Cleveland Browns (+175)
At this point, it’s highly unlikely that Le’Veon Bell plays in this game. While some feel Bell is simply not needed for this game, he was responsible for 31.4% of the Steelers total yards and 26.8% of their touchdowns in 2017. The Pittsburgh Steelers will be hard-pressed to fill his production, especially against a Cleveland Browns defense that features a plethora of high upside players. More importantly, Cleveland features a new-look offense. They feature what should be one of the best offensive lines in the NFL this season. They also made a few key additions, including Tyrod Taylor, Carlos Hyde, and Jarvis Landry. Furthermore, Josh Gordon is expected to play in this game, although he will not start. Young players, such as Duke Johnson and David Njoku are also expected to take another step forward this season. The major x-factor in this game is the uncertainty surrounding Pittsburgh. How will Bell’s hold affect their offense? How can they properly gameplan for Gordon without knowing his role? Will Cleveland’s young group of players take the next step forward? Overall, Cleveland, who should have a breakout season, makes a great bet at their current odds.
Bet 2 units on Cleveland ML to win 3.5 units (+175)
Los Angeles Rams (-210)
The Oakland Raiders have become bit of a running joke during the offseason, and that could follow them into the regular season. They made multiple poor decisions, trading for Ryan Switzer and Martavis Bryant before trading and cutting each, respectively. They also traded their best player, Khalil Mack, for future draft picks. Oakland is also relying on rookie Kolten Miller, who may not be NFL-ready, to protect Derek Carr’s blindside. The Los Angeles Rams’ defense only allowed 20.6 points per game last season, and they bolstered their defense with the additions of Ndamukong Suh, Marcus Peters, and Aqib Talib. More importantly, the highest scoring offense in the NFL added Brandin Cooks to the mix for this season. It seems as if Los Angeles made moves to bolster their offense and defense this offseason, while Oakland lost a few of their best players. With LA only needing to make a small trip for this “away” game, they make an elite betting option this weekend.
Bet 3 units on Los Angeles -4.5 spread to win 2.7 units (-110)
Tennessee Titans (N/A)
We’ve seen time and time again that coaching can make a huge difference in the NFL. The Tennessee Titans moved on from Mike Mularkey, who seemingly stalled the progress of Tennessee’s players. They since hired Mike Vrabel, who has proven the ability to immediately improve defenses. Tennessee also hired Matt LaFleur, who was one of the masterminds behind the Los Angeles Rams’ offensive jump last season. The Titans have a group of young players that can take a major step forward under the correct coaching, and this is seemingly a group that can make that happen. The Miami Dolphins are in nearly the exact opposite position. Adam Gase has struggled time and time again, but still holds the job (for the time being). Miami will also be playing without DeVante Parker, who is arguably their best receiving option. Tennessee is only a small favorite in this game, but they should continue their success from last season, while Miami struggles until they move on from Gase.
Bet 3 units on Tennessee -2 spread to win 2.7 units (-110)
Parlay Bet
Parlay 2 units on Buffalo/Baltimore 40.5u, Tennessee/Miami 45u, and Pittsburgh/Cleveland 44.5u to win 12 units (+600)
