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Bills -2.5 (-110)
The Bills came out flat in week 1 last season and they will not let that happen again. They are coming off of a tough loss in the playoffs against the Chiefs and they have a ton to prove. The Rams are the home team and are coming off of a Super Bowl Championship, but Bills mafia will likely travel well, and the Rams could endure a Super Bowl hangover. These are two talented teams, but I believe the Bills will come out firing and should be able to win by at least 3 points.
Saints -5.5 (-110)
The Saints have a much better roster all around and should be able to shut the falcons down in multiple aspects of the game. Kyle Pitts is the weapon that the Saints have to focus on the most, which is difficult, but there is not much else to worry about so they can double team him on almost every play. The offense should also be able to produce against a weak Falcons defense. The Saints will march into Atlanta, dominate the Falcons, and cover the spread.
Ravens -7.5 (-102)
Although the Jets improved their roster in the offseason, they will have to start Joe Flacco in their season opener. Do not buy hype that this is A revenge game for Flacco, as he has not played for the Ravens since 2018 and has been a backup ever since. The Ravens were injured-plagued last season but come into this season healthy and should be able to handle the Jets. I anticipate the defense having a great day against Flacco and the Jets offense. While the Jets could see improvement over the course of the season, I do not see them playing great in their week 1 matchup against a well-coached Ravens team.
Panthers -1.5 (-110)
While I am not the biggest advocate for Baker Mayfield’s play on the field, he has shown the ability to play well at times and has a ton to prove against his former team, who gave up on him for a QB who is suspended for 11 games. Also, the Panthers have a solid roster on offense and defense and can definitely win this game against the Browns, who will roll out Jacoby Brissett and a lack of outside weapons on offense.
49ers -6.5 (-120)
Trey Lance is an unproven starter, but the 49ers roster is so much better than the Bears. I am a fan of Justin Fields’ talent, but the defensive line should dominate the Bears’ offensive line and the defense should make it difficult for the Bears to move the ball. The 49ers on offense should be able to run the ball well and simplify the passing offense for Lance against a lackluster Bears defense.
Titans -5.5 (-110)
The Titans have a better roster than the Giants. Derrick Henry is back and healthy and should be able to run the ball well and execute efficient play action passes against the Giants’ defense. Defensively, the Titans should be able to get pressure on Daniel Jones and force him to make enough mistakes so that the Titans can win this game by a touchdown.
Vikings +1.5 (-110)
This game has a very close spread and for good reason. This divisional matchup will be a tightly contested one. The Vikings have new play-callers on offense and defense, which could be difficult for the Packers to prepare for. The Packers defense is impressive and could be improved, but I am a big believer in the new Vikings’ offensive attack and think they come out hot in week 1. Also, the Packers could struggle on offense because of their lack of weapons early in the season. The Vikings have a new energy around the franchise and the crowd should be rocking this week. Taking the Vikings on the money line at -102 is also a valid option to bet on if you share my confidence.
Always remember to bet responsibly.
*All spreads and odds are courtesy of FanDuel SportsBook as of September 8th, 2022
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