The NFL enters Week 10 on November 12, marking the first weekend where players acquired at the trade deadline will make their official debuts with their new franchises. Notable additions include Kirk Cousins joining the Minnesota Vikings, the Kansas City Chiefs acquiring wide receiver Josh Downs, and the Jacksonville Jaguars securing three new defensive players, including Jordan Davis. As the season deepens, analysts are scrutinizing which of these roster moves will provide the most immediate value for teams aiming for a Super Bowl run.
CBS Sports writers Jordan Dajani and Jared Dubin analyzed the most significant matchups of the weekend. Their predictions were based on betting lines from DraftKings Sportsbook as of November 11. The slate features a variety of high-stakes games, including a divisional battle between the Vikings and Packers, a rivalry rematch in Cincinnati, and an international contest in Munich.
On Thursday night, the New York Giants are favored by 2.5 points against the Washington Commanders. Dajani favors the Commanders, citing a recent close performance against the Los Angeles Rams and historical trends favoring Washington in this matchup. He predicts a narrow 21-20 win for the Commanders. Dubin, however, backs the Giants, noting Washington's struggles with its running game and inefficient passing attack. He projects a 20-14 victory for New York.
In Munich, the Detroit Lions host the New England Patriots, with Detroit favored by 2.5 points. Both analysts agree on the Lions as the winners. Dajani points to the Patriots' recent offensive struggles, including three interceptions by Drake Maye and injuries to key running backs. He predicts a 28-20 Lions victory. Dubin highlights the Lions' improved defensive metrics and the potential for Jared Goff to capitalize on New England's weakened secondary, forecasting a 30-21 win for Detroit.
The Kansas City Chiefs travel to Atlanta to face the Falcons, with Kansas City favored by 3.5 points. Dajani expects the Chiefs to win 26-21, crediting the new addition of Josh Downs for sparking the passing game. He notes the Falcons' recent losses, including a 34-17 defeat in Madrid. Dubin also selects the Chiefs, predicting a 27-16 outcome. He emphasizes Atlanta's vulnerability to the run, having allowed over 120 rushing yards in four of the last five games.
The Minnesota Vikings visit the Green Bay Packers, with the Packers favored by 3.5 points in a divisional clash. Dajani takes the points for the Vikings, believing Kirk Cousins will bring energy and chemistry with Justin Jefferson. He predicts a 20-17 Packers win. Dubin also favors the Packers but expects a lower-scoring affair, trusting Jordan Love more than Cousins. He projects a 17-14 victory for Green Bay, noting the strong play from both defenses.
In another major matchup, the San Francisco 49ers are favored by 3.5 points against the Dallas Cowboys. Dajani predicts a 30-26 win for the 49ers, highlighting their efficient offense despite numerous injuries. Dubin agrees, forecasting a 34-23 victory. He believes the 49ers' per-play efficiency will overwhelm a Dallas defense that has struggled to stop quality offenses.
Sunday night features the Pittsburgh Steelers visiting the Cincinnati Bengals, with the Bengals favored by 3.5 points. Dajani backs the Bengals, citing a strong offensive run and potential MVP credentials for Joe Burrow. He predicts a 30-24 win. Dubin also chooses the Bengals but expects a closer game, predicting a 23-20 victory based on the trend of low-scoring divisional rematches.
Monday night brings a clash between the Baltimore Ravens and the Los Angeles Chargers, with the Ravens favored by 4.5 points. Dajani takes the points for the Chargers, predicting a 20-17 Ravens win. He acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding Jacoby Brissett's debut. Dubin also favors the Ravens but expects the Chargers to keep the game competitive, projecting a 24-20 outcome. He notes that while the Ravens' offense should improve, their defense has been inconsistent.
