Tag: NFL Action

Tom Brady’s next destination? ‘You don’t have to be a psychic’ to know it’s Las Vegas

Tom Brady has a decision to make when the NFL free-agent market begins. Where will he be playing in 2020?

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LAS VEGAS — Ms. Laurie, a fortune teller who works on Fremont Street in downtown Las Vegas, will reveal the future for a price: $20 for a palm reading, $20 for tarot cards or, this week, a steep discount on where quarterback Tom Brady will be playing football next season.

For free, Ms. Laurie told USA TODAY Sports that Brady will be playing for the Las Vegas Raiders. Brady bought a house here and so of course he’ll be leaving the New England Patriots, she explained.

“That’s common sense,’’ she said. “You don’t have be a psychic.’’

Never mind that there is no evidence Brady has bought a house in Las Vegas, much less Nevada. Truth is a minor inconvenience with NFL free agency starting March 18 and speculation simmering about where Brady will play.

The most probable outcome, according to oddsmakers, is Brady will stay with the Patriots. Of course, that’s where he has played for 20 seasons and won six Super Bowl rings. The sports books here taking wagers on Brady’s future still list New England as the odds-on favorite.

But Chris Andrews, the sports book director at the South Point Hotel Casino & Spa, said most money has been wagered on Brady going to the San Francisco 49ers. The thinking, Andrews said, is that Patriots head coach Bill Belichick is ready to part ways with the aging Brady, 42, in favor of Jimmy Garoppolo, 28, whom the Patriots traded to the 49ers in 2017.

Also see: Where will Tom Brady play in 2020? NFL futures odds, picks and best bets

“I can tell you this,’’ Andrews said, “we don’t want to see (Brady) sign with the 49ers. We’d lose pretty good.’’

Jay Kornegay, who oversees operations at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, said most of the money wagered has been on the Tennessee Titans, with the Raiders drawing the second-most money wagered.

Get action on Brady’s 2020 team by placing a legal sports bet at BetMGM.

“The 49ers are beginning to get some interest with the latest rumors,’’ said Kornegay, vice president of race and sports operations, who added that the prop bet has generated more discussion than actual bets.

Brady fever hasn’t exactly swept through this city. In fact, cruising around town looking for Brady’s name on the back of a Raiders jersey is a fruitless exercise. And a guy who answered the phone at a sports apparel shop in Las Vegas said they had no Raiders jerseys with Brady’s name.

“Not yet,’’ he said. “Is it official?’’

Meaning, is it official Brady has signed with the Raiders. Uh, no.

The guy explained that stores licensed by the NFL are prohibited from selling team jerseys with the names of players from other teams.

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But that hasn’t stopped people from imagining. Mark Tuttle, who works at a marijuana dispensary near the stadium, was walking last week on a road in front of Allegiant Stadium, which next season will be the new home of the Raiders.

“You know the big rumor is Brady’s supposed to go to the Giants,’’ said Tuttle, who happened to be wearing a New York Giants jersey.

But Tuttle said he thinks Las Vegas would be the second-best destination for Brady, behind only New England. And he predicted with Brady, the Raiders would be big winners — if not on the field, in merchandise sales.

“Do you know how many jerseys we’d sell here?’’ he said. “It’d go through the roof.

“I’d like to see Brady come, I can tell you that. I’d definitely have a black and silver jersey.’’

Nearby, an electrical contractor said he was a lifelong Chicago Bears fan but declined to give his name after being asked what he thinks Brady should do as the psychics, sports book operators and fans speculate on where he’ll play next season.

“He needs to retire,’’ the electrical contractor said.

Get some action on Brady’s 2020 team by signing up and betting at BetMGM. If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com.

Follow Josh Peter @joshlpeter13 and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

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NFC Championship: Green Bay Packers at San Francisco 49ers odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s NFC Championship between the Green Bay Packers and San Francisco 49ers, with NFL betting odds, picks, tips and best bets

The San Francisco 49ers (13-3) host the Green Bay Packers (13-3) Sunday in the NFC Championship Game at Levi’s Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:40 p.m. ET and will follow the Tennessee Titans-Kansas City Chiefs AFC Championship. We analyze the Packers-49ers odds and sports betting lines, while providing NFL betting tips and advice on this matchup.

Packers at 49ers: NFC Championship preview, betting trends and notes

  • The 49ers come in with rest advantage after beating the Minnesota Vikings 27-10 in the Divisional Round last Saturday. The Packers beat the Seattle Seahawks 28-23 last Sunday night.
  • San Francisco was 3-2 straight up with a rest advantage this season. It won those games by an average of 8.8 points and covered the spread of 5.5 points per game. Green Bay was 5-0 SU with a rest disadvantage, winning those games by an average of 7.4 PPG.
  • The two teams met at Levi’s Stadium in Week 12, with the Niners claiming a 37-8 victory. Packers QB Aaron Rodgers was held to a season-low 104 passing yards with one touchdown pass and no interceptions. Lead RB Aaron Jones had just 38 rushing yards and no receptions.
  • The Packers had won the previous two head-to-head meetings in 2015 (17-3) and 2018 (33-30).

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  • The Divisional Round was San Francisco’s first time holding the opposition below 20 points since limiting the Packers to just eight points in Week 12.
  • Green Bay’s 28 points scored against Seattle was its highest single-game total since putting up 31 against the New York Giants in Week 13.
  • The Niners tied for fifth in the NFL in the regular season with 48 sacks. The Packers tied for 15th with 41 sacks. Both teams tied for 12th with 36 sacks given up.
  • The Packers ranked second in the NFL this year with just 13 giveaways. The Niners were sixth with 27 takeaways, but they also committed 23 turnovers. The Packers had 25 takeaways.
  • San Francisco was fourth in the league with an average time of possession of 31:51. Green Bay trailed slightly with an average TOP of 31:20.

Packers at 49ers: NFC Championship odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday at 2 p.m. ET.

Prediction

49ers 23, Packers 20

Moneyline (?)

The 49ers (-345) are big moneyline favorites on the home field, but we’ll PASS on the moneyline wager as a $10 bet on San Francisco to win outright returns a profit of just $2.90. The Packers (+275) offer a sizable return on your investment as they ride a five-game winning streak, but the Niners are the team to back to win the NFC Championship.

Look to the spread for a better value play.

Against the Spread (?)

The PACKERS (+7.5, -115) are the play here as they’re being spotted more than a touchdown. They’ll need just to stay within 7 points in a loss or win outright for a $10 bet to return a profit of $8.70.

Before last week, the Niners were 0-6-1 against the spread when favored by 6 or more points. The Packers were underdogs only four times this year, going 3-1 ATS in those contests. All three of their losses were by at least 7 points (including the 29-point loss the Niners) but expect a much tighter contest with a Super Bowl trip on the line.

Over/Under (?)

Take the UNDER 44.5 (-106). The 49ers fell short of 45 combined points in just six of 17 games (including the Divisional Round) but the Packers have fallen shy of a 45-point total in 10 of 17 games. The season’s first head-to-head showdown played to a total of 45 points on the dot.

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Esten’s NFL betting record: 58-49

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Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions sports betting odds and lines, with Week 16 NFL betting picks, tips and bets.

The Green Bay Packers (12-3) visit the Detroit Lions (3-11-1) Sunday for a 1 p.m. ET kickoff at Ford Field (on FOX). We analyze the Packers-Lions odds and sports betting lines, while providing betting tips and advice on this Week 17 NFL matchup.

Packers at Lions: Week 17 preview, betting trends and notes

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  • The Packers are 0-5 ATS and 1-4 SU in their last five games against the Lions.
  • The Packers are 6-2 ATS in their last eight road games.
  • Detroit is 1-9 ATS in its last 10 games this season and has lost eight in a row straight-up.
  • Green Bay has covered the spread in four of its last five games against the NFC North.
  • The favorite is 19-7 ATS in the last 26 meetings between the Packers and Lions.
  • The total has gone Over in each of the last four meetings in Detroit.

Packers at Lions: Key injuries

Packers: LT Bryan Bulaga (groin) should be available, while OL Billy Turner (hamstring) missed Wednesday’s practice and is questionable.

Lions: RT Rick Wagner (knee) missed Wednesday’s practice, while OT Taylor Decker (ankle) was limited.

Packers at Lions: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Thursday at 10:15 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Packers 28, Lions 14

Moneyline (?)

The Packers (-667) need this win to secure a first-round bye, which is hugely beneficial for a team. They can also clinch home-field advantage in the playoffs with a win and San Francisco 49ers loss.

In other words, they’re going to do everything possible to win. However, I can’t justify suggesting to anyone to lay that kind of chalk. Every $6.67 wagered on the Packers ML will only profit $1 if they win.

Against the Spread (?)

The Packers (-12.5) are double-digit favorites on the road. The oddsmakers see them as the far better team, and that will show on Sunday afternoon. They’ll beat the Lions by at least two touchdowns and roll to a win.

Take the PACKERS (-110) to cover the spread.

Over/Under (?)

The O/U is set at 42.5 points, and although Detroit’s offense has been terrible, the defense is going to struggle to stop Green Bay. Still, it won’t be enough to push to total Over 42 points.

Take the UNDER (-106), but expect a nail biter with this bet.

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Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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San Francisco 49ers at Seattle Seahawks odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s San Francisco 49ers at Seattle Seahawks sports betting odds and lines, with Week 16 NFL betting picks, tips and bets.

The San Francisco 49ers (12-3) visit the Seattle Seahawks (11-4) in a battle for the NFC West title Sunday with an 8:20 p.m. ET kickoff at CenturyLink Field. We analyze the 49ers-Seahawks odds and sports betting lines, while providing betting tips and advice on this Week 17 NFL matchup.

Both teams have already clinched playoff berths, but the 49ers lock up the NFC’s No. 1 seed with a win. The Seahawks can finish anywhere from the Nos. 1 through 3 seeds with a win; the loser of Sunday’s game gets the 5 seed.

In one of the better NFL games of the year, the Seahawks won the first meeting of the regular season 27-24 in overtime Nov. 11. Jason Myers’ 42-yard field goal as time expired handed the 49ers their first loss of the season.

49ers at Seahawks: Week 17 preview, betting trends and notes

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  • One might be surprised the home team Seahawks are NOT the favorite, but they’ve recently suffered key injuries to their defense and their running back corps — leading to the signing of RB Marshawn Lynch this week.
  • The 49ers have alternated wins and losses the last five weeks, most recently beating the visiting Los Angeles Rams 34-31 in Week 16, but failing to cover a 7-point spread.
  • An 8-point favorite, the Seahawks were stunned at home by the Arizona Cardinals 27-13 last week.
  • The 49ers are 6-1 on the road, 8-6-1 against the spread (ATS) overall, and 5-2 ATS away from home.
  • The Seahawks are a surprising 4-3 at home, 7-7-1 ATS overall and 2-5 ATS at CenturyLink Field.
  • Both teams are 8-7 against the over/under on the season.
  • 49ers QB Jimmy Garoppolo is 20-5 in 25 starts — but this is his first career start at Seattle.

49ers at Seahawks: Key injuries

49ers: WR Deebo Samuel (undisclosed), S Jaquiski Tartt (ribs), DT Julian Taylor (elbow) and DE Dee Ford (hamstring) are questionable.

Seahawks: RBs Chris Carson (hip), Rashaad Penny (knee), C.J. Prosise (arm) and LT Duane Brown (knee) are out — the three RBs are done for the year. CB Shaquill Griffin (hamstring) and DE Jadeveon Clowney (abdomen) are probable, while S Quandre Diggs (ankle) is questionable.

49ers at Seahawks: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Aug 30, 2018; Seattle, WA; Marshawn Lynch (left), when with the Oakland Raiders, and Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll (right) catch up during a 2018 game CenturyLink Field. They have rejoined forces heading into Sunday’s showdown with the 49ers. (Photo Credit: Joe Nicholson – USA TODAY Sports)

NFL odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Odds last updated Thursday at 5:45 a.m. ET.

Prediction

49ers 27, Seahawks 17

Moneyline (ML)

The 49ERS (-176) are worth a small play if you have doubts about the spread – and are afraid of the hook. The trend points to the Seahawks (+145), who have won eight straight home games vs. the 49ers, but Seattle is just not healthy and Lynch is not the answer.

New to sports betting? Every $10 wagered on the 49ers to win straight up would profit $5.68 if the 49ers win.

Against the Spread (ATS)

The 49ERS (-3.5, -106) are the STRONGEST PLAY. I’m not a fan of backing road teams, especially when they’re favored by more than 3 points. But as mentioned above, the Seahawks (+3.5, -115) are undermanned in this one – they were exposed in last week’s loss to the Cardinals, and the 49ers will take advantage in avenging the regular-season OT loss.

Over/Under (O/U)

Back the UNDER 47.5 (-115). The 49ers defense ranks eighth in allowing just 19.3 points per game, while the Seahawks allow 24.8 PPG. On the offensive side, the 49ers are second in points scored (30.2 PPG) and the Seahawks are ninth (25.6 PPG).

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Johnny’s December record: 16-7-1. Strongest plays: 8-2.

Follow @JohnnyParlay11 and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

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Washington Redskins at Dallas Cowboys odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s Washington Redskins at Dallas Cowboys sports betting odds and lines, with Week 17 NFL betting picks, tips and bets.

The Dallas Cowboys (7-8), in need of a win, host the Washington Redskins (3-12) Sunday for a 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff at AT&T Stadium (on FOX). We analyze the Redskins-Cowboys odds and sports betting lines, while providing betting tips and advice on this Week 17 NFL matchup.

Redskins at Cowboys: Week 17 preview, betting trends and notes

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  • The Cowboys need a win over Washington and a Philadelphia Eagles loss to the New York Giants in order to make the postseason.
  • Washington has lost three in a row and seven of its last nine games, but has gone 5-4 ATS in that span.
  • The Cowboys are just 1-4 in their last five games after starting the season 6-4.
  • Dallas is 12-4 in its last 16 games at home.
  • Washington has only covered the spread once in its last five games against Dallas.
  • The Redskins are 1-8 ATS in their last nine games against the NFC East.

Redskins at Cowboys: Key injuries

Redskins: QB Dwayne Haskins (ankle) has been ruled out. QB Case Keenum will start in his place. OT Morgan Moses (knee) is questionable.

Cowboys: QB Dak Prescott (shoulder), LT Tyron Smith (eye), DE DeMarcus Lawrence (shoulder) and LB Sean Lee (pectoral/thigh) did not practice Wednesday. DE/DT Michael Bennett (foot), S Jeff Heath (shoulder), P Chris Jones (abdomen) and LB Joe Thomas (knee) were limited in practice.

Redskins at Cowboys: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Wednesday at 7:20 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Cowboys 27, Redskins 20

Moneyline (?)

The Cowboys (-500) are going to win, but I can’t justify suggesting to someone to make a wager that only profits $1 on every $5 bet. Dallas is desperate for a win, hoping to keep its playoff chances alive. The Redskins (+380) have nothing to play for and will keep their banged-up players out of harm’s way.

Against the Spread (?)

The Cowboys are only 1-3 ATS in their last four games and their blowout win over the Los Angeles Rams looks more like an outlier than an indicator of their actual ability. They’re still favored by 10.5 points over the Redskins, which is too large a number for me to bite on.

Take the REDSKINS (+10.5, -115) to cover the spread and keep the game relatively close.

Over/Under (?)

The number is 44.5 (Over -106, Under -115). The total has gone over in 12 of the Cowboys’ last 18 games, and four of the last five at home against the Redskins.

Take the OVER (-106) with Dallas’ offense getting things kicked into gear after a flop in Philly.

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Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Green Bay Packers at Minnesota Vikings odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Monday’s Green Bay Packers at Minnesota Vikings sports betting odds and lines, with Week 16 NFL betting picks, tips and bets.

The Green Bay Packers (11-3) look to lock down the NFC North title when they travel to U.S. Bank Stadium to play the Minnesota Vikings (10-4) in a much-anticipated Monday Night Football tilt at 8:15 p.m. ET. We analyze the Packers-Vikings odds and sports betting lines, while providing betting tips and advice on this Week 16 NFL matchup.

Packers at Vikings: preview, betting trends and notes

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  • The Packers are 9-5 against the spread (ATS) this season, but just 3-3 ATS in their last six games.
  • The Over has hit in five of the Vikings’ last six games.
  • Green Bay is 4-2 against the moneyline and 5-1 against the spread in its last six games as a road underdog.
  • In games where Minnesota has been favored between 3.5 and 4.5 points, the Vikings are 9-0 against the moneyline and 8-1 ATS – hitting the Over in 14 of 20 games in that scenario.
  • Vikings QB Kirk Cousins has a career record of 6-14-1 in 21 prime-time games.
  • The total has gone Under in eight of the last 10 meetings between the two NFC North rivals.

Vikings at Packers: Key injuries

Vikings

  • RB Dalvin Cook (chest) out
  • RB Alexander Mattison (ankle) questionable

Packers

  • DE Dean Lowry (ankle) questionable
  • T Yosuah Nijman (elbow) out

Vikings at Packers: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Vikings QB Kirk Cousins. (Photo Credit: Brad Rempel – USA TODAY Sports)

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Saturday at 4 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Vikings 23, Packers Bay 20

Moneyline (?)

Minnesota is the only team in the league that is unbeaten at home this season (6-0) and has protected their home-field advantage extremely well, winning games by 16, 20, 18, 10, 6 and 13 points. That can explain why they have a big moneyline number (-239). The Packers are getting a good number (+190), and it’s rare for any 11-3 team to get that kind of love from the sportsbooks. We would lean toward the Vikings, but not by much given the return to go with Green Bay and the lack of it for Minnesota.

Against the Spread (?)

Minnesota has blown out the 3.5-point number all season and are the favorite despite giving up the points (-139). The money is going on Minnesota, which explains the spread, but if you’re willing to give Aaron Rodgers and the PACKERS +3.5 (+115) that many points, it’s hard to deny taking him. Go with the visitors.

New to sports betting? Every $1.15 wagered on the Packers moneyline will profit $1 if they don’t lose by 4 or more points or win outright.

Over/Under (?)

The Vikings and Packers tend to play games close to the vest and work the clock with long drives that drain the clock. Both defenses have been strong in the red zone and forced teams to settle for field goals more often than touchdowns. The Over 46.5 (+100) is getting better odds than the under (-121), but this one has the smell of a tightly contested, conservative game plan for both offense, which lends itself to lower scores. Take the UNDER 46.5.

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Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Detroit Lions at Denver Broncos odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s Detroit Lions at Denver Broncos sports betting odds and lines, with Week 16 NFL betting picks, tips and bets.

Two struggling teams looking more to the future than the present, the Detroit Lions (3-10-1) travel play to the Denver Broncos (5-9) Sunday at Empower Field at Mile High at 4:05 p.m. ET (on CBS). We analyze the Lions-Broncos odds and sports betting lines, while providing betting tips and advice on this Week 16 NFL matchup.

Lions at Broncos: Week 16 preview, betting trends and notes

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  • The Lions are 9-5 O/U on the season.
  • Denver has played to the Under in 17 of its last 23 games and 10 of its last 13 home games.
  • When Detroit is supposed to lose, it usually does. The Lions are 1-8 against the spread (ATS) in its last nine games and 0-7 against the moneyline in the last seven.
  • Denver is 4-2 at home ATS.
  • Detroit is a stiff on the road, going 1-5-1 straight up and 2-5 ATS away from home.
  • The Broncos are 1-5 against the moneyline in their last six games against teams from the NFC North.

Lions at Broncos: Key injuries

Broncos: The offensive line is thin with OT Ja’Wuan James (knee) and guard Ron Leary (concussion) out, while G Dalton Risner (illness) is questionable after missing two of three practice sessions, including Friday’s. TE Noah Fant (shoulder) and DEs DeMarcus Walker (ankle) and Dre’Mont Jones (ankle) are also questionable.

Lions: The laundry list of injuries just keeps growing. DT A’Shawn Robinson (shoulder), LB Christian Jones (shoulder) and OT Rick Wagner (knee) are out. LB Devon Kennard (hamstring) and previous starting RB Bo Scarbrough (ribs) are questionable.

Lions at Broncos: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 10:45 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Broncos 23, Lions 13

Moneyline (?)

The problem here is how much you have to give up on Denver (-304), but, if you had to make a bet on this, it might be the play to make because few believe the Lions (+240) can compete simply because of the injuries. This is the one wager option to AVOID the most.

Against the Spread (?)

The spread has wavered from 6.5 to 7 and back again. The difference between 6.5 and 7 is big in the NFL. The BRONCOS -6.5 (-115) will take that hook (the half point), but they probably won’t need it. The Lions (-106), with a spread less than a touchdown, doesn’t make a lot of outward sense. Take the BRONCOS and go heavy if you have that same feeling.

Over/Under (?)

This is the one that will likely get the most action because the line is a pee-wee 37.5 (-110 on both sides). Over/Unders don’t get much lower than that in the NFL for a reason. It doesn’t take a lot to hit that number. Barring a defensive or special teams touchdown, can two QBs who still can count their starts on one hand be counted on to score four or five touchdowns? Take the UNDER 37.5 (-110) with tepid confidence.

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Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Pittsburgh Steelers at New York Jets odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s Pittsburgh Steelers at New York Jets sports betting odds and lines, with Week 16 NFL betting picks, tips and bets.

The Pittsburgh Steelers (8-6) look to keep their unlikely playoff run alive when they travel to play the New York Jets (5-9) at MetLife Stadium at 1 p.m. ET Sunday (on CBS). We analyze the Steelers-Jets odds and sports betting lines, while providing betting tips and advice on this Week 16 NFL matchup.

Steelers at Jets: Week 16 preview, betting trends and notes

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  • The Steelers have owned the Jets, going 4-1 against the spread (ATS) over New York in their last five meetings.
  • The last 16 times the Jets have played the Steelers, the total has hit the Under 13 times, averaging less than 31 combined points per game.
  • The total has hit the Under in each of last six Steelers road games, averaging less than 36 points a game.
  • The Jets are 0-3 against AFC North teams this season, having already lost to Baltimore, Cleveland and Cincinnati.
  • Pittsburgh is 5-3-2 ATS in its last 10 games.
  • Le’Veon Bell will be playing the Steelers for the first time on Sunday. Bell has struggled all season, but had his best rushing game of his Jets career last week when he rushed for 87 yards.

Steelers at Jets: Key injuries

Steelers: Six players sat out of Wednesday’s practice, but only two – CB Joe Haden (foot) and G Ramon Foster (not injury related) sat out Thursday.

Jets: 20 players are listed on their injury report, but just three didn’t practice – WR Robby Anderson (illness), OL Tom Compton (calf) and WR Demaryius Thomas (hamstring/knee). S Jamal Adams (ankle) and DL Quinnen Williams (neck) were both limited.

Steelers at Jets: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 12:40 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Steelers 20, Jets 13

Moneyline (?)

This is a bet that is the football anomaly. If you think the Steelers (-173) are going to win, you don’t bet this one because the spread is only 2.5 points. If you’re going with the Jets (+140), this is your bet because getting 2-and-a-hook drops your return significantly (27 percent). Given how we think this one will turn out, we’ll PASS.

Against the Spread (?)

The opposite applies here. Giving up 2.5 points drops the investment in the Steelers down to -134. Typically, you try to find a point that will get even betting where the line is as close to -110 as possible. The Jets are +110 on this bet, enticing those who can envision a 14-13 game have the cushion. But we’re going with the Steelers defense on this one. Back PITTSBURGH (-2.5, -134).

New to sports betting? Every $1.34 wagered on the Steelers ATS will profit $1 if they win by 3 or more points.

Over/Under (?)

A total of 38.5 isn’t unheard of, but pretty rare on a weekly slate of games. There’s a reason the number is so low here. Solid defenses going up against young QBs who struggle when blitzed, which both teams do. The Under is the stiffer bet (-121) than the Over (+100) because the sportsbooks don’t believe the Over will hit, and the books are hedging. Unless there is a defensive/special teams touchdown (or two), it will be difficult to hit 40 points between the two of them. Take the UNDER 38.5 (+100).

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Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Dallas Cowboys at Philadelphia Eagles odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s Dallas Cowboys at Philadelphia Eagles sports betting odds and lines, with Week 15 NFL betting picks, tips and bets.

The Dallas Cowboys (7-7) visit the Philadelphia Eagles (7-7) in an NFC East first-place battle Sunday for a 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff at Lincoln Financial Field (on FOX). We analyze the Cowboys-Eagles odds and sports betting lines, while providing betting tips and advice on this Week 16 NFL matchup.

A Cowboys win would clinch the division with one game to go since they beat the Eagles 37-10 in their first head-to-head matchup this season Oct. 20.

Cowboys at Eagles: Week 16 preview, betting trends and notes

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  • As a 1-point underdog last Sunday, the Cowboys snapped a three-game skid with a 44-21 home throttling of the Los Angeles Rams. QB Dak Prescott threw for 2 TDs while RB Ezekiel Elliot ran for 117 yards and 2 scores and RB Tony Pollard added 131 yards and 1 TD on the ground in the win.
  • Eagles QB Carson Wentz steered a last-minute scoring drive for a second consecutive game, hitting WR Greg Ward for the go-ahead TD with 26 seconds left in a 37-27 win at the Washington Redskins last Sunday. The Eagles added a defensive TD on the last play of the game for the wild 7-point cover as the favorite.
  • The Cowboys have won the last four head-to-head meetings, including the last two in Philly, but one was a meaningless game to end the 2017 regular season.
  • The Cowboys are 3-4 away from home, 8-6 Against the Spread (ATS) overall and 4-3 ATS on the road.
  • The Eagles are 4-3 at home, 5-9 ATS overall and 2-5 ATS in Philly.
  • The Cowboys are 9-5 against the over/under, including 5-2 on the road.
  • The Eagles are 7-7 O/U and 2-5 O/U at home.

Cowboys at Eagles: Key injuries

Cowboys: LT Tyron Smith (eye), LB Sean Lee (pectoral/thigh) and Michael Bennett (foot) returned to practice Thursday after sitting out Wednesday. All three are questionable, along with RT La’el Collins (knee), RG Zack Martin (ankle) and LB Joe Thomas (knee), while LB Leighton Vander Esch (neck) is out.

Eagles: RB Jordan Howard (shoulder), RG Brandon Brooks (calf), CB Ronald Darby (hip) and DT Fletcher Cox (triceps) were limited in Thursday’s practice, while RT Lane Johnson (ankle) and DE Derek Barnett sat out. All six are questionable. WR Nelson Agholor (knee) is doubtful.

Cowboys at Eagles: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Nov 28, 2019; Arlington, TX; Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott. (Photo Credit: Jerome Miron – USA TODAY Sports)

NFL odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Odds last updated Friday at 3:40 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Eagles 27, Cowboys 24

Moneyline (ML)

The EAGLES (+100) are the STRONGEST PLAY. While Philly isn’t the trendy pick, I love a home team at even money as long as they don’t stink. The Cowboys are -121.

New to sports betting? Every $1 wagered would profit $1 if the Eagles win.

Against the Spread (ATS)

The EAGLES (+1.5, -110) are the play here, too. The Cowboys have just been too “Jekyll and Hyde” this season. You never know which team will show up. Look for Wentz & Co. to continue to find the magic that has led to back-to-back victories.

Over/Under (O/U)

The OVER 47.5 (+100) is worth a small wager. The Cowboys average 27.0 points per game, while the Eagles average 23.9. On the defensive end, the Cowboys allow 20.6 PPG and the Eagles surrender 23.4 PPG. This should be close to the number, but expect a wild finish with the division title up for grabs.

Want action on this game? Sign up and bet at BetMGM. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Johnny’s December record: 10-3-1. Strongest plays: 5-1.

Follow @JohnnyParlay11 and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Chicago Bears at Green Bay Packers odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s Chicago Bears at Green Bay Packers sports betting odds and lines, with Week 15 NFL betting picks, tips and bets.

The Chicago Bears (7-6) visit the NFC North-leading Green Bay Packers (10-3) in the 200th meeting between the longtime rivals Sunday for a 1 p.m. ET kickoff at Lambeau Field (on FOX). We analyze the Bears-Packers odds and sports betting lines, while providing betting tips and advice on this Week 15 NFL matchup.

Bears at Packers: Week 15 preview, betting trends and notes

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  • The Bears have won three in a row, most recently knocking off the Dallas Cowboys 31-24 at home in the Week 14 Thursday game.
  • The Packers, who lead the division by a game over the Minnesota Vikings and currently sit in the No. 2 NFC playoff spot, are on a two-game win streak after beating the visiting Washington Redskins 20-15 last week.
  • A Chicago loss in Green Bay would eliminate the Bears from playoff contention if the Vikings win at the Los Angeles Chargers later Sunday.
  • The Bears are 3-3 on the road, but 4-9 Against the Spread (ATS) overall.
  • The Packers are 6-1 at home and 8-5 ATS overall.
  • The Packers won the first head-to-head meeting of the season, 10-3 in Week 1 at Soldier Field.
  • Bears QB Mitchell Trubisky has thrown for 2,440 yards and 16 TDs, but with 8 interceptions.
  • Packers QB Aaron Rodgers has thrown for 3,260 yards with 23 TDs and 2 picks in 13 games.
  • The Bears defense ranks fourth in points allowed (17.8 PPG) and 10th in yards allowed (326.5 YPG).
  • While the Packers offense hasn’t been its usual self – ranking 23rd in yards (340.1 YPG) – the defense has been decent, ranking 13th in points allowed (20.8 PPG) but 22nd in yards allowed (367.9 YPG).
  • Aaron Jones leads the Packers ground attack, rushing for 779 yards with 12 TDs. David Montgomery has been the Bears’ main RB, tallying for 680 rushing yards with 5 TDs

Bears at Packers: Key injuries

Bears: WR Taylor Gabriel (concussion), TE Ben Braunecker (concussion), RT Bobby Massie (ankle), DE Roy Robertson-Harris (foot) and LB Danny Trevathan (elbow) are questionable. CB Prince Amukamara (hamstring) is probable.

Packers: TE Jimmy Graham (wrist), WR Geronimo Allison (knee), RG Billy Turner (knee) and CB Kevin King (shoulder) are questionable.

Bears at Packers: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Nov 28, 2019; Detroit, MI,; Chicago Bears quarterback Mitchell Trubisky looks to pass against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. (Photo Credit: Tim Fuller – USA TODAY Sports)

NFL odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Odds last updated Thursday at 1:20 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Packers 24, Bears 16

Moneyline (ML)

It’s no surprise the Packers (-209) are favored at home, but I’m not interested in making a 2-to-1 type bet, where every $2.09 wagered only would profit $1 if Green Bay prevails. I’m going to focus on the spread instead. The Bears are +170 where every $1 wagered would profit $1.70 if Chicago wins.

Against the Spread (ATS)

The PACKERS (-4.5, -106) are the STRONGEST PLAY. Green Bay has won the last three vs. the Bears at Lambeau and have won 9 of the past 11 head-to-head meetings at home. Plus, Rodgers is 18-5 vs. the Bears in his career. Chicago (+4.5, -115) last won at Green Bay Nov. 26, 2015.

Every $1.06 wagered on the Packers to win by 5 points or more would profit $1 if they do so.

Over/Under (O/U)

The UNDER 41.5 (-125) is worthy of a small play. The Bears are 5-8 O/U on the season, 2-3 O/U on the road and 0-2 O/U as a road underdog. The Packers are 6-7 O/U overall and 3-4 O/U at home – they’ve been favored in every home game.

Want action on this game? Sign up and bet at BetMGM. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Johnny’s December record: 5-1. Strongest plays: 3-0.

Follow @JohnnyParlay11 and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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