Shakiel Mahjouri predicts Jalin Turner will defeat Ignacio Bahamondes in their UFC 313 fight, suggesting Turner's difficult past losses and diverse skill set provide him the advantage. Both fighters have standout striking skills and high output, but Turner has faced elite talent previously and learned valuable lessons from tough losses. Mahjouri notes Turner's finishing ability is more consistent and he'll have additional tools through his submission skills. He considers the fight closely contested but ultimately gives Turner the nod due to greater experience and more ways to achieve victory.

Patrick McDonald noted that Shane Lowry has not won a standalone PGA Tour event in the United States in nearly a decade despite multiple close calls. He highlighted Lowry’s runner-up finish at Pebble Beach earlier this season and his strong track record at PGA National, where Lowry has finished second, T5, and T4 over his last three appearances. McDonald believes Lowry’s combination of experience and current form could easily translate into another high finish this week.

Patrick McDonald explained that Sungjae Im began his season in excellent form with top-five finishes at the Sentry and Farmers Insurance Open, only to struggle through February without a top-30 result. McDonald noted that Im needs his iron play to bounce back if he hopes to secure his third PGA Tour victory this week at PGA National.

Patrick McDonald emphasized Russell Henley’s history at PGA National, where he previously won in 2014, and noted his strong showings earlier this season at the Sony Open and AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Despite having below-average distance off the tee, Henley’s accuracy and recent form could give him a legitimate chance to contend for another Cognizant Classic title.

Patrick McDonald described Sepp Straka as one of the hottest golfers through the first two months of the season, referencing his victory at the American Express and near-win at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Straka has a terrific track record at the Cognizant Classic, with a win and a top-five in the last three tournaments at PGA National. McDonald believes that momentum should carry over into Florida.

Patrick McDonald pointed out that Daniel Berger has battled to regain top form after nearly losing his PGA Tour card, highlighting a runner-up finish at the RSM Classic and another second place showing in Scottsdale. Berger quietly added a top-15 at the Genesis Invitational, and given his past close calls at PGA National, McDonald sees a strong chance for Berger to return to the winner’s circle.

Patrick McDonald identified Denny McCarthy as his pick to win the 2025 Cognizant Classic. He emphasized McCarthy’s near-victory at Torrey Pines, noting his elite putting on Bermuda grass and improved iron play as major strengths. McDonald believes that if McCarthy can straighten out his driver, it may be enough to secure the golfer’s first career PGA Tour victory this week.

Patrick McDonald labeled Davis Thompson a serious contender at 40-1 following his 36-hole lead at the Genesis Invitational. Thompson showed notable improvement in his iron play for the first time all year, and McDonald cites the comfortable combination of Thompson’s driver and short game as instrumental for success on a challenging layout like PGA National.

Patrick McDonald highlighted Kris Ventura at 120-1 as a sleeper play for the Cognizant Classic. Ventura regained his PGA Tour status this season and has impressed with a top-five finish at the Farmers Insurance Open and a T25 at the Mexico Open. McDonald noted that Ventura has been gaining strokes with his irons, which could be crucial at a venue where surprise winners often emerge.

Kyle Long predicted the Packers will defeat the Lions, citing the strength of their offensive line and the abilities of quarterback Jordan Love. He trusts the Packers' offensive unit to lead them to victory.

Pete Prisco believes that Tua Tagovailoa will have a strong performance against the Jets, putting up big numbers as the Dolphins play well at home.

Kyle Long said he trusts the Buccaneers to win and cover the seven-point spread against the Raiders. He highlighted Baker Mayfield's confidence, Mike Evans' strong performance, and the team's understanding that they need to win. He trusts Baker Mayfield 'seven days a week' and expects a convincing victory.

Pete Prisco highlights that Saquon Barkley has a real shot at breaking the rushing record, as four of the Giants' last six games are against teams with poor run defenses. He anticipates Barkley having many opportunities to accumulate rushing yards.

Pete Prisco asserts that Josh Allen is the current MVP, despite Saquon Barkley's impressive performance. He values Allen's contributions and believes he deserves the MVP award over Barkley.