If you’re considering placing bets, it’s always wise to examine the figures as soon as possible.
Week 12 kicks off with the Buffalo Bills (-4.5) traveling to Houston to face the Texans as road favorites in «Thursday Night Football.»
This Sunday features several exciting matchups, including the AFC North-leading Pittsburgh Steelers visiting the NFC North-leading Chicago Bears (-3) and the Indianapolis Colts clashing with the Kansas City Chiefs (-3.5) in the early slate. The later games will showcase a rivalry in the NFC East, where the Dallas Cowboys will host the Philadelphia Eagles (-4.5).
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Los Angeles Rams (-6.5) will conclude the week’s action on «Sunday Night Football,» followed by the Carolina Panthers facing the San Francisco 49ers (-6.5) on «Monday Night Football.»
Which matchups present appealing early betting opportunities?
Experts Matt Bowen, Eric Karabell, Pamela Maldonado, and Ben Solak analyzed the initial Week 12 odds and highlighted key games to consider before potential line changes occur later in the week.
Note: Odds are current as of publication, courtesy of ESPN BET Sportsbook.
Chicago Bears to cover -3 (-115) vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Bowen: The Steelers might be missing Aaron Rodgers (wrist), which alters the dynamics. Additionally, this Bears squad is developing a strong offensive identity, firmly emphasizing their running game, while Dennis Allen’s defense is known for capitalizing on opportunities. I’m backing the Bears at home to cover the three-point spread.
Last week: Bengals +5.5 at Steelers (Steelers won, 34-12)
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New York Giants-Detroit Lions to go OVER 50.5 points (-105)
Karabell: I noted the Lions’ struggles in windy Philadelphia last Sunday night, where they could only manage one touchdown, but it didn’t surprise me. The Lions, under Dan Campbell, have been somewhat average in unfavorable outdoor conditions, especially against strong teams. Jared Goff tends to underperform in challenging weather. This week, however, with everything in their climate-controlled venue and facing off against the less formidable Giants, I expect the Lions to bounce back offensively. In Week 2, they put up 52 points on the Bears, currently leading their division. Just two weeks ago, they scored 44 points against the Washington Commanders. The Lions should have a strong showing, likely exceeding 40 points on their own at home.
Jacksonville Jaguars-Arizona Cardinals to go OVER 47.5 (-115)
Maldonado: Both defenses consistently reveal their vulnerabilities. The Jaguars allow significant gains and falter in red zone defense, while the Cardinals’ defense has shown to be exceedingly porous against teams with effective offenses. Coupling this with two offenses capable of sustaining drives, converting on third downs, and executing big plays, the gameplay is likely to trend towards a high-scoring affair. Jacoby Brissett can keep Arizona consistent, and Trevor Lawrence has frequently excelled in shootout scenarios against soft defensive fronts. The matchups do not favor either defense well, making the line set too low for teams that regularly hit high-scoring marks.
Last week: Bears-Vikings under 48.5 (Bears won, 19-17)
Buffalo Bills-Houston Texans to go UNDER 43.5 (-110)
Solak: Home unders have been a consistent trend for DeMeco Ryans’ Texans, and with their playoff hopes hinging on this crucial game against Buffalo on a short week, I anticipate a standout performance from one of the league’s premier defenses. Although Buffalo recently exploded for 44 points against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, I have reservations about their offensive consistency in critical moments. Monitor this line throughout the week; if C.J. Stroud plays, it may exceed the important threshold of 44, which could prompt a reassessment on my part.
Last week: Dolphins -2.5 vs. Commanders (Dolphins won, 16-13)
New Orleans Saints ML (Even) vs. Atlanta Falcons
Solak: This week is a no-go for the Falcons, coming off back-to-back overtime games (with a trip abroad sandwiched in between) and now entering a divisional road matchup potentially missing their starting quarterback and top receiver. Michael Penix Jr. is expected to be out, and if Drake London is unavailable, I see the Falcons struggling to generate any effective passing offense. After five consecutive losses, they have fallen out of NFC playoff contention and appear to be on the verge of capitulation.
