Commanders vs. Bengals Picks, & Odds for MNF Week 3
The Cincinnati Bengals are seeking their first win of the season, and a matchup against the Washington Commanders‘ forgiving defense in Week 3 might be exactly what Joe Burrow and the team need to get back on track. This non-conference showdown is the second of two Monday Night Football games in Week 3, with the Bengals hosting the Commanders at 8:15 p.m. ET. Cincinnati has had a slow start to the season, falling to 0-2 after a narrow loss to the Kansas City Chiefs last Sunday. However, our early predictions suggest that the Bengals will turn things around in Week 3. Read on for more in our NFL picks below. Commanders vs. Bengals Predictions Early Spread Lean: Bengals -8.5 (-105 at BetOnline) The look-ahead line for this matchup was Bengals -7 in the summer, but after the Week 2 results, sportsbooks opened Cincinnati at -7.5, which quickly moved to the dead numbers of -8 and -8.5 early in the week. If you’re leaning toward the Bengals, getting them at the lowest possible number is crucial. Eight is considered a “dead number” in football betting, as less than 4% of games are decided by exactly eight points. Books will often move quickly through these dead numbers, and if money continues to back Cincinnati, this spread could rise to -9 or -9.5. After a solid performance against the Chiefs in Week 2 and the desperation to secure their first home win, public sentiment is likely to favor the Bengals. That appeal could be further boosted if star wide receiver Tee Higgins returns from injury. Higgins, who missed the first two games with a hamstring issue, is reportedly improving and may play on Monday Night Football. His return would give the Bengals’ offense a much-needed boost. After two games, Cincinnati’s offense sits in the middle of the pack in most metrics but looked significantly better while scoring 25 points against Kansas City. Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders are struggling to adjust to Dan Quinn’s defensive schemes. Washington ranks 31st in defensive DVOA and last in EPA allowed per play through two games, presenting an opportunity for the Bengals to exploit. Early Over/Under Lean: Under 48.5 (-115 at BetOnline) Analysis The Bengals’ defense put up a strong fight against Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs last Sunday, but a pass interference penalty on the final drive set up Kansas City for a game-winning field goal. Cincinnati’s defense did an excellent job limiting Kansas City’s downfield passing attack, allowing only two offensive touchdowns and just one passing play of 20+ yards all season — a 44-yard touchdown from Mahomes. The Bengals currently rank 12th in EPA allowed per dropback. Washington’s rookie QB Jayden Daniels appeared more comfortable in Week 2’s win against New York, but he has not been aggressive downfield, posting the lowest intended air yards per attempt in the league through two weeks (4.4). If Washington falls behind early, the Commanders may have to rely more on Daniels’ arm than they prefer. Kliff Kingsbury’s offense is running at a fast tempo, leading the league in no-huddle plays. While some advanced metrics, like EPA per play (No. 4 entering Week 3), are favorable for Washington, they rank just 20th in offensive DVOA. Facing Cincinnati’s stout defense will be their toughest test yet. The Bengals’ offense is heavily reliant on the passing game, throwing at the third-highest rate in the league, while their rushing attack is averaging a modest 3.8 yards per carry. Given the large spread, Cincinnati could build an early lead with its passing game and then shift to a slower pace and short-yardage plays in the second half to protect the lead. Early Picks: With both teams looking to find their footing, the Bengals’ balanced attack and defensive strength should give them the edge in this Monday Night Football matchup.
Giants vs. Commanders Week 2 Preview
One NFC East team will improve to .500 in Week 2 of the 2024-25 NFL season when the New York Giants head south to take on the Washington Commanders at FedEx Field. The Commanders began the Dan Quinn/Jayden Daniels era with a 37-20 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Despite the defeat, rookie QB Jayden Daniels showed promise, rushing for 88 yards and two touchdowns while completing 17 of 24 passes for 184 yards without a turnover. The Giants, on the other hand, struggled offensively in Daniel Jones’ return from injury, managing just 240 total yards and six points in a 28-6 home loss to the Minnesota Vikings. New York, which ranked 30th in scoring last season (15.6 points per game), sits last in points scored after Week 1. Not surprisingly, the Giants have the second-longest Super Bowl odds (+35000) at FanDuel, while Washington ranks 28th (+20000). Both teams are longshots to win the NFC East as well, with odds of +2600 for the Giants and +1900 for the Commanders. Game Details Odds Summary Odds from BetOnline Sportsbook and subject to change. Giants vs. Commanders Moneyline The Giants have had notable success at FedEx Field, winning five of their last six visits to Washington, including their most recent matchup last November. Overall, New York is 7-2-1 in its last 10 games against the Commanders and is riding a three-game winning streak in this rivalry. Daniel Jones has been particularly effective against Washington, boasting a 5-1-1 record, a 69.7% completion rate, and a 10:3 TD/INT ratio, including a 3-1 record at FedEx Field. While rookie QB Jayden Daniels might find success against the Giants’ questionable secondary, New York’s defense, led by Kayvon Thibodeaux and Brian Burns, could pressure Daniels into mistakes. Given the Giants’ recent dominance in this matchup and Jones’ familiarity, taking the Giants on the moneyline at plus odds is appealing. Giants vs. Commanders Spread If you expect Washington to win, taking them to cover -1.5 is logical at better odds than the moneyline. However, betting on New York to cover +1.5 might seem less beneficial, considering that most NFL games are decided by three points or more. All Week 1 games were decided by at least two points. If you lean towards the Giants covering the spread, you may want to wait for the line to move or consider an alternate spread of +2.5 or +3 for additional protection, particularly as a parlay leg. While we favor New York to cover the spread, betting on an outright win at plus money offers more value. Giants vs. Commanders Total These two teams combined for only 26 points in Week 1, with 13 of the Commanders’ 20 points coming in the second half. Washington’s defense struggled against Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers, allowing the second-most points and seventh-most total yards in Week 1. However, the Giants’ offense appears equally inept, failing to capitalize on having talented young receivers like Malik Nabers and Jalin Hyatt. Both defenses allowed over 100 rushing yards in Week 1, suggesting a ground-heavy approach that could slow the game down and keep the score low. This sets the stage for a slow, low-scoring contest where points could be hard to come by. Giants vs. Commanders Prop Bets 1. Zach Ertz Over 26.5 Receiving Yards (-105) Ertz exceeded this mark in his debut with the Commanders last week, catching three passes for 28 yards. He has a history of success against the Giants, with 863 receiving yards in 14 games (61.6 yards per game). With Daniels running the RPO and Ertz exploiting the middle of the field, expect Ertz to easily surpass 27 receiving yards, especially if Washington needs to pass to catch up. 2. Malik Nabers Anytime Touchdown (+145) The Commanders’ defense struggled against the pass in Week 1, allowing 280 passing yards and four touchdowns. This presents an opportunity for rookie Malik Nabers, who led the Giants’ receivers with 66 yards on five catches in his NFL debut. While betting on a touchdown in a potentially low-scoring game is risky, Nabers’ connection with Jones and a favorable matchup make this a compelling bet at plus odds. Giants vs. Commanders Best Bets Summary
49ers vs. Vikings Week 2 Picks, Predictions & Odds
49ers vs. Vikings Week 2 Picks, Predictions & Odds The San Francisco 49ers head to Minnesota as 5.5-point favorites for a Week 2 clash between two 1-0 teams. Both teams showcased their offensive capabilities in Week 1, with the Vikings defeating the Giants 28-6 and the 49ers putting to rest any Super Bowl hangover concerns with a dominant 32-19 victory over the New York Jets. This game also marks a revenge opportunity for Vikings QB Sam Darnold, who served as a backup for the 49ers last season. Game Overview Team Spread Moneyline Total San Francisco 49ers -5.5 (-115) -260 Over 45.5 (-110) Minnesota Vikings +5.5 (-105) +215 Under 45.5 (-110) As of September 11 at BetOnline Week 2 Picks: 49ers vs. Vikings 49ers Moneyline (-260) The moneyline is the safer option than laying the points with the 49ers. The initial line for this game was set at -7 for the 49ers, but it dropped to +4.5 before their Monday night game due to concerns about Christian McCaffrey’s injury and the Vikings’ strong Week 1 performance. After the 49ers’ impressive win, the line moved back to -5.5, and some markets have even reached Minnesota +6. Despite Christian McCaffrey being sidelined, the 49ers dominated the Jets on Monday night. While McCaffrey’s status for Week 2 remains uncertain, signs point to him sitting out. Jordan Mason’s standout 147-yard performance against the Jets and the turf at Minnesota, which could aggravate McCaffrey’s injury, suggest Mason will take the lead back role in Week 2. Mason is a physical runner reminiscent of Marshawn Lynch’s style. The Vikings did well against the Giants’ run game, but their defense faced the more finesse-oriented Devin Singletary. Mason’s tough running style could be a different challenge for Minnesota. While the 49ers have a strong chance of winning, the situation is not ideal for them. They’re traveling to the central time zone on short rest, facing a team in its home opener. Minnesota’s fans will be energized after their Week 1 victory, and the Vikings have historically been a tough opponent for the 49ers at home. Last season, the 49ers were 7-point favorites in Minnesota in Week 7 but lost 22-17, with Brock Purdy throwing one touchdown and two interceptions. In 2018, Kyle Shanahan’s 49ers were 6-point underdogs in Week 1 and failed to cover the spread, losing 24-16 in a game that wasn’t as close as the score indicated. If you enjoy betting teasers and have another preferred pick, this game provides a viable teaser leg for the 49ers. Betting Trends for 49ers vs. Vikings While the 49ers are favored to win and appear well-positioned after their Week 1 performance, the Vikings could present a tough challenge at home, making the moneyline a safer play. Keep an eye on injury updates and betting trends as game day approaches for any potential changes to the odds or betting strategy. The San Francisco 49ers head to Minnesota as 5.5-point favorites for a Week 2 clash between two 1-0 teams. Both teams showcased their offensive capabilities in Week 1, with the Vikings defeating the Giants 28-6 and the 49ers putting to rest any Super Bowl hangover concerns with a dominant 32-19 victory over the New York Jets. This game also marks a revenge opportunity for Vikings QB Sam Darnold, who served as a backup for the 49ers last season. Game Overview Team Spread Moneyline Total San Francisco 49ers -5.5 (-115) -260 Over 45.5 (-110) Minnesota Vikings +5.5 (-105) +215 Under 45.5 (-110) As of September 11 at BetOnline Week 2 Picks: 49ers vs. Vikings 49ers Moneyline (-260) The moneyline is the safer option than laying the points with the 49ers. The initial line for this game was set at -7 for the 49ers, but it dropped to +4.5 before their Monday night game due to concerns about Christian McCaffrey’s injury and the Vikings’ strong Week 1 performance. After the 49ers’ impressive win, the line moved back to -5.5, and some markets have even reached Minnesota +6. Despite Christian McCaffrey being sidelined, the 49ers dominated the Jets on Monday night. While McCaffrey’s status for Week 2 remains uncertain, signs point to him sitting out. Jordan Mason’s standout 147-yard performance against the Jets and the turf at Minnesota, which could aggravate McCaffrey’s injury, suggest Mason will take the lead back role in Week 2. Mason is a physical runner reminiscent of Marshawn Lynch’s style. The Vikings did well against the Giants’ run game, but their defense faced the more finesse-oriented Devin Singletary. Mason’s tough running style could be a different challenge for Minnesota. While the 49ers have a strong chance of winning, the situation is not ideal for them. They’re traveling to the central time zone on short rest, facing a team in its home opener. Minnesota’s fans will be energized after their Week 1 victory, and the Vikings have historically been a tough opponent for the 49ers at home. Last season, the 49ers were 7-point favorites in Minnesota in Week 7 but lost 22-17, with Brock Purdy throwing one touchdown and two interceptions. In 2018, Kyle Shanahan’s 49ers were 6-point underdogs in Week 1 and failed to cover the spread, losing 24-16 in a game that wasn’t as close as the score indicated. If you enjoy betting teasers and have another preferred pick, this game provides a viable teaser leg for the 49ers. Betting Trends for 49ers vs. Vikings While the 49ers are favored to win and appear well-positioned after their Week 1 performance, the Vikings could present a tough challenge at home, making the moneyline a safer play. Keep an eye on injury updates and betting trends as game day approaches for any potential changes to the odds or betting strategy.
NFL Rookie of the Year Odds 2024: The Future is Bright in the Windy City
NFL Rookie of the Year Odds 2024: The Future is Bright in the Windy City Which first-year players are expected to make the biggest impact in the 2024-25 NFL season? Following an impressive 2023 season from Houston Texans rookies C.J. Stroud and Will Anderson Jr., who won Offensive and Defensive Rookie of the Year honors, it’s time to look at the new crop of rookies who could shine this season. Below are the odds for the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (OROY) and Defensive Rookie of the Year (DROY) awards at BetOnline, featuring some exciting talents poised to make their mark. 2024/25 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Odds at BetOnline Player Odds Caleb Williams +165 Jayden Daniels +500 Marvin Harrison Jr. +700 Bo Nix +1000 Xavier Worthy +1100 Malik Nabers +1600 Brian Thomas Jr. +2000 Ladd McConkey +2000 Drake Maye +2500 Keon Coleman +3300 Brock Bowers +4000 Bucky Irving +5000 Michael Penix Jr. +5500 Rome Odunze +8000 Adonai Mitchell +10000 Trey Benson +10000 Jaylen Wright +10000 Jonathon Brooks +10000 Blake Corum +10000 MarShawn Lloyd +10000 Xavier Legette +15000 Favorites to Win NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Caleb Williams Caleb Williams, the Heisman Trophy winner in 2022, set a USC school record for single-season passing yards and followed up with a 30-5 TD-INT ratio in 2023. He was the first overall pick in the draft, joining a Chicago Bears offense loaded with talent, including D.J. Moore, Keenan Allen, and Rome Odunze. Although Williams’ debut was less than stellar (14-of-29 for 93 yards and no touchdowns against Tennessee), the Bears secured a win, keeping his OROY hopes alive. Jayden Daniels Jayden Daniels, selected by the Washington Commanders, is a dual-threat quarterback known for his exceptional athleticism. In his debut against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Daniels showcased his game-breaking speed with 88 rushing yards on 16 carries, despite Washington’s 37-20 loss. His dynamic play style keeps him among the favorites for OROY honors. Marvin Harrison Jr. Marvin Harrison Jr., son of Colts Hall-of-Famer Marvin Harrison, is a standout wide receiver for the Arizona Cardinals. With elite pass-catching and route-running abilities, Harrison dominated at Ohio State, posting over 1,200 yards and 14 touchdowns in consecutive seasons. Although he managed just one catch for four yards in his Week 1 debut, his potential with Kyler Murray at quarterback makes him a strong candidate for OROY. 2024/25 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year Odds at BetOnline Player Odds Dallas Turner +290 Laiatu Latu +475 Jared Verse +500 Byron Murphy II +1000 Quinyon Mitchell +1400 Chop Robinson +1600 Kamari Lassiter +1600 Terrion Arnold +2000 Nate Wiggins +2800 Junior Colson +2800 Payton Wilson +3300 Braden Fiske +4000 Cooper DeJean +5000 Kool-Aid McKinstry +5000 Edgerrin Cooper +5000 Tyler Nubin +5000 Mike Sainristil +5000 Marshawn Kneeland +5000 Javon Bullard +5000 Max Melton +5000 Darius Robinson +6600 Chris Braswell +7500 T.J. Tampa +10000 Austin Booker +10000 Favorites to Win NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year Dallas Turner Dallas Turner, a highly-touted linebacker from Alabama, earned first-team All-SEC honors under Nick Saban. With a Pro Football Focus pass-rush win rate of 19.6% in 2023, Turner made an immediate impact for the Minnesota Vikings with a sack in their season-opening win over the New York Giants. His early performance solidifies his status as a favorite for the DROY award. Laiatu Latu Laiatu Latu had an outstanding season with UCLA, recording 10.5 sacks despite concerns over his medical history. The Indianapolis Colts took a chance on his exceptional pass-rushing ability, which was on display with 31 snaps in Week 1 against the Houston Texans. Latu’s presence on the Colts’ defensive line makes him a strong DROY contender. Jared Verse Jared Verse, a two-time first-team All-American from Florida State, was initially projected as a Top 10 draft pick but fell to the Los Angeles Rams at No. 19. Verse made an immediate impact in Week 1 against the Detroit Lions, securing a sack and two tackles. With the departure of Aaron Donald, Verse fills a crucial role in the Rams’ defense. NFL Offensive ROY Betting Trends NFL Defensive ROY Betting Trends The NFL Rookie of the Year races for 2024-25 are filled with exciting prospects, and the odds reflect the potential of the new talent entering the league. Keep an eye on these emerging stars as they compete for the prestigious honors.Which first-year players are expected to make the biggest impact in the 2024-25 NFL season? Following an impressive 2023 season from Houston Texans rookies C.J. Stroud and Will Anderson Jr., who won Offensive and Defensive Rookie of the Year honors, it’s time to look at the new crop of rookies who could shine this season. Below are the odds for the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (OROY) and Defensive Rookie of the Year (DROY) awards at BetOnline, featuring some exciting talents poised to make their mark. 2024/25 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Odds at BetOnline Player Odds Caleb Williams +165 Jayden Daniels +500 Marvin Harrison Jr. +700 Bo Nix +1000 Xavier Worthy +1100 Malik Nabers +1600 Brian Thomas Jr. +2000 Ladd McConkey +2000 Drake Maye +2500 Keon Coleman +3300 Brock Bowers +4000 Bucky Irving +5000 Michael Penix Jr. +5500 Rome Odunze +8000 Adonai Mitchell +10000 Trey Benson +10000 Jaylen Wright +10000 Jonathon Brooks +10000 Blake Corum +10000 MarShawn Lloyd +10000 Xavier Legette +15000 Favorites to Win NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Caleb Williams Caleb Williams, the Heisman Trophy winner in 2022, set a USC school record for single-season passing yards and followed up with a 30-5 TD-INT ratio in 2023. He was the first overall pick in the draft, joining a Chicago Bears offense loaded with talent, including D.J. Moore, Keenan Allen, and Rome Odunze. Although Williams’ debut was less than stellar (14-of-29 for 93 yards and no touchdowns against Tennessee), the Bears secured a win, keeping his OROY hopes alive. Jayden Daniels Jayden Daniels, selected by the Washington Commanders, is a dual-threat quarterback known for his exceptional athleticism. In his debut against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Daniels showcased
Falcons vs. Eagles Early Picks & Odds for MNF Week 2
NFL Week 2 wraps up with a “Battle of the Birds” on Monday Night Football as the Philadelphia Eagles host the Atlanta Falcons. The Eagles, fresh off a strong finish against Green Bay Packers in Brazil, look to carry their momentum forward, while the Falcons aim to rebound after a disappointing Week 1 debut. Game Overview Early Predictions and Picks Early Spread: Philadelphia Eagles -6.5 Initially, the Eagles were set as 3.5-point home favorites for Week 2, but as of Tuesday morning, the line has moved to -6.5. This shift reflects the Eagles’ significant advantages, including home-field edge and additional rest after playing last Friday. The extra time has allowed Philadelphia to refine their game plan and address any issues from their high-scoring Week 1 victory over the Packers. Philadelphia’s offense, now under the direction of offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, showcased a balanced attack in the season opener, excelling both on the ground and in the air. The Eagles ranked fourth in EPA per dropback and achieved a 55% success rate per pass attempt, indicating a potent passing game that will challenge Atlanta’s defense. The Falcons’ defense, which faced a limited Pittsburgh offense led by backup QB Justin Fields in Week 1, did not experience the same aerial threats that Philadelphia presents. The Eagles finished Week 1 with one of the league’s deepest average depths of target and managed four plays of 20+ yards or more against Green Bay. Offensive coordinator Kellen Moore’s balanced approach, using both the run and the pass to set up successful plays, could overwhelm Atlanta’s defense. With the spread moving from 3.5 to 6.5 points, there is still potential for Philadelphia to cover, especially with the advantage of playing at home and extra preparation time. Philadelphia‘s offense demonstrated versatility and effectiveness in Week 1, suggesting they are more than capable of scoring points. The Falcons also have offensive potential, despite their struggles in Week 1 against a tough Pittsburgh defense. Atlanta’s new QB Kirk Cousins faced significant pressure, with Pittsburgh applying the second-highest pressure rate among all teams in Week 1. This limited his time in the pocket and tested his mobility in his first game back from an Achilles injury. Despite these challenges, the Falcons had a higher-than-expected success rate per play (16th at 43.6%) before turnovers disrupted their drives. Philadelphia’s defense, under new coordinator Vic Fangio, is still adjusting to his system, which doesn’t rely heavily on blitzing. This may provide some breathing room for Atlanta’s offense to find a rhythm and put up points. While the opening Over/Under for this matchup was set at 48.5, early betting action drove it down to 47.5.There is potential for both teams to contribute to a higher-scoring game. Therefore, the Over 47.5 for Monday night has great appeal to this writer / fan. The Eagles have both the offensive firepower and strategic advantages to cover the spread, while the Falcons may find opportunities to score against a still-developing Philadelphia defense, making the Over a compelling option.
Bills vs Dolphins; Hill, Allen Featured in Prop Plays on TNF
It’s an early season battle for first in the AFC East after the Bills and Dolphins came away with wins in Week 1. On paper, this is a mismatch as Buffalo has won 11 of the past 12 meetings. But Miami feels this is the year they turn things around starting with the Thursday night showdown. Buffalo Bills The Bills got a bit of a scare last week having to rally from a 17-3 deficit to earn a 34-28 win at home. But the score did flatter Arizona scoring a kickoff return and some penalties that went the Cardinals way. Buffalo’s new look receiving corps had nine different players with a catch and five of those players had 23 or more yards. There is some question on Josh Allen’s hand, but he is expected to be fine. On defense the Bills do look different but will have troubles trying to contain the second highest scoring team last year. Miami Dolphins While they scored more than 29 points a game a year ago, the Dolphins had a tough start scoring just 7 points in the first half and needing a last second field goal to beat the Jaguars. That being said, you know Mike McDaniel will find a way to get back on track especially on the ground where Miami only rushed for 81-yards as a team. We should see more of Raheem Mostert, De’Von Achane, and Jeff Wilson Jr. as well as some big plays from Tyreek Hill. Best Prop Plays Josh Allen: 248+ passing yards (-108) Josh Allen loves to play against the Dolphins. He averaged 339.5 yards passing in two wins last season and while he did lose Stef Diggs and Gabe Davis, the Bills QB has been comfortable with his new receivers including Keon Coleman. Khalil Shakir could be in for a big game too after going over 100 yards last season against Miami. Allen is a threat to run so if Miami tries to take away the run, it’ll open up passing lanes for him to go over this total. Tyreek Hill 100+ receiving yards (-114) All Tyreek Hill needs is one big play to rack up yards as we saw last week where an 80-yard touchdown led to a big day for the receiver, 130-yards on 7 catches. And after the Miami police incident, Hill could be ready to make a huge statement on the national stage. But here’s an interesting fact, over his career Hill has never broken the 100-yard mark against the Bills in a regular season game. Game Betting Odds Bills +1.5 (-105) Dolphins -1.5 (-115) Total: 49 Check out the Odds HERE Recent Trends Dolphins 10-7 ATS last season. As 1.5-point favorites or more, Miami went 9-2 ATS. Bills were 7-9-1 in 2023. Both teams didn’t cover in Week 1 wins.
UFC 306 Betting Picks: Brian Ortega vs. Diego Lopes
Event Overview UFC 306, held on Saturday, September 14, at the Sphere in Las Vegas, marks the second celebration of Mexican Independence Day by the UFC. UFC 306 Fight Card The event features a bantamweight title fight between Sean O’Malley and Merab Dvalishvili, and a co-main event trilogy fight between Alexa Grasso and Valentina Shevchenko. A key matchup in the evening is the featherweight bout between Brian Ortega and Diego Lopes. Fighter Profiles Brian Ortega (16-3-0-1) Brian Ortega, ranked No. 3 in the UFC featherweight division, has faced some of the toughest opponents in the sport, including two attempts at the UFC 145-pound title. He is known for his grappling skills and has eight submission victories to his name. Despite his low takedown accuracy (27%), Ortega’s experience and determination make him a constant threat in any fight. Diego Lopes (25-6) Diego Lopes, ranked No. 12 in the featherweight division, is on a three-fight winning streak, all by stoppage. Known for his aggressive style and finishing ability, Lopes has secured 10 wins by knockout and 12 by submission in his career. UFC 306 presents him with a major opportunity to climb the featherweight ranks. Why Ortega vs. Lopes Matters Initially scheduled as a short-notice co-main event for UFC 303, the fight between Ortega and Lopes was moved to UFC 306 due to weight complications and Ortega’s illness on fight day. This fight now serves as a critical test for both fighters: Ortega to reassert his status in the division, and Lopes to prove he belongs among the top contenders. Betting Breakdown Brian Ortega Ortega is known for his relentless pressure and willingness to fight to the end. He has a strong chin and a knack for surviving tough spots, making him dangerous even when he is behind on the scorecards. However, his defense has been a liability, particularly against aggressive strikers like Lopes. Diego Lopes Lopes has a well-rounded skill set with the ability to finish fights both on the feet and the ground. However, his tendency to get overly aggressive could be a risk against a seasoned opponent like Ortega, who has experience against some of the best fighters in the division. Best Bets – UFC 306: Brian Ortega vs. Diego Lopes The best betting pick for this fight is Diego Lopes to win via decision or a late doctor stoppage. While Ortega is known for his resilience and toughness, his high rate of absorbed strikes and Lopes’ aggressive style could tip the fight in favor of the younger fighter, especially if Lopes maintains his composure and avoids overextending himself in pursuit of a finish. Check out the odds HERE
Titans vs. Bears Week 1 Odds & Preview
The Tennessee Titans kick off a new era under head coach Brian Callahan with a challenging Week 1 matchup against the Chicago Bears. This game, set for Sunday at noon on FOX, will be an early test for both teams as they debut revamped offenses and defenses. Titans Offense vs. Bears Defense: Can Levis Lead? Quarterback Will Levis, entering his second season, has a lot to prove after facing the most pressure of any NFL quarterback last year. Fortunately for the Titans, the Bears’ defense finished last season with the NFL’s lowest sack rate and sixth-worst pressure rate. Both teams will aim to address these weaknesses in 2024. Levis now has an improved receiving corps with Calvin Ridley, DeAndre Hopkins, and Tyler Boyd, plus versatile running backs Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears. If the Titans’ offensive line, featuring JC Latham and Nicholas Petit-Frere, can protect Levis adequately, the offense could flourish. Expect the Titans to rely heavily on their passing game and see whether Levis can capitalize on his new weapons or experience growing pains against a turnover-prone Bears defense. Titans Defense vs. Bears Offense: Will L’Jarius Sneed Make a Difference? The Titans have overhauled their secondary, adding cornerbacks L’Jarius Sneed and Chidobe Awuzie, along with safeties Quandre Diggs and Jamal Adams. They’ll face a tough Bears offense featuring rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, veteran receiver Keenan Allen, top-10 pick Rome Odunze, and standout D.J. Moore. Williams will be making his NFL debut under intense pressure at home. The Titans’ aggressive, blitz-heavy defense and Sneed’s disruptive style will aim to rattle the young quarterback. Defensive tackles Jeffery Simmons and T’Vondre Sweat will also play key roles in applying pressure. However, the Titans’ success will depend more on containing the Bears’ receiving corps than solely on disrupting Williams’ rhythm. Titans vs. Bears Betting Line at BetOnline Titans vs. Bears Predictions Score Prediction: Bears 28, Titans 24 In this new era of Titans and Bears football, both teams are modernizing their approach. Expect a higher-scoring game than usual, with the Titans making big plays and Levis looking like a franchise quarterback. However, the Bears are expected to make a few more key plays at home and start their season with a victory. Check LIVE odds Here
Jags vs Dolphins Week 1 Preview and Odds
The Jacksonville Jaguars head to Miami to face the Dolphins as 3.5-point underdogs in Week 1 of the 2024 NFL season. The over/under is currently set at 48.5 for what should be an exciting matchup. Jaguars vs Dolphins Week 1 Matchup: Team Spread Moneyline Total Jacksonville Jaguars +3.5 (-118) +146 Over 48.5 (-114) Miami Dolphins -3.5 (-104) -174 Under 48.5 (-106) Jaguars vs Dolphins Picks for Week 1 The Dolphins are favored to win by at least 3.5 points, and I’m backing them to cover by a touchdown. Miami performed well at home last season, going 6-3 against the spread (ATS) and 9-2 ATS as the favorite. While Miami’s offense may not be as explosive as it was last year, they’ve added new weapons to their arsenal. Jaylen Waddle is healthy, and Tyreek Hill and De’Von Achane are both expected to play on Sunday. Jacksonville’s secondary remains a work in progress, and the matchup between Waddle and Ronald Darby looks like one of the biggest mismatches of the week. It’s not unreasonable to think that Miami could edge a win at Hard Rock Stadium. Jaguars vs Dolphins Player Prop Bet Christian Kirk went over 4.5 receptions in only five games last season. This was when Trevor Lawrence had limited trust in his other receivers, with Zay Jones missing half the season and Calvin Ridley being inconsistent. This year, Kirk will be competing for targets with rookie Brian Thomas Jr. and Gabe Davis, while tight end Evan Engram continues to be a favorite target for Lawrence. Given that the Dolphins’ secondary is projected to be one of the NFL’s strongest, Kirk could well be kept under wraps in Week 1. Jaguars vs Dolphins Betting Trends The trends favor the Dolphins, who are historically strong at home, especially in early-season games. Expect Miami to continue this trend and cover the spread in their Week 1 matchup against the Jaguars.