NFL Week 1 Expert Picks

BetQL is your #1 source for NFL predictions and each week out we take a look at our NFL expert picks to find the best bets and games with the highest potential payout for you. From the moneyline to the spread and all NFL markets in between, be sure to check back every week for our top NFL expert picks all season long.

Dallas Cowboys (0-0) at New York Giants (0-0)

We have trending betting tips for the upcoming game between the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys taking place on Sunday, September 13, 2026. This exciting matchup marks the first week of the NFL season, setting the stage for an intense rivalry.

New York Giants Overview

The New York Giants are coached by Brian Daboll, and this season they are looking to kick off strong after a promising preseason. The team is hoping for a fresh start as they prepare to host the Cowboys at home. Unfortunately, specific statistics from their recent games are unavailable, but their performance from the previous season indicates they will aim to build on prior successes. In their last five games, the Giants displayed strong resilience with the following results:

• New York Giants vs. New York Jets: 23 points
• New York Giants vs. Miami Dolphins: 26 points
• New York Giants vs. Minnesota Vikings: 10 points
• New York Giants vs. Dallas Cowboys: 34 points
• New York Giants vs. Las Vegas Raiders: 34 points

Dallas Cowboys Overview

On the other side, the Dallas Cowboys, under the leadership of coach Brian Schottenheimer, are also looking to start their season on the right note. In their recent outings, the Cowboys showcased their strength as they prepared for this away game. Similar to the Giants, their individual statistics aren't fully detailed, but recent results from their last five games paint a picture of a team ready to challenge their opponents:

• Dallas Cowboys vs. New Orleans Saints: 27 points
• Dallas Cowboys vs. Arizona Cardinals: 34 points
• Dallas Cowboys vs. Seattle Seahawks: 17 points
• Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants: 17 points
• Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Commanders: 30 points

Head-to-Head Statistics

Recent encounters between the Giants and Cowboys have shown a competitive edge, with the Giants defeating the Cowboys in their last meeting. The score was 34-17, proving that the Giants can compete at a high level against their rivals.

Game Predictions

1. Moneyline Prediction: Our NFL prediction is that Dallas Cowboys will win away with odds of -149 at DraftKings Sportsbook.
2. Spread Prediction: The best NFL point spread is that the Cowboys will cover -1.5 points, with odds at -116 offered by DraftKings Sportsbook.
3. Points Total Betting Market: Bettors can anticipate high scoring in this game, with the predicted total set at over 42.5 points, available at odds of -111 with DraftKings Sportsbook.

Summary

As the New York Giants welcome the Dallas Cowboys for what promises to be a thrilling opener to the NFL season, fans can expect a fierce battle on the field. Both teams have shown they can perform at peak levels in their recent games, making the game a must-watch for any football fan. With the Cowboys slightly favored to win, it will be intriguing to see if the Giants can upset the odds and take the victory on their home turf.

Check out our full game analysis here

New Orleans Saints (0-0) at Detroit Lions (0-0)

We have trending betting tips for the upcoming game between the Detroit Lions and the New Orleans Saints, set to take place on Sunday, 13th September 2026, at the iconic Ford Field. The Lions will be led by head coach Dan Campbell, while the Saints will be under the guidance of Kellen Moore. Unfortunately, the referee for this game has not been announced yet.

Detroit Lions Overview

The Detroit Lions enter this game looking to establish their rhythm early in the season. The last five games for the Lions have been promising:

1. Detroit Lions 25 - Indianapolis Colts 16 (NFL Preseason, 29th August 2026)
2. Detroit Lions 17 - Washington Commanders 13 (NFL Preseason, 22nd August 2026)
3. Cincinnati Bengals 16 - Detroit Lions 14 (NFL Preseason, 13th August 2026)
4. Detroit Lions 19 - Chicago Bears 16 (NFL, 4th January 2026)
5. Minnesota Vikings 23 - Detroit Lions 10 (NFL, 25th December 2025)

The Lions are looking to build on their last postseason run where they showcased their offensive capabilities. Highlighting their squad, the team's standout player from last season, Jared Goff, has been pivotal in driving the Lions' offensive strategy, but specific personal statistics were not available.

New Orleans Saints Overview

On the other hand, the New Orleans Saints are determined to start strong as well. Here’s how their last five games have shaped up:

1. Dallas Cowboys 24 - New Orleans Saints 27 (NFL Preseason, 28th August 2026)
2. Los Angeles Rams 34 - New Orleans Saints 0 (NFL Preseason, 22nd August 2026)
3. New Orleans Saints 20 - Jacksonville Jaguars 24 (NFL Preseason, 15th August 2026)
4. Atlanta Falcons 19 - New Orleans Saints 17 (NFL, 4th January 2026)
5. Tennessee Titans 26 - New Orleans Saints 34 (NFL, 28th December 2025)

The Saints have seen impressive performances from quarterback Derek Carr, who has been crucial in managing the game as their top player, although detailed statistics are unavailable for the current season.

Head-to-Head Statistics

Historically, the matchup between the Lions and the Saints has been intense. The last few encounters yielded the following points:

• 2026 Preseason: Detroit Lions 19 - New Orleans Saints 17
• 2025 Regular Season: Detroit Lions 10 - New Orleans Saints 34

This rivalry is set to renew with both teams eager to assert dominance early in the season.

Predictions for the Game

1. Moneyline Prediction: Our NFL prediction is a home win for the Detroit Lions. The odds stand at -333 with Fanatics Sportsbook.
2. Spread Prediction: The best NFL point spread is leaning towards an away win for the New Orleans Saints, with a +7.5 points spread available at -125 with Fanatics Sportsbook.
3. Points Total Betting Market: For those interested in the total points, the line is set over 48.5 points, also at -125 with Fanatics Sportsbook.

Summary

As we gear up for this exciting season opener, the Detroit Lions appear in good shape at home, while the New Orleans Saints are determined to showcase their talent on the road. With both teams having demonstrated strength in previous outings, this game promises to be a thrilling kickoff to the NFL season. With betting predictions favoring the Lions yet acknowledging the capabilities of the Saints, fans should be prepared for an entertaining showdown on the turf of Ford Field.

Click here for our full game analysis

Arizona Cardinals (0-0) at Los Angeles Chargers (0-0)

We have trending betting tips for the exciting game between the Los Angeles Chargers and the Arizona Cardinals, taking place on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at the SoFi Stadium. With both teams looking to assert dominance in their opening game of the season, fans can expect an electrifying atmosphere.

Home Team: Los Angeles Chargers

The Los Angeles Chargers, led by head coach Jim Harbaugh, are set to kick off their new season at home. Although they are starting fresh this year, last season (2024/2025) was a promising one, where they demonstrated strong potential. Here are the results from their last five games:

• 1. Loss against New England Patriots (3-16)
• 2. Loss against Denver Broncos (3-19)
• 3. Win against Houston Texans (27-7)
• 4. Loss against San Francisco 49ers (17-41)
• 5. Loss against Los Angeles Rams (18-20)

Despite several setbacks, the team's determination and resilience will be on full display this game.

Away Team: Arizona Cardinals

On the other side, the Arizona Cardinals, coached by Jonathan Gannon, are no stranger to competition. They finished the last season with a solid foundation, ready to tackle their rivals. The Cardinals have shown strong performances recently, rallying up to their opening game expectations. Their past five games reveal the following results:

• 1. Win against Las Vegas Raiders (27-14)
• 2. Loss against Carolina Panthers (30-33)
• 3. Loss against Dallas Cowboys (13-34)
• 4. Loss against Green Bay Packers (38-42)
• 5. Notable defeat against Los Angeles Rams (20-37)

The Cardinals' recent form indicates they have the talent and skill to challenge the Chargers in this high-stakes game.

Head-to-Head Statistics

In their recent encounters, the Chargers and Cardinals have shown a competitive spirit. The last five results against each other show a score that keeps fans on the edge of their seats:

• Chargers: 20
• Cardinals: 37

These encounters bring an intriguing dynamic to their upcoming game as both sides look to improve their standings.

Predictions for the Game

1. Moneyline Prediction: Our NFL prediction is a home win for the Los Angeles Chargers, with the odds standing at -588 from FanDuel Sportsbook.
2. Spread Prediction: The best NFL point spread is on the away team, Arizona Cardinals, with a +10.5 points line available at -115, making them a tempting choice for bettors looking for value.
3. Points Total Betting Market: When it comes to totals, the over/under is set at 46.5 points with odds of -110, indicating a potential shootout that could keep fans cheering.

Summary of the Game and Predictions

With the Chargers looking to establish their home turf advantage and the Cardinals eager to start their season on a strong note, this game promises to be a thrilling showdown. The predictions favor the Los Angeles Chargers for a straight win, while taking the spread with the Arizona Cardinals may offer a compelling betting angle. The total points forecast indicates an exciting clash with a possibility of high scoring. Be sure to tune in for this exciting game that could set the tone for both teams this season!

For our complete game breakdown click here.