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March Madness: How to win $2.5K in USA TODAY’s NCAA Tournament Survivor Pool

College hoops expert Kevin Erickson is here to help you win the $2.5K NCAA Men’s Tournament Survivor Pool.

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While most know about — and love filling out — brackets, USA TODAY offers another unique NCAA Tournament contest with a first-place prize of $2,500.

Can you survive? USA TODAY Sports’ Men and Women’s Basketball Tournament Survivor Pools are here with a $2,500 prize for each contest! Free to enter, 21+. Terms apply, void where prohibited by law. See Official Rules. Play now!

To enter, click on one of the above links and click “Public Pools.” Then click “JOIN POOL” under 2025 Men’s Basketball Tournament Survivor Pool. You can do the same for the women’s tournament, but this column is here to help with the men’s tourney.

I’m not eligible to win as an SportsbookWire employee, but there’s no rule against me giving out advice to help you win $2.5K.

You have to pick 3 teams to simply win their games in the first round — no spread involved. However, once you use a team, just like an NFL survivor pool, you can’t pick that team again.

In the second round, you’re required to pick 2 teams to win outright. Then it’s down to 1 pick per round — in the Sweet 16, Elite 8, Final Four and the title game. Seems simple, right?

Along with not being able to pick the same team twice, another tricky rule is that points are earned equal to your winning teams’ seeds.

In the opening round, I’m not going to fret too much about points, but I’m also not going to be super conservative like last season, either. My goal is to survive and advance. There are often too many upsets and I’m not going to take too many risks of getting knocked out on Day 1.

Let’s play it somewhat safe, finding some mid-tier seeds with favorable matchups in Round 1.

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First-round picks

PICK 1: MISSOURI TIGERS (22-11)

Who they play: Drake Bulldogs (30-3)

When: Thursday, 7:35 p.m. ET (truTV)

Where: Intrust Bank Arena, Wichita, Kansas

The SEC has 14 teams in the NCAA Tournament field, a record for a single conference. It isn’t by coincidence as the league was an absolute gauntlet from top to bottom this season.

Mizzou, a 6 seed, posted 7 Quad 1 victories, including wins over Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Mississippi State (twice) and Ole Miss, while also winning against NCAA Tournament team Alabama State.

The Tigers had a NET ranking of No. 16, and it was No. 15 in the KenPom rankings, so some might argue that Mizzou is underseeded.

The Tigers have to face a 30-win Drake team, but the Bulldogs were just No. 56 in the NET rankings, and No. 58 in KenPom. Drake, an 11 seed, was 2-0 in Q1 games, topping Vanderbilt on a neutral floor, and Kansas State on the road in overtime.

This could be relatively close for a good chunk of the game. While Drake is rather close to Wichita, it should be a pro-Mizzou crowd. Remember we don’t need to cover the spread, the Tigers just need to advance — they are favored by 6½ points.

THE BRACKETS ARE BACK! The USA TODAY Sports Bracket Challenge is back! $1 MILLION grand prize for a perfect bracket, $25,000 prize for top bracket. Free to enter, 21+. Terms apply, void where prohibited by law. See Official Rules. Play now!

PICK 2: UCLA BRUINS (22-10)

Who they play: Utah State Aggies (26-7)

When: Thursday, 9:25 p.m. ET (TNT)

Where: Rupp Arena, Lexington, Kentucky

Later Thursday night, the Big Ten’s UCLA Bruins (still weird to say) will take on the Utah State Aggies from the Mountain West Conference.

The Aggies, a 10 seed, were flying high for a good chunk of the season, spending multiple weeks in the Top 25 rankings. However, Utah State hit a wall late in the season and went just 4-4 straight up across its past 8 games.

Facing UCLA’s suffocating defense will do USU no favors, as the seventh-seeded Bruins allow just 65.7 points per game (PPG) to rank 27th in the nation. UCLA limits teams to 33.2% from behind the 3-point line, which ranks 150th.

Utah State likes to run, but it will have a tough time with UCLA gumming up the works with its tremendous size inside the paint. The Aggies’ best bet is hitting from the outside, but the Bruins are solid at defending the perimeter.

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PICK 3: MICHIGAN WOLVERINES (25-9)

Who they play: UC San Diego Tritons (30-4)

When: Thursday, 10 p.m. ET (TBS)

Where: Ball Arena, Denver, Colorado

Michigan coach Dusty May took lowly FAU to the Final Four in 2023, and he did so with C Vladislav Goldin in the paint. Both May and Goldin are looking to run it back wearing maize and blue this season.

The Wolverines won the Big Ten Tournament, and Goldin was the Most Outstanding Player in the tourney. He knocked down a pair of free throws with 46 seconds left in regulation for a 4-point lead in helping dispatch Wisconsin in a 59-53 win.

Michigan was given a No. 5 seed, mainly because of a NET ranking of No. 23. The Wolverines had an eye-popping 12 Q1 victories this season, including 2 victories over No. 3 seed Wisconsin and wins over NCAA Tournament teams Maryland, Oregon, Purdue, UCLA and Xavier among others.

This won’t be a cake walk, though. Twelfth-seeded UC San Diego had a NET ranking of No. 35, which means they’re a bit underseeded playing out of the Big West. This team was 2-1 in Q1 games, beating NCAA Tournament team Utah State, while also scoring a win at UC Irvine (28-6), a high-seeded NIT team.

Still, UCSD should have trouble containing Goldin and a much larger Big Ten foe.

After we advance, check back before Round 2 for our next winning picks!

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:
Alabama / Auburn / Clemson / Colorado / Duke / Florida / Florida State / Georgia / Iowa / Kentucky / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Nebraska / North Carolina / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Tennessee / Texas / Texas A&M / UCLA / USC / Washington / Wisconsin / College Sports Wire / High School / Recruiting

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Winner winner chicken dinner: NFL parlay for Week 12

Analyzing NFL Week 12 betting odds and lines, with predictions and picks for the best parlay bet to make.

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We head into Week 12 of the 2024 NFL regular season after trying to get cute playing all underdogs last week. Let’s just say, it didn’t work out.

The Minnesota Vikings struggled offensively in a 12-7 victory at the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 10. So, the thinking was that in another outdoor game, this time at the Tennessee Titans, and the Vikings’ lockdown defense, the home team would be the one to back getting 6 points. It didn’t work out, as Minnesota won 23-13, grabbing the cover in the 4th quarter.

To make matters worse, we trusted the New England Patriots getting 4.5 points in a 28-22 loss at home against the Los Angeles Rams. While the Patriots made a valiant comeback to make it close, it was 28-13 heading into the 3rd quarter, and New England was honestly never the right side.

In the final game on our parlay card, we were on the Cincinnati Bengals straight up at the LA Chargers. Cincinnati lost 34-27. The Bengals got off to about as poor of a start in the 1st half as you can have as the Chargers dominated the first 30 minutes, although Cincinnati did pull ahead in the 4th quarter. However, the Bengals defense couldn’t maintain the lead, and we ended up with a doughnut for the week. Yuck.

After looking at BetMGM Sportsbook’s NFL Week 12 odds, here is our “Winner winner chicken dinner” NFL parlay bet to cash in on among SportsbookWire’s NFL expert picks and predictions.

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Winner winner chicken dinner NFL parlay

WEEK 12

Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NFL odds. Lines last updated Saturday at 7:40 p.m. ET. All games Sunday and ET unless noted.

Leg 1: COLTS +7.5 (-115) vs. Lions – 1 p.m. (FOX)

The Indianapolis Colts (5-6) welcome the Detroit Lions (9-1) to Lucas Oil Stadium in an intriguing game.

The Lions worked over another AFC South team last Sunday, throttling the Jaguars 52-6 at Ford Field to easily cover as 14-point favorites as the Over (47.5) cashed. Detroit is 7-1 against the spread (ATS) in the past 8 games, including 4-1 ATS in 5 games on the road this season.

Playing against the red-hot Lions takes a little bit of a leap of faith. However, the Colts are a strong 6-2 ATS in the past 8 outings, while going 6-2 ATS this season as underdogs.

The key here will be if QB Anthony Richardson can be accurate like he was in Week 11 against the New York Jets in a 28-27 win. He completed 20-for-30 passes for a career-high 272 yards with a TD pass, while adding 2 scoring runs, including the game winner late. It was just the third time he has accounted for 3 or more TDs in a single game.

The Lions have a couple of defensive backs, CBs Terrion Arnold (groin) and Emmanuel Moseley (pectoral) carrying questionable tags, while CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (hamstring) is out.

One of the biggest concerns playing the Colts is actually Lions TE Sam LaPorta. Indianapolis has been gouged by opposing tight ends, and LaPorta is reportedly healthy and off of the injury report. He could be a guy we’re cheering against frequently this Sunday.

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Leg 2: PACKERS -5.5 (-110) vs. 49ers – 4:25 p.m. (FOX)

The San Francisco 49ers (5-5) are 1 game back of the division-leading Arizona Cardinals in the NFC North, but they’re tied with the other 2 teams in the division — the Rams and Seattle Seahawks. Of course, there is plenty of time left. San Francisco needs a signature win, and Sunday’s visit to Lambeau Field might provide that opportunity against the Green Bay Packers (7-3).

Unfortunately, while the Niners finally have RB Christian McCaffrey back, they’ll be without QB Brock Purdy, who is sidelined with a right shoulder injury. The 49ers will turn to veteran journeyman QB Brandon Allen to start this critical game. That’s great news for the home side.

While Allen will not have to deal with CB Jaire Alexander (knee), who is out for the Packers, going into Lambeau Field is a tough assignment. The good news is 49ers TE George Kittle is back from a hamstring injury, but you can expect this San Francisco offense to have a slow go Sunday.

The Packers are smack dab in the middle of the playoff race in the NFC, 2 games behind the first-place Lions. They’re just 3-2 straight up at home, though, and need a big win at home. Green Bay can’t afford to lose to San Francisco, another potential playoff team, especially when it is playing without its starting QB.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Leg 3: UNDER 47.5 — Cardinals at Seahawks – 4:25 p.m. (FOX)

The Cardinals (6-4) and Seahawks (5-5) square off at Lumen Field, and both teams will be battling the rain.

The forecast calls for chilly temperatures with a 90% chance of precipitation. While the wind won’t be a factor, the rain is likely to limit both of these teams in the air. A ground-based attack keeps the clock moving, and Under bettors love when that happens.

Both of these teams have high-quality tailbacks, too. Arizona RB James Conner and Seattle RB Kenneth Walker III will be more than willing to carry the mail. The only concern in rain games are silly miscues deep inside a team’s own territory, leading to cheap points.

Even in optimal conditions, the Under is 4-1-1 in the past 6 games for the Cardinals, and the total has gone Under in 4 straight games for the Seahawks.

PARLAY CARD

COLTS +7.5 (-110) vs. Lions
PACKERS -5.5 (-110) vs. 49ers
UNDER 47.5 (-110): Cardinals at Seahawks

Parlay payout: Bet $10 to profit $59.58 (payout = $69.58).

Try out the USA TODAY Parlay Calculator.

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

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Winner winner chicken dinner: NFL parlay for Week 11

Analyzing NFL Week 11 betting odds and lines, with predictions and picks for the best parlay bet to make.

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We head into Week 11 of the 2024 NFL regular season, and we’re looking to rebound after a couple of near-misses last weekend.

The Minnesota Vikings, who were favored by 7 points, won on the road in Week 10, but they didn’t do so by enough against the Jacksonville Jaguars in a low-scoring 12-7 victory. The Vikings offense was a disaster as QB Sam Darnold had one of his worst games of the season with no TDs and 3 picks.

For the second leg last week, we trusted the Atlanta Falcons laying 3.5 points on the road, but the New Orleans Saints halted a lengthy losing streak dating back to Week 2 with a 20-17 victory over their NFC South rival.

At least our final leg came through with the host Arizona Cardinals winning 31-6 as +105 underdogs against the New York Jets, but going 1-2 on a parlay card isn’t cashing at any windows.

After looking at BetMGM Sportsbook’s NFL Week 11 odds, here is our “Winner winner chicken dinner” NFL parlay bet to cash in on among SportsbookWire’s NFL expert picks and predictions.

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
Live games, analysis and more 7 days a week: Get ESPN+

Winner winner chicken dinner NFL parlay

WEEK 11

Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NFL odds. Lines last updated Saturday at 7:45 p.m. ET. All games Sunday and ET unless noted.

Leg 1: TITANS +6 (-110) vs. Vikings – 1 p.m. (CBS)

The Tennessee Titans (2-7) have been dismal against the number, going 1-8 against the spread (ATS) this season. That lone cover was a 31-12 win on a Monday night in Miami in Week 4.

As mentioned above, the Minnesota Vikings (7-2) laid an egg in Jacksonville last Sunday on a natural grass surface, winning 12-7, but they never really threatened to grab the cover.

Minnesota’s offense hasn’t been hitting on all cylinders, going for 17.7 points per game (PPG) in the past 3 games, while going 1-3 ATS in the past 4 outings. Perhaps the Vikings get it done on the road, but it might be an ugly win and non-cover like last week.

The Vikings will have their hands full against a Titans defense which allows just 273.6 total yards per game, and only 156.7 passing yards per contest.

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Leg 2: PATRIOTS +4.5 (-110) vs. Rams – 1 p.m. (FOX)

The New England Patriots (3-7) have picked up the pace in recent weeks, winning 2 of the previous 3 outings. The loss was a 20-17 overtime setback at Tennessee in Week 9. The Patriots have covered 3 in a row, too, which is the best run of the season against the number.

The Los Angeles Rams (4-5) are coming off a debilitating home loss to the Dolphins in the Week 10 Monday Night Football game, and now they face a cross-country trip on a short week. That’s a tough turnaround.

The Rams are 0-2 SU/ATS in 2 trips east of the Mississippi River this season, while going just 1-3 SU/ATS in 4 road games overall.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Leg 3: BENGALS ML (+105) at Chargers – 8:20 p.m. (NBC/Peacock)

The Cincinnati Bengals (4-6) look to solve the suffocating defense of the LA Chargers (6-3) at SoFi Stadium in a game flexed into the Sunday Night Football spot.

Cincinnati has plenty of offense, going for 75 total points in the past 2 games, but its problem has been on the defensive side of the ball. It allowed 35 points in Baltimore in a narrow loss, although Cincinnati was able to grab the cover for the fourth time in 5 games.

The Chargers have won 3 in a row, while also covering each game in the span, but that win streak is against the Saints, Cleveland Browns and Titans, 3 teams with a combined 7-21 record (.250 win percentage). Cincinnati easily has the most powerful offense that L.A. will have seen this season, and yes, that includes the Kansas City Chiefs.

PARLAY CARD

TITANS +6 (-110) vs. Vikings
PATRIOTS +4.5 (-110) vs. Rams
BENGALS ML (+105) at Chargers

Parlay payout: Bet $10 to profit $64.71 (payout = $74.71).

Try out the USA TODAY Parlay Calculator.

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

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Winner winner chicken dinner: NFL Week 10 parlay

Analyzing NFL Week 10 betting odds and lines, with predictions and picks for the best parlay bet to make.

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We move to Week 10 of the 2024 NFL regular season, and we’re looking to rebound after misfiring on our Week 9 card.

The Buffalo Bills topped the Miami Dolphins, but they just missed the cover. Buffalo was up 27-20 with 6:18 to go in regulation, narrowly covering as a 6-point favorite, but Miami tied it up with 1:38 to go, and Buffalo won it with a 61-yard field goal by Tyler Bass.

We also backed the New Orleans Saints against the Carolina Panthers. The Saints won 47-10 in Week 1 in NOLA, but the Panthers won 23-22 in the rematch as a 7-point underdog.

In the final game, we were able to hit the Under (48) in the rain at Lambeau Field between the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers.

Let’s get back on track with some victories in Week 10.

After looking at BetMGM Sportsbook’s NFL Week 10 odds, here is our “Winner winner chicken dinner” NFL parlay bet to cash in on among SportsbookWire’s NFL expert picks and predictions.

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
Live games, analysis and more 7 days a week: Get ESPN+

Winner winner chicken dinner NFL parlay

WEEK 10

Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NFL odds. Lines last updated Friday at 6:43 a.m. ET. All games Sunday and ET unless noted.

Leg 1: VIKINGS -7 (-110) at Jaguars – 1 p.m. (FOX)

The Minnesota Vikings (6-2) travel to meet the Jacksonville Jaguars (2-7) for an NFC vs. AFC battle in Duval.

It’s risky business to take the road team laying such a high number. However, Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence is nursing a left shoulder injury, and he was limited in practice Thursday. There are reports that Lawrence is likely to miss Sunday’s game. If so, that means former New England Patriots first-round draft pick QB Mac Jones would get his first start for the Jags.

The Vikings have managed a 2-1 straight up (SU) and against the spread (ATS) mark in 3 road games this season. Minnesota did lose in a Thursday night game against the LA Rams in Week 8, but in road games on a Sunday the Vikings have covered both outings, averaging 29.5 points per game (PPG).

Minnesota is favored by a season-high 7 points. Last week, the Vikings won 21-13 to cover against the Indianapolis Colts as a 5.5-point favorite, which was the previous high number for Minnesota.

Vikings QB Sam Darnold has helped the Minnesota pass attack to a ranking of 12th in the NFL, averaging 222.1 yards per game. On the flip side, Jacksonville ranks 31st in both total yards (389.3) and passing yards (264.3) per game, while yielding 28.0 PPG to check in 30th.

BACK VIKINGS -7 (-110) to kick off our 3-leg parlay in Week 10.

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Leg 2: FALCONS -3.5 (-115) at Saints – 1 p.m. (FOX)

The Atlanta Falcons (6-3) travel to meet the New Orleans Saints (2-7) for the second and final meeting between these NFC South members.

This advice comes with a disclaimer, as Falcons WR Drake London is dealing with a hip pointer, and his status for Sunday is still up in the air. He was limited in practice in a walkthrough Wednesday, and also in a more traditional practice Thursday. Be mindful to circle back later Friday to check the official injury report before finalizing your wager.

In addition, TE Kyle Pitts is in the same boat, limited in both practices with a hamstring injury.

If London were to miss Sunday’s game, it doesn’t necessarily mean you should get away from Atlanta, but it means wait, as the number could fall to the neighborhood of -2.5 or so.

Also, if London sits, WR Darnell Mooney is still healthy, and he is still a potent downfield threat. The Falcons have ranked 7th in the NFL with 246.3 passing yards per game, and 24.6 PPG. Conversely, the Saints allow 376.4 total yards, 239.9 passing yards, 136.6 rushing yards and 25.4 points per game.

BACK FALCONS -3.5 (-115) as our middle game play, but again, double check Friday to check the official injury report before finalizing.

Leg 3: CARDINALS ML (+105) vs. Jets – 4:25 p.m (CBS)

The Arizona Cardinals (5-4) host the New York Jets (3-6), and the home team, with a winning record, is a short ‘dog. Make it make sense.

RB James Conner is nursing a finger injury, and he has been limited in both practices this week. However, it seems like he is likely to play. If not, Emari Demercado showed tremendous speed last week, including a long touchdown run, and if Conner should sit, it doesn’t change a thing.

The Jets did come up with a 21-13 victory against the Houston Texans on Thursday night in Week 9, halting a 5-game losing streak. But New York is just 1-4 SU/ATS in 5 games on the road this season. That’s why it’s rather curious to see Gang Green favored.

PARLAY CARD

VIKINGS -7 (-110) at Jaguars
FALCONS -3.5 (-115) at Saints
CARDINALS ML (+105) vs. Jets

Parlay payout: Bet $10 to profit $63.17 (payout = $73.17).

Try out the USA TODAY Parlay Calculator.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

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Winner winner chicken dinner: NFL Week 9 parlay

Analyzing NFL Week 9 betting odds and lines, with predictions and picks for the best parlay bet to make.

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It’s on to Week 9 of the 2024 NFL season, and we’re looking to bounce back. We just missed cashing our 3-leg parlay in Week 8 by a single point.

The Green Bay Packers won by only 3 points last Sunday, missing the cover as 4-point favorites against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Packers closed as 3.5-point favorites at some shops, and that means the cover was missed by a half-point by some bettors. That’s even worse.

Not that it matters much, but we did hit the Over (41) in the Carolina Panthers-Denver Broncos game by just a single point, too, and we needed QB Bryce Young and WR Jalen Coker to connect for a TD in the final minute to get the W.

The Pittsburgh Steelers also held on for a 26-18 win/cover as 6-point favorites over the New York Giants on Monday Night Football. If you bet each leg of the parlay individually, then you finished ahead.

Let’s try to get back to our winning ways from Week 7.

After looking at BetMGM Sportsbook’s NFL Week 9 odds, here is our “Winner winner chicken dinner” NFL parlay bet to cash in on among SportsbookWire’s NFL expert picks and predictions.

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
Live games, analysis and more 7 days a week: Get ESPN+

Winner winner chicken dinner NFL parlay

WEEK 9

Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NFL odds. Lines last updated Saturday at 11:59 a.m. ET. All games Sunday and ET unless noted.

Leg 1: BILLS -6 (-110) vs. Dolphins – 1 p.m. (CBS)

The Buffalo Bills (6-2) host the Miami Dolphins (2-5) for the second meeting between these AFC East rivals.

The Bills rolled to a 31-10 win against the Seattle Seahawks last weekend, and they’ve won back-to-back games by at least 21 points, while winning and covering each of the past 3 outings.

Buffalo went out and acquired WR Amari Cooper, while rookie WR Keon Coleman has been showing dramatic improvement. The Bills are starting to roll and take care of the teams they’re supposed to.

As a favorite, Buffalo is a perfect 5-0 straight up (SU), while covering each of the past 4 after failing to cover in Week 1 against the Arizona Cardinals as a 7-point favorite.

These teams met in South Florida back on Thursday Night Football in Week 2, and that’s the game QB Tua Tagovailoa was knocked out of due to a concussion. Buffalo rolled to a 31-10 victory as a 2.5-point underdog. Tagovailoa just returned to the lineup in last week’s game after a 5-week absence, but he and the Dolphins lost to the visiting Cardinals.

The Bills are playing good football, while the Dolphins look like a rudderless ship. As long as this stays under a flat 7 points, bang the Bills in the first end of the parlay.

BACK BILLS -6 (-110) to begin our Week 9 three-leg parlay.

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Leg 2: SAINTS -7 (-115) at Panthers – 1 p.m. (CBS)

The New Orleans Saints (2-5) visit the Carolina Panthers (1-6) for the second and final meeting between these NFC South rivals.

The Saints pounded the Panthers back in Week 1 by a 47-10 score, easily covering the 3.5-point spread as the Over (41.5) cashed.

QB Derek Carr started that game, throwing for 200 yards and 3 TDs. He was knocked out of the Week 5 game against the Kansas City Chiefs due to an oblique injury and missed 3 games. He is expected to return in Week 9, much to the dismay of the Panthers.

QB Bryce Young started that Week 1 rout, and he was benched in Week 3. However, last week he returned to starting duties after QB Andy Dalton suffered a sprained thumb in a fender bender. Young did OK in Denver and gets the nod again in Week 9 against the nemesis Saints.

The Saints have won 3 in a row in this series, going 2-0-1 ATS. The Saints have won 3 of the past 5 trips to Charlotte, too, going 2-2-1 ATS. Let’s back Carr and the Saints as they look to rev up the offense after tremendous struggles with QBs Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener under center.

BACK SAINTS -7 (-115) as our middle play.

Leg 3: UNDER 48 (-110) – Lions at Packers – 4:25 p.m (FOX)

The weather forecast calls for temperatures in the low 50s with an 80% chance of precipitation and winds of 14-17 mph, with gusts to 20-25 mph. We’ll get a steady rain throughout the game.

With such an ugly weather forecast, we should get a ground-based attack from both the Detroit Lions (6-1) and the Packers (6-2). Just double-check the weather forecast closer to kickoff Sunday before finalizing your wager.

Add in the fact Packers QB Jordan Love (groin) suffered a groin injury last week, and he is a question mark for Sunday. With rain in the forecast and a slick surface, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Packers play it very safely, rather than risking an aggravation of Love’s injury. The possibility of QB Malik Willis starting makes the Under look that much more attractive.

PARLAY CARD

BILLS -6 (-110) vs. Dolphins
SAINTS -7 (-115) at Panthers
UNDER 48 (-110) Lions at Packers

Parlay payout: Bet $10 to profit $58.14 (payout = $68.14).

Try out the USA TODAY Parlay Calculator.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

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Dolphins inactives: Tyreek Hill active, will play vs. Cardinals

Hill, questionable to play in Week 8, did suit up against the Cardinals.

Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill was questionable to play against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 8 after injuring his foot during the week. He would suit up and play.

The Dolphins released their inactive list 90 minutes before kickoff in Week 8 and Hill was left active.

They would have to play without starting defensive tackle Zach Sieler, who was ruled out with an eye injury.

Here are the Dolphins’ inactive players in Week 8:

CB Kader Kahou
RB Jeff Wilson
CB Storm Duck
LB Mohamed Kamara
OL Andrew Meyer
TE Tanner Conner
DT Zach Sieler

Kahou is the Dolphins’ starting nickelback, so Miami will be down two defensive starters.

Get more Cardinals and NFL coverage from Cards Wire’s Jess Root and others by listening to the latest on the Rise Up, See Red podcast. Sub scribe on Spotify, YouTube or Apple podcasts.

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Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson Betting Promos: Where to Bet on Paul-Tyson Odds

These Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson betting promos can earn new customers more than $4,500 in bonus bets and first-bet protection offers.

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All eyes will be on Mike Tyson climbs into the ring for just the second time since 2005 in a heavyweight fight vs influencer/boxer Jake Paul at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

And if you want to wager on this magnetic matchup between Iron Mike and YouTube Jake, make sure to take advantage of the lucrative Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson betting promos detailed below.

The fight is now scheduled for Nov. 15 because of Tyson’s ulcer flare-up. The rematch between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano for Taylor’s super lightweight belts was also moved and will serve as the Tyson-Paul co-feature.

Tyson and Paul resumed the buildup to their fight. Tyson has said he has resumed training and feels fine.

What makes the Tyson-Paul fight so appealing to so many? While the 58-year-old Tyson has not been the heavyweight champion of the world since 1990, he has been fascinating to follow inside and outside the ring for four decades. Paul, meanwhile, built a massive following on YouTube — but he has turned out to be a decent fighter as well.

That’s why the current Jake Paul-Mike Tyson odds say the 27-year-old Paul is favored to win, but you can decide for yourself while capitalizing on the Jake Paul-Mike Tyson betting promos created by the nation’s best online sportsbooks.

Best Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson Betting Promos

Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson Betting Promos	Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson Promo Codes	Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson Betting Bonuses
BetMGM Bonus Code	SBWIRE	Up to $1500 in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Loses
Caesars Sportsbook Promo Code	SBWIRE1000	First-Bet Offer Up to $1,000 on Caesars
Fanatics Sportsbook	CLICK HERE	Bet and Get up to $1,000
bet365 Bonus Code	SBKWIRE	First Bet Safety Net up to $1000
DraftKings Promo Code	CLICK HERE	Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly
FanDuel Promo Code	CLICK HERE	Bet $5, Get $300, With A Win

BetMGM

Looking for high betting limits and a protected first bet as you’re combing through these Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul betting promos? Then sign up for a BetMGM account with the BetMGM bonus code SBWIRE and you’re guaranteed a protected first bet up to $1,500. This means BetMGM has your back on your first bet anywhere from $10 to $1,500.

If your first bet doesn’t win, BetMGM sends the amount of your bet back to you in the form of bonus bets. You’ll get five bonus bets — each worth 20% of your original wager — if you bet $50 or more. You’ll get one bonus bet if you wagered less than $50.

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Caesars Sportsbook

When you set up an account with the Caesars Sportsbook promo code SBWIRE1000, you’ll be rewarded with a first bet up to $1,000 on Caesars. Your first bet will be protected if you wager anywhere in the $10 to $1,000 range on the Jake Paul-Mike Tyson odds or anything else you fancy.

If that first bet falters, Caesars Sportsbook returns the full amount of that wager as one bet credit. Consider it a mulligan. You’ll have 14 days to play your bet credit on any sport you find on the Caesars Sportsbook app — one of the nation’s most comprehensive sports betting apps.

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Fanatics Sportsbook

Create a Fanatics Sportsbook account with the Fanatics Sportsbook promo and you can earn up to $1,000 in bonus bets in your first 10 days with Fanatics. Here’s how this Bet and Get up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets opportunity works:

Each day over a 10-day period that begins when you place your initial wager, you have the chance to play a first bet for anywhere from $5 to $100 (and you get to choose the amount). Whichever amount you choose to play, that’s the amount of the bonus bet Fanatics Sportsbook will send you.

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bet365 Sportsbook

Let’s keep rolling with these Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson betting promos by spotlighting bet365. When you launch an account with the bet365 bonus code SBKWIRE, you get the First Bet Safety Net up to $1,000.

With the First Bet Safety Net, you examine the Mike Tyson-Jake Paul odds and make an opening wager that will be covered up to $1,000 if it settles as a loss. If your bet doesn’t win, bet365 gives back the amount as bonus-bet credit that can be divided into as many bonus bets as you want.

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DraftKings

Start a DraftKings account with the DraftKings promo code and you will receive $200 in bonus bets just for making a $5 first bet. DraftKings sends you eight $25 bonus bets the moment you make a first bet of $5 or more. You’ll have seven days to play these bets, which come with a 1X playthrough, meaning anything you win while using them can be withdrawn or used to make additional wagers.

The guaranteed payout of the DraftKings welcome offer makes it one of the best Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul betting promos.

In addition, the welcome offer includes a promo code to use to redeem for one month of the NFL+ Premium subscription service.

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FanDuel

The best Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson betting promos includes FanDuel’s entry: Start a FanDuel account with the FanDuel promo code and you’ll receive $300 in bonus bets, if you win your $5 first bet.

You can wager on any sport to capitalize one of the industry’s top sportsbook promo codes. Fun fact: FanDuel allows you to split your $300 in guaranteed bonus bets into as many wagers as you want to make.

Additionally, the welcome offer includes a three-week free trial of the NFL Sunday Ticket subscription service on YouTube TV.

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Mike Tyson will fight YouTube sensation turned boxer Jake Paul in a sanctioned and competitive boxing match Saturday, July 20 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. — Mike Tyson on the red carpet before the 2023 ESPYS at the Dolby Theatre. (Photo by Kirby Lee/USA TODAY Sports)

Latest Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson Odds

Result	Odds
Jake Paul wins	-150
Mike Tyson wins	+170
Draw	+700

Odds courtesy of BetMGM and were posted before the fight was postponed on May 31; odds are off the board but should return soon.

This is an incredible coincidence: On the same day Jake Paul was born — Jan. 17, 1997 — promoters announced the rematch between Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield. Tyson-Holyfield II turned out to be the legendary fight where Tyson bit Holyfield’s ear TWICE in an ill-fated bid to regain the heavyweight championship.

While that certainly wasn’t a highlight of Tyson’s career, it was one of many unique twists and turns that have kept sports fans interested in him for so many years. That’s one of the reasons why so many people are hyped for this fight at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

If Paul-Tyson goes the distance, then it will be eight two-minute rounds. If you have examined the Mike Tyson-Jake Paul odds and are inspired to bet on this heavyweight fight with Paul as a moderate favorite, then now’s a great time to take advantage of at least one of the Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson betting promos detailed above.

For those wondering, Conor McGregor’s next fight is undetermined. The most popular athlete in the sport was set for his first fight in three years. It was to be June 29 against former Bellator lightweight champ Michael Chandler at the T-Mobile Arena in Last Vegas, but McGregor had to withdraw because of an undisclosed injury. A new date has not been scheduled.

Jake Paul reacts after knocking out Andre August in the first round at Caribe Royale Orlando. (Photo by Nathan Ray Seebeck/USA TODAY Sports)

Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul Fight FAQs

Can I Bet on Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul Fight?

Yes, you can legally bet on the Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul fight, as it is an officially sanctioned bout and all US sportsbooks are offering odds on the bout. Paul has been installed as the favorite, while Tyson, who turned 58 on June 30, is the underdog.

Is Jake Paul Favored to Beat Mike Tyson?

Jake Paul was a -150 favorite over Mike Tyson (+170) in odds at BetMGM for their fight before the postponement. The odds for a draw were +700. Odds are off the board right now but will return as the Nov. 15 date draws closer.

When Is the Jake Paul-Mike Tyson Fight?

The Jake Paul-Mike Tyson fight was scheduled for Saturday, July 20, and will take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. However, the fight was rescheduled for Friday, Nov. 15, as a result of Tyson’s health issues.

Where Can I Watch the Jake Paul-Mike Tyson Fight?

You can watch the Jake Paul-Mike Tyson fight on Netflix, where it will be streaming. The Tyson vs Paul fight will be held on Nov. 15, 2024, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas,

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3 freshmen to watch for Oklahoma Sooners against Auburn Tigers

Who are three freshman players on OU’s depth chart to keep your eye on this week against Auburn?

The Oklahoma Sooners are 3-1. After beginning the year with three straight wins, they’re looking to get back into the win column following their first loss of the season last week. OU will head to Auburn for the first road game of the season and its first road game as a member of the [autotag]SEC[/autotag].

The Tigers are 2-2, having lost to Arkansas in Week 4. They’re looking for a bounce-back win as well.

With injuries galore for the Sooners, this game could be closer than previously expected.

Head coach [autotag]Brent Venables[/autotag] will look to young players all over the roster to step up at key positions. That includes some players who are playing their first season at the collegiate level.

Here’s your list of three true freshmen to watch in Week 5.

1. Michael Hawkins Jr., QB

[autotag]Michael Hawkins Jr.[/autotag] will become the first true freshman to make his first career start on the road for the Sooners since Troy Aikman in 1984. Aikman played very poorly in that game, and OU fell to Kansas.

Oklahoma fans are hoping for a different result on Saturday, as Hawkins takes over after [autotag]Jackson Arnold[/autotag] was benched last week. The true freshman played his first meaningful snaps at this level last week and gave the struggling OU offense a bit of a spark late in the fourth quarter. It was too little too late, but Hawkins did enough to earn the start for the Auburn game.

Hawkins is a dual-threat at QB, but he will not have much help behind a shaky offensive line and without the top five wide receivers on the roster. If Hawkins can move the ball more effectively than what we’ve seen from Arnold and get the win, it’ll be considered a success, even if it isn’t pretty.

2. Zion Kearney, WR

True freshman wide receiver [autotag]Zion Kearney[/autotag] is one of the few healthy players left in OU’s wide receiver room that offer size. With Jayden Gibson, Jalil Farooq, Nic Anderson, Andrel Anthony and Deion Burks all out this week, Oklahoma will try to piece things together to give Hawkins someone to throw the ball to.

Kearney hasn’t received much run so far this season, but against the physical cornerbacks Auburn employs on the outside, a bigger body will be needed to create separation. Jaquaize Pettaway should get plenty more looks in the slot this week, and Oklahoma needs something from the duo of Brenen Thompson and J.J. Hester. Cornerback Jacobe Johnson made the switch to wideout to offer a potential solution.

Kearney and Hawkins came to Norman in the most recent recruiting class, along with Zion Ragins, Ivan Carreon, K.J. Daniels and Jacob Jordan. Maybe the chemistry of the freshmen can open the field up the passing game for the OU offense.

3. Reggie Powers III, DB

The loss of starting cheetah Kendel Dolby for the rest of the season is a big one for the Sooners. Dolby had begun to make the role his and had become an excellent player. Without him on the field, it’ll likely be Samuel Omosigho who steps up to be the starter, and Woodi Washington will probably see time there as well. OU is unsure if Dasan McCullough, who has played the position in the past, will be back this week.

One true freshman who could see a lot of snaps at cheetah on Saturday is [autotag]Reggie Powers III[/autotag]. He’s a versatile player on the back end of the defense, capable of playing safety or cheetah. Before last week’s game, he was listed third on the depth chart at the position behind Dolby and Omosigho.

Powers will certainly be tested whenever he’s in there, but his future is bright at OU as part of the next generation of the defensive backfield in Norman. Just like so many other parts of the roster, injuries are forcing players to step into roles where they may not be ready.

We’ll get to see what these true freshmen have as OU takes to the road in week five.

Contact/Follow us @SoonersWire on X and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oklahoma news, notes and opinions. You can also follow Aaron on X @AaronGelvin.

Winner winner chicken dinner: NFL parlay for Week 1

Analyzing NFL Week 1 betting odds and lines, with predictions and picks for the best parlay bet to make.

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The 2024 NFL season is brand new. Hope springs eternal for all 32 teams. Everybody has a new look of some sort. Some have more impressive upgrades than others. Some have exciting high-round draft picks or big-ticket free agents, while a few feature a new coaches.

On the flip side, there are some teams that lost some talent, while not necessarily replacing them with equal or better parts. We saw snippets in the preseason, but it’s often tough to figure out what a team will be when the starters just get a cameo, and often times the entire starting 11 never plays together in a game situation until Week 1.

We can best assess things from past history, and what teams look like on paper, until we actually see the product on the field in the regular season. Even then, things can change drastically in the blink of an eye. Just ask the New York Jets, who had everything built around QB Aaron Rodgers, only to lose him to a ruptured Achilles tendon after just 5 plays last season in a Monday night opener.

After looking at FanDuel Sportsbook’s NFL Week 1 odds, here is our “Winner winner chicken dinner” NFL parlay bet to cash in on among SportbookWire’s NFL expert picks and predictions.

I am very excited to produce this column on a regular basis after serving as a pinch-hitter and fill-in previously. Ever since I was a kid — filling out those cards my dad would bring home from work where you circle the numbers of the winners you want, rip it off at the perforation and then sit on the couch and cross your fingers — I’ve been hooked on parlays.

PLAY TO WIN $5K!
USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool is free to enter. Sign up now!

Winner winner chicken dinner NFL parlay

WEEK 1

Odds provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Thursday at 5:40 a.m. ET. All games Sunday and ET unless noted.

Leg 1: SAINTS -3.5 (-118) vs. Panthers – 1 p.m. (FOX)

Last season, fading the Carolina Panthers was a very successful strategy. They started out 1-8-2 against the spread (ATS) in the first 11 games, before righting the ship somewhat, and finishing a respectable 3-3 ATS in the final 6 games.

However, one of those final 6 games was the Panthers’ last trip to New Orleans, a 28-6 loss in Week 14 as 5.5-point underdogs. Carolina QB Bryce Young was a dismal 13-of-36 for 137 yards with 0 TDs and no picks. On a positive note, Carolina ran for 204 yards, but it also lost 2 fumbles.

The Caesars Superdome has been a nightmare for the Panthers over the years, with the Saints winning 4 of the past 5 meetings, save for a meaningless Week 18 game in the 2022-23 season. When favored by 4 or more points, New Orleans is 4-1 ATS in the past 5 meetings with Carolina, too.

Look for the SAINTS to get out to a big start in front of their raucous and unique home fans.

WIN YOUR FANTASY FOOTBALL LEAGUE!
The Huddle has been turning players like you into winners for over 25 years. This season, it’s your turn. Custom fantasy football rankings, sleepers and tools are just a click away. Save 25% off the Internet’s best-kept secret. Subscribe now!

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Leg 2: DOLPHINS -3.5 (-104) vs. Jaguars – 1 p.m. (CBS)

The Miami Dolphins are going to have an explosive offense as long as their fat wallets don’t slow them down. QB Tua Tagovailoa, as well as WRs Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, signed lucrative contract extensions. The pass-catch triumvirate are certainly going to be in high spirits heading into the new campaign.

In addition to the pass game, which also added big-ticket TE Jonnu Smith, who starred at nearby Florida International University, the Dolphins have RBs De’Von Achane and Raheem Mostert. The latter had 18 rushing TDs and 21 combined scores to lead the NFL a year ago. Meanwhile, Achane had 800 rushing yards in just 11 games, while piercing the end zone 8 times on the ground, and another 3 times through the air.

The Jacksonville Jaguars will have a difficult time containing Miami’s high-octane offense, and it’s uncertain if QB Trevor Lawrence and the Jags offense have enough firepower to keep up in a potential shootout.

WR Christian Kirk is expected to practice this week, after missing time with a calf injury, but it’s a bad sign when WR1 is also a bit of a question mark. WR Gabe Davis was added, and the Jags have a stud TE Evan Engram, too. However, while Jacksonville has RB Travis Etienne, it is nowhere near as deep on offense.

Perhaps the biggest concern for Jacksonville is LB Foyesade Oluokun. The tackling machine signed an extension in the offseason, but he has been dealing with an undisclosed injury. S Daniel Thomas is battling a foot injury, and DL Arik Armstead has a knee injury. The Jags need all hands on deck, and even that won’t be enough.

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
Live games, analysis and more 7 days a week: Get ESPN+

Leg 3: RAIDERS +3 (-105) at Chargers – 4:05 p.m. (CBS)

The Raiders head into this game with a lot of potential. I like the fact coach Antonio Pierce settled on QB Gardner Minshew II as his starter over the erratic QB Aidan O’Connell. We could get a little “Minshew Magic” right off the bat in Week 1.

This is a big deal, as the Chargers turn to former Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh, fresh off a national championship. Bolts fans are hoping he can take this team to similar heights, but it won’t be easy.

Meanwhile, Chargers QB Justin Herbert is dealing with plantar fasciitis in the right foot, and that’s an ominous start. If you’ve ever had it, rolling your foot over a frozen water bottle is your best part of the day, taking your mind off of sometimes excruciating pain. It isn’t really something that goes away quickly, and without rest. He’ll no-doubt be wearing some sort of high-tech orthotic in his cleats to ease the pain and make things manageable, but it isn’t a great situation.

Herbert also saw RB Austin Ekeler head to the Washington Commanders, WR Keenan Allen go to the Chicago Bears in a trade and WR Mike Williams land with the New York Jets. TE Gerald Everett is with Chicago now, too. Those are several security blankets gone.

The Raiders appear to have a lot fewer questions, and they still have WR Davante Adams and up-and-comer RB Zamir White, as well as rookie TE Brock Bowers on offense. This Vegas team is primed and ready for a big start against the new-look Bolts.

Parlay payout: Bet $10 to profit $60.75 (payout = $70.75).

Try out the USA TODAY Parlay Calculator.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

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Who to take in Week 1 in your NFL survivor pool

Breaking down the best strategies of how to win your NFL survivor pool as the season kicks off with Week 1.

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In Week 1, it’s a clean slate. We have a brand new season of the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool. We can choose any team. My strategy is to play it safe, survive and advance. Remember, a team can only be picked once during the season.

Nothing is worse than getting bumped out in Week 1, whether it is in the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool — which is free to enter — or another pool.

A lot of entries like to save the marquee teams and roll the dice early on some teams that might not necessarily be picked any other time. That’s a slippery slope as you need to win and advance to be able to play those stashed marquee teams later in the season.

I’ll do my best to keep you afloat, hopefully through the holidays, and into the end of the regular season toward that giant payday in your NFL survivor pool.

PLAY TO WIN $5K!
USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool is free to enter. Sign up now!

– All games Sunday and ET unless noted

The chalk: Cincinnati Bengals

Who they play: Home vs. Patriots – 1 p.m. (CBS)

Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Wednesday at 4:15 a.m. ET.

Line: Bengals -8 / Moneyline (ML): Bengals -400 | Patriots +325

It still takes some getting used to, seeing the New England Patriots as the biggest underdog in the league for a weekend, but that’s where we’re at.

Coach Jerod Mayo takes over for the legendary Bill Belichick, and he named QB Jacoby Brissett as his starter over rookie QB Drake Maye. Mayo is heady and a game manager, so this could be a little dicey at first. RB Rhamondre Stevenson is a stud, too. If this is a tight game, the Cincinnati Bengals rush defense will have to contend with him.

However, QB Joe Burrow is back and healthy for Cincinnati, and he has WRs Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins at his disposal. The Bengals ground attack has a new look as RB Zack Moss replaces RB Joe Mixon, who was traded to the Houston Texans. Moss is younger, and a little more physical, while RB Chase Brown remains as a change-of-pace option. The offense still looks mighty dangerous and the team added red-zone threat TE Mike Gesicki (formerly of the Pats) to the mix. He just happens to be facing his former team in Week 1.

The Bengals look to get off to a hot start. They can’t afford to lose ground in the ultra-competitive AFC North, especially against a patsy at home in the opener.

CINCINNATI IS MY FAVORITE SURVIVOR PLAY FOR WEEK 1.

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
Live games, analysis and more 7 days a week: Get ESPN+

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No. 2 option: New Orleans Saints

Who they play: Home vs. Panthers – 1 p.m. (FOX)

Line: Saints -4 / ML: Saints -225 | Panthers +180

If you don’t want to pick the Bengals in Week 1, the New Orleans Saints are my 2nd choice.

This pick goes a little more along the line of a team that might not be considered the cream of the crop, but it helps save some of the top-tier teams for later.

Last season, picking against the Carolina Panthers was a smart strategy as they had an NFL-worst 2-15 record, including a pair of losses to the Saints. TRIVIA: Who were the 2 teams the Panthers beat? Answer below

Carolina was 0-9 on the road last season. In Week 14, QB Bryce Young was a dismal 13-of-36 for just 137 yards — no TDs or picks — in a 28-6 loss in New Orleans Dec. 10, 2023. He was a little better in the 1st meeting in Week 2 in Charlotte, completing 22-of-33 passes for 153 yards, 1 TD and 0 INT.

Again, this game is in NOLA, where he was completely fooled by the Saints D and flustered by the raucous crowd.

While some will point to the fact that the Panthers’ last road win was, indeed, in New Orleans in the final week of the 2022-23 regular season. K Eddy Pineiro kicked a 42-yard FG as time expired for the win as the 2 NFC South rivals finished with identical 7-10 records. QB Andy Dalton started for the Saints; he is now the Panthers’ backup. QB Sam Darnold started for Carolina; he is now the starter in Minnesota.

A lot has changed since that afternoon, but one thing is a constant. Carolina struggles on the road. Until the Panthers can figure it out and look like an NFL-caliber team again, keep making them a priority to pick against.

TRIVIA answer: Houston and Atlanta

Coming out of their bye week, the Panthers upset the favored and visiting Texans 15-13 in Week 8 to send survivor pools into chaos — Carolina was a 3.5-point underdog. In Week 15, the Panthers claimed an ugly, low-scoring 9-7 win as 2.5-point home dogs vs. the Falcons.

Others to consider

Buffalo Bills: Home vs. Arizona Cardinals – 1 p.m. (CBS)

Line: Bills -6.5 / ML: Bills -300 | Cardinals +240

San Francisco 49ers: Home vs. Jets – Monday, 8:20 p.m. (ESPN / ABC)

Line: 49ers -4 / ML: 49ers -200 | Jets +165

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

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