Betting the NFL Line: Week 12

The top bets to make for Week 12 of the NFL season.

When it comes to betting on the NFL, the most underappreciated bet is the Over/Under. Every games falls somewhere in between 40 and 60 points. You rarely see anything less than 40 or more than 60. But this week we have two games getting as close to the “must bet” low category as there is and neither game involves the New York Jets, Jacksonville Jaguars or Houston Texans.

Two games on the holiday weekend slate have Over/Under numbers of 41.5 points – Chicago at Detroit and Carolina at Miami. While there are games that hit below this number, usually a couple each week, it’s hard to come into a game projecting a total that low, because it doesn’t take much to hit. While 40 is the gold standard of “gotta take the Over” logic, for me 41.5 in Week 12 is enough for me chase points and hope for a couple defensive/special teams scores.

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook (updated Wednesday, Nov. 25, at 7:20 p.m. ET) … If you’re in CO or NJ, place all of your legal, online sports wagers with Tipico Sportsbook.

NFL Betting Odds and Lines: Week 12

Chicago Bears (-155) at Detroit Lions (+125)

The Lions are the hard luck team of 2020. They have a winning record against the spread but have nothing to show for it except losses and one tie. Chicago is faring little better and Matt Nagy’s job is in danger. That said, I think the Over/Under is a couple points too light for teams that know each other’s major flaws (41.5 points at -105 Over, -115 Under). I’m not a fan of either team, but that number doesn’t take a lot of things to happen to hit. Take the Over (-105).

Las Vegas Raiders (+260) at Dallas Cowboys (-340)

The Cowboys are a huge favorite in this one (7.5 points at Raiders -115, Cowboys -105). To me, the key part of this game is that Dallas is familiar with the process of playing two games in five days at this time of year. They’re always at home and they know the routine, since they host a game every year on Thanksgiving. I don’t like giving away that many points (the number says the Raiders are expected to cover), but I’m willing to go with the team that does this every year. Take the Cowboys and lay the 7.5 points (-105).

Buffalo Bills (-270) at New Orleans Saints (+210)

The Bills are the most inconsistent elite team in the league. They look like a juggernaut one week and hot garbage the next – losing to teams that have no business taking them down. However, they’ve been better on the road than at home and are getting that respect by being solid favorites to win (6.5 points at Buffalo -105, New Orleans -115). Again, the number suggests that the Saints should cover, given the bigger investment needed to pay off the bet. But, I’m still riding on the tailgate of the Bills bandwagon and haven’t jumped just yet. Take the Bills and lay the 6.5 points (-105).

Carolina Panthers (-135) at Miami Dolphins (+110)

This is another extremely low Over/Under (41.5 points at -110 for both the Over and Under). However, you have a veteran in Cam Newton and a playmaker in Christian McCaffrey on one side of the ball and Tua Tagovailoa (who is battling to keep his starting job) and a collection of offensive role players on the other. Both QBs take chances, which could lead to a cheap defensive touchdown along way, both those risks also result in big plays. Take the Over (-110).

New York Jets (+120) at Houston Texans (-145)

This is a tough one for me, because I don’t feel comfortable betting on either team to win or cover a point spread. There’s only one bet that I feel good about – the Over/Under (44.5 points at -110 for both). There is only one bet that has you banking on the ineptitude of both teams and the potential for 15 punts. Take the Under (-110).

Philadelphia Eagles (-190) at New York Giants (+155)

The Giants are a hot mess and the firing of coaches has already begun. After starting the season almost refusing to run, the Eagles have become one of the most dominant rushing offenses in the league over the last month — and wins have followed. The Eagles are a mild favorite (3.5 points at Eagles -108, Giants -112). While I’m not sold on either quarterback, the Eagles ability to mix and match run and pass against a defeated Giants defense should be enough to cover the number. Take the Eagles and lay the 3.5 points (-108).

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-165) at Indianapolis (+133)

The oddsmakers have a lot more faith in the Colts than I do. Indy beats the teams they should and vice versa. While underdogs on the moneyline, when it comes to point spread, the Colts are getting a lot of respect as a dog (3.5 points at Buccaneers +100, Colts -120). I’d be willing to boost this up to five or six points, but happily grab an even-money bet laying less than four. Take the Buccaneers and lay the 3.5 points (+100).

Atlanta Falcons (-125) at Jacksonville Jaguars (+102)

I’ve been consistent in avoiding putting my hard-earned money betting on the Jaguars, because I don’t have the faith they can cash in. Atlanta can be brutal at times, and Matt Ryan is starting to look his age without Julio Jones and Calvin Ridley to count on. The Falcons are just a mild favorite (1.5 points at Falcon -112, Jaguars -108). While this is a game I will probably avoid Sunday, giving away a point-and-a-hook isn’t too much to ask. Take the Falcons and lay the 1.5 points.

Pittsburgh Steelers (+170) at Cincinnati Bengals (-210)

Division matchups can be unpredictable, because the teams know each other so well and where their strengths and weaknesses lie. This year we’ve seen blowout wins for each of the four AFC North teams playing one another. While I don’t think this will be one of those games, the ability for either team to put up 30 points is critical. The Over/Under is a bit conservative (44.5 points at -112 Over, -108 Under). Both offenses have showed they can get into a shootout, and both defenses have proved they can get lit up at times. That’s a good combination. Bet the Over (-112).

Tennessee Titans (+230) at New England Patriots

The Patriots defense has quietly been one of the most dominant in the league this season, which is why they currently find themselves atop the AFC East once again. Without Derrick Henry, the Titans offense has sputtered, and Bill Belichick will do what needs to be done to take A.J. Brown from beating them. The Over/Under is one of the lowest of the week (43.5 points at -115 Over, -105 Under). But, I believe the Patriots offense will grind out 10-play drives that end in field goals and Ryan Tannehill will struggle all day. Take the Under (-105).

Los Angeles Chargers (-145) at Denver Broncos (+120)

The Chargers have had some struggles after a hot start, but they’re still a dangerous team capable of winning the AFC West. Denver has come back to the pack after a strong start, and the trade of Von Miller speaks to the front office’s lack of confidence in making a playoff run. The Chargers are a mild road favorite (2.5 points at Chargers -120, Broncos +100). If the Chargers are going to show how the West is won, beating a lesser divisional opponent is a must. Take the Chargers and lay the 2.5 points (-120).

Minnesota Vikings +140) at San Francisco 49ers (-175)

Both teams seemed dead in the water a couple of weeks ago, but a pair of statement wins by both makes this a matchup that could determine if one of them locks down a wild-card spot six weeks from now. The 49ers are getting a lot of respect on the point spread (3.5 points at Vikings -117, 49ers -103). Minnesota seems to play everybody tight, and I think there is a fair possibility the Vikings win this one outright. But, I’m comfortable hedging my bet by getting more than a field goal in return. Take the Vikings plus the 3.5 points (-117).

Los Angeles Rams (-112) at Green Bay Packers (-108)

This has the makings of a playoff rematch at some point in late January, and it’s nearly a dead heat on the line with the Packers being favored by just a half-point. I could see either team winning this game, but I’m a bigger fan of the Over/Under (47.5 points at -115 Over, -108 Under). Both offenses are capable of putting up big numbers and while the teams both have elite defenses, they both take risks, which is a mistake against Aaron Rodgers and Matthew Stafford. If one team gets up by 10 or more early, this has all the makings of an “anything you can do I can do better” shootout between the QBs. Take the Over (-115).

Cleveland Browns (+155) at Baltimore Ravens (-190)

The Browns (Baker Mayfield in particular) have been under fire from their own fan base in recent weeks, while the Ravens have been dealing with issues of their own in recent weeks. Baltimore is a pretty solid favorite (3.5 points at -110 for both the Browns and Ravens). With Lamar Jackson back, the Ravens offense has the capability of putting up big numbers – big enough to cover this line. Take the Ravens and lay the 3.5 points (-110).

Seattle Seahawks (-103) at Washington Football Team (-117)

Washington is a 1.5-point home favorite, which surprises me a little bit. Granted, Seattle’s defense is nothing resembling the old Legion of Boom, but at 3-7 there is talk of breaking up the band in Seattle. Pete Carroll and Russell Wilson have never struggled like they have this season, but I don’t see them going down without a fight and do so under the national spotlight. Take the Seahawks on the money line (-103).

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Betting the NFL Line: Week 11

The best bets to send you to Week 11’s pay window.

As the NFL begins its stretch run, there are several key games that will likely have an impact on who makes the playoffs and who doesn’t or where a team destined for the playoffs will be ranked.

Ironically, none of the high-stakes games feature division opponents, including Indianapolis at Buffalo, Cincinnati at Las Vegas, Dallas at Kansas City and Pittsburgh at the Los Angeles Chargers.

We’ve picked through the betting options and have come up with what we think will give you the best chance to head to pay window in Week 11.

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook (updated Wednesday, Nov. 17, at 7:45p.m. ET) … If you’re in CO or NJ, place all of your legal, online sports wagers with Tipico Sportsbook.

NFL Betting Odds and Lines: Week 11

New England Patriots (-290) at Atlanta Falcons (+225)

The Patriots defense gets the job done consistently, and New England’s offense is methodical and looks to put together long drives. The Over/Under on this one seems a little high (47.5 points at -105 Over, -115 Under). Bill Belichick defenses tend to take away the most dangerous threat an opponent has, so that will likely be Kyle Pitts. After that, what weaponry do the Falcons have without Calvin Ridley, especially if Cordarrelle Patterson (ankle) is inactive? Take the Under (-115).

Houston Texans (+380) at Tennessee Titans (-540)

There are a few teams I never want anything to do with that requires them doing something to help you win a bet. Without Derrick Henry, the point spread is a little stiff (9.5 points at Texans +100, Titans -120), but it’s the only one that simply requires Houston to suck – which the Texans can handle. Take the Under (-120).

Indianapolis Colts (+265) at Buffalo (-350)

I’ve been cooling off on the Bills because they’re too erratic from one week to the next. However, one thing I am confident in is that Indianapolis beats the teams they’re supposed to beat and loses to the teams against which they’re supposed to lose. Buffalo is a bigger favorite than I prefer (7.5 points at Colts -117, Bills -103), but you follow the history and every team better than Indy beats them – and sometimes by a lot, which is Buffalo’s specialty. Take the Bills and lay the 7.5 points (-103).

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Washington Football Team (+140) at Carolina Panthers (-175)

Despite coming off a win against the Buccaneers, I have no faith in Washington’s ability to string wins together. Carolina’s run defense is no joke, so making WFT one-dimensional will lead to bad the things. The Panthers are a solid favorite (3.5 points at Washington -120, Panthers +100). Those odds tell you there is a WFT sentiment out there. I’m not feeling it. Take the Panthers and lay the 3.5 points (+100).

Baltimore Ravens (-240) at Chicago Bears (+190)

The Bears are still trying to feel their way through life with a rookie quarterback, while the Ravens are a step ahead in their division and, while not hitting on all cylinders, they are talented enough on both sides of the ball to cover the spread (5.5 points at Ravens -108, Bears -112). Chicago’s defense is better than its record indicate, but take the Ravens and lay the 5.5 points (-112).

New Orleans Saints (+110) at Philadelphia Eagles (-135)

The Eagles have a defense that takes chances and that comes with good and bad. The numbers they have given up to elite quarterbacks are mind-blowingly bad. Their last three wins have come against pedestrian QBs. Trevor Siemian is the poster boy for pedestrian quarterbacks. The Eagles are a soft home favorite (2.5 points at Saints -105, Eagles -115). The Saints defense will give them a chance to win, but the offense likely won’t do its part to seal the deal. Take the Eagles and lay the 2.5 points (-115).

San Francisco 49ers (-280) at Jacksonville Jaguars (+220)

Is this the classic short-week, early-game window that will negate a dominant win over the Rams last Monday night? The 49ers are a representative favorite (6.5 points at 49ers -108, Jaguars -112), but I’m no fan of the Jaguars and don’t think they can hang with the Niners for 60 minutes. Take the 49ers and lay the 6.5 points (-112).

Miami Dolphins (-180) and New York Jets (+145)

I’m down on both these teams, but the Jets defense is allowing 44 points a game over the month. The Over/Under for this one is almost identical (44.5 points at Over -112, Under -108). I don’t think the Dolphins can score 44, but I think they can score enough and have a defense ratty enough to give the Jets offense the points needed. Take the Over (-112).

Detroit Lions (+470) at Cleveland Browns (-700)

Detroit is winless and Cleveland is coming off a humbling loss to the Patriots. The spread for Cleveland is a little daunting (10.5 points at Lions -105, Browns -115). If you look at the schedule for this season, the Browns lose to teams with winning records and beat teams with losing records. Detroit is the ultimate loser of 2021 going on the road for the third time in four weeks. Take the Browns and lay the 10.5 points (-115).

Green Bay Packers (-130) at Minnesota Vikings (+105)

Over the last two weeks, all of the top contenders in the NFC have been beaten in upsets, except the Packers. I think Minnesota has a very good chance of winning this game, but I’m much more comfortable betting on the Over/Under (48.5 points at Over -115, Under -105). Aaron Rodgers will get his, and Minnesota has a lot of offensive weapons at its disposal. Take the Over (-115).

Cincinnati Bengals (-112) at Las Vegas Raiders (-108)

The Raiders are a half-point favorite, but for some reason the Bengals get less return on investment. If you’re a regular reader, you know my theory on a half-point favorite where the point spread is the same as the money line. If you’re taking the underdog, why not get the half-point at the same price in the event there is a tie. We had one last week. Why not this week, too? Take the Bengals at .5 points (-112).

Arizona Cardinals (-130) at Seattle Seahawks (+105)

It’s a cold day in Washington when the Seahawks are home dogs. Seattle is on the ropes and are going to pull out all the stops to drop the Cardinals down a peg. I don’t think they have enough to beat Arizona, but I do like the manageable Over/Under (47.5 points at Over -115,Under -105). There are too many weapons. While predicated on Kyler Murray being back, take the Over (-115).

Dallas Cowboys (+120) at Kansas City Chiefs (-145)

The Over/Under has reached the point of avoidance (56.5 points), but this is likely going to be a game that comes down to the final possession. Even though they’ve won three straight, I’m not nearly as bullish on the Chiefs as I’ve been during the Patrick Mahomes era. Dallas could steal one. Take the Cowboys on the money line (+120).

Pittsburgh Steelers (+200) at Los Angeles Chargers (-250)

The Steelers are always a threat, especially in prime time, but the Pittsburgh offense can’t exchange punches with what the Chargers can bring. I think the Chargers are going to win, but I don’t believe the Steelers should be as big a dog as they are (5.5 points at Steelers -105, Chargers -115). Call it a hunch, but take the Steelers plus 5.5 points (-105).

New York Giants (+400) at Tampa Bay (-550)

The Bucs have lost two straight and can’t have a third in a row. They’re big favorites over the G-Men (10.5 points at Giants -112, Buccaneers -108). Let’s see if I have this straight and correct me if I’m wrong. Tom Brady is in danger of losing a third straight for the first time since 2002 – his first full season as a starter. And, if I’m not mistaken, Tampa Bay has won its last three home games by 23, 28 and 35 points. I’d boost that number up to 17. Take the Buccaneers and lay the points (-108).

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Betting the NFL Line: Week 10

Your comprehensive Week 10 betting guide.

Coming off a crazy week where underdogs were running strong, at face value there weren’t a ton of games viewed as must-see matchups, until the heavy favorites lost. This week is a different story. There are plenty of games with playoff implications. Cleveland and New England meet with both at 5-4 looking for a wild card spot, Atlanta holds the last wild card in the NFC at the moment as the Falcons travel to Dallas. The Sunday night game could be the most important game for the Raiders in years as they play host to Kansas City with a chance to drop the Chiefs to 0-2 in the division and a dismal 1-5 in the AFC, which won’t leave them many (if any) tie-breaker edges.

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook (updated Wednesday, Nov. 10, at 7:45 p.m. ET) … If you’re in CO or NJ, place all of your legal, online sports wagers with Tipico Sportsbook.

NFL Betting Odds and Lines: Week 10

Baltimore Ravens (-360) at Miami Dolphins (+270)

The Dolphins snapped a seven-game losing streak last week, only because they were playing Houston. The Ravens are a heavy favorite at 7.5 points (Ravens -103, Dolphins -117). The Dolphins simply don’t have the talent on either side of the ball to compete with Baltimore. The only time Lamar Jackson played Miami, he won 59-10. I don’t think they’ll repeat that, but a butt-kicking should be coming. Take the Ravens and lay the 7.5 points (-103).

Jacksonville Jaguars (+370) at Indianapolis Colts (-520)

The Colts have been pretty easy to predict this season – they lose to teams that have a 2021 playoff pedigree and have beaten every team that has no shot. The four Colts wins this season have come by 10, 28, 12 and 15 points. When they’re on, they tend to pile. The Colts are 9.5-point favorites (Jaguars +100, Colts -120). It’s a little high, but history tells us if the Colts win, they win big. Take the Colts and lay the 9.5 points (-120).

Cleveland Browns (+102) at New England Patriots (-125)

The Over/Under on this game is just 44.5 points (Over -112, Under -108). That is a little surprising, because New England has hit over that number in four of its last five games and the Browns have gone over 44.5 in three of their four road games. This may turn out to be a defensive battle, but 45 isn’t a lot of points to hit. Take the Over (-112).

Detroit Lions (+300) at Pittsburgh (-400)

The Steelers are a hard team to project, because they look great one week and like hot garbage the next. The Lions are awful and remain the only team without a win this season. Heading into Pittsburgh doesn’t seem like a recipe to end that streak. The Steelers are a 7.5-point favorite (Lions -108, Steelers -112), which is a point more than I would prefer, but there’s no way I’m jumping on the Lions’ bandwagon unless I’m given 10. Take the Steelers and lay the 7.5 points.

Buffalo Bills (-750) and New York Jets (+500)

The Bills are coming off an embarrassing loss to the Jaguars and will be looking to pummel somebody. However, the Jets always seem to keep the games low scoring. The Over/Under is 47.5 points (Over -108, Under -112). The Under works for me in two ways: If the Bills dominate, the Jets will struggle to score 10 points, requiring 38 from Buffalo. If the game is close, it will be low scoring. The last four meetings between the teams have all gone under this number (three by 14 points or more), suggesting an ugly win for the Bills. Take the Under (-112).

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-420) at Washington Football Team (+320)

The Buccaneers are coming off their bye week and Washington has lost four straight games – three by 11 points or more. This has all the making of a classic beating that a defending champ drops on a lesser team. The Bucs are 8.5-point favorites (Buccaneers -112, WFT -108). I would have have expected this number to be double digits, because this should be a sound thumping in the offing. Take the Buccaneers and lay the 8.5 points (-112).

New Orleans Saints (+122) at Tennessee Titans (-150)

Both teams have solid defenses and both offenses are without the players who made them run at full throttle – Jameis Winston and Derrick Henry. The defenses should be able to take away much of what the opposing offenses are trying to do, which explains why the Over/Under is so low (44.5 points at -112 Over, -108 Under). However, it’s not low enough. Take the Under (-108).

Atlanta Falcons (+310) at Dallas Cowboys (-410)

Atlanta has won three of its last four games as well as its last three road games, which can’t be dismissed. The Cowboys are coming off a humbling loss to Denver in which the Broncos opened a 30-0 lead before allowing garbage time points. The number I like hear is the Over/Under of 54.5 points (Over -112, Under -108). Both offenses are pass-heavy, which leads not only to points when succeeding but stopping the clock when struggling. This is the highest Over/Under on the board this week, but it’s that way for a reason. Take the Over (-112).

Carolina Panthers (+400) at Arizona Cardinals (-550)

The Cardinals proved last week that they could win without Kyler Murray and DeAndre Hopkins against a better team (the 49ers) than the Panthers. The Cardinals are favored by 10.5 points (Panthers -117, Cardinals -103). While the oddsmakers are daring people to take the Cardinals at a near-even return on investment, six of Arizona’s wins have been by 11 or more points – much less playing a team at home that has lost five of their last six games. Take the Cardinals and lay the 10.5 points (-103).

Minnesota Vikings (+135) at Los Angeles Chargers (-170)

This is a tough one because, not for last-minute failures against the Bengals, Cardinals and Ravens (all on the road), Minnesota could easily be 5-3 or 6-2. However, the Vikings are 3-5 and are what they are. The key to this game is that the Vikings and Chargers are at the bottom of the NFL in run defense, and both teams have quarterbacks that take advantage through the air of teams forced to commit to the box and bite on play-action. The Over/Under is pretty stiff at 53.5 points (Over -105, Under -115). But, Dalvin Cook could run for 150 yards, Austin Ekeler could run for a 100 and Kirk Cousins and Justin Herbert could combine for six TD passes throwing into single coverage. Minnesota has hit over this number in every road game since Week 1. Take the Over (-105).

Seattle Seahawks (+145) at Green Bay Packers (-180)

Aaron Rodgers likely is back after missing a game due to COVID. Russell Wilson is back for the first time since a finger injury ended his career games-started streak. Both come into this game with something to prove as their teams have had their struggles with their backup QBs. The Over/Under is 49.5 points (Over -105, Under -112). That number lends itself to the belief that the Under is the play. But, if either Rodgers or Wilson is lights out, it could hit this number. If both are on fire, it gets blown away. Take the Over (-105).

Philadelphia Eagles (+125) and Denver Broncos (-155)

The Eagles have a defensive style that is oppressive when it works, hideous when it doesn’t – single coverage across the board receivers. The Over/Under is this game is 45.5 points (-110 for both the Over and Under). The Eagles have topped that number in six of their last seven games – having 50 or more points scored in all six. Denver can do enough damage to cover their end, and the Eagles will keep throwing until it works. Take the Over (-110).

Kansas City Chiefs (-145) at Las Vegas Raiders (+120)

The Chiefs have been struggling all season to play a perfect game. The offense has been heinous for a month. The Raiders have a chance to win the biggest game of the last few years for the franchise. It could be planting the flag for the rest of the AFC West. Because the Chiefs are involved, the Over/Under is high at 51.5 points (Over -112, Under -108). This one is going to be a game where it’s acknowledged that defensive players get paid, too. It will get close, but not enough. Take the Under (-108).

Los Angeles Rams (-200) at San Francisco 49ers (+160)

The Rams were exposed by the Titans, even without Derrick Henry, but that bump in the road gets rectified here. The 49ers are 0-4 at home, because they’ve been up against a better team every time. The Rams are better team focused on not dropping two in a row. That Rams are only favored by 3.5 points (Rams -115, 49ers -105). That’s not enough for a team with some revenge on its mind. Take the Rams and lay the 3.5 points (-115).

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

Betting the NFL Line: Week 9

Your comprehensive betting guide for NFL Week 9 action.

As we hit the midway point of the 2021 season, the era of parity, at least in the NFC. Everybody has two or more losses in the AFC, and the team currently with the best record (Tennessee at 6-2) lost Derrick Henry, which should knock them down several pegs. Tampa Bay is 6-2 in the NFC and has the fifth-best record in the conference behind Arizona, Green Bay and the Los Angeles Rams (all 7-1) and Dallas (6-1).

In many respects, it has made gambling easier, because the difference between the good teams and the bad teams is so pronounced. The Week 9 slate of games, there is only one game featuring two teams with records above .500 (the Tennessee Titans and Rams). On the flip side, there are three games featuring teams with records below .500 – lowlighted by the battle of 1-7 scrubs Houston and the New York Jets.

Every game has some significance – some more than others – and here is a prediction for each game that can help take you to the pay window in the midseason mine field.

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook (updated Wednesday, Nov. 3 at 7:30 p.m. ET) … If you’re in CO or NJ, place all of your legal, online sports wagers with Tipico Sportsbook.

New York Jets (+380) at Indianapolis Colts (-540)

So, what do the Jets get after pulling off an impressive win over Cincinnati? They’re 10.5-point underdogs. I’m not overly impressed with the Colts early, who got smacked around after building a 14-0 lead early. The numbers I like here is the Over/Under (46.5 points at -110 for both the Over and Under). Both defenses can hold down the other offense enough that, barring a defensive or special teams touchdown, this should be a tough number to hit. Take the Under (-110).

Cleveland Browns (+115) at Cincinnati Bengals (-140)

Neither of these teams have been easy to figure out, but both have legitimate playoff aspirations. While I’m leaning toward the Bengals, the one thing I’m more confident in is that both offenses can make enough big plays to hit the Over/Under (46.5 points at -117 Over, -103 Under). Although each team has a solid defense, the passing game for both teams will make the difference. Take the Over (-117).

New England Patriots (-190) at Carolina Panthers (+155)

The Patriots know too much about Sam Darnold (concussion) to ignore in this, and I don’t think the Patriots are getting enough credit as the point-spread road favorites (3.5 points at -108 Patriots, -112 Jets). New England’s defense is going to get Darnold on the move, where bad things tend to happen. Take the Patriots and lay the 3.5 points. (-108).

Minnesota Vikings (+205) at Baltimore Ravens (-260)

After Minnesota squandered away its season last week against Dallas, there is little reason to have any confidence that they can get the job done against a Ravens team coming off its bye with two weeks to prepare for the Vikings. The spread has the Ravens favored heavily (6.5 points at -115 Vikings, -105 Ravens), but they have the horses to make Minnesota miserable and Lamar Jackson may run for 100 yards and two scores. Take the Ravens and lay the 6.5 points (-105).

Buffalo Bills (-1100) at Jacksonville Jaguars (+650)

Once again, the Jags are double-digit underdogs — and for good reason. However, the Over/Under is suspiciously high (48.5 points at -105 Over, -115 Under). While the Bills are capable of scoring 35 points, I’m not convinced the Jags can provide the 14 needed to hit the point in this one Take the Under (-115).

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Houston Texans (+230) at Miami Dolphins (-300)

Talk about a game nobody aside from friends and family want to watch, personally I wouldn’t bet anything on this game. But, if I have to, I will look at the Over/Under (45.5 points at -115 Over, -105 Under). It’s not because I think the offenses will light it up. I think each quarterback will throw a Pick-6 that will make hitting the point easier for both teams. Take the Over (-115).

Denver Broncos (+330) at Dallas Cowboys (-450)

The Cowboys rolled the dice by benching Dak Prescott (calf), and they still got the win. But, with the field at the top of the NFC crowded, every win is going to be critical. Dallas is a heavy favorite (9.5 points at -110 for both the Over and Under). Prescott looked healthy enough to play last Sunday. I think he’s back on the field, and Sunday will be the first of many times Denver’s defense will miss Von Miller in critical situations. Take the Cowboys and lay the 9.5 points (-110).

Las Vegas Raiders (-145) at New York Giants (+120)

You have to wonder how many more hits the Raiders can take? First Jon Gruden gets sent packing. Now, the tragedy surrounding Henry Ruggs. I’m not a huge fan of this line that has the Raiders as a mild favorite (2.5 points at -120 Raiders, +100 Giants). I’m one who drinks the Kool-Aid about West Coast teams heading east, but the Giants may not have more than a couple of healthy wide receivers, and Saquon Barkley is a question mark. Take the Raiders and lay the 2.5 points (-120).

Atlanta Falcons (+200) at New Orleans Saints (-250)

The Saints have serious question marks at quarterback, because Drew Brees isn’t coming out of retirement to bail them out. The line I think I like the best here is the peewee Over/Under (41.5 points at -112 Over, -108 Under). The Saints have an improved defense, but they take chances, and Matt Ryan has the savvy to cover Atlanta’s end of the deal. Take the Over (-112).

Los Angeles Chargers (-130) at Philadelphia Eagles (+105)

I’m still not 100 percent sold on the Chargers as a legitimate contender to roll through the playoffs, and losing at home to New England didn’t help that. However, the Eagles are banged up and in recent history have begun their slide to mediocrity or worse in November. Los Angeles is a small favorite (2.5 points at -108 Chargers, -112 Eagles). While I have my West Coast-heading-east concerns, this game has a late start time which eases some of those concerns. Take the Chargers and lay the 2.5 points (-108).

Green Bay Packers (+265) at Kansas City Chiefs (-350)

Given their respective teams and the Chiefs coming off a short week, I was prepared to be all over Green Bay. Then the news of Aaron Rodgers’ COVID-19 diagnosis came out, and I changed my mind completely. So did those setting the odds. Now Kansas City is a huge favorite (7.5 points). The Over/Under is still high at 48.5 (-105 Over, -115 Under), and I don’t believe Jordan Love can provide enough spark – even against a vulnerable Chiefs defense – to get his end of the job done. Take the Under (-115).

Arizona Cardinals (-112) at San Francisco 49ers (-108)

The Cardinals are the better team and have the ability to come back from down double digits. I don’t see the 49ers as being capable in their current state of running away with a big lead, and they don’t have the offensive firepower to make up a big deficit. San Francisco is the smallest of favorites (.5 points at -112 Cardinals, -108 49ers). I never understand this bet, because nobody taking the Cardinals should consider the moneyline. By taking the half-point, you win in the event of a tie. Take the Cardinals and the 0.5 points (-112).

Tennessee Titans (+280) at Los Angeles Rams (-370)

The loss of Derrick Henry turned what could have been an epic matchup into a game that the Titans will almost have to be perfect. I’m on the Rams train to advance deep into the playoffs. Although the spread is big for Los Angeles (7.5 points at -108 Titans, -112 Rams), I think they have the playmakers on both sides of the ball to get the job done in Von Miller’s possible debut (ankle injury). Take the Rams and lay the 7.5 points (-112).

Chicago Bears (+210) at Pittsburgh Steelers (-270)

The offenses for both teams have sputtered, but the shockingly low Over/Under (39.5 points at -117 Over, -103 Under) sets off alarms for me. I have a hard time ever taking an Over of more than 56 or 57 or believing an Under of less than 40. The point has been set outside that barrier, and I just can’t help myself. One special teams or defensive touchdown should almost guarantee to seal the deal. Take the Over (-117).

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