Week 2 of the NFL season brings a full Monday slate packed with storylines across the league. From divisional rivalries to heavyweight showdowns, every matchup carries added intrigue as teams look to either build momentum or avoid slipping to an 0-2 hole.
We have previews for the key matchups of the day as well as betting tips for every game. Remember to check back at our NFL Tips page for regular updates on all marquee NFL fixtures this season!
2025-26 NFL Week 1 Monday Betting Tips
Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions
Monday 3:00am (AEST), Ford Field
Detroit opened the season with plenty of questions, particularly about their run game, which sputtered to just over two yards per carry. Jared Goff was left carrying too much of the offensive load, and the Lions never looked balanced. Injuries to key offensive lineman Taylor Decker and a few defensive pieces have added to the pressure, but Ford Field remains a fortress where Detroit typically plays with swagger.
The Bears showed flashes of potential in Week 1 but still look like a work in progress. Caleb Williams had his moments, but protection remains an issue against quality pass rushes. The secondary has been hit by the loss of Kyler Gordon, though Jaylon Johnson’s return gives Chicago at least one reliable cover man against Detroit’s receivers. They’ll need a near-perfect performance to cause an upset on the road.
Detroit should bounce back strongly in front of their home fans, where their offensive weapons usually shine. Expect Montgomery and Gibbs to be more involved as the Lions try to control tempo and take pressure off Goff.
Philadelphia Eagles at Kansas City Chiefs
Monday 6:20am (AEST), Arrowhead Stadium
The Chiefs return home after a patchy opening performance that left Patrick Mahomes looking isolated at times. Questions remain about their wide receiver group and whether the defense can generate consistent pressure. Arrowhead, though, is one of the toughest road environments in football, and Mahomes has made a career of turning tight games into late victories when the lights shine brightest.
Philadelphia started the year with a workmanlike win but suffered a big blow with tight end Dallas Goedert ruled out. His absence changes their red-zone playbook, but Jalen Hurts still has plenty of weapons in A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. The Eagles’ offensive line remains among the league’s best, and their pass rush is built to make Mahomes uncomfortable in the pocket.
This game has all the makings of another classic between these two teams, but the Eagles’ edge up front may prove decisive. Look for Philadelphia to grind down the Chiefs in a tight, physical contest.
Atlanta Falcons at Minnesota Vikings
Monday 10:20am (AEST)
The Vikings are coming off an emotional Week 1, when rookie QB J.J. McCarthy led a dramatic fourth-quarter comeback to beat the Bears 27-24. McCarthy even earned NFC Offensive Player of the Week honors after throwing two touchdowns and rushing for another in the final quarter. Minnesota’s offense looks promising with Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison as reliable weapons, though the defense still has some holes. McCarthy did briefly miss practice this week while attending to family matters, but he’s expected to be ready for the game.
Atlanta enters this matchup with new life under center. Rookie QB Michael Penix Jr. impressed in his debut despite a narrow loss to Tampa Bay, showing flashes of poise and big-play ability. The Falcons will be boosted by the return of Drake London and Darnell Mooney, both cleared to play after minor knocks. Still, some depth concerns remain across the offensive line and secondary, which could make it difficult to slow down Minnesota’s explosive passing game.
This feels like a contest where momentum and home field advantage matter. McCarthy should continue to grow in confidence and lean on his elite receivers, while the Falcons will look to keep it close with their running game and controlled passing attack. The Vikings look slightly better equipped, and I like them to cover the−3.5.
Other Tips
Cleveland Browns at Baltimore Ravens - Over 45.5 ($1.90 at Dabble)
Los Angeles Rams at Tennessee Titans - Under 41.5 ($1.88 at Dabble)
Buffalo Bills at New York Jets - Bills -6.5 ($1.89 at Dabble)
New York Giants at Dallas Cowboys - Under 44.5 ($1.91 at Dabble)
San Francisco 49ers at New Orleans Saints - 49ers -3 ($1.88 at Dabble)
New England Patriots at Miami Dolphins - Patriots +2.5 ($1.88 at Dabble)
Jacksonville Jaguars at Cincinnati Bengals - Jaguars +3.5 ($1.89 at Dabble)
Seattle Seahawks at Pittsburgh Steelers - Under 40.5 ($1.88 at Dabble)
Denver Broncos at Indianapolis Colts - Broncos -2.5 ($1.90 at Dabble)
Carolina Panthers at Arizona Cardinals - Under 44.5 ($1.88 at Dabble)
