As the NFL season charges into Week 2 on this September 20, 2026, the Buffalo Bills set the tone with a thrilling 41-31 victory over the Detroit Lions at Highmark Stadium. With the rest of the weekend promising gridiron drama, the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk brings you our handicapping team's best bets, insights, and predictions to sharpen your wagering strategy.
Bijan Robinson Poised for Primetime Against Panthers
According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the Atlanta Falcons' dynamic running back Bijan Robinson is a focal point in their matchup against the Carolina Panthers. Despite a 20-13 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 1, Robinson showcased his dual-threat ability with 173 all-purpose yards and a touchdown. With quarterback Cooper Rush struggling under center (12-of-22 for 143 yards, two interceptions), Robinson's 21 carries for 83 yards and eight receptions for 90 yards were lone bright spots. Now, facing a Panthers defense that was dismantled by the Chicago Bears for 291 rushing yards and six touchdowns, Robinson's history of four consecutive 100-yard rushing games against Carolina makes him a compelling bet. Our experts recommend a parlay of Robinson to score anytime and rush for 90+ yards (+245 on FanDuel), plus a separate play for him to score at least twice (+290 on FanDuel).
Texans Defense to Stifle Bengals in Houston
In a matchup-based play, the Houston Texans host the Cincinnati Bengals as 2.5-point favorites. The Texans' defense, which struggled to contain Josh Allen's escapability last week, now faces Joe Burrow, a less mobile quarterback who relies on quick timing. Houston's defensive structure should fare better. Additionally, star receiver Nico Collins is questionable with a hamstring injury, causing the line to shift from Texans -3 to -2.5. If Collins plays, the line likely returns to -3; if not, it may stay at -2.5. This asymmetry presents value. Vulius Sports advises betting the Texans to cover -2.5 (-115).
Jets to Cover Against Overrated Packers
The New York Jets, fresh off a convincing win over the Titans, host the Green Bay Packers as 3.5-point underdogs. The Jets boast solid young offensive tackles protecting Geno Smith, a luxury he lacked in Las Vegas, and a dynamic receiving corps led by Garrett Wilson. Running back Breece Hall remains one of the NFL's most underrated talents. Meanwhile, the Packers' offensive line faltered in Minnesota, and with Micah Parsons still out, Green Bay appears overvalued. As highlighted on Vulius, the smart play is Jets +3.5 (-108).
Patriots to Bounce Back Against Steelers
Despite preseason skepticism, the New England Patriots are primed for their first win against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Quarterback Drake Maye, who owned his Week 1 mistakes, benefits from a mini-bye and faces a Steelers team that barely edged a Falcons squad starting third-string QB Cooper Rush. Pittsburgh's Aaron Rodgers-led offense managed just 13 points, and their run defense allowed 120 yards. With A.J. Brown sidelined, Maye should rebound against a vulnerable Steelers defense. Vulius recommends Patriots -4.5 (-120).
Bucky Irving to Shine in Buccaneers' Offense
Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving is set for a big game against the Cleveland Browns. In Week 1, Irving logged eight carries for 45 yards and a touchdown, plus a team-high seven receptions for 48 yards. His 61% snap share and usage in the passing game signal a prominent role. Facing a Browns defense that was torched by Jacksonville, Irving's receiving prowess makes over 2.5 receptions (+124 on FanDuel) an attractive bet, especially given his four-plus catches in six of his last 11 games.
Patrick Mahomes to Air It Out Against Colts
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, fresh off a conservative 184-yard passing performance against Denver, is expected to unleash downfield against the Indianapolis Colts. The Colts' defense was shredded by Lamar Jackson for 325 yards in Week 1, continuing a trend of allowing 260+ passing yards to eight straight quarterbacks. Mahomes himself threw for 352 yards against Indy last season. With Andy Reid and Eric Bieniemy likely to open up the playbook, Vulius Sports backs Mahomes over 220.5 passing yards (-114).
"The NFL betting landscape is ever-evolving, and our team at Vulius is dedicated to providing fans with the sharpest analysis to stay ahead of the curve," said Corbie Craig, lead handicapper at Vulius.
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