NFL Week 2: Monday Night Football Doubleheader Preview
The NFL's Week 2 concludes with a "Monday Night Football" doubleheader featuring the Tampa Bay Buccaneers visiting the Houston Texans, followed by the Los Angeles Chargers taking on the Las Vegas Raiders. This article provides a comprehensive preview, including betting odds, expert picks, and key storylines for both matchups.
Buccaneers vs. Texans (7 p.m. ET, ABC/ESPN)
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-0) travel to Houston to face the Texans (0-1). Tampa Bay is coming off a 23-20 road victory over the Atlanta Falcons, fueled by a strong performance from rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka. Meanwhile, the Texans struggled offensively in their Week 1 loss to the Los Angeles Rams.
Currently, the Texans are a 2.5-point favorite with an Over/Under of 42.5. Experts are closely watching how Houston's offense responds after a sluggish start. According to Maldonado, if the Texans don't address their issues, C.J. Stroud could be in for another difficult night. Tampa's defense, led by Vita Vea and Haason Reddick, poses a significant challenge to Houston's rushing attack.
Key Player Props and Betting Trends
- Nick Chubb (Texans RB): Under on rushing yards given Tampa Bay's strong run defense.
- Mike Irving (Texans RB): Over on receiving yards, expected to be a key outlet for Baker Mayfield under pressure.
- Xavier Higgins (Buccaneers WR): Potential for increased targets with Christian Kirk likely out.
- Will Hunter (Texans DE): Over on 0.5 sacks, facing a Buccaneers offensive line missing Tristan Wirfs.
Tampa Bay is a strong 11-2 against the spread as a road underdog since 2023. They are also favored to win the NFC South at -200 after their Week 1 victory. The Texans are 0-5 ATS in September since 2024 but have a 4-0 ATS record in games with more than six days of rest since 2024. Despite the loss, the Texans are co-favorites to win the AFC South with Jacksonville.
Chargers vs. Raiders (10 p.m. ET, ESPN)
The Los Angeles Chargers (1-0) visit the Las Vegas Raiders (1-0) in the Monday nightcap. The Chargers are coming off an impressive 27-21 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in Brazil, while the Raiders secured a 20-13 road win against the New England Patriots.
The Chargers are currently favored by 3.5 points with an Over/Under of 46.5. Experts suggest the Chargers have a more complete offense, while the Raiders are more explosive but less balanced. If the Chargers' offensive line can contain Maxx Crosby, they are expected to cover the spread.
Key Player Props and Betting Trends
- Justin Herbert (Chargers QB): Over on passing yards, building on strong Week 1 performance.
- Omarion Hampton (Chargers RB): Over on rushing yards, expected to benefit from game flow.
- Omarion Hampton (Chargers RB): Over on receiving yards, a potential outlet for Herbert.
- Ladd McConkey (Chargers WR): Over on receiving yards, drawing favorable matchups against the Raiders defense.
The Chargers are now +200 to win the AFC West, behind the Chiefs at +160. The Raiders' playoff odds shifted from +340 to +130 after their Week 1 win. Los Angeles won both matchups against Las Vegas by double digits last season.
How to Watch and Live Stream
Fans can watch the Buccaneers-Texans game on ABC/ESPN and the Chargers-Raiders game on ESPN. A free livestream option for the Buccaneers vs. Texans game is available on Fubo through a free trial for new subscribers.
Why Two Games on Monday Night Football?
The NFL's television deal includes multiple "Monday Night Football" doubleheaders. This week is the first of four. Doubleheaders will be sporadic in their placement on the schedule over the years.
'MNF' Game Predictions
Expert against-the-spread picks for both Buccaneers-Texans and Chargers-Raiders are available, providing further insights into each game.
