Dale’s Picks: Week 3, 2024
Written by Dale Walters & Adam Ireland
Season Record: 9-3 | Last Week: 3-3
Week 3 is here, and we’re looking at some intriguing matchups across the NAFC. Dale’s record took a slight hit with an even 3-3 last week, but his overall 9-3 mark shows consistency. With divisional battles heating up, let’s dive into the matchups and predictions, including the latest Vegas lines to give all you fantasy football gamblers an edge.
Moscow Black Bears (2-0) @ Des Moines Metro Raiders (0-2)
Vegas Lines: DSM -16.1
The Moscow Black Bears come into this divisional clash undefeated but will be without star RB Isiah Pacheco, who suffered a broken fibula last week. This leaves Moscow relying heavily on Breece Hall and Calvin Ridley to carry the offensive load. The Raiders, who have struggled to find their footing, could take advantage, especially at home.
Prediction: Des Moines covers the spread and gets their first win.
Austin Oilers (0-2) @ Anchorage Commandos (0-2)
Vegas Lines: Commandos -2.4
Both teams are winless, and this game could go either way. The Commandos are dealing with injuries to their WR core, with Cooper Kupp and A.J. Brown both banged up. The Oilers have been disappointed by Ja’Marr Chase’s lack of production, but Nico Collins and Deebo Samuel have stepped up. In a close divisional matchup, Anchorage’s home-field advantage and Kyler Murray’s return might make the difference.
Prediction: Commandos win and cover the spread.
Atlantic City Aces (2-0) @ Los Angeles USMC (1-1)
Vegas Lines: USMC -3.7
The Aces are red-hot after a strong start to the season, but heading to Los Angeles to face the Marines will be a challenge. The USMC is coming off a win over the Roadrunners, and WRs Amon-Ra St. Brown and Davante Adams are a dangerous duo. The Aces are solid, but the USMC’s balanced attack might be too much to handle at home.
Prediction: USMC wins and covers.
El Paso Red Devils (2-0) @ Seattle Heist (1-1)
Vegas Lines: El Paso -5.9
The Red Devils have shown early dominance, led by Kyren Williams and a balanced roster. Seattle woke up last week, putting up a league-high 175.6 points behind Alvin Kamara’s explosive 50-point performance. This could be a shootout, but the Red Devils have a deeper squad and should be able to outlast the Heist.
Prediction: El Paso wins and covers.
Albuquerque Roadrunners (1-1) @ Montana Wombats (1-1)
Vegas Lines: Montana -2.9
This matchup is tight on paper. The Roadrunners are waiting on Christian McCaffrey to debut, while the Wombats just pulled off a win over the Rebels. Montana’s defense has been solid, and if their offense can do just enough, they should have the edge at home.
Prediction: Montana wins but doesn’t cover.
Burlington Boss Hogs (1-1) @ California Rebels (1-1)
Vegas Lines: Boss Hogs -3.8
Burlington put up solid numbers in their first two games but ran into a resurgent Seattle team last week. The Rebels, meanwhile, have been inconsistent, with star performances one week and letdowns the next. If Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley stay hot, Burlington should be able to handle California on the road.
Prediction: Burlington wins and covers.
There you have it, folks—Dale’s Week 3 picks! Best of luck with your lineups and bets.
