This week’s NFL lineup is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet.

The highlight of the week is clearly the Super Bowl rematch between the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers. Additionally, the Minnesota Vikings are looking to maintain their unbeaten status against their old foes, the Detroit Lions.

Moreover, the matchup between the Houston Texans and the Green Bay Packers will feature two of the bright young quarterbacks, C.J. Stroud and Jordan Love. Meanwhile, the New York Jets will face the Pittsburgh Steelers in a prime-time game showcasing the debuts of Davante Adams and Russell Wilson.

With numerous thrilling narratives unfolding, here are YSL News Sports’ daring predictions for Week 7:

Sunday Night Will Be a Sleepless One for John Mara

Saquon Barkley is set to make his much-awaited return to MetLife Stadium this weekend, reminding everyone of New York Giants co-owner John Mara’s sentiments during the off-season. Mara was not keen on losing the star running back after six seasons, especially fearing the notion of Barkley signing with the rival Philadelphia Eagles. He famously stated he’d “have a tough time sleeping” if that were to happen. Well, it’s official now—Barkley left for a three-year, $37.75 million contract. He returns to the Meadowlands currently ranked fourth in the league for rushing yards (482 yards, 5.3 per carry) and fifth for total yards (574). In stark contrast, the Giants are struggling at 24th in rushing yards. Although Barkley insists he holds no ill-will toward the Giants, he seems poised for a strong performance against them. Despite the expected boos from the crowd, expect Barkley to shine, potentially reaching 100 rushing yards and over 150 total yards, with two touchdowns to cap it off. So, prepare to see Mara tossing and turning long into the night.

— Jarrett Bell

Barkley is Ready to Make the Giants Regret Their Decision

The victory of Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton’s return to New Orleans on Thursday served as a celebration in the city where he built his legendary status with the Saints. However, there was no bitterness from him, especially since Payton chose to part ways with the city nearly three years ago.

This Sunday, a different atmosphere awaits in The Big Apple. With much of the buzz surrounding the Jets, Mets, Yankees, and Liberty, the struggling Giants are set to gain attention as they face Saquon Barkley and his Philadelphia Eagles for the first time since Barkley’s departure during free agency last March—something that certainly displeased owner Mara. Now playing for Big Blue’s fiercest competitor, having signed a three-year, $37.75 million contract in Philadelphia, Barkley has shown to be one of the league’s top rushers, averaging over 115 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown per game. As he lines up against the team that drafted him second overall in 2018—who replaced him with other players while focusing their budget on the offensive line—it’ll be interesting to see how this plays out. The Giants currently hold the 24th position in rushing yards, whereas the Eagles exceed them by over 40 yards per game.

For much of his career, Barkley has been the face of the Giants’ offensive identity, often with little support. Now, he faces a defense that may be missing key players like Dexter Lawrence, Brian Burns, and Kayvon Thibodeaux, currently on injured reserve. Don’t be shocked if Barkley has a standout game, potentially racking up 200 total yards and scoring three touchdowns.

− Nate Davis

Davante Adams to Shine with 13 Catches, 125+ Yards, and 1 TD in Jets Debut

Since January 9, 2022, Davante Adams hasn’t caught a pass from Aaron Rodgers during the regular season, but this break will not impact their on-field chemistry. Adams and Rodgers are set to reconnect as if no time has passed. Expect Adams to achieve 13 receptions on Sunday, tying for the second-highest in a single game in his career. With those catches, he’ll surpass 125 receiving yards, and he’ll likely add a touchdown to his stats.

This rekindled connection between Rodgers and Adams will help New York secure a much-needed victory, breaking a three-game losing streak. They will demonstrate why they are such a powerful duo during Sunday night’s game.

– Tyler Dragon

Niners to Claim Major Super Bowl Revenge

Upon reviewing YSL News NFL staff’s Week 7 predictions, it’s evident I’m the only one confident enough to bet on the San Francisco 49ers defeating the Kansas City Chiefs in what’s labeled “Game of the Week” on FOX. I foresee a Niners victory with a score of 23-21, suggesting they will cover the spread. Choosing to go against Andy Reid’s squad after a bye week is itself a bold move. However, predicting that the 49ers will convincingly beat the Chiefs, even without Christian McCaffrey, is exceptionally daring. San Francisco is poised to hand the Chiefs their first defeat of the season, while also claiming a hint of revenge for their Super Bowl loss earlier this year with a margin of victory of at least 10 points.

— Chris Bumbaca

Lions Will Limit Justin Jefferson to Under 100 Receiving Yards

This may not sound overly bold at first glance; however, Justin Jefferson usually exceeds against the Lions, averaging 134.1 receiving yards over eight games against them. The Lions will be challenged without their top player, Aidan Hutchinson, who suffered significant injuries. Nonetheless, I’m placing my trust in defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, knowing he must contain Jefferson. This could mean taking cues from the New York Jets’ physical strategy from last week, which resulted in limiting Jefferson to six catches on 14 targets for 92 yards, despite five pass interference flags against them. With fresh defensive backs like Carlton Davis III and rookie Terrion Arnold, the Lions aren’t backing down from the challenge ahead.

— Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz