NFL Schedule This Week: Must-Watch Games and Predictions
As the 2024 NFL season heats up, Week 7 brings a slate of exhilarating matchups that could shake up the playoff race. For fans in the UK, where American football's popularity continues to surge, this week's games offer prime viewing opportunities on DAZN and Sky Sports. With international series games like the recent Vikings vs. Jets in London still fresh in mind, the action stateside promises even more drama. We'll break down the key games, highlight star players, and provide predictions to help you navigate your fantasy leagues and bets.
Thursday Night Football: High-Octane Opener
The week kicks off with a classic AFC West battle on Thursday, October 17, as the San Francisco 49ers host the Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium (8:15 p.m. ET / 1:15 a.m. BST Friday). This NFC West rivalry has been a nail-biter in recent years, with both teams boasting explosive offenses. The 49ers, led by quarterback Brock Purdy and running back Christian McCaffrey, are coming off a gritty win against the Packers. McCaffrey's elusive running style could exploit Seattle's middling run defense, which has allowed over 120 yards per game on the ground.
Meanwhile, the Seahawks, under new coach Mike Macdonald, rely on Geno Smith's arm and Kenneth Walker III's speed. Seattle's pass rush, anchored by Boye Mafe, poses a threat to Purdy's clean pocket. Prediction: 49ers 28-24. The home-field advantage and McCaffrey's return from injury tip the scales. For UK viewers, this game's blend of West Coast flair makes it a perfect late-night watch.
Key Players to Watch
- Brock Purdy: After a stellar 300-yard performance last week, expect him to target wideout Deebo Samuel early.
- Kenneth Walker III: If he breaks 100 yards rushing, Seattle could steal an upset.
Sunday's marquee Afternoon Slate
Sunday's games (starting 6 p.m. BST) are loaded with implications for division standings. The spotlight falls on the Kansas City Chiefs visiting the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium (4:25 p.m. ET / 9:25 p.m. BST). Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs are unbeaten, but facing a desperate Raiders team hungry for their first win adds intrigue. Las Vegas's defense, led by Maxx Crosby's relentless pressure, has sacked QBs 15 times this season. Yet, Mahomes' magic—averaging 280 passing yards—often defies odds.
Another can't-miss is the Philadelphia Eagles taking on the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium (1 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. BST). Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley return to face their former team, fueling a personal rivalry. Philly's revamped line should dominate, but the Giants' Daniel Jones has shown flashes with rookie WR Malik Nabers. Prediction: Eagles 31-20. Barkley's revenge game could see him eclipse 150 all-purpose yards.
Don't sleep on the Buffalo Bills vs. Tennessee Titans (1 p.m. ET), where Josh Allen's dual-threat ability clashes with Tennessee's stout front seven. The Bills are favored by 9.5 points, but Will Levis might keep it close if he avoids turnovers.
Betting Insights and Odds
For savvy bettors, the over/under for Chiefs-Raiders sits at 46.5, reflecting Kansas City's high-scoring ways. Eagles-Giants moneyline favors Philly at -300, but Giants +8.5 offers value for an upset bid. UK platforms like Bet365 highlight prop bets on Mahomes' passing yards (over 275 at -110). Always gamble responsibly—NFL weeks like this are unpredictable.
Primetime Showdowns: Monday Night Magic
Closing the week, the Baltimore Ravens host the Washington Commanders on Monday, October 21 (8:15 p.m. ET / 1:15 a.m. BST Tuesday). Lamar Jackson's MVP-caliber play meets Jayden Daniels' rookie sensation in this NFC East vs. North tilt. Baltimore's run game, powered by Derrick Henry, averages 5.2 yards per carry, while Washington's secondary has struggled against mobile QBs.
Prediction: Ravens 27-17. Jackson's 100+ rushing yards could seal it, but Daniels' arm talent makes him a fantasy must-start. This game echoes the growing parity in the NFL, with young stars challenging established powers.
Injury Updates and Fantasy Impact
- Chiefs: Travis Kelce is questionable with an ankle tweak—monitor for targets to Xavier Worthy.
- Eagles: A.J. Brown is fully cleared, boosting Hurts' options.
- Ravens: Roquan Smith returns, strengthening the defense against Daniels' scrambles.
With these injuries in flux, fantasy managers should prioritize flex options like Walker or Nabers for upside.
Broader NFL Context and UK Viewing Guide
This week's schedule underscores the NFL's global appeal, especially post-London games. The Chiefs' dominance positions them as Super Bowl favorites (+500 odds), while underdogs like the Raiders (+2500) offer long-shot excitement. Standings-wise, the AFC North tightens with Baltimore's win streak, and the NFC East remains a dogfight.
For GB fans, DAZN streams all games live, with highlights on BBC Sport. Pub watch parties in London and Manchester are buzzing—join the community for that transatlantic thrill. As the season progresses toward Thanksgiving spectacles, Week 7 sets the tone for contenders.
In summary, from Thursday's rivalry to Monday's fireworks, this NFL schedule delivers non-stop action. Tune in, cheer your picks, and let the games begin!
