Minnesota at Green Bay

This game will have even more juice if Jordan Love returns, but even without him the Packers (-2.5) have rolled to two victories with Malik Willis at the helm. It’s an early measuring stick in what’s shaping up to be a competitive NFC North. Coaches Kevin O’Connell and Matt LaFleur each scheme beautiful offense and both defenses are off to good starts overall. So, enjoy this one. Packers 24, Vikings 23

LOCK OF THE WEEK

Cincinnati at Carolina

One loss for Cincy? No big deal. 0-2 start? They’ve come back from that before. But 0-3? That’s a real hole. The Bengals find themselves there now and facing an early-season must-win. The Panthers, meanwhile, benched Bryce Young and got a terrific performance from Andy Dalton while steamrolling the Raiders last week. Can the Red Rocket do it again? Here’s betting no. At least not this week as 4.5-point underdogs.
Bengals 31, Panthers 20

UPSET OF THE WEEK

Buffalo at Baltimore

The Ravens have earned trust that they’re a good team. But they started 0-2 and then nearly blew a big lead against Dallas. And they’ve got to play perhaps the most impressive team of the early going now in the Bills. Buffalo’s scored at least 31 points each time out and Josh Allen is staking an early MVP claim. And yet you know the Ravens, that defense and Lamar Jackson will do damage. A terrific matchup with Baltimore a 2.5-point home favorite. How would they respond to 1-3? We just might find out. Bills 28, Ravens 24