Ben Burns

THE PLAY: Washington Commanders -163

With Jayden Daniels potentially out, we're able to get the Commanders at a far more reasonable price than we otherwise would have. While it would be preferred if Daniels could play, the Commanders are fully capable of winning this game with Marcus Mariota at quarterback. In parts of three games the Commanders last season, Mariota completed 34 of 44 passes for 364 yards, four touchdowns and no interceptions. He also had 18 carries for 92 yards and one TD. The Commanders play with extra rest; they last played on Thursday, September 11th. The Raiders, on the other hand, play on a short week, as they last played on Monday night. They've already gone from the Eastern Time Zone to the West Coast and now they're back east again. The Commanders were 7-2 at home last season and they're already 1-0 here this season. With or without Daniels, I expect Washington to finish on top. 

Ben Burns is the reigning football champ

THE PLAY: Colorado -13.0 (-110)

These teams used to play regularly but they haven't met for quite a few years. This will be the first meeting since 2009 and only the second meeting since 1997. The Buffaloes won the 2009 game by a score of 24-0 and have an 24-3-1 overall series advantage. The Buffaloes should improve on those stats in relatively comfortable fashion on Saturday. 

The Cowboys managed only six points in last week's loss vs Utah and they tend to have real trouble scoring on the road. They've scored 15 or less in each of their last three road games, including just 10 at Akron earlier this season. (The Zips have given up 99 points in their two games since.) The Buffaloes, who have an extra day's worth of rest from having played Friday, have much tougher games ahead-they won't play an "easier" game the rest of the way. Their next four opponents include BYU, TCU, Iowa State and Utah. Knowing this is their chance to build some confidence, look for the Buffs to run up the score en route to a lopsided win and cover. *good at -14 or better

Ben Burns is the reigning football champion, our #1 overall football handicapper last season.