# Computer model backs Lions and 49ers in Week 3

> SportsLine's algorithm picks Detroit and San Francisco as its strongest Week 3 NFL bets after simulating every game 10,000 times.
- Title: Computer model backs Lions and 49ers in Week 3 · CBS Sports
- Summary: SportsLine's algorithm picks Detroit and San Francisco as its strongest Week 3 NFL bets after simulating every game 10,000 times. The Lions cover spreads at…
- Keywords: nfl, week 3, betting picks, detroit lions, san francisco 49ers, sportsline computer model, spread picks, nfl odds, nfl predictions, sports, Computer, model
- Source: CBS Sports — https://cbssports.com/betting/news/nfl-odds-picks-predictions-week-3-2026
- Published: 2026-09-23T13:45:42+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: nfl, week 3, betting picks, detroit lions, san francisco 49ers, sportsline computer model, spread picks, nfl odds, nfl predictions, sports
## Travel shapes Week 3 matchups
West Coast teams face early kickoffs on the East Coast, while Dallas and Baltimore play in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil for the first ever NFL Rio Game.
## Computer model's track record
SportsLine's model simulates every NFL game 10,000 times and has returned over $7,000 for $100 bettors since inception. It's on a 53-41 run on top-rated picks since 2024.
## Lions favored over Jets
Detroit is a 6.5-point favorite against New York. The Lions are 12-3 against the spread after losses since 2023, an 80% cover rate that's the best in the NFL.

> Detroit is 12-3 ATS following a loss since 2023, with that 80% cover rate the best in the NFL.
## 49ers' dominant two-week start
San Francisco is an 8.5-point favorite at home against Arizona. The Niners are the only team ranking top-5 in both scoring offense and defense, and they're projected to cover the spread in over 50% of simulations.

> San Fran is forecasted to cover the spread in well over 50% of simulations as it's looked like, arguably, the best team in the league through two weeks.
## Cardinals struggling on both sides
Arizona is coming off a 24-point home loss to Seattle's backup quarterback. The Cards rank in the bottom 10 in both rushing and passing offense.
## 49ers projected to win big
The model forecasts San Francisco to win by double digits against Arizona. The Over is expected to hit almost 60% of the time in this matchup.

> San Francisco wins by double digits per the model, with the Over hitting almost 60% of the time.
## Five A-rated picks available
The model has identified five A-rated spread picks for Week 3 that could deliver significant payouts. Full picks for every game are available at SportsLine.
## Key takeaway

The Lions cover spreads at an 80% rate after losses, while the 49ers rank top-5 in both offense and defense.