by David Taylor

Week 3 has some nice matchups, with two undefeated teams squaring off, along with two winless teams facing one another. Take a look at what is in store for this week

Albany Empire at Philadelphia Soul

This matchup is a battle of unbeatens as Albany looks to knock off the Soul on their home field. After two games, it is clear that the Empire’s defense is legit. Albany is only giving up 23 points per game so far this season. Philadelphia comes into the contest second in both points scored and points allowed in the AFL. The Soul has gotten off to slow starts in both games this season, which could open the door for an Empire victory. The key matchup will be DB James Romain vs. WR Malachi Jones. If Romain shuts Jones down, the Soul will prevail.

Prediction: Soul 36, Empire 34

Columbus Destroyers at Baltimore Brigade

Columbus travels to Baltimore in search of its first win of the season. The Destroyers have struggled offensively this season, particularly at protecting the quarterback. Columbus ranks last in the AFL in points per game. Conversely, The Brigade is leading the league in scoring. Unless Columbus took time this week to improve their pass blocking, this will be a long game for the Destroyers.

Prediction: Brigade 41, Destroyers 35

Atlantic City Blackjacks at Washington Valor

Atlantic City got the first win in franchise history last weekend. Washington, the defending AFL champions, have yet to put a notch in the win column this season and are giving up nearly 48 points per game. Washington struggled in the red zone last weekend, particularly in the passing game. Still, the Valor has a tough home crowd and Atlantic City has a tall task to go in DC and win. Fortunately for the Blackjacks, they are up to the task.

Prediction: Blackjacks 45, Valor 40

Staff Picks

The crew at AFL Fan Zone made our picks for this week. We are listed by our Twitter handles, so head on over to Twitter and give us all a follow!