NFL Week 1 Predictions: Ben's Bold Calls for Sunday

Garrett Wilson Goes for 100+ Yards

I’m bullish on Garrett Wilson this year, and I think he can start the season in a big way Sunday in Nashville.

Last season, Tennessee profiled as a major pass-funnel defense and was essentially one of the worst teams in football at defending opposing WR1s. Based on their offseason moves, I’m not convinced much has changed. They did very little at cornerback to make me believe this matchup will suddenly become more difficult.

Geno Smith, while getting up there in age, is still a MAJOR upgrade over the quarterback play Wilson dealt with last season. Throughout his career, Geno has been very good when operating from a clean pocket, with most of his struggles coming under pressure. Tennessee doesn't have an imposing pass rush on paper, and new head coach Robert Saleh isn't typically known for being overly aggressive with the blitz.

If an underrated Jets offensive line can keep Geno upright, I think Wilson can have his way with this secondary. I’m calling for 100+ receiving yards and potentially one of the best individual performances of Week 1.

At Least Two Underdogs of 3+ Points Win Outright

The dogs are absolutely barking in Week 1.

Historically, blindly backing underdogs — particularly in divisional matchups — has been a profitable approach in Week 1. Even with that history, this year's group feels especially live for outright wins.

The Panthers, Buccaneers, Browns (I know), Colts, Dolphins and Giants all fit the mold for me. I don't expect all of them to pull off the upset, obviously, but I think at least two teams catching three or more points win outright.

Of the group, Carolina and Tampa Bay are the two I think are most likely to play spoiler.

The Miami Dolphins Run for 200 Total Yards

Miami is a team that I — and seemingly most people — am pretty low on entering the season. But we're not predicting their entire season here. We're predicting one game, and this could be one of the best matchups they'll see all year.

None of us know exactly what this new-look offense will be, but all signs point toward Miami building heavily around the running game. They brought in a mobile, dual-threat quarterback while also investing in the offensive line, which should give them several different ways to attack defenses on the ground.

Between De'Von Achane and Malik Willis, I could see the Dolphins running wild in Las Vegas this afternoon.

Give me Miami to finish Week 1 with 200+ total rushing yards.