Home team in CAPS:
Sunday
Ravens (-4.5) over STEELERS
Given the hostile line move toward Baltimore, we’re watching this market closely, but road chalk is the superior club with more and better ways to rack up points.
We’ll gratefully use any fair number in this divisional clash.
COLTS (+2.5) over Titans
I’ve been a considerable Ryan Tannehill fan for most of the quarterback’s NFL history … but the linemakers certainly aren’t giving away much in this spot — not to mention that Indy quarterback Anthony Richardson may enjoy greater upside.
DOLPHINS (-12.5) over Giants
At this schedule point, we need a considerable public form reversal pointing toward Big Blue to consider this underdog side. It doesn’t appear this number could go high enough.
Await further word on Saquon Barkley’s availability.
Jets (+2.5) over BRONCOS
Jets offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett may hold a grudge vs. Broncos head honcho Sean Payton.
If our read is right, expect the visitors to come out with scores to settle. Can’t knock Zach Wilson’s current form.
Jaguars (+5.5) over BILLS (in London)
Jaguars are thoroughly familiar and experienced in playing across the pond.
We understand Buffalo’s broad, sustained level of raw talent — but given that the league is compelling this favorite to play an EDT morning game in London, chalk-eaters are cautioned.
All hands on deck!
Panthers (+10) over LIONS
This line is high, and it wouldn’t surprise us if it climbs even higher, given Detroit’s genuine, sustained improvement.
Make no mistake, we’re anything but head over heels over Carolina QB Bryce Young, but Lions are banged up, with bigger fish on the horizon.
PATRIOTS (-1) over Saints
You would think that Saints QB Derek Carr will do everything he can to start Sunday, though he’s banged up (shoulder issues).
In this midseason get-through-the-dog-days weekend, will look for Bill Belichick to engineer a smart rebound off that blowout loss.
Texans (+1.5) over FALCONS
What’s the genuine level of upside young Texans QB C.J. Stroud may manage to attain this season?
Surprises, surprises, we project.
Should be close, since we expect Texans ground game to surprise Falcons.
Still, Atlanta’s RB Bijan Robinson may rush up a storm. Close call!
Bengals (-3) over CARDINALS
Two of the more wildly erratic sides clash.
Joe Burrow’s form is of marked concern, given how mobile quarterbacks can be grossly diminished by calf issues.
Cincy should win, but as they say, they don’t play the games on paper.
RAMS (+4.5) over Eagles
High-profile clash matches one of the West’s most talented, powerful outfits at home to entertain the Eagles, who have gotten off to rocket-like 5-0 starts in successive seasons.
WR Puka Nacua just racked up his initial league touchdown.
Tight fit. Expect a close call.
Chiefs (-3.5) over VIKINGS
This kind of game tends to fall to the superior team boasting established “class.”
Betting on the NFL?
Expect Minnesota to show up and give this foe a sustained tussle, but when the rubber meets the road, expect K.C. to make the required plays.
Cowboys (+3.5) over 49ERS
This battle of titans has “Frisco escapes by the skin of its teeth” written all over it.
Prefer Dallas plus points at prevailing market quotations, given the head start.
Cowboys loom the preferred team, barring any significant, tangible developments on the Niners’ side.
Monday
Packers (+1) over RAIDERS
This line has moved from the Packers as a slight favorite to a one-point underdog.
The $64 question that hangs over this matchup: Will Raiders QB Jimmy Garoppolo (concussion) make the party?
Given that info, a firmer, sound opinion can then be formulated and finalized.
Last week: 6-8
Season: 28-29-2