Betting news, trends, odds and predictions from various handicappers and websites for Sunday 9/30/18
Sunday, Sept. 30
Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots (-7, 47.5)
The Dolphins are unbeaten on the season and against the number, but they head to Foxboro as decisive underdogs with Vegas not respecting their three opening wins. That's probably because the Fins haven't won in Foxboro since Sept. 21, 2008, a span of nine seasons. New England is 7-2 ATS during the nine-game home win streak against their AFC East rivals.
Houston Texans at Indianapolis Colts (-1, 47)
The Texans limp into Lucas Oil Stadium looking for their first victory of the season. They might still be searching for a win after the weekend, as they are just 2-7 SU/3-5-1 ATS in their past nine trips to Indianapolis. The total might also seem rather high considering the 'under' has connected in nine straight meetings in Indy.
Cincinnati Bengals at Atlanta Falcons (-6, 51)
The Bengals were aiming to go unbeaten through three, but they were unable to break the bank in Charlotte against the Panthers. If you're feeling the Falcons, Mirage-MGM opened the line at -5 1/2, and still had it there as of Tuesday morning. Where there has been movement is on the total, opening at MGM at 50 1/2, bumping up to 51 1/2 in just a few hours.
Buffalo Bills at Green Bay Packers (-10, 45.5)
The Bills changed the course of their season with a stunning upset win in Minnesota last week, and now they're look to win as a double-digit 'dog for the second straight week. All Vegas books have the Packers at 10 or higher, but you can still get in on the Pack at -9 1/2 at Treasure Island. There might be some doubt about the Packers, though, as QB Aaron Rodgers were limping noticeably in last week's loss in D.C. and bettors might be just one hit away from QB DeShone Kizer time.
Detroit Lions at Dallas Cowboys (-3, 43.5)
The Lions gained the first win for new head coach Matt Patricia, dropping mentor Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots on Sunday night. The line is a field goal across the board all except Westgate has the 'Boys at -3.5, while Treasure Island has the home team at just - 2 1/2 as of Tuesday AM.
New York Jets at Jacksonville Jaguars (-7.5, 38)
One week the Jags looked like a Super Bowl contender, then a 9-6 loss against the Tennessee Titans and their backup quarterback makes you wonder about their staying power. Vegas feels confident they'll rebound, especially against a team which lost to the lowly Cleveland Browns, ending their 18-game losing skid.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Chicago Bears (-2.5, 48)
'Fitz-magic' ran out on Monday night against the visiting Pittsburgh Steelers and now we get a chance to see how they rebound against the Bears D. There are some questions about the QB here, as Jameis Winston is eligible to return from a three-game suspension. Of course, QB Ryan Fitzpatrick has thrown for 400 or more yards in three straight -- becoming the first-ever QB to accomplish the feat in NFL history. Surely there won't be a change, right?
Philadelphia Eagles (-3.5, 41.5) at Tennessee Titans
The defending champs got their QB Carson Wentz back last week after a torn ACL last November shelved him until last Sunday. Philly won, but they failed to cover against an AFC South team, the Indianapolis Colts. The Titans grinded out a 9-6 win in 'Sacksonville', but they also have some QB questions with Blaine Gabbert in the concussion protocol and Marcus Mariota thrust into action despite an elbow issue.
Seattle Seahawks (-3, 38.5) at Arizona Cardinals
The Seahawks and Cardinals love to win on each other's field. The visiting team is 8-1-1 SU over the past 10 meetings in this series, and the Cardinals are 0-4-1 SU/ATS in their past five home games against the 'Hawks. The 'under' is also 3-0 in the past three meetings in this series. That's likely why everyone book has Seattle laying a field goal, with the line opening at -3 1/2 at Mirage-MGM.
Cleveland Browns at Oakland Raiders (-2.5, 45)
The Browns got off the schneid last week with a win over the Jets, while the Raiders are still searching for their first win in the second installment of Chucky-mania. The books aren't buying into the late-game heroics of rookie QB Baker Mayfield last week, favoring the winless Raiders at home.
Bettors love the Raiders, particularly at Westgate and William Hill. The Browns opened as a pick 'em at Westgate, but bettors pushed the Raiders all the way up - 2 1/2 before leveling off with some money coming in on Cleveland to knock it down to two. William Hill opened at -1 in favor of Oakland, and it's up to -2 1/2 as of Tuesday morning. If you're feeling Mayfield and the second-place Browns, check out the offshore books, where BetOnline.ag has the Browns catching three points.
San Francisco 49ers at Los Angeles Chargers (-10.5, 47.5)
The 49ers are reeling after losing QB Jimmy Garoppolo to a torn ACL, and the road team is a double-digit favorite across the board. With offensive issues, the total might be a bit high, but it is holding steady at 47 1/2 at the Golden Nugget and the Wynn.
New Orleans Saints (-3.5, 50) at New York Giants
The Saints rolled up 40-plus points for the second time in three games with a win at Atlanta last week. However, they will be heading outside into the elements for the first time in 2018, while the Giants are trying to follow up a win for the first time in 2018. The early money is on the Saints, with the line opening at -3 and bumping to -3 1/2 at Peppermill, Stratosphere and Southpoint, as well as Westgate.
Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers (-3, 48.5)
The Steelers picked up their first win of the season in Tampa, and face a quick turnaround with their rival Ravens visiting the Steel City on Sunday night. The home team is 8-2 SU over the past 10 home games, but the Steelers are 0-2-1 ATS over their past thre at home against Baltimore. The 'over' is 3-1 in the past four meetings in Heinz Field, and that might be an attractive play considering the Steelers defense cannot seem to stop anyone. The 'over' is 3-0 for Pittsburgh so far, averaging 29.3 PPG on offense while allowing 30.0 PPG on defense.
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Chicago Bears (-1.5)
Tampa Bay and Ryan Fitzmagic, er, Fitzpatrick are the talk of the league, but they’ve still got some Week 3 work to do, hosting Pittsburgh in a Monday night affair. The Buccaneers (2-0 SU and ATS) shocked New Orleans in Week 1 as a 10-point road pup, then beat defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia 27-21 catching 3 points at home in Week 2.
After a tough Week 1 loss at Green Bay, Chicago bounced back with a pair of victories. The Bears (2-1 SU and ATS) rallied from a 14-0 first-quarter deficit to grab a 16-14 victory over Arizona as 5.5-point road faves in Week 3.
“We opened the Bears -1.5, took a couple bets on them and moved it to -2,” Murray said. “Chicago struggled offensively against Arizona, but the public believes in its defense, and I can see why. This number could change depending on the ‘Monday Night Football’ game between the Steelers and Bucs.”
Later Sunday, the line ticked up another notch to Chicago -2.5.
Kansas City Chiefs at Denver Broncos (+4.5)
Kansas City quarterback Pat Mahomes is another big developing story this season, with 13 touchdown passes and no interceptions through three weeks. In Week 3 against San Francisco, Mahomes had three TDs as the Chiefs (3-0 SU and ATS) built a 35-7 lead and cruised to a 38-27 win laying 5.5 points at home.
Denver played its first two games in the friendly confines of the Mile High City and won both. Week 3 on the road wasn’t nearly as kind, with the Broncos (2-1 SU, 0-2-1 ATS) tumbling to Baltimore 27-14 getting 5.5 points.
“We opened the Chiefs -4.5 and took a bet on the Broncos, but left it,” Murray said, though later Sunday, the line did tick down to 4. “We will need the Broncos in this game. The public loves the Chiefs for all the same reasons I said they love the Rams. I can see why. Mahomes looks unbelievable right now. I’m confident books all over Nevada will have big liabilities on the Chiefs next Monday night.”
Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots (-9.5)
Perennial Super Bowl contender New England is off to a shaky start this season. After getting dominated at Jacksonville in Week 2, the Patriots couldn’t build any momentum at Detroit, losing 23-10 as a 7-point fave.
With the Pats out of the gate slowly, Miami finds itself atop the AFC East. The Dolphins (3-0 SU and ATS) dropped Oakland 28-20 laying 3 points at home, but this Week 4 road trip will easily be their sternest test so far.
“We opened the Patriots -9.5, despite the Dolphins getting off to an impressive 3-0 start,” Murray said. “I’ve been impressed with the Dolphins and consider New England to be a little on the overrated side right now, but we know where the money will come in on this game. The Patriots will be included in every moneyline parlay and teaser next week.”
The Superbook moved down a tick to 9 just before the Patriots kicked off at Detroit, and then took the game off the board, which is standard operating procedure when a team is playing in the Sunday nighter. The matchup will be reposted on Monday morning.
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NFL
Long Sheet
Week 4
Sunday, September 30
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MIAMI (3 - 0) at NEW ENGLAND (1 - 2) - 9/30/2018, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MIAMI is 72-100 ATS (-38.0 Units) versus division opponents since 1992.
MIAMI is 56-80 ATS (-32.0 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 29-12 ATS (+15.8 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 29-12 ATS (+15.8 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 28-12 ATS (+14.8 Units) as a favorite over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) in home lined games over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 22-8 ATS (+13.2 Units) against conference opponents over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 19-5 ATS (+13.5 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 19-9 ATS (+9.1 Units) in games played on turf over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
NEW ENGLAND is 3-1 against the spread versus MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
NEW ENGLAND is 3-1 straight up against MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
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HOUSTON (0 - 3) at INDIANAPOLIS (1 - 2) - 9/30/2018, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
HOUSTON is 7-18 ATS (-12.8 Units) in dome games since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
INDIANAPOLIS is 2-1 against the spread versus HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
INDIANAPOLIS is 2-2 straight up against HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
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CINCINNATI (2 - 1) at ATLANTA (1 - 2) - 9/30/2018, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
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BUFFALO (1 - 2) at GREEN BAY (1 - 1 - 1) - 9/30/2018, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
GREEN BAY is 108-79 ATS (+21.1 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points since 1992.
GREEN BAY is 188-135 ATS (+39.5 Units) in games played on a grass field since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
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DETROIT (1 - 2) at DALLAS (1 - 2) - 9/30/2018, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 137-173 ATS (-53.3 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
DALLAS is 1-0 against the spread versus DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
DALLAS is 1-0 straight up against DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
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NY JETS (1 - 2) at JACKSONVILLE (2 - 1) - 9/30/2018, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
NY JETS is 1-0 against the spread versus JACKSONVILLE over the last 3 seasons
NY JETS is 1-0 straight up against JACKSONVILLE over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
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TAMPA BAY (2 - 0) at CHICAGO (2 - 1) - 9/30/2018, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
TAMPA BAY is 2-0 against the spread versus CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
TAMPA BAY is 2-0 straight up against CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
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PHILADELPHIA (2 - 1) at TENNESSEE (2 - 1) - 9/30/2018, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TENNESSEE is 50-28 ATS (+19.2 Units) in non-conference games since 1992.
PHILADELPHIA is 21-9 ATS (+11.1 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
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SEATTLE (1 - 2) at ARIZONA (0 - 3) - 9/30/2018, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ARIZONA is 44-22 ATS (+19.8 Units) in home games after 2 or more consecutive losses since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
ARIZONA is 2-1 against the spread versus SEATTLE over the last 3 seasons
ARIZONA is 2-1 straight up against SEATTLE over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
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CLEVELAND (1 - 1 - 1) at OAKLAND (0 - 3) - 9/30/2018, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CLEVELAND is 10-24 ATS (-16.4 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 10-24 ATS (-16.4 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 9-23 ATS (-16.3 Units) as an underdog over the last 3 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 9-19 ATS (-11.9 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
OAKLAND is 50-82 ATS (-40.2 Units) in games where the line is +3 to -3 since 1992.
OAKLAND is 14-28 ATS (-16.8 Units) as a home favorite of 3 points or less since 1992.
OAKLAND is 76-106 ATS (-40.6 Units) in home games since 1992.
OAKLAND is 76-106 ATS (-40.6 Units) in home lined games since 1992.
OAKLAND is 60-84 ATS (-32.4 Units) in home games when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.
OAKLAND is 76-106 ATS (-40.6 Units) in home games in games played on a grass field since 1992.
OAKLAND is 20-35 ATS (-18.5 Units) in home games after 2 or more consecutive losses since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
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SAN FRANCISCO (1 - 2) at LA CHARGERS (1 - 2) - 9/30/2018, 4:25 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
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NEW ORLEANS (2 - 1) at NY GIANTS (1 - 2) - 9/30/2018, 4:25 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
NEW ORLEANS is 1-0 against the spread versus NY GIANTS over the last 3 seasons
NY GIANTS is 1-0 straight up against NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
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BALTIMORE (2 - 1) at PITTSBURGH (0 - 1 - 1) - 9/30/2018, 8:20 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
BALTIMORE is 3-1 against the spread versus PITTSBURGH over the last 3 seasons
PITTSBURGH is 3-1 straight up against BALTIMORE over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
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Monday, October 1
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KANSAS CITY (3 - 0) at DENVER (2 - 1) - 10/1/2018, 8:15 PM
Top Trends for this game.
KANSAS CITY is 11-2 ATS (+8.8 Units) versus division opponents over the last 3 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
KANSAS CITY is 4-0 against the spread versus DENVER over the last 3 seasons
KANSAS CITY is 4-0 straight up against DENVER over the last 3 seasons
4 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
__________________
NFL
Week 4
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Trend Report
Sunday, September 30
Philadelphia Eagles
Philadelphia is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Philadelphia is 16-3 SU in its last 19 games
Philadelphia is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Philadelphia's last 5 games on the road
Philadelphia is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Tennessee
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Philadelphia's last 5 games when playing Tennessee
Tennessee Titans
Tennessee is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games
Tennessee is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Philadelphia
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Tennessee's last 5 games when playing Philadelphia
Buffalo Bills
Buffalo is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Buffalo's last 6 games
Buffalo is 7-12-3 ATS in its last 22 games on the road
Buffalo is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games on the road
Buffalo is 6-2-1 ATS in its last 9 games when playing Green Bay
Buffalo is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games when playing Green Bay
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Buffalo's last 5 games when playing Green Bay
Buffalo is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Green Bay
Green Bay Packers
Green Bay is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
Green Bay is 1-3-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Green Bay's last 8 games
Green Bay is 2-6-1 ATS in its last 9 games when playing Buffalo
Green Bay is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games when playing Buffalo
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Green Bay's last 5 games when playing Buffalo
Green Bay is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Buffalo
Detroit Lions
Detroit is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Detroit's last 11 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Detroit's last 7 games on the road
Detroit is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games when playing Dallas
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Detroit's last 7 games when playing Dallas
Detroit is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Dallas
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Detroit's last 5 games when playing on the road against Dallas
Dallas Cowboys
Dallas is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Dallas's last 5 games
Dallas is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games when playing Detroit
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Dallas's last 7 games when playing Detroit
Dallas is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Detroit
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Dallas's last 5 games when playing at home against Detroit
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tampa Bay is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games
Tampa Bay is 5-10 SU in its last 15 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Tampa Bay's last 9 games
Tampa Bay is 3-6-1 ATS in its last 10 games on the road
Tampa Bay is 2-9 SU in its last 11 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Tampa Bay's last 5 games on the road
Tampa Bay is 7-15 ATS in its last 22 games when playing on the road against Chicago
Tampa Bay is 5-20 SU in its last 25 games when playing on the road against Chicago
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Tampa Bay's last 7 games when playing on the road against Chicago
Chicago Bears
Chicago is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Chicago is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Chicago's last 5 games
Chicago is 15-7 ATS in its last 22 games when playing at home against Tampa Bay
Chicago is 20-5 SU in its last 25 games when playing at home against Tampa Bay
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Chicago's last 7 games when playing at home against Tampa Bay
New York Jets
NY Jets is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
NY Jets is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of NY Jets's last 5 games
NY Jets is 3-7-1 ATS in its last 11 games on the road
NY Jets is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of NY Jets's last 6 games on the road
NY Jets is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 games when playing Jacksonville
NY Jets is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Jacksonville
The total has gone OVER in 5 of NY Jets's last 7 games when playing Jacksonville
Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Jacksonville is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Jacksonville's last 6 games
Jacksonville is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games when playing NY Jets
Jacksonville is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing NY Jets
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Jacksonville's last 7 games when playing NY Jets
Miami Dolphins
Miami is 4-7-2 ATS in its last 13 games
Miami is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Miami's last 13 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Miami's last 6 games
Miami is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Miami is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Miami's last 6 games on the road
Miami is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing New England
Miami is 4-12 SU in its last 16 games when playing New England
Miami is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against New England
Miami is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against New England
New England Patriots
New England is 11-4 ATS in its last 15 games
New England is 14-3 SU in its last 17 games
New England is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Miami
New England is 12-4 SU in its last 16 games when playing Miami
New England is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Miami
New England is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Miami
Houston Texans
Houston is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games
Houston is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Houston's last 7 games
Houston is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Houston is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Houston's last 5 games on the road
Houston is 2-7-2 ATS in its last 11 games when playing Indianapolis
Houston is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games when playing Indianapolis
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Houston's last 5 games when playing Indianapolis
Houston is 2-5-1 ATS in its last 8 games when playing on the road against Indianapolis
Houston is 2-14 SU in its last 16 games when playing on the road against Indianapolis
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Houston's last 5 games when playing on the road against Indianapolis
Indianapolis Colts
Indianapolis is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Indianapolis's last 10 games
Indianapolis is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games when playing Houston
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Indianapolis's last 5 games when playing Houston
Indianapolis is 14-2 SU in its last 16 games when playing at home against Houston
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Indianapolis's last 5 games when playing at home against Houston
Cincinnati Bengals
Cincinnati is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Cincinnati is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Cincinnati is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Cincinnati is 5-11 SU in its last 16 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Cincinnati's last 7 games when playing Atlanta
Atlanta Falcons
Atlanta is 8-4 SU in its last 12 games
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Atlanta's last 9 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Atlanta's last 7 games when playing Cincinnati
Seattle Seahawks
Seattle is 2-4-1 ATS in its last 7 games
Seattle is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games
Seattle is 4-8-2 ATS in its last 14 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Seattle's last 8 games on the road
Seattle is 2-3-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Arizona
Seattle is 2-3-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Arizona
Seattle is 4-0-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Arizona
Seattle is 4-0-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Arizona
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Seattle's last 14 games when playing on the road against Arizona
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Seattle's last 6 games when playing on the road against Arizona
Arizona Cardinals
Arizona is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Arizona's last 7 games
Arizona is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Arizona's last 5 games at home
Arizona is 0-4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Seattle
Arizona is 0-4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Seattle
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Arizona's last 14 games when playing at home against Seattle
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Arizona's last 6 games when playing at home against Seattle
Cleveland Browns
Cleveland is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Cleveland is 8-16-1 ATS in its last 25 games
Cleveland is 1-18-1 SU in its last 20 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cleveland's last 6 games
Cleveland is 3-9-1 ATS in its last 13 games on the road
Cleveland is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 11 of Cleveland's last 16 games on the road
Cleveland is 7-1-1 ATS in its last 9 games when playing Oakland
Cleveland is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games when playing Oakland
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cleveland's last 5 games when playing Oakland
Cleveland is 4-0-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Oakland
Oakland Raiders
Oakland is 4-11-2 ATS in its last 17 games
Oakland is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Oakland's last 10 games
Oakland is 1-3-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Oakland's last 5 games at home
Oakland is 1-7-1 ATS in its last 9 games when playing Cleveland
Oakland is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games when playing Cleveland
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Oakland's last 5 games when playing Cleveland
Oakland is 0-4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Cleveland
San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
San Francisco is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games
San Francisco is 8-17 SU in its last 25 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of San Francisco's last 6 games
San Francisco is 4-16 SU in its last 20 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of San Francisco's last 6 games on the road
San Francisco is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games when playing LA Chargers
San Francisco is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing LA Chargers
The total has gone OVER in 7 of San Francisco's last 10 games when playing LA Chargers
Los Angeles Chargers
LA Chargers is 10-5 ATS in its last 15 games
LA Chargers is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of LA Chargers's last 14 games
LA Chargers is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games at home
LA Chargers is 4-9 ATS in its last 13 games at home
LA Chargers is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of LA Chargers's last 6 games at home
LA Chargers is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing San Francisco
LA Chargers is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing San Francisco
The total has gone OVER in 7 of LA Chargers's last 10 games when playing San Francisco
New Orleans Saints
New Orleans is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
New Orleans is 14-5 SU in its last 19 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New Orleans's last 6 games
New Orleans is 14-5-1 ATS in its last 20 games on the road
New Orleans is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of New Orleans's last 6 games on the road
New Orleans is 4-1-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing NY Giants
New Orleans is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing NY Giants
The total has gone OVER in 4 of New Orleans's last 5 games when playing NY Giants
New Orleans is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against NY Giants
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of New Orleans's last 7 games when playing on the road against NY Giants
New York Giants
NY Giants is 4-16 SU in its last 20 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of NY Giants's last 5 games
NY Giants is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games at home
NY Giants is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of NY Giants's last 5 games at home
NY Giants is 1-4-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing New Orleans
NY Giants is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing New Orleans
The total has gone OVER in 4 of NY Giants's last 5 games when playing New Orleans
NY Giants is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against New Orleans
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of NY Giants's last 7 games when playing at home against New Orleans
Baltimore Ravens
Baltimore is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Baltimore's last 15 games
Baltimore is 4-11 SU in its last 15 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Baltimore's last 8 games on the road
Baltimore is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Pittsburgh
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Baltimore's last 6 games when playing Pittsburgh
Baltimore is 6-14 SU in its last 20 games when playing on the road against Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh is 1-8 ATS in its last 9 games
Pittsburgh is 18-6-1 SU in its last 25 games
Pittsburgh is 2-3-1 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Pittsburgh's last 5 games
Pittsburgh is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Pittsburgh is 17-6 SU in its last 23 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Pittsburgh's last 8 games at home
Pittsburgh is 1-5-1 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Baltimore
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Pittsburgh's last 6 games when playing Baltimore
Pittsburgh is 1-3-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Baltimore
Pittsburgh is 14-6 SU in its last 20 games when playing at home against Baltimore
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NFL
Week 4
Sunday
Dolphins (3-0) @ Patriots (1-2)— Miami’s fast start makes this a more important game than it usually is, seeing how Patriots lost last two games, outscored 57-30 (34-6 in 1st half). NE lacks outside threat at WR, so Gronkowski is always doubled; Pats are 10-35 on 3rd down this year. NE is 22-12-3 in last 37 games as home favorites, 24-11 vs spread coming off a loss. Miami scored seven TD’s on 21 drives in last two games; they had three TD plays of 34+ yards LW in comeback win over Raiders. Dolphins are +4 in turnovers but only 10-41 on 3rd down; since ’14, they’re 10-16 as road underdogs. Home side won 10 of last 11 series games; Dolphins lost last nine visits here, with five of last six losses here by 10+ points.
Texans (0-3) @ Colts (1-2)— Third road game in four weeks for 0-3 Houston that has losses by 7-3-5 points; they were outscored 55-19 in first half of games. Texans won field position in all three games, but have no takeaways in last two, and scored only 43 points in 11 visits to red zone this year- they’re 10-16 vs spread in last 26 road games. Colts were outgained 379-209 in 20-16 loss at Philly LW; they’ve had only seven plays of 20+ yards this month, have yet to average more than 5.5 yds/pass attempt in any game. Indy is 8-3 in last 11 series games; they beat Houston 20-14/22-13 LY, but Texans did win two of last three visits here. Last 2+ years, Colts are 14-7 vs spread when coming off a loss.
Bengals (2-1) @ Falcons (1-2)— Atlanta’s defense fell apart at end of game LW; on Saints’ last four drives, they gave up 247 yards on 38 plays, four TD’s in an OT loss. Cincy scored 89 points in its 2-1 start, scoring 6.5 pts/red zone drive- they lost at Carolina last week because Dalton threw four picks. Atlanta gained 442/407 yards last two games; under Quinn, they’re 9-14 as home favorites (6-4 in last 10). Bengals are 3-8-1 vs spread in last dozen games as road dogs; since 2013, Cincy is 18-12-1 coming off a loss. Falcons won three of last four series games; Cincy lost their last three visits here- their last win in Atlanta was in ’87. Under is 7-6 in dome games so far this year; from 2013-17, over was 59% in games played in domes.
Bills (1-2) @ Packers (1-1-1)— Over last decade, Buffalo is 22-38-3 vs spread coming off a win; LW they pulled NFL’s biggest upset in 23 years. Third road game in four weeks for Bills; under McDermott, they’re 4-4 as road underdogs. Buffalo’s TY in three games: 153-293-292; they won LW because they won field position by 22 yards, a huge margin. Green Bay is 26th in NFL in red zone scoring; hey averaged 5.5/4.9 yds/pass attempt last two games- Rodgers’ gimpy knee prevents him from scrambling as much as normal. Since ’14, Packers are 17-9-2 as home favorites, but only 1-4 in last five games when laying double digits. Home side won last seven series games; Bills lost last three visits here, by 10-10-27 points.
Lions (1-2) @ Cowboys (1-2)— Short week for Lions after they upset Patriots Monday (TY was 414-209 Det, so maybe not a big upset). Detroit QB Stafford is from Dallas area, this is a homecoming here; Cowboys are 7-3 in last ten series games, winning last two, 24-20, 42-21. Lions lost three of last four visits here, with losses by 16-4-21 points. Since ’13, Detroit is 16-22-3 vs spread coming off a win- they’re 12-19 in last 31 games as road underdogs. Dallas offense is struggling; they’re last in NFL with only four plays of 20+ yards. Cowboys are 7-5 in last 12 games as home favorites; they’re 11-4-2 in last 17 games where spread was 3 or less points. All three Dallas games this season stayed under the total.
Jets (1-2) @ Jaguars (2-1)— Rookie QBs generally struggle on road; this is third game in four weeks for Jets squad that is near bottom of NFL in red zone scoring, and scoring on drives starting 75+ yards from EZ. Under Bowles, Gang Green is 5-8-3 as road underdogs, 12-13-2 coming off a loss. Jaguars didn’t score TD in home loss to Titans LW; Jax gained only 166 yards. Under Marrone, Jags are 4-5 as home favorites, 10-7 coming off a loss. Jets won last four series games, including 23-20 (OT) home win LY; this is their first visit here since 2012. NFL-wide, home favorites in non-divisional games are 12-8-1 vs spread so far this season. Jets had three extra days to prep here, after playing on Thursday LW.
Buccaneers (2-1) @ Bears (2-1)— Short week for Bucs after Monday nite loss; they won/covered their pre-bye game last three years. Fitzpatrick is first QB EVER to throw for 400+ yards three games in row; Tampa Bay is 8-5-1 as road dogs under Koetter, but they’re also 6-11-1 coming off a loss. Chicago was down 14-0 early in desert LW, rallied to beat woeful Cardinals; over last 10+ years, Bears are awful 16-26-3 as home favorites, but 1-0 this year- they held last two opponents to 276-221 total yards. Still don’t trust young QB Trubisky; Bears have only six plays of 20+ yards, but they’re +3 in turnovers- Chicago’s defense is sturdy. Bucs won last two series games, 36-10/29-7; teams split last four meetings here, with Tampa’s last visit here in ’14.
Eagles (2-1) @ Titans (2-1)— Tennessee won divisional games last two weeks despite gaining only 283/233 yards; they’ve got QB injury issues. Titans threw for only 83 yards in ugly 9-6 win LW when neither team scored a TD- they’ve got only five plays of 20+ yards this year. Tennessee is 3-2 in last five games as home underdogs. Philly allowed only 61.7 rushing yards/game; they gave up 393 PY in only loss, at Tampa- not likely Titans can throw for 300+. Eagles outgained Indy 379-209 in Wentz’ first game back from injury; under Pederson, Philly is 2-5 as a road favorite. Titans won four of last five series games, winning last two played here, 27-24/37-19. NFL-wide, home underdogs are 5-3 vs spread in non-divisional games.
Seahawks (1-2) @ Cardinals (0-3)— Home side is 0-6-1 in last seven series games; Seattle is 4-0-1 in last five visits here, with three of four wins by 12+ points. Rookie QB Rosen gets first NFL start here; he saw his first game action LW, in last two series vs Chicago, and threw two INT’s. In its first three games, Arizona gained 213-137-221 yards; they have zero red zone snaps last two games, so playing a rookie can’t be too much worse. Since ’12, Arizona is 11-6-1 as home underdogs. Seattle got its first win LW; Seahawks were +3 in turnovers- under Carroll, they’re 14-16-1 as road favorites- Wilson has been sacked 14 times already this year. So far this month, home underdogs are 4-0 vs spread in divisional games.
Browns (1-2) @ Raiders (0-3)— Oakland is 0-3 despite leading all three games at half; they’re oldest team in NFL and so far they look it, outscored 64-17 in 2nd half. This is first game they’re favored to win; over last decade, Raiders are 12-19 laying points at home. Raiders have 16 plays of 20+ yards, which is a lot, but they’ve allowed 17. Mayfield got win off bench in his NFL debut LW; this is his first NFL start. Browns’ defense held Saints to 275 yards in Superdome two weeks ago; they’re a good defense. Cleveland is 9-16 in last 25 games as road underdogs. NFC North teams are 6-2 vs spread outside division this month; AFC West teams are 4-3-1. Cleveland is 6-4 in this series, splitting six games here; teams haven’t met since ’15.
49ers (1-2) @ Chargers (1-2)— Beathard was 1-4 as 49ers’ starter LY, gets first ’18 start here vs team his grandfather Bobby was GM of from 1990-2000. Would expect Niners to try and run ball more to protect young QB; they ran ball for 190-178 yards in last two games. SF lost both road games this month, by 8-11 points. Over last decade, 49ers are 4-7 as double digit dogs. Chargers gave up 521 yards in 35-23 loss to Rams LW; since ’09, Bolts are 2-7 vs spread when laying double digits. LA is 9-14 vs spread in last 23 games as home favorites; they’ve allowed 17 plays of 20+ yards, T3rd most in NFL. Chargers won last four series games, with two of those wins in OT. All three Charger games this season have gone over total.
Saints (2-1) @ Giants (1-2)— Home side won 10 of last 11 series games, with average total in last five, 71.4; Saints lost six of last seven series games played here, losing last two 52-27/16-13- their last win here vs Giants was in ’06. Payton was once fired as OC of the Giants; don’t forget that Eli is from New Orleans. Saints scored 104 points in first three games, but all three were inside; this is 4:25 kickoff outdoors, which means end of game will be played at night. NO covered four of last five tries as road favorites. Giants allowed 20+ points in all three games; they’re 7-5 in last dozen games as home underdogs. Manning has been sacked 12 times already; Beckham has caught 24 balls for 271 yards, but no TD’s yet. Saints’ secondary is vulnerable.
Ravens (2-1) @ Steelers (1-1-1)— Home side is 8-3 in last 11 series games; Ravens lost four of last five visits here, losing last two 31-27/39-38. Short week for Steelers after 30-27 win in Tampa Monday; they had four takeaways in first half, got blanked in second but held on for win. Totals in Pitt games this season: 42-79-57, as Steelers haven’t filled big hole left by injury to LB Shazier LY. Home side won/covered all three Raven games this season; they’re 8-7-1 in last 16 games as a road underdog, 7-2-1 vs spread in last AFC North road games. Baltimore has 12 TD’s in 12 trips to red zone this year (missed one PAT). Steelers are 3-5 in last eight games as home favorites; they’re 3-5-1 vs spread in last nine NFC North home games.
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NFL Underdogs: Week 4 pointspread picks and predictions
Jason Logan
Injuries are a tough thing to stir into the NFL pointspread pot. Most injuries – even when involving star players – have minimal impact on the odds, if any.
Sure, when it’s a starting quarterback like Jimmy Garoppolo going down for the Niners, you see big adjustments: like San Francisco moving from a projected 4.5-point road underdog in L.A. facing the Chargers to as big as +10.5 with C.J. Beathard under center this Sunday. However, beyond QBs and a sparse handful of skill guys, most player injuries don’t make a blip on the betting radar.
Now, cluster injuries – a rash of missing pieces at one position or specific unit - those are different beasts. When the Atlanta Falcons lost safety Keanu Neal to a knee injury and linebacker Deion Jones to a bum foot in Week 1, football fans in the know recognized that Atlanta was in trouble. Then, when the Falcons’ other starting safety Ricardo Allen suffered a torn Achilles last week, alarm bells started ringing.
Atlanta is missing its top three non-cornerback coverage players: the type of players that are invaluable when it comes to nullifying an opponent’s mismatches, like pass-catching running backs and route-running tight ends. And it showed versus New Orleans in Week 3.
The Saints scored 43 points (Atlanta scored 37 points at home and still didn’t win!), completed 39 of 49 passes to nine different players, converted seven of their 14 third-down snaps and went 1-for-1 on fourth down, en route to a 6-point overtime win as 1.5-point underdogs (opened +3). New Orleans’ running backs totaled 125 yards receiving while its tight ends posted a collective 88 yards. RING! RING!
The Falcons face another formidable offense in the Cincinnati Bengals, giving 5.5 points to the visiting non-conference foe in Week 4. The Bengals will give Atlanta’s defense plenty of headaches in those “mismatch” spots, with versatile running back Giovani Bernard, tight end Tyler Eifert, and a dynamic duo of receivers in A.J. Green and Tyler Boyd.
Much like last week, Atlanta will need a ton of points to keep pace in this game (a big reason why the total has ticked up from 48 to 52 points). The Bengals defense is much tougher than the high-level stats would indicate (playing two of first three on the road) and is focused on improving its dreadful third-down defense (opponents converting at 52%), something that has haunted this team the past two seasons.
That said, Atlanta is sending foes to the sideline on third downs just 51 percent of the time – right behind Cincy at the bottom of the league. Those cluster injuries on defense are quickly going to turn into a cluster f--k for the Falcons.
Pick: Cincinnati +5.5
Buffalo Bills at Green Bay Packers (-10, 45)
Two important happenings have occurred with the Bills since halftime of that loss to the L.A. Chargers in Week 2. You know, the game where veteran corner Vontae Davis up and retired with Buffalo down a 28-6 hole at the break.
1. Head coach Sean McDermott took over defensive play calling from coordinator Leslie Frazier for the remainder of that game. And while he has since turned the keys back over to Frazier, the power move has sparked this unit and lit a fire under Frazier’s ass.
2. Rookie Josh Allen replaced Nate Peterman as the Bills' starting quarterback. Not that tough to see the upgrade there…
Since those moves, Buffalo has outscored opponents 41-9 over the past six quarters of football, including that crazy 27-6 win over the Minnesota Vikings as 16-point pups last Sunday. I don’t expect another stunner from the Bills in Lambeau in Week 4, but Buffalo isn’t as bad as this spread indicates. And the Packers are definitely not as good as this lofty pile of chalk would lead us to believe.
By all accounts, Green Bay is a couple plays away from being 0-3 on the season. The Cheeseheads needed an Aaron Rodgers’ miracle to leave Chicago with a win in Week 1, were lucky to get a tie versus the Vikings in Week 2, and were exposed in a 31-17 loss to Washington last weekend.
Circle the wagons and gimmie the points.
Pick: Buffalo +10
New Orleans Saints at New York Giants (+3.5, 50.5)
Speaking of teams that should be 0-3, the Saints are getting more respect from bookies than they deserve heading to East Rutherford Sunday.
New Orleans was trounced by Tampa Bay in Week 1, got let off the hook by poor kicking from Cleveland in Week 2, and then needed Drew Brees to do his best Cam Newton impersonation to steal an overtime victory at Atlanta last Sunday. The Saints are a mess defensively – ranked near the bottom in yards and points allowed – and match up with a dangerous Giants offense that’s finding its groove.
And let’s not forget about the New York defense. The G-Men are allowing an average of just under 21 points per play, and gave up some garbage time tallies versus Houston last week, which skews those stats. Big Blue is doing a fine job on third down defense and holding their own inside the red zone.
Considering the Saints’ last two outings have come down to the wire, I love the half-point hook on the home dog here with the Giants.
Pick: N.Y. Giants +3.5
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Cincinnati Bengals vs. Atlanta Falcons Preview and Predictions 09-30-2018 in NFL
Stopping a star receiver will be the focus for both defenses when the Atlanta Falcons host the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. Atlanta's Julio Jones and Cincinnati's A.J. Green won't go head-to-head, but they each will be the focal point when they're on the field in a matchup of high-scoring offenses.
The Bengals were hurt by four turnovers that led to 17 points in a 31-21 loss at Carolina last week, but quarterback Andy Dalton and Green still have them sitting atop the AFC North standings. Cincinnati will try to keep pace with a Falcons team that is coming off a 43-37 overtime loss to New Orleans. After a sluggish season opener at Philadelphia, Atlanta has rolled up 439 and 534 total yards in its last two games. The Bengals won the most recent meeting, a 24-10 triumph at home in 2014.
TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Falcons -4. O/U: 52
ABOUT THE BENGALS (2-1): Cincinnati ranks sixth in the league in scoring offense, averaging 29.7 points behind a fairly balanced attack, but its offensive weapons are banged up. It looks as if Green will be back in the lineup after leaving last week's game with a hip injury, but running back Joe Mixon still is recovering from a knee ailment. The defense has not fared well - especially against the run - and has had a tough time getting off the field, ranking last in the league in third-down efficiency by allowing opponents to convert at a 52.2 percent clip.
ABOUT THE FALCONS (1-2): Atlanta's offense has been a bit one-dimensional with running back Devonta Freeman (knee) sidelined, but the passing game is dangerous. Matt Ryan threw for 374 yards and a career-high five touchdowns last week while rookie Calvin Ridley had 146 receiving yards and three touchdowns, joining Julio Jones and Mohamed Sanu in a loaded receiving corps. The defense has been decimated by injuries and ranks 27th in the league, allowing 401.7 total yards per game.
EXTRA POINTS
1. The Falcons placed S Ricardo Allen (Achilles) on injured reserve Tuesday, their third defensive starter to land on the list.
2. The Bengals are 42-1-2 since 2011 when scoring at least 25 points.
3. Cincinnati has scored on its last 29 trips to the red zone dating to last season, the longest current streak in the NFL.
PREDICTION: Falcons 34, Bengals 31
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Detroit Lions vs. Dallas Cowboys Preview and Predictions 09-30-2018 in NFL
The Dallas Cowboys look to jumpstart their hibernating offense when they host the Detroit Lions on Sunday. Dallas ranks 31st in scoring offense at 13.7 points and 30th in total offense (277.7 yards per game) while running back Ezekiel Elliott wants to see more of the football.
Elliott is tied with San Francisco's Matt Breida for the NFL lead with 274 rushing yards and has a stellar 5.7-yard average but is carrying the ball just 16 times per game. "I would love to see it more, but I just think (it's) the nature of the games we've played in these first three games," Elliott told reporters. "We've been down. We've been having to try to come back. It's hard to come back and try to run the ball." Detroit is coming off a high as first-year coach Matt Patricia outcoached former boss Bill Belichick en route to a 26-10 victory over New England. The stunning performance marked a major turnaround from the first two games in which the Lions were outscored 78-44.
TV: 1 p.m. ET, FOX. LINE: Cowboys -3. O/U: 44.
ABOUT THE LIONS (1-2): Quarterback Matthew Stafford bounced back from a four-interception performance in the season opener to throw five touchdown passes against one pick in his last two games. Rookie Kerryon Johnson rushed for 101 yards against the Patriots to become the first Detroit running back to top 100 yards in a contest since Reggie Bush in 2013. Eli Harold registered two sacks against New England and shares the team lead of three with fellow linebacker Devon Kennard.
ABOUT THE COWBOYS (1-2): Quarterback Dak Prescott has just 498 passing yards - with two touchdowns and two interceptions - and his highest output of the season is only 170 yards. Veteran outside linebacker Sean Lee (hamstring) appears to be in jeopardy of missing this week's contest and rookie Leighton Vander Esch is being prepared to start against the Lions after posting 11 tackles in relief of Lee in last week's setback against Seattle. "That's the biggest thing - you've got to be consistent, week in and week out," Vander Esch told reporters. "It doesn't matter what you did last week or the week before or the first week. None of that matters now - it's what I do this week."
EXTRA POINTS
1. Dallas has yet to intercept a pass this season.
2. Detroit WR Golden Tate (team-best 20 receptions) has caught six or more passes in each of the first three games.
3. Prescott has failed to pass for 200 yards in nine of his last 11 contests.
PREDICTION: Cowboys 24, Lions 20
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Houston Texans vs. Indianapolis Colts Preview and Predictions 09-30-2018 in NFL
The Houston Texans have had their share of tough breaks, but they'll try to change their luck and earn their first victory when they travel to face the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday in an AFC South matchup. The Texans have lost their first three games by a total of 15 points -- and all by a touchdown or less -- while the Colts are coming off a tough loss of their own.
Indianapolis led for much of last week's 20-16 loss at Philadelphia, although the offense continued to struggle. The Texans have moved the ball effectively but have been hurt by turnovers and penalties, as well as slow starts. "It's hard to win games coming from behind, so starting fast is something that we're practicing this week, something we're working on," Texans receiver DeAndre Hopkins told reporters. "We've put ourselves behind in a lot of games. It's hard to beat any NFL team being behind." The Colts have dominated the series over the years, leading 25-7 after winning both meetings last season.
TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Colts -1.5. O/U: 47
ABOUT THE TEXANS (0-3): Houston has plenty of offensive weapons with quarterback Deshaun Watson throwing to Hopkins while Will Fuller and Lamar Miller anchor a solid ground game. The Texans rank eighth in the league with just under 400 total yards per game but are 22nd in scoring offense because of their struggles in the red zone, coming away with just four touchdowns on 11 trips inside the 20. The defense has been solid against the pass and decent versus the run but has failed to yield a turnover in the last two games.
ABOUT THE COLTS (1-2): The Colts' offense has struggled, as quarterback Andrew Luck has proven unable to throw deep and a rotation of unproven running backs has yet to get the ground game going. Indianapolis didn't commit a turnover in last week's loss, but it also gained a season-low 209 total yards. The revamped defense has played well, forcing five turnovers in three games, but gave up 152 rushing yards against the Eagles.
EXTRA POINTS
1. Luck has thrown two or more touchdown passes in seven of eight career games against Houston.
2. Texans DE J.J. Watt has registered four sacks in his last four contests against the Colts.
3. Colts WR T.Y. Hilton has made nine TD catches in 12 games against the Texans and averaged 101.3 receiving yards with three scores in the last three meetings.
PREDICTION: Colts 23, Texans 21
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Chicago Bears Preview and Predictions 09-30-2018 in NFL
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have a decision to make at quarterback heading into Sunday's visit to the Chicago Bears. Ryan Fitzpatrick has been outstanding through the first three games for the Buccaneers, but Jameis Winston -- who started 45 games through his first three seasons -- is back from a suspension and ready to contribute.
"I'm here to assist the best way I possibly can," Winston said in his return press conference this week. "My passion for this team, my love for this team goes beyond whether I'm out there throwing the football for this team or not." Fitzpatrick has thrown for over 400 yards in each of the first three games while compiling 11 touchdowns passes and another on the ground, although he did throw three of his four interceptions in Monday's 30-27 loss to Pittsburgh. The Bears have rebounded from a painful season-opening loss at Green Bay with consecutive wins over Seattle and Arizona. Led by linebacker Khalil Mack -- who has four sacks, an interception and three forced fumbles -- Chicago enters Week 4 tied for second in the NFL with eight takeaways.
TV: 1 p.m. ET, FOX. LINE: Bears -3. O/U: 46.5
ABOUT THE BUCCANEERS (2-1): The Fitzpatrick-Winston situation will garner most of the headlines, but it stands to reason that the coaching staff is more concerned with improving a defense that ranks 31st in yards allowed and 29th in scoring, giving up an average of 30.3 points. Safety Chris Conte (knee), who had seven tackles in each of the first two games, was placed on injured reserve this week, a blow for a secondary that has one interception thus far. Mike Evans has been Fitzpatrick's top target with 23 catches for 367 yards, while Peyton Barber leads the way on the ground but is averaging just 2.9 yards in 43 carries.
ABOUT THE BEARS (2-1): Mitch Trubisky is averaging under 200 yards passing and has just two touchdowns against three picks early on, but a matchup with the porous Bucs might help the second-year pro break out. "We just need to continue to get better -- execute, believe in the plan," Trubisky told reporters. "And continue to have those conversations about what plays we really feel comfortable about and what plays we like. Me and coach (Matt) Nagy will go back and forth. And they're going to dial up a great gameplan." Jordan Howard has struggled to get the ground game going and has only 96 yards on 38 carries over the last two games.
EXTRA POINTS
1. Winston threw for 204 yards and a touchdown and Tampa Bay forced four turnovers in a 29-7 win over Chicago at home last year.
2. The Buccaneers have 1,202 net passing yards, compared to 534 for the Bears.
3. Tampa Bay DE Jason Pierre-Paul has three of his team's seven sacks.
PREDICTION: Bears 24, Buccaneers 21 r the
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New York Jets vs. Jacksonville Jaguars Preview and Predictions 09-30-2018 in NFL
The Jacksonville Jaguars went from looking like Super Bowl contenders in a dominant victory over the New England Patriots in Week 2 to looking like a team that might finish at the bottom of the division in a lackluster Week 3 showing against Tennessee. The Jaguars will try to bounce back and reestablish themselves as an AFC contender when they host the New York Jets on Sunday.
Jacksonville moved to 2-0 by ripping the Patriots 31-20 but managed only 232 yards of total offense while dropping a key AFC South contest 9-6 at home to the Tennessee Titans last week. "It wasn't a lot of people in the wrong places at the wrong time," wide receiver Keelan Cole told reporters, echoing similar statements from his teammates. "It was just when we were in the right place and everything went well, something went wrong. The point that we really need to focus on is just executing. Everything has to go 100 percent instead of 98." The Jets went through similar Jekyll-and-Hyde issues through the first three weeks but got some extra time to clear their heads and fix some issues after a 21-17 loss at Cleveland on Thursday, Sep. 20. "The last two games don't really matter," New York safety Jamal Adams told reporters. "We've moved on. It's the NFL - anybody can be beat. You have to bring your 'A' game each and every Sunday, Thursday, Monday, whatever day it is. We understand what's at stake and we have to go down (to Jacksonville) and get a win. It's going to be a tough opponent. We have a lot of respect for this team and it's going to be a dogfight."
TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Jaguars -7.5. O/U: 38.5.
ABOUT THE JETS (1-2): Rookie quarterback Sam Darnold gave New York fans some hope while completing 16 of his 21 pass attempts in a 48-17 win over Detroit in Week 1 but looked like a different quarterback while going 15-of-31 and throwing a pair of interceptions at Cleveland. "I think I've done a pretty good job of keeping my poise in the pocket," Darnold told reporters. "Sometimes I rush, but in the first couple games I thought I found completions. I didn't do as good of a job at that in the Cleveland game, but I've just got to continue to do the things that are working, continue to find completions, but also take my shots when they are there." Darnold could be working with fewer weapons this week after wide receiver Terrelle Pryor suffered a groin injury in practice on Thursday.
ABOUT THE JAGUARS (2-1): Quarterback Blake Bortles threw for 376 yards and four TDs against the Patriots in Week 2 but was held to 155 yards while failing to find the end zone against Tennessee. "Continue to take what they give you, not get greedy, not force anything down the field," Bortles told reporters of his mindset going forward. "Continue to take the underneath stuff in the play-action game and take the check downs. We had some shots downfield that I didn't pull the trigger on and missed (against the Titans), but you can't get greedy and start forcing the ball downfield. You want to. You want to throw the ball downfield. You want to move it. But I think the (the key is) just playing within the system and staying comfortable happy with completions and being efficient." The defense is doing its part and is fourth in the NFL at an average of 286.3 yards allowed.
EXTRA POINTS
1. Jaguars CB D.J. Hayden (toe) did not participate in practice this week and is doubtful.
2. New York Ss Marcus Maye (ankle, foot) and Doug Middleton (knee, finger) were both limited in practice this week.
3. Jacksonville RB Leonard Fournette (hamstring) sat out the last two games and remains questionable.
PREDICTION: Jaguars 24, Jets 10
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Buffalo Bills vs. Green Bay Packers Preview and Predictions 09-30-2018 in NFL
The Buffalo Bills went from an afterthought to a contender in one game last week, led by a strong performance from their rookie quarterback. Josh Allen and the Bills will try to make it two big wins in a row at NFC North opponents when they visit the Green Bay Packers on Sunday.
Buffalo was outscored 78-23 in losses to the Baltimore Ravens and Los Angeles Chargers to begin the season and went into Minnesota in Week 3 as 17-point underdogs before getting a mistake-free game from Allen in a 27-6 victory. "(Allen) was decisive early and that's important," Bills coach Sean McDermott told reporters. "It looked like he played with a clear mind, which is also important for our young players." Allen will look to show the same kind of poise against the Packers, who are coming off their first loss and are not quite as steady at quarterback right now with Aaron Rodgers still recovering from a knee injury sustained in Week 1. "Anytime your quarterback doesn't practice, it's different," Green Bay coach Mike McCarthy told reporters before Rodgers returned to the practice field on Thursday. "Aaron Rodgers brings a tremendous amount -- forget about the game plan or scheme you're running that week -- but the competitive nature."
TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Packers -9.5. O/U: 45.
ABOUT THE BILLS (1-2): Buffalo's turnaround on defense began in the second half of a 31-20 Week 2 loss to Los Angeles, when it held the Chargers to three points, and continuing to build that momentum week-to-week is important to the defensive players. "Confidence," Bills linebacker Lorenzo Alexander told reporters after the win. "And we just want to continue to gain that. I think even (Week 2) in the loss, we gained some confidence. I think Josh (Allen) did in that last drive. Our defense did, holding that Chargers team to three points in the second half, and we were able to carry that. ... When we play like this defensively, we're going to put ourselves in a great opportunity to win games." That Buffalo defense includes former Green Bay safety Micah Hide, who is making his return after not being offered a contract by the Packers following the 2016 season and instead signing a five-year deal with the Bills.
ABOUT THE PACKERS (1-1-1): Green Bay's first three games were all marred by roughing the passer penalties called on linebacker Clay Matthews, and he is not happy with the protection the quarterbacks are getting from referees this season. "Unfortunately, this league's going in a direction I think a lot of people don't like. I think they're getting soft," Matthews told reporters. "The only thing hard about this league is the fines they levy down on guys like me who play the game hard." Matthews was not fined by the league for any of the three hits and the NFL issued a clarification of the rule on Thursday, continuing to emphasis that players making no attempt to break their fall and landing with their full body weight on the quarterback will draw a flag.
EXTRA POINTS
1. The Packers signed veteran free agent CB Bashaud Breeland and placed CB Davon House (shoulder) on injured reserve.
2. Buffalo RB LeSean McCoy (ribs), who sat out last week, told reporters he would play on Sunday.
3. Green Bay LB Nick Perry (concussion) did not participate in practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is doubtful.
PREDICTION: Packers 27, Bills 17
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Philadelphia Eagles vs. Tennessee Titans Preview and Predictions 09-30-2018 in NFL
After months of questions surrounding the health of Carson Wentz, the Philadelphia Eagles will enter Sunday's road game against a Tennessee Titans team that is saddled with queries surrounding Marcus Mariota. Sure, Mariota has been confirmed to start the contest, but how limited the 24-year-old will be as he deals with an injured right hand remains to be seen.
"Just taking it one day at a time. ... I hope it continues to get better, and yeah, we'll see," said Mariota, who returned from a one-game absence to complete 12 passes for 100 yards while rushing for 51 more in Tennessee's 9-6 triumph over Jacksonville last week. Fellow former Heisman Trophy winner Derrick Henry added 57 more on the ground in that contest, but an ailing back has him limited in practice this week heading into a tilt with the NFL's top-ranked rush defense (61.7 yards per game). Wentz didn't appear worse for wear in his first game since sustaining an ACL and LCL tear in December, completing 25 of 37 passes for 255 yards in the Eagles' 20-16 win over Indianapolis on Sunday. "It felt good to finally be out there," Wentz said. "It was kind of a long time coming, obviously. A lot of excitement, a lot of emotions."
TV: 1 p.m. ET, FOX. LINE: Eagles -3.5. O/U: 41
ABOUT THE EAGLES (2-1): Philadelphia's ailing backfield likely will receive a jolt with the return of Jay Ajayi, who told reporters on Thursday that he plans to play despite having a small fracture in his back. "You just have to roll with it until it heals on its own. You just have to protect it," said the 25-year-old Ajayi, who shared the league lead with three rushing touchdowns after two weeks before joining Darren Sproles (hamstring) on the sideline against the Colts. Alshon Jeffery was medically cleared for contact after missing the three previous contests following offseason rotator cuff surgery, but missed practice on Thursday with an illness. Zach Ertz leads the team in receptions (21) and receiving yards (215), although fellow tight end Dallas Goedert fared well in both categories (seven, 73) last week in addition to reeling in his first career touchdown reception.
ABOUT THE TITANS (2-1): Tennessee general manager Jon Robinson on Thursday granted the request for release of Rishard Matthews, who reportedly felt he wasn't adequately showcased in the team's offense this season. Matthews had 118 catches for 1,740 yards and 13 touchdowns over the last two seasons for the Titans, who have a young group of wideouts. "Guys are going to have to continue to make plays whether it's Taywan (Taylor), or Corey (Davis) or Darius (Jennings) or Tajae (Sharpe). Those guys are going to have to step up," Robinson said. Davis, who was the fifth overall pick of the 2017 NFL Draft, leads the team in receptions (13) and receiving yards (151).
EXTRA POINTS
1. Philadelphia DT Fletcher Cox has recorded a sack in each of the three games this season.
2. Tennessee RB Dion Lewis, who played with the Eagles from 2011-12, has rushed for just 68 yards on 23 carries over the last two games after amassing 75 on 16 totes in the season opener.
3. Philadelphia's minus-3 turnover ratio is tied for second-worst in the NFL.
PREDICTION: Titans 24, Eagles 20
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Miami Dolphins vs. New England Patriots Preview and Predictions 09-30-2018 in NFL
There are only three undefeated teams in the NFL and the biggest surprise among them is the Miami Dolphins, who already are halfway to their win total from last season. The Dolphins already own a two-game lead atop the AFC East and will be seeking their first 4-0 start since 1995 when the pay a visit to the New England Patriots on Sunday afternoon.
Gillette Stadium has been a house of horrors for Miami, which has not won at New England since 2008 and is 2-14 in its last 16 trips to Foxborough, Mass. -- both wins coming with Patriots quarterback Tom Brady either not in the lineup or making an abbreviated start. "I'm excited to get back up there," said Dolphins wide receiver Danny Amendola, who joined the team as a free agent in the offseason after playing the previous five seasons in New England. "I've had a lot of experience playing there." The Patriots have won nine consecutive division titles but enter Sunday's matchup on the heels of back-to-back, double-digit losses and trying to avoid their first three-game losing streak since 2002 against an opponent that has the attention of coach Bill Belichick. "We've spent some time here on the Dolphins, and they're certainly off to an impressive start," Belichick said. "This is a really good football team. They're good in all three areas of the game. ... It's easy to see why they're 3-0. They're playing well, well-coached."
TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Patriots -6.5. O/U: 48.
ABOUT THE DOLPHINS (3-0): Ryan Tannehill missed the entire 2017 season due to a knee injury, but he is completing 73 percent of his passes and owns a passer rating of 121.8. Tannehill threw for three touchdowns and a season-high 289 yards to rally Miami from a 10-point deficit in last week's 28-20 win over the Oakland Raiders. Kenny Stills, Albert Wilson and Jakeem Grant have combined for seven touchdowns and are averaging between 20.4 and 15.0 yards per reception, but leading rusher Kenyan Drake has managed only 104 yards. The Dolphins are tied for the NFL lead with seven interceptions and ranked sixth in points allowed (17.6).
ABOUT THE PATRIOTS (1-2): Three-time NFL MVP Tom Brady is coming off one of his worst games in ages, throwing for only 133 yards with one touchdown and one interception in a lackluster 26-10 loss at Detroit. Recent acquisition Josh Gordon practiced on a limited basis on Thursday but New England is desperately in need of help at wide receiver -- James White has a team-high 14 catches and tight end Rob Gronkowski has 13. Rookie running back Sony Michel is in line for a bigger workload after Rex Burkhead went on injured reserve this week. Rookie linebacker Ja'Whaun Bentley also went on IR, a blow to a defense that ranks 31st against the run.
EXTRA POINTS
1. Brady has 21 touchdowns and three interceptions in his last eight home games.
2. Tannehill is 10-1 in his last 11 starts.
3. Gronkowski had eight touchdown catches in 11 career meetings versus Miami.
PREDICTION: Patriots 24, Dolphins 23
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