The Week 2 NFL schedule for the 2025 season promises a lineup filled with exciting matchups that are sure to keep football fans on the edge of their seats. From notable homecomings to key statistics, bold predictions, and final score picks, the upcoming games are set to deliver an action-packed weekend of football. Let's delve into the highlights and key details of some of the most anticipated matchups.
Bears at Lions
When the Bears face off against the Lions in Week 2, all eyes will be on the return of former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to Ford Field. The matchup is brimming with interesting storylines as Johnson now finds himself on the opposing side as an NFC North foe. With the Lions looking to avoid going 0-2 for the first time since 2021, the pressure is on to secure a victory. In his three years as the Lions' OC, Johnson developed close ties with many of the current players, setting the stage for a competitive and emotionally charged game.
The Bears, on the other hand, have their own challenges to overcome, aiming to establish consistency on offense throughout the entire game. This includes improving the accuracy of QB Caleb Williams and reducing penalties. With the noise level expected to be high inside Ford Field and some added intensity from fans not thrilled with Detroit's offense post-Johnson, the Bears will need to use a silent cadence to avoid false-start penalties. Additionally, enhancing the rushing attack is a priority, with Johnson keen on getting rookie Kyle Monangai more involved in the game.
According to ESPN Research, Lions quarterback Jared Goff is looking to make history by becoming the first starting signal-caller to win 11 straight games coming off a loss since Aaron Rodgers achieved the feat for the Packers between 2018 and 2022. This stat underscores the significance of the upcoming game for Goff and the Lions as they seek to bounce back with a victory.
Bold Predictions and Final Score Picks
Analytics writer Seth Walder makes a bold prediction for this matchup, suggesting that the Bears will record at least three 30-plus-yard plays on offense. The expectation is based on the Lions' blitz-heavy defense, which can open up opportunities for explosive plays. In terms of final score predictions, analysts Pamela Maldonado, Eric Moody, and Walder offer contrasting viewpoints. Maldonado favors the Lions with a prediction of a 26-23 win, Moody predicts a higher-scoring game with the Lions prevailing 31-23, while Walder leans towards the Bears with a projected score of 24-20.
This Bears-Lions showdown is set to be an intense battle with significant implications for both teams as they strive to secure a crucial victory early in the season.
Bills at Jets
Another intriguing matchup in Week 2 features the Bills taking on the Jets, promising an exciting clash between these AFC East rivals. As Buffalo looks to bounce back from a tough Week 1 loss, the team faces the challenge of limiting the Jets' running game, especially after giving up a league-high 238 rushing yards in their previous game. Defensive coordinator Bobby Babich emphasizes the need to address the run defense issues and be more intentional in correcting the deficiencies from the previous week.
On the Jets' side, there's a renewed sense of confidence on offense following a strong performance in Week 1. Despite historical struggles against the Bills, particularly in scoring, offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand highlights the team's commitment to the running game. The hope is to maintain the momentum from a 32-point showing in the previous game, focusing on early-down efficiency, sustained drives, and third-down conversions to challenge the Bills' defense.
Key to watch in this matchup is the performance of Bills quarterback Josh Allen, who has had his fair share of turnovers against the Jets. With 18 career turnovers when facing this opponent, Allen will aim to boost his efficiency and lead the Bills to a crucial victory.
Bold Predictions and Final Score Picks
Providing insights on the matchup, Walder offers a bold prediction that Jets cornerback Brandon Stephens will be targeted at least nine times in the game. This projection is based on Stephens' performance in the previous game and the likelihood of Buffalo targeting him to exploit potential weaknesses. As for final score predictions, Maldonado foresees a narrow 22-21 win for the Bills, Moody predicts a higher-scoring 36-27 victory for Buffalo, and Walder anticipates a 27-16 victory for the Bills.
The Bills-Jets game promises to be a closely contested battle with both teams aiming to build on their Week 1 performances and secure a key divisional win.
Ravens at Browns
The Ravens and Browns' Week 2 matchup is destined to be a thrilling contest filled with exciting storylines and intense competition. With the Ravens seeking to reverse their fortunes against the Browns, who have emerged victorious in two of the past three meetings, there's added motivation for Baltimore to deliver a standout performance. Quarterback Lamar Jackson will be a key figure to watch as he looks to improve his track record against the Browns and lead the Ravens to a significant divisional win.
Defensively, the Browns face the challenge of containing Ravens running back Derrick Henry, a formidable force in the backfield. With defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz at the helm, Cleveland has had some success limiting Henry in previous matchups, and the team will look to continue that trend in Week 2. Safety Grant Delpit's confidence in tackling Henry showcases the Browns' determination to stifle the Ravens' ground game and disrupt their offensive rhythm.
Both teams are aware of the stakes in this divisional showdown, with the Browns aiming to maintain their recent success against the Ravens, while Baltimore seeks to turn the tide and secure a much-needed win on the road.
Bold Predictions and Final Score Picks
Offering a bold prediction for this matchup, Walder anticipates Ravens tight end Mark Andrews bouncing back with five receptions and a touchdown after a quiet Week 1 showing. This projection is based on Andrews' track record and the likelihood of the Ravens targeting him more in the passing game. In terms of final score predictions, Maldonado predicts a 27-14 win for the Ravens, while Moody envisions a dominant 38-17 victory for Baltimore. Walder leans towards a 30-13 win for the Ravens in what promises to be a closely watched divisional battle.
The Ravens-Browns game is set to be a fiercely contested matchup with both teams vying for supremacy in the AFC North.
