Tag: NFL Wagers

Should you bet on the Houston Texans to win Super Bowl LIV?

Previewing the Houston Texans’ Super Bowl LIV chances, with NFL betting odds, picks, futures and best bets.

[jwplayer G6PpyUj5]

Should you bet anyone to win the Super Bowl? That’s a personal question I suppose. Some would say no. I’d definitely argue yes. In the spirit of trying to break the BetMGM book, let’s take a look at the Houston Texans’ case to win Super Bowl LIV.

NFL futures odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated Thursday at 9:40 p.m. ET.

Houston Texans playoff futures

Get some action on the games by betting at BetMGM. New customer offer: RISK-FREE First Bet (up to $500!) paid in free bets.

AFC Champion: +1800

If you’re anything like me, then seeing a quadruple-digit betting line for a relatively healthy, division-winning team with a franchise quarterback is very exciting. The Texans have been well-coached and structured enough to have a winning record in five of the six seasons Bill O’Brien has been their head coach.

Also, the Texans have won the AFC South and made the playoffs in four of six seasons under O’Brien, but this time, they have a legitimate franchise quarterback in Deshaun Watson to help them advance in the postseason. Also, the 21-7 drubbing to the Indianapolis Colts last year in the playoffs gave Watson much needed postseason experience.

(Photo credit: Christopher Hanewinckel – USA TODAY Sports)

The 2019 Texans are the most balanced offense in their team’s history, statistically and personnel-wise. Thousands of words have been written about the explosiveness of the passing game featuring Watson, and WRs DeAndre Hopkins and Will Fuller, but little has been said about an elite run game.

That’s right, I said elite. What else do you call the ninth-ranked team in total rushing yards (2,009), eighth in yards per carry (4.6) and with 17 rushing touchdowns with a multi-faceted run game? Carlos Hyde was a great offseason pickup—245 carries for 1,070 yards and six touchdowns—but Duke Johnson provides a dual-threat spell back and Watson added 413 rushing yards and seven rushing touchdowns.

Taking the TEXANS +1800 to come out of the AFC is a tremendous value, and gives you a plethora of hedge options (betting the other side against the Texans to minimize financial exposure and/or ensure a profit) should they advance to the AFC title game.

Super Bowl: +3300

New to sports betting? A $100 wager on the Texans to win Super Bowl LIV would return a profit of $3,300 should the Texans win the Super Bowl.

Talk about value, betting TEXANS +3300 to win Super Bowl LIV is a juicy play. Playoff competition isn’t new to the Texans and they’ve already beaten three AFC playoff teams in the regular season: the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 6 (31-24), the New England Patriots in Week 13 (28-22) and the Tennessee Titans in Week 15 (24-21).

(Photo credit: Troy Taormina – USA TODAY Sports)

Also, their emotional leader, and best defensive player, DE J.J. Watt is coming back for the postseason. The defense took a noticeable dip with Watt out of the lineup since Week 8 due to a pectoral injury. Sans Watt, the Texans gave up more yards per game, yards per play, points per game and were minus-31 in point differential compared to a plus-24 point differential with Watt playing.

All the teams in the playoffs have a worthy argument of hoisting the Lombardi Trophy, but only the Texans are getting a first-ballot Hall of Fame player back for the postseason.

Want action on this bet? Sign up and bet at BetMGM. If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @Geoffery_Clark 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.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

NFL Betting Guide – Week 17: Odds, lines, spreads, picks and best bets

Game-by-game NFL Week 17 breakdowns, with NFL betting odds, lines, predictions, picks and betting tips for each game.

[jwplayer BWhsQZ03]

Today is your last chance of the year to bet on a full slate of NFL teams. SportsbookWire’s NFL Betting Guide is at your service for Week 17; full of NFL odds, lines, spreads, game-by-game predictions, picks and best-bet selections to help you make the best NFL sports bets for the week.

Be sure to check out our top NFL Underdog Bets for Week 17, where our Ken Pomponio is 29-19 on underdog predictions with this weekly staple.

Are you looking to place a bet on any of these games? Visit BetMGM and place your bets now. Games are always more interesting when you have some skin in the game.

NFL Week 19 – Sunday, December 29, 2019

Cleveland Browns at Cincinnati Bengals – 1:00 p.m. ET – CBS

Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots – 1:00 p.m. ET – CBS

Chicago Bears at Minnesota Vikings – 1:00 p.m. ET – FOX

Los Angeles Chargers at Kansas City Chiefs – 1:00 p.m. ET – CBS

New York Jets at Buffalo Bills – 1:00 p.m. ET – CBS

Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions – 1:00 p.m. ET – FOX

New Orleans Saints at Carolina Panthers – 1:00 p.m. ET – FOX

Atlanta Falcons at Tampa Bay Buccaneers – 1:00 p.m. ET – FOX

Looking to place a bet any of the Week 17 NFL games? Get some action on the games or other sports at BetMGM. Sign up now!

Philadelphia Eagles at New York Giants – 4:25 p.m. ET – FOX

Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans – 4:25 p.m. ET – CBS

Washington Redskins at Dallas Cowboys – 4:25 p.m. ET – FOX

Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens – 4:25 p.m. ET – CBS

Indianapolis Colts at Jacksonville Jaguars – 4:25 p.m. ET – CBS

Oakland Raiders at Denver Broncos – 4:25 p.m. ET – CBS

Arizona Cardinals at Los Angeles Rams – 4:25 p.m. ET – FOX

San Francisco 49ers at Seattle Seahawks – 8:20 p.m. ET – NBC

Now that you have the skinny on what to do with each game, visit BetMGM to place a bet on your favorite matchups now. For additional sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com now and for a complete set of today’s live odds, access them at USA TODAY Sports.

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

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

Arizona Cardinals at L.A. Rams odds, lines, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s Cardinals at Rams NFL matchup, with NFL betting odds, picks and best bets

[jwplayer H1XghbKE]

The Arizona Cardinals (5-9-1) and Los Angeles Rams (8-7) close their seasons this weekend, both without anything to play for other than pride as both have been eliminated from postseason contention. The Cardinals travel to Southern California for a Sunday afternoon kickoff (4:25 p.m. ET) at the L.A. Memorial Coliseum, the final game the Rams will play there.

Cardinals at Rams: Week 17 preview, betting trends and notes

Get some action on the games by betting at BetMGM. New customer offer: RISK-FREE First Bet (up to $500!) paid in free bets.

  • The Rams have beaten the Cardinals in five straight contests, outscoring them 164-32 and scoring more than 30 points in each game.
  • The Cardinals have won two straight games and are coming off their best defensive performance of the season, beating the Seattle Seahawks 27-13 on the road and holding them to only 224 total yards.
  • The Rams are allowing an average of 169.4 rushing yards in their last five games. The Cardinals have averaged 151.8 yards on the ground offensively in the same period, including more than 225 yards in each of their last two games.
  • Cardinals RB Kenyan Drake has rushed for 303 yards and six touchdowns in his last two games.
  • Cardinals QB Kyler Murray was sacked six times by the Rams in their last matchup on Dec. 1.
  • Rams QB Jared Goff passed for 424 yards in the 34-7 win over the Cardinals and has had two touchdown passes in each of his last four games.

Cardinals at Rams: Key injuries

Cardinals QB Kyler Murray (hamstring) is questionable for the game and will be a game-day decision.

Rams CB Jalen Ramsey (knee) has been ruled out of the season finale. T Andrew Whitworth (knee) did not practice until Friday but does not carry an injury designation.

Cardinals at Rams: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Sunday at 2:10 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Rams 23, Cardinals 20

Moneyline (?)

The Rams are heavy favorites at –286. Considering their dominance over the Cardinals the Rams seem like a lock, even with no value. Arizona at +225, on the other hand, would provide a big payout.

However, you should AVOID this bet. The Cardinals are playing their best football and are still focused despite their record. The Rams could be flat after getting eliminated from postseason contention and may rest some veterans for some younger players.

New to sports betting? A $10 successful wager on the Rams to win outright would return a profit of $3.50.

Against the Spread (?)

The Rams are favored by nearly a touchdown at home at –6.5 (-110). The history between the two teams suggests the smart money is to take L.A. to cover that spread. But the Cardinals lean on a running attack led by a rejuvenated Kenyan Drake and are playing better defensively. Arizona has been an underdog in 14 of their 15 games this season but covered the spread nine times. The Rams have covered the spread in 10 of 15 games.

With the Cardinals still trying to prove themselves and the Rams having little to play for and expected to play younger players, take the CARDINALS +6.5 (-110) — even if Murray can’t go.

Over/Under (?)

The total is set at 44.5 points. Arizona’s games have gone under the total three of the last four times, while Rams games have gone under the total nine out of 15 times this season. Expect a lower-scoring game than normal from both teams. It will be close, but take the UNDER 44.5 (-106).

Want action on this game? Sign up and bet at BetMGM. If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow 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.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots Week 17 matchup with NFL betting odds, picks and best bets.

[jwplayer H1XghbKE]

The New England Patriots (12-3) host the Miami Dolphins (4-11) at Gillette Stadium Sunday at 1 p.m. ET to close out the regular season. We analyze the Patriots-Dolphins odds and betting lines, while providing best-bet options around this Week 17 NFL matchup.

The Patriots, who have already won the AFC East and have punched their ticket to the NFL playoffs, can clinch a first-round bye with a win or tie — or a Kansas City Chiefs loss or tie. With Kansas City playing the Los Angeles Chargers at 1 p.m. ET, you can expect the Patriots to play to win.

Miami, of course, has been eliminated from playoff contention.

Dolphins at Patriots: Week 17 preview, betting trends and notes

Get some action on the games by betting at BetMGM. New customer offer: RISK-FREE First Bet (up to $500!) paid in free bets.

  • The Patriots pulled off a big 24-17 victory over the Buffalo Bills last week, covering across the board and hitting the Over.
  • The Dolphins are coming off a 38-35 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.
  • Patriots QB Tom Brady hit 78.8 percent of his passes last week against Buffalo; it was the first time since Week 6 that his completion percentage was north of 70%.
  • These two teams met in Week 2; a 43-0 New England victory. The Patriots have won three of the last five meetings vs. the Dolphins. Each of the Miami wins came during December, although those were games in South Florida.

Dolphins at Patriots: Key injuries

New England WR Julian Edelman (knee/shoulder), officially questionable, was limited all week, but he’s been toughing it out come game-day.

Dolphins WR Allen Hurns (ankle/neck) was limited all week and is questionable.

Dolphins at Patriots: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Sunday at 12:10 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Patriots 26, Dolphins 13

Moneyline (?)

There’s nothing smart about betting on a team with -1112 odds like the Patriots have been given entering this one. This is extreme chalk. You’d have to risk $1,112 to win $100. No thank you.

While I like the Patriots to win, I couldn’t blame you for tossing a small-unit wager on the Dolphins (+660) at ridiculously high odds.

New to sports betting? A $10 bet would profit $66 with a Miami upset.

Against the Spread (?)

While the Patriots cruised in their first matchup, the teams are significantly different at the tail-end of the season. MIAMI (+15.5, -110) should be able to mount just enough offense to keep this within the large spread. I’m always more than a little skeptical of two-plus touchdown spreads in divisional games. The Patriots have scored better than 30 points just once during the second half of the season.

The Dolphins are 4-3-0 vs. ATS on the road this year, but just 4-11 overall. New England is 12-3 ATS overall, but just 3-3-1 at home.

Over/Under (?)

The UNDER (44.5, -110) is the lean, as the Patriots defense will generally limit the challenged Dolphins offense and the New England offense isn’t special enough right now to blow up Miami. The Pats are 6-9-0 vs. the O/U this season, including 3-4-0 at home. The Dolphins are 3-4-0 vs. the O/U on the road.

Want action on this game? Sign up and bet at BetMGM. If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Ryan’s NFL Picks: 33-18

Follow @RyanBonini 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.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

Indianapolis Colts at Jacksonville Jaguars odds, picks and best bets

Previewing the Indianapolis Colts at Jacksonville Jaguars Week 17 match up, with NFL betting odds, lines, picks and best bets

The Jacksonville Jaguars (5-10) conclude their 2019 season by hosting the Indianapolis Colts (7-8) in TIAA Bank Field at 4:25 p.m. ET Sunday. Neither team is headed to the playoffs and the only postseason implications are if the Titans lose, then a Colts loss could potentially help the Oakland Raiders or Pittsburgh Steelers earn a playoff berth.

We analyze the Colts-Jaguars odds and sports betting lines, while providing betting tips and advice on this Week 17 NFL matchup.

Colts at Jaguars: Week 17 preview, betting trends and notes

Get some action on the games by betting at BetMGM. New customer offer: RISK-FREE First Bet (up to $500!) paid in free bets.

  • The Colts are 7-1 against the spread in their last eight games versus the AFC South.
  • The Colts ran all over the Jaguars in their first meeting of the season with 36 carries for 264 yards and three touchdowns.
  • Jacksonville is 2-5 ATS in their last seven home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
  • Under is 9-3 in Jaguars’ last 12 home games.
  • The Jaguars lead the NFL in penalties committed and penalty yards on offense.

Colts at Jaguars: Key injuries

Colts: RB Jordan Wilkins (knee) and CB Quincy Wilson (shoulder) are out. LB Darius Leonard (back), CB Kenny Moore II (ankle), G Quenton Nelson (concussion), DT Denico Autry (concussion) are all questionable.

Jaguars: RB Leonard Fournette (neck), OL Cam Robinson (knee), DE Calais Campbell (back/shoulder), DE Josh Allen (shoulder), CB A.J. Bouye (wrist), QB Gardner Minshew (shoulder) and OL Brandon Linder (knee) are all questionable.

Colts at Jaguars: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 2:45 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Colts 23, Jaguars 17

Moneyline (?)

I am not crazy about the value, but COLTS -189 is a relatively safe bet. Aside from a random second-half comeback against the Raiders in Week 15, the Jaguars have been essentially a no-show for the past seven weeks. They are 1-6 straight up and against the spread, while just scoring an average 12.7 points per game with an average margin of loss of -17.8 PPG in those seven games.

Don’t you get the feeling that the Colts would like to end the season at .500 after being left for dead by a lot of people in the media when former star QB Andrew Luck abruptly retired just a week or so before the season started? Expect the Colts to end 2019 on a high note.

Against the Spread (?)

The COLTS -3.5 (-115) is too low of a number to pass on. The strengths and weaknesses of the two squads align perfectly for the Colts to have their way with the Jaguars. The Colts rank fourth in the NFL in rushing yards per game (133.2) while the Jaguars defense ranks 28th in rushing yards allowed per game (139.8). Also, don’t expect the Jaguars to capitalize on red-zone appearances: Jaguars rank 31st in offensive red zone scoring percentage (38.1) and the Colts rank eight in defensive red zone scoring % (51.1). TAKE THE COLTS -3.5 (-115).

Over/Under (?)

PASS on the 43.5 TOTAL. Unders are trending in Jaguars home games (9-3 in their last 12 home games). And the best version of the Colts are when they can grind games out by feeding their ball carriers RB Marlon Mack and RB Jordan Wilkins. Since we are on the Colts -3.5 and -189, we are hoping the best version of Indianapolis shows up in Week 17 (though Wilkins will not play). Given the spotty nature of rookie quarterbacks, especially Jaguars QB Gardner Minshew, and a 22nd-ranked Colts pass defense, the over/under is a stay away.

Want action on this game? Sign up and bet at BetMGM. If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @Geoffery_Clark 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.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans odds, lines, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans Week 17 match up, with NFL betting odds, lines, picks and best bets

The Tennessee Titans (8-7) head into their game in Houston knowing that a win locks them into the playoffs, while the Houston Texans (10-5) have a chance to improve their playoff seeding. The game kicks off at NRG Stadium at 4:25 p.m. ET Sunday.

For the Texans to earn the No. 3 seed in the AFC playoffs (they are currently seeded No. 4 as AFC South division winners), they’ll need to beat the Titans and have the Los Angeles Chargers to beat an 8.5-point favorite Kansas City Chiefs in Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs play during Sunday’s early slate, so Texans head coach Bill O’Brien should know by kickoff whether the Texans have anything to play for … which could impact how long he plays his starters.

If the Texans starters see limited action or don’t play, then it would be a monumental disappointment if the Titans lost this game — and control of whether they make the postseason.

We analyze the Titans-Texans odds and sports betting lines while providing betting tips and advice on this Week 17 NFL matchup.

Titans at Texans: Week 17 preview, betting trends and notes

Get some action on the games by betting at BetMGM. New customer offer: RISK-FREE First Bet (up to $500!) paid in free bets.

  • The Texans beat the Titans 24-21 in Week 15, but the two have split the two-game series each season since 2016.
  • RB Derrick Henry has struggled in his career against the Texans:  he’s rushed for only 362 yards (51.7 per game) with two touchdowns in seven games against the Texans.
  • The Texans have won seven straight home games outright (6-1 against the spread) versus the Titans
  • The home team is 6-1 ATS in their last seven meetings.
  • Titans are 8-2 on the over/under in their last 10 games.
  • The Titans have scored 20+ points in each game QB Ryan Tannehill has started (6-3).

Titans at Texans: Key injuries

Titans: WR Adam Humphries (ankle) and CB Adoree’ Jackson (foot) were among those who did not practice. The Titans missed RB Derrick Henry (hamstring) last week in their 38-28 loss to the New Orleans Saints, but he’s on track to play in Week 17 against the Texans.

Texans: WR Will Fuller (groin) hasn’t practiced this week and is expected to miss the game. Numerous Texans starters were limited in practice this week, as well, including QB Deshaun Watson (back), WR DeAndre Hopkins (illness), WR Kenny Stills (knee), T Laremy Tunsil (ankle) and CB Bradley Roby (hamstring).

Titans at Texans: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at noon ET.

Prediction

Titans 29, Texans 10

Moneyline (?)

I LOVE the TITANS -182 moneyline because it’s guaranteed that the Titans play all of their starters whereas it’s not with the Texans. In Week 15, the Titans outgained the Texans (432-374) and had more first downs, 24-23. A fluke Tannehill interception in the red zone, which lead to a Texans touchdown, was the major turning point that I will not factor in when handicapping this Week 17 matchup. BET TITANS -182.

New to sports betting? Every $182 wagered on the Titans to win straight up would profit $100 if the Titans win. A successful $10 wager on the Titans to win the game would return $5.49.

Against the Spread (?)

Even more so than the moneyline bet, whether the Texans go all out with their starters impacts the point-spread consideration. Of course, the Titans could still cover with the Texans’ starters playing the full 60, but if Watson isn’t out there making magic happen and the Texans trot out backups on a defense that ranks 30th in passing yards allowed per game, then a red-hot Tannehill and the TITANS (-4.5 +110) is a great bet.

Over/Under (?)

I anticipate this will be a one-sided affair with the Titans manhandling the Texans who will eventually sit their best players to preserve them for the playoffs. I don’t see Texans backup QB AJ McCarron and second-stringers having success. However, the likelihood of the Titans having offensive success concerns me. But ultimately I recommend BETTING UNDER 45.5 (-115).

Want action on this game? Sign up and bet at BetMGM. If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @Geoffery_Clark 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.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

NFL Best Bets: Three best underdog locks for Week 17

Our weekly NFL underdog betting staple continues into Week 17 where Ken Pomponio features three teams likely to upset their underdog odds.

We’ve reached the finish line of the 2019 NFL campaign, well, at least for the regular season.

Among the things we’ve learned is that it was quite the year to have a column devoted to underdogs. Through Week 16, NFL point spread dogs were 125-107-8 (.539) against the number, with road underdogs proving particularly profitable, covering at a .587 clip (84-69-6).

We’ve managed to do even better than that in this space with a 29-19 (.604) season mark against the spread after going 1-2 in Week 16. In suffering our first losing week since mid-November, we came up short with the Tennessee Titans and Cincinnati Bengals but easily covered with the 9.5-point road underdog Arizona Cardinals winning by two touchdowns (27-13) in Seattle.

Betting Week 17 is always extra tricky with playoff qualifiers resting starters and other long-since eliminated teams paying more attention to offseason vacation plans instead of their final-week game plans.

So that’s the minefield we must navigate as we select our final three underdogs of the 2019 regular season, utilizing the Friday lines from BetMGM.

Here goes …

Baltimore Ravens (+2.5) vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

Photo Credit: Robert Hanashiro – USA TODAY Sports

While the host Ravens (13-2) have already put the wraps on the AFC’s No. 1  playoff seed – the first in their history – this is a must-win for the visiting Steelers, who at 8-7 are battling for the conference’s sixth and final wild-card spot.

And, sure, the Ravens will be going with their back-up quarterback, Robert Griffin III, but keep in mind the Steelers will once again be starting their No. 3 QB in Devlin “Duck” Hodges. That hasn’t been pretty of late with Hodges throwing six interceptions and only one touchdown pass over his last two games – both Pittsburgh losses.

The Steelers are 0-5 against postseason qualifiers this season, including a 26-23 overtime home loss to Lamar Jackson and these Ravens in Week 5, and reserves or not Sunday, we’re banking on Baltimore to complete the season sweep in a defensive tussle.

Houston Texans (+4.5) vs. Tennessee Titans

Photo Credit: Kim Klement – USA TODAY Sports

The AFC South-champion Texans’ only shot at improving their playoff seeding is overtaking the Kansas City Chiefs for the AFC’s No. 3 slot, but the oddsmakers are clearly counting on a KC win earlier in the day against the visiting Los Angeles Chargers and then the disinterested Texans pulling back and playing out the string against the Titans.

That would be the only reason why Tennessee is a 4.5-point road favorite against the team that just won 24-21 in Nashville two weeks ago en route to its fourth AFC South title in the last five seasons.

The 8-7 Titans, of course, have much more to play for as they’re battling the aforementioned Steelers and Oakland Raiders for their playoff lives. But we’re not aware of any Houston plans to rest starters, and if all appears to be even, personnel-wise, we’ll go with the host Texans and their 6-2 record as an underdog this season to keep it close and get the cover.

Washington Redskins (+10.5) at Dallas Cowboys

Photo Credit: Brad Mills – USA TODAY Sports

Even after four losses in their last five games, the 7-8 Cowboys still can win the NFC East with a victory in this one and a loss by the 8-7 Philadelphia Eagles, who are playing at the same time against the New York Giants in New Jersey.

Unless the Cowboys and battered QB Dak Prescott get wind the Giants have jumped out to an early three-touchdown lead, they’re more likely to go through the motions in the finale of a lost season while playing for a coach who will be shown the door by Black Monday at the latest.

The 3-12 Redskins, meanwhile, saw coach Jay Gruden fired in early October but have continued to show some fight, covering in five of nine games since, including a 4-1 ATS mark as double-digit underdogs, as they are here.

Want action on these games? Sign up and bet at BetMGM. If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @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.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

NFL Betting Guide – Week 16: Odds, lines, spreads, picks and best bets

Game-by-game NFL Week 16 breakdowns, with NFL betting odds, lines, predictions, picks and betting tips for each game.

SportsbookWire’s NFL Betting Guide is at your service for Week 16; full of NFL odds, lines, spreads, game-by-game predictions, picks and best-bet selections to help you make the best NFL sports bets for the week.

With the holiday season upon us, the NFL schedule is moving around a bit. Thursday night football is replaced with three games Saturday.

Be sure to check out our top NFL Underdog Bets for Week 16, where our Ken Pomponio is 28-17 on underdog predictions with this weekly staple.

Are you looking to place a bet on any of these games? Visit BetMGM and place your bets now. Games are always more interesting when you have some skin in the game.

NFL Week 16 – Saturday, December 21, 2019

Houston Texans at Tampa Bay Buccaneers – 1:00 p.m. ET – NFL Network

Buffalo Bills at New England Patriots – 4:30 p.m. ET – NFL Network

Los Angeles Rams at San Francisco 49ers – 8:15 p.m. ET – NFL Network

NFL Week 16 – Sunday, December 22, 2019

Cincinnati Bengals at Miami Dolphins – 1:00 p.m. ET – CBS

Pittsburgh Steelers at New York Jets – 1:00 p.m. ET – CBS

New York Giants at Washington Redskins – 1:00 p.m. ET – FOX

Carolina Panthers at Indianapolis Colts – 1:00 p.m. ET – FOX – Coming soon

Baltimore Ravens at Cleveland Browns – 1:00 p.m. ET – CBS – Coming soon

Jacksonville Jaguars at Atlanta Falcons – 1:00 p.m. ET – FOX

New Orleans Saints at Tennessee Titans – 1:00 p.m. ET – FOX – Coming soon

Looking to place a bet any of the Week 16 NFL games? Get some action on the games or other sports at BetMGM. Sign up now!

Oakland Raiders at Los Angeles Chargers – 4:05 p.m. ET – CBS

Detroit Lions at Denver Broncos – 4:05 p.m. ET – CBS

Arizona Cardinals at Seattle Seahawks – 4:25 p.m. ET – FOX

Dallas Cowboys at Philadelphia Eagles – 4:25 p.m. ET – FOX

Kansas City Chiefs at Chicago Bears – 8:20 p.m. ET – NBC

NFL Week 16 – Monday, December 23, 2019

Green Bay Packers at Minnesota Vikings – 8:15 p.m. ET – ESPN – Coming soon

Now that you have the skinny on what to do with each game, visit BetMGM to place a bet on your favorite matchups now. For additional sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com now and for a complete set of today’s live odds, access them at USA TODAY Sports.

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

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

Arizona Cardinals at Seattle Seahawks odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s Arizona Cardinals at Seattle Seahawks sports betting odds and lines, with NFL betting picks, tips and best bets.

The Arizona Cardinals (4-9-1) face the NFC West division-leading Seattle Seahawks (11-3) for the second time this season. The game will kick off at 4:25 p.m. ET Sunday at CenturyLink Field. We analyze the Cardinals-Seahawks sports betting odds and lines, with NFL betting picks and tips for the Week 16 matchup.

Cardinals at Seahawks: Week 16 preview, betting trends and notes

Get some action on the games by betting at BetMGM. New customer offer: RISK-FREE First Bet (up to $500!) paid in free bets.

  • The Cardinals are coming off a 38-24 home win over the Cleveland Browns which snapped a six-game losing streak.
  • The two teams played in Arizona in Week 4. The Seahawks won 27-10.
  • Cardinals QB Kyler Murray is the only player in the league with over 3,000 passing yards and 500 rushing yards. He has thrown five interceptions over his last three games to bring his season total to 10.
  • Seattle is 10-1 this season in games played within one score.
  • Seahawks RB Chris Carson has rushed for 1,190 yards and seven touchdowns over 14 games. He has had six games with at least 100 rushing yards.

Cardinals at Seahawks: Key injuries

Seahawks S Quandre Diggs (ankle) is not expected to play. LB Bobby Wagner (ankle), DE Jadeveon Clowney (core) and CB Shaquill Griffin (hamstring) all could miss the game.

Cardinals WR Christian Kirk (ankle) will be questionable.

Cardinals at Seahawks: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 12:30 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Seahawks 27, Cardinals 23.

Moneyline (?)

The Seahawks (-455) won’t win much, but considering the fact they are playing at home against a team coming off a six-game losing streak with one of the worst defenses in the league, it is the only bet that makes sense. The Cardinals (+350) will give you a big win, but it isn’t likely enough to be worth a wager.

A $10 bet on the Seahawks will return a profit of $2.20 with an outright win. It’s chalky, and is best avoided.

Against the Spread (?)

The Seahawks are favored by 9.5 points (-110). The Cardinals are 8-5-1 against the spread this season and the Seahawks have been involved in 11 games decided by eight or fewer points.

The Cardinals have played competitively most of the season and the Seahawks could be without several defensive starters. That combined with their habit of close games means the smart money is on the Cardinals to keep it close. Take the CARDINALS (+9.5, -110) to stay within 9 points in a loss, or win outright.

Over/Under (?)

The total is set at 50.5 points. Both teams hit the Over in eight of their 14 games this season. The Cardinals give up a lot of points but can also score. However, with the point total so high, it will be hard to hit. It will be close, but take the UNDER (-110), as two of the Cardinals’ last three games played to the Under.

Want action on this game? Sign up and bet at BetMGM. If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @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.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

NFL Best Bets: Three best underdog locks for Week 16

Our weekly NFL underdog betting staple continues into Week 16 where Ken Pomponio features three teams likely to upset their underdog odds.

As the NFL stretch run to the playoffs speeds along, it’s been a profitable stretch here in Underdog Corner.

Last week’s 2-1 showing was our fourth straight winning week as the Buffalo Bills and Dallas Cowboys won outright as slight underdogs while the Chicago Bears fell short of covering as 4.5-point dogs on the frozen tundra of Lambeau Field against the Green Bay Packers.

This 9-3 run since Week 12 has guaranteed us a winning record on the season as we enter the final two weeks at a nice and fruitful 28-17.

It’s now time to tackle a Week 16 card that offers some intriguing underdog opportunities as we scan over Thursday’s morning’s point spreads at BetMGM.

Here are this week’s trio of selections …

Tennesee Titans (+2.5) vs. New Orleans Saints

Photo Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel – USA TODAY Sports

These two teams have much to play for as they meet Sunday in an intriguing interconference clash in the Music City.

With the AFC South title essentially a longshot following last week’s home loss to the Houston Texans, the Titans are battling the Pittsburgh Steelers for the final AFC wild-card spot with both sitting at 8-6.

The Saints, meanwhile, have already put the wraps on a third straight NFC South crown, and as one of four NFC teams at 11-3, they now have their sights on home-field advantage in the playoffs.

The Saints are riding the high of QB Drew Brees’ record-setting performance in their most dominant win (34-7 over the visiting Indianapolis Colts) of the season Monday night, but that makes them a perfect letdown candidate against a hungry and talented Titans team even more in need of a victory Sunday in its home finale.

Look for QB Ryan Tannehill and the Titans to triumph in a tight one.

Cincinnati Bengals (+1.5) at Miami Dolphins

Photo Credit: Joe Maiorana – USA TODAY Sports

We go from Saints-Titans to the ugliest matchup of the week: The 3-11 Dolphins hosting the 1-13 Bengals.

It, of course, better serves each team to lose Sunday as the Joe Burrow Derby is only two lengths from the finish line, but keep in mind the one-win visitors enter the contest with a two-game cushion over the rest of the field.

Despite owning the league’s two worst point differentials at a combined minus-342, these teams have played somewhat respectable of late, but we’ll give the edge to the better running game (Joe Mixon has been on a tear of late) and the better defense in Cincy.

Arizona Cardinals (+9.5) at Seattle Seahawks

Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas – USA TODAY Sports

In the actual standings, it’s no contest with 11-3 Seattle sitting a full 6.5 games ahead of 4-9-1 Arizona in the NFC West.

But in the against-the-spread world, the Cards actually own the superior record at 8-5-1 to the Seahawks’ 7-6-1 – and that’s despite Seattle’s 27-10 win and cover in the desert back in Week 4.

Sunday’s game in the Pacific Northwest means much more to the home squad with the Seahawks trying to hold off the 11-3 San Francisco 49ers for the division title. Those two heavyweights meet Week 17 in this same stadium, and that lookahead temptation is another reason why we foresee Russell Wilson and the Seahawks doing just enough to win Sunday but not enough to cover against Kyler Murray and the feisty Cards.

Want action on these games? Sign up and bet at BetMGM. If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @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.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]