.
There are still two games to look forward to though, with Pittsburgh Steelers facing the New York Giants, while Denver Broncos will tackle Tennessee Titans.
The Steelers will welcome back quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, and the playoffs look achievable in 2020 with him pulling the strings.
Pittsburgh’s 2019 season was all but over when Roethlisberger suffered an elbow injury in game two, but he is now back and ready to prove his worth at 38.
After missing 14 rounds of the regular campaign, Roethlisberger should be fresh and ready to go.
Tight end Eric Ebron has arrived on a two-year deal, while Pittsburgh selected Chase Claypool in the second round of the draft.
They will do battle with a New York Giants side who still look like they lack quality in several areas.
Quarterback Daniel Jones doesn’t have too many options on offence, and they may need at least one more year to be competitive.
The Steelers should cover the -6 handicap, and we fancy them to produce the goods at odds of 50/51.
Henry Ready to Inspire Titans Once Again
The Tennessee Titans ended last season with a 9-7 record, something they have done for the last four years.
It was enough to sneak into the final wildcard playoff spot, and they went on to surprise a few people and beat the New England Patriots and Baltimore Ravens.
The Chiefs eventually stopped their run in the AFC Championship game, but the Titans will be back for more under head coach Mike Vrabel.
Quarterback Ryan Tannehill needs to prove he still has what it takes after replacing Marcus Mariota last season.
However, with running back Derrick Henry remaining a key cog in their offence after signing a new four-year deal, anything is possible.
Henry destroyed opposition defences in 2019, finishing with 1540 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns.
This week, Vic Fangio’s Denver are in their way, but they look underprepared for what is to come.
Running back Melvin Gordon needs to prove himself, but the arrival of Pat Shurmur as offensive coordinator may help them later down the line.
Denver have missed the playoffs in the last four years, but that is not to say they cannot compete this time around.
However, they are a work in progress, and a week one defeat looks likely, with the Titans worthy favourites at 10/17.
They should also cover the handicap of -3 at odds of 25/29.
*All odds correct at time of writing
