Rating: 2 Units

The young and feisty Texans should be the more hungry team on Sunday night. The veteran Saints team has little to prove on Sunday night and even less reason to play some of their key veterans in a meaningless exhibition game. Houston, meanwhile, is still sorting out the quarterback position and may be more inclined to get another look at their full offensive line playing together behind Stroud. In addition, the younger Texans will have far more interesting choices to make at several positions and may want to take extended looks at several players trying to earn their way onto the 53-man roster. With that in mind, expect the Texans to be more aggressive, physical, and hungry on Sunday night. I think youth will be served in this game.

Rating: 2 Units

The Rams lack depth and have shown a lot of flaws in their defense through the previous two weeks of the preseason. I’m expecting the Broncos to continue with a strong performance on the ground, so give me Denver to win and cover the spread in front of the home fans. The Broncos’ run D has done a good job thus far, and the Rams will have to lean on Stetson Bennett’s arm. It’s hard to trust the Rams’ receiving corps to carry the team for all 60 minutes, while Bennett is still trying to build some kind of chemistry with his new teammates. The Rams are 0-4 SU and ATS in their previous four preseason contests. 

Rating: 3 Units

Buffalo laid an egg last week against Pittsburgh, getting their doors blown in, so I expect to see a better performance this week. Now, it's preseason, and it doesn't really matter until the games count, but I don't think the Bills want to go into the regular season with two bad performances. I would expect to see some Josh Allen and maybe even some Stefon Diggs, after the week where his loyalty to the team was publicly questioned. Also, Bills coach Sean McDermott has a good preseason record in his career as he is 13-7, so I would expect a better performance this week. Take the Bills to eke out a win.

Rating: 2 Units

Kansas City hasn't publicly determined if starters are playing, or for how long, but even if they don't this game should be tight. All of Cleveland's preseason games have been and it seems like the Chiefs are a deeper unit than the Browns. There's no reason to expect a blowout in this one. Take the Chiefs to keep this within a field goal at least, if not outright win.

NFLX Play of the Day

Rating: 4 Units

Pete Carrol comes into this one with a 12-4 ATS career mark in third preseason contests While  Green Bay boss Matt LaFleur is 0-3 SU and 0-2-1 ATS in similar Game Three’s. Additionally he is 2-6 overall in exhibition games entering this preseason. Finally, consider that Pete Carroll is 8-4 SUATS in his final preseason game with the Seahawks, including 5-1 ATS when not favored by four or more points. Additionally, teams coming off two consecutive home wins are 19-4 ATS in game 3 when they are dogs of 5 or fewer points. Finally, if the team is off a win of more than 3 points are 14-3 SU and 15-2 ATS.

Rating: 2 Units

I expect the Patriots to show a bit more on Friday night in the final preseason game. The team is still implementing new OC Bill O'Brien's game plan and will surely be a bit more aggressive offensively than the Titans. The Titans gave second-year QB Willis a major audition last week and the results were subpar at best. Willis and Levis are still vying for that backup spot and Levis may have gained ground by not playing on Saturday night. Vrabel and Belichick have similar coaching styles although Vrabel, an NFL veteran player as well, will likely be even more conservative on Friday night in protecting his veteran players. New England's offensive line was missing a couple of regulars against the Packers on Saturday night which explained some of their protection issues. I expect the Patriots to play a few more veteran offensive linemen on Friday night to give Jones and the first-team offense a few good looks. Zappe will have another significant look as well and rookie quarterback Malik Cunningham should also see some time in the second half. Expect New England to be the more aggressive team and pull out a win in the preseason finale.

Rating: 2 Units

Indy head coach, Shane Steichen, was Philadelphia’s offensive coordinator the past two seasons and knows the Eagles and their offense better than any coach on the opposite side of the field. Consider that the Colts are 6-0 SUATS in their second preseason road games while Philadelphia is a not so impressive 0-2 SUATS in second-home games (outscored 61-15) of late.

Rating: 3 Units

Washington Ron Rivera is 4-7 ATS in preseason home openers – including 0-3 ATS against opponents coming off a win. Baltimore comes into this one a long-term 67-37 SU and 61-31-2 ATS preseason in all games dating back to 1998, including 17-7 SUATS in road openers. Finally Washington is 1-9 outright in this preseason series, including 0-5 the last five and 0-3 SUATS as a host.

Rating: 2 Units

Two opposing coaching strategies when it comes to preseason football will come into play. Saints head coach Allen has already shown a commitment to getting reps for some of his starters in the preseason and that trend should continue in this matchup. Carr looked sharp in the opener and led the Saints down the field on a scoring drive in his limited action. Backup quarterback Jameson should also see a good amount of time here and the former starter should perform well against what should be second and third-team defensive players for the Chargers. After suffering through a season full of injuries in 2022, Staley has decided to take a more conservative approach this preseason. It is doubtful that Herbert will play more than a series or two in this game after sitting out the entire first preseason game. On the defensive side of the ball, the Chargers are loaded with veterans that Staley will be best served to rest until the games count. With that in mind, I like the Saints to put up a decent number against the Chargers' second and third-stringers on defense, particularly the Saints' passing game.

Rating: 2 Units

We should see a solid number of points being scored this weekend, as the two squads combined for 47 in Week 1. The Cowboys may not have gotten the victory, but that certainly wasn’t due to their offense. Quarterbacks Cooper Rush and Will Grier both played fantastic, finishing with a combined stat line of 32/43 for 282 yards and two touchdowns to one interception. Even Deuce Vaughn produced a solid performance out of the backfield, finishing with one touchdown on 6.2 yards per carry. Consider as well, that playing against any home favorite of 6 or more points off a win if that win was by 10 or more points is 24-6 (80%) ATS.

Rating: 2 Units

There wasn’t much in the way of inspiring play for the Patriots in their preseason opener as they didn’t find the end zone until less than two minutes to play with the game well out of reach. The fact that Cunningham sparked the team makes you wonder if he could potentially unseat McSorley for the #3 QB role should the team carry that many quarterbacks with Jones and Zappe entrenched in the first two spots. Green Bay got sharp performances from Love and Clifford at the quarterback spot in their preseason opener. The Packers looked far better than the Patriots in the opener and with the home crowd behind them, you have to give them the advantage as the Patriots are looking for pieces while getting Elliott in the mix.

These two teams met this week in practice games, so there will be a some familiarity between the two when they suit up on Saturday night. While neither team has said who will start at quarterback and who will play among other key positions, I think both teams will give their young quarterbacks and new receivers a run in this game as they need to establish that chemistry. I give the edge to the Bears with Fields and Moore and their defense, winning the first unit battle. The Colts probably have better depth at quarterback, but they are dealing with a lot of injuries, so we'll probably see a lot of third and fourth stringers late. The Bears should be easily able to cover getting 5 points. 

Rating: 2 Units

The Bengals to remain very conservative in the preseason to keep all of their starters healthy entering what should be a challenging season in what could be the best division in football, the AFC North. The Falcons have a team built to earn a playoff spot but aren't Super Bowl-driven just yet. Redder has a lot of game experience to earn this season and his learning curve would have to be very swift to get the Falcons to the Super Bowl. However, consider that playing against any home favorite of 6 or more points off a win if that win was by 10 or more points is 24-6 (80%) since 1983.

Rating: 2 Units

NFL preseason home teams in Game Two have struggled against those teams playing their third contest, as they have gone 18-30-3 since 1990 against opponents who won at least one preseason game the previous year – including going 9-20 SU and 6-21-2 ATS as defending Super Bowl losers against opponents playing their 3rd preseason contest. The Browns are, 14-4 SU and 12-5-1 ATS since 2017, including 6-0-1 ATS as a dog entering this year’s preseason.

Rating: 2 Units

The 49ers and Raiders have been participating in joint practices in Nevada this week. QB Trey Lance will start for the 49ers as QB Brock Purdy is still recovering from the elbow injury he suffered in last season’s playoffs. QB Sam Darnold will also get some snaps. Former 49ers signal caller Jimmy Garoppolo is now the starter in Las Vegas, but he’ll only make a cameo, at best. Veteran backup QB Brian Hoyer also is likely to play little, if at all. Look for backup QBs Chase Garbers and Aidan O’Connell to get the longest looks, as they battle for the 3rd job. The Raiders played 4 preseason games a season ago with the Hall of Fame game, and Las Vegas was 4-0 against the spread (ATS). The Raiders also scored 23 or more points in 3 of the 4 outings. This organization has taken preseason games seriously in recent years, winning 11 of the past 13 outright.

Rating: 2 Units

The Chargers will come away with the win in this one, as their youth leads the way. While a regular season game might lead to a different outcome, the Rams aren’t expected to play many of their super stars. The Chargers youth has been well-noted over the last few years, while a strong draft in the spring brings along plenty of talent, all itching to see the field. That youthfulness will be a major different in this exhibition, as the Chargers not only cover the spread, but also grab the win.

NFLX Game of the Year

Rating: 5 Units

John Harbaugh is not only riding a 22-game win streak in the exhibition season (20-2-1 ATS) but is also 13-1 SU and 12-2 ATS at home in preseason openers. In addition, the Eagles enter highly touted this season despite falling in the Super Bowl. Therefore keep in mind that Super Bowl losers are 10-20 SU and 6-23-1 ATS in preseason openers since 1992, including 3-16 ATS against foes who won 2 or more preseason affairs the previous year.

Rating: 2 Units

There's a new offensive coordinator, Brian Schottenheimer, calling plays for the Boys this year, and I believe he will be out to prove himself in this game. There is a lot of talent on the Dallas offense, and Rush has proven to be a legitimate starting QB. I don't think the spread should be larger than a field goal with the Cowboys at home and predict we'll see a competitive performance from Dallas, even when Jacksonville's starters take the field. Jacksonville may lead the game for a while, but once its starters are out of the game, it will see its lead begin to slip away with Rush or Grier outdueling Beathard. The Cowboys won't give up too many points on defense after halftime, locking in with the home crowd at its back. The depth chart looks almost identical to last season, even in the second unit. That continuity will be evident in preseason week one.

Rating: 2 Units

A video from Arizona’s preseason practice recently went viral, but not for a good reason. The offense looked in shambles and nobody seemed to be on the right page which is incredibly concerning since they won’t have Kyler Murray back for a while. Heading into the first week of the preseason, the Cardinals’ quarterback options consist of Colt McCoy, Clayton Tune and David Blough. To the average NFL fan, you might be going “who?” to the last two names. Obviously, that’s a problem. Another problem Arizona has is the health of their regular starters, like Hollywood Brown and Zach Ertz, who are both dealing with injuries. If the Cardinals have to dig deep into their depth chart for Friday’s game, it could get out of hand quickly.

Rating: 2 Units

The Cincinnati Bengals and Green Bay Packers get their respective preseasons underway in Ohio tonight, with the Packers firm favorites as Jordan Love looks to prove why he is QB1 for Green Bay. Factored into this line as well is the fact that Joe Burrow is out injured, meaning it will be Trevor Siemian and Jake Browning under center for Cincinnati. However, it feels like there has been an overreaction and there is value in taking the points with the Bengals. Cincinnati’s preseason record in recent years isn’t the greatest, but they do tend to run teams close. Only twice since 2019 have they lost by more than four points and there should be greater motivation in this game with both Siemian and Browning looking to make a case for why they should start the season if Burrow is unable to go.

Rating: 2 Units

Both teams had their issues last season and the hope that they can improve in 2023 is a work in progress. Houston has a lot of youth on both sides of the ball as they added what they hope will be anchors for the franchise. New England does have the experience factor with Belichick as their head coach but they have to find ways to improve the offense. We know that the Patriots have some talent at skill positions but It remains to be seen how things will click on that side of the ball with O’Brien back to take over the play calling. As it stands, you have to give the edge to the team with some proven experience in this one.

Rating: 2 Units

There will be no starters playing in the Hall of Fame Game, but there will be some young talent trying to make an impression. Jets QB Chris Streveler, the 2022 preseason hero, passed for 348 yards and five TDs last August as the Jets beat the Eagles, Falcons and Giants. Streveler's performance helped coach Robert Saleh improve to 5-0-1 in preseason games since taking over in 2021. Take the points.

Rating: 2 Units

The Lions have been famous for sleeping on the job this time of the season (1-11 SU and 2-9 ATS in previous preseason play entering this August slate of games this year). Consider that the Lions were 7-70-1 ATS in SU preseason losses since 1983 upon entering this year’s fake games – including 7-45-1 ATS as underdogs. To cap if off, consider that playing against any team in Game Three if they won three or fewer preseason games last season is 11-1-1 ATS since 2002.

Rating: 3 Units

We’re continuing to focus on quarterback play to help project preseason matchups. Baltimore has the advantage here with Huntley, but Heinicke and Howell are a strong combination for the preseason. We’re also likely to see some of Wentz, while it’s unlikely that Jackson plays. Huntley has been able to run the Ravens’ offense at a high level, evidenced by his efficient play through the air. There’s a good chance that he keeps up his great play against a Commanders defense that just got shredded by Patrick Mahomes. Baltimore has an added incentive to go for the win, given their record-breaking winning streak during the preseason (21-0 SU, 20-1 ATS). We’re likely to see them get it done at home against a struggling Commanders team.

Rating: 3 Units

The Rams are not winning preseason games with any consistency. Coach Sean McVay is 7-10 in his career in preseason action and the Rams have now dropped four out of their last five preseason games. The Bengals have received outstanding production from backup QB Brandon Allen. He is sporting a 10:6 TD to INT ratio in his limited career action in regular season play. I also like Jake Browning who was a star QB in college. He tallied 190 passing yards against the Cardinals in the first preseason bout and 89 last week. The Rams' defense is giving up several points. They have allowed 22 and 24 points respectively in their two preseason games against the Chargers and Texans. 

Rating: 3 Units

Atlanta rides a 0-5 SUATS mark in Game Three of the preseason into this contest.  Additionally, the dirty birds have a 3-8 SU and 3-7-1 ATS preseason series record against Jacksonville. We seal the deal with the fact that the Jaguars are 12-1 ATS away versus NFC South opponents during the preseason.

Rating; 4 Units

One might think that road teams coming off consecutive home games during the preseason are primed for a letdown. However, teams in this role are a rock-solid 53-47 SU and 60- 38-2 ATS (61%) ATS when taking to the preseason road and coming off a pair of home victories since 1990. Better yet, bring these same teams in off a win of more than 3 points and they zoom to 13-3 SU and 14-1-1 ATS. Take the Bills

Rating: 3 Units

I just can't bet against the ravens in the preseason. They have now won 21 straight preseason games (19-1-1 ATS), as they won't lay down for anyone. They will want to win this game, as well. Even without their starters, I still have faith in the Ravens in this one. Tyler Huntley looked great last week and I see him having a huge day against this Arizona secondary. Arizona gave up 277 yards through the air last week, as the Ravens will be able to air it out in this one. I also see the Raven's defense putting more pressure on the Cardinal's starting QBs, as they won't be able to pick apart the Baltimore secondary. The Ravens finished last week's game with three sacks and three turnovers, as they were putting pressure on the Titans throughout that entire game. It didn't matter who was in the game, as they continued to dominate. Baltimore also showed their experience last week, as they went 2-3 in the red zone. They capitalize on their opportunities and they put pressure on their opponents. I don't expect to see either team's stars on the field and the Ravens are going to want this more than the Cardinals.

Rating: 2 Units

The Chargers welcome the Cowboys to SoFi Stadium looking to even the score
from head coach Brandon Staley’s home debut defeat, when Dallas PK Greg Zuerlein nailed a 56-yard field goal as time expired in a 20-17 loss by Los Angeles. The Chargers have learned to handle the Cowboys in past preseason affairs, going 9-2 SUATS in this series, including 4-0 SUATS the last four – all part of L.A.’s 10-3 SUATS record against NFC East foes during the preseason. Best of all, the Cowboys are horrible in Game Two’s this time of the campaign, going 2-9 SU and 1-10 ATS.

Rating: 2 Units

While the Chiefs are unquestionably the stronger team, they have far less to play for in this battle other than individual positional battles. For the Commanders, they will continue to try and grow the chemistry between Wentz and his new wideouts so I expect to see Wentz play at least through the first half. With the reduced preseason schedule the last two seasons, game two of the preseason takes on a much grander scale as teams try to tighten things up before resting their starters entirely in the final week. The Chiefs know what they have at quarterback and they also know that it is imperative that Mahomes is upright and ready to go for the regular season, not a meaningless preseason game in August. I expect Mahomes to play perhaps an additional series in this game but not much more than that. Andy Reid will keep it simple and keep his MVP signal-caller out of harm's way in this one.

Rating: 4 Units

The Bills are seemingly all in with this game being treated as their legitimate dress rehearsal ahead of the regular season. Coach Sean McDermott has already stated that his starters will play a “healthy amount” on Saturday. So this isn’t a situation where Josh Allen and company play in a series or two and go have a seat on the bench. Buffalo is unleashing the hounds on Denver in this game.  Additionally, the Bills are 6-1 their L7 NFLX game twos.

Rating: 4 Unit

NFLX Game of the Week

Saints welcome new head coach Dennis Allen to the team knowing he is 1-4 ATS in his preseason career against NFC North opponents, as well as 0-7 SU and 1-6 ATS away during the exhibition campaign. With the Saints just 1-5 ATS in Game Two of the preseason and Green Bay 6-0 SUATS in this preseason series the pick is Green Bay.

Rating: 3 Units

The reality is that these preseason games mean very little to most teams. Especially the first one. Very few of the starters see any real action, as clubs are trying to evaluate what their depth is like heading into the regular season. However, this may be different for the Broncos. They have a first-year head coach who is trying to establish himself and get this offense in rhythm. So, he is not only going to be looking to try to get his team off on the right foot but wants to ensure that he gets some buzz going surrounding the club. While Wilson shouldn’t see much time in this contest, expect starting running backs, wide receivers, and offensive lineman to see at least a full quarter of action. That helps Denver to win this contest.

Rating: 2 Units

Smith's teams have generally done fairly well in the preseason and he certainly comes in with a handle on his defense after spending 2021 coaching the unit. In addition, I am confident that Mills sees more action than your typical #1 quarterback in this game as he tries to familiarize himself with new OC Pep Hamilton's playbook. I envision him playing at least two series if not close to the entire first half as the rebuilding Texans work out their new system. The Texans also have far more young players than the Saints that will see and need to see game action while the Saints will likely rest several key veterans. Look for Allen to sit Winston out in this one as there is no need to risk injury to the recovering quarterback. Dalton should give the Saints some solid looks in the first half at QB but, again, Allen may limit his snaps as well because he doesn't want to risk a position that hampered the Saints for much of 2021. Expect to see a lot of 2nd-year quarterback Ian Book for New Orleans.  With that in mind, I like the Texans to come out on top in a game that should be a defensive struggle for two teams that should be far ahead of the curve on that side of the ball at this early stage.

Rating: 5 Unit

NFLX Game of the Year

Green Bay was sent packing in the 2021 playoffs by a 13-10 home loss to the Niners in the Division Round in a game in which the Cheeseheads held Frisco to a season-low 212 total yards of offense – their fewest in 87 games under Kyle Shanahan – yet were STILL booted from the postseason. In addition, we like the fact that the Pack is 5-1 SU and 4-1-1 ATS in preseason openers. Given the fact that San Francisco is one of only two teams (Atlanta the other) that will face all three preseason foes that they downed in real games last season, expect the Packers to give the 49ers the boot tonight. Consider that Green Bay is 5-0 SUATS this time of the year against NFC West opposition.

Rating: 2 Units

Baltimore’s John Harbaugh. Winner of 20 consecutive exhibition contests (18-1-1ATS) and counting, Harbaugh puts an emphasis on winning during the preseason like no other coach in the league. Sure, the Ravens placed 6 players on the PUP list prior to training camp, but it likely means more playing time for healthy vets. Remember, the Ravens are looking to bounce back from a 2021 season that saw them finish last in the AFC North with an 8-9 record. It all begins here when they improve to 10-0 SU and 9-1 ATS in preseason game ones against a Titans team that has lost and failed to cover four straight preseason contests against AFC North foes.

Rating: 2 Units

New England has a three-game rest advantage over the Giants, having played their last preseason game on a Thursday, while New York played a week ago today. The clincher: The favorite (New England) scored more than 17 points and beat the spread by 7 or more ponts, and won 1 or more preseason games last year, is 15-0-1 since 1983.

Rating: 2 Units

When Tampa Bay travels to Houston in the final preseason game for both teams tonight the Bucs will do so knowing that defending Super Bowl champions are 6-0 SUATS away in exhibition games when facing foes coming off consecutive wins, with the last coming as an underdog. For what it's worth five of the wins came SU as underdogs. In addition, Tampa head coach Bruce Arians is 8-3-1 ATS away in his NFL preseason career, including 5-1 ATS in his first road traveller. And for what its worth, winless defending Super Bowl champions are also 3-0 ATS in their final preseason game since 1995.

Rating: 2 Units

NFL teams who open the preseason with a pair of home games are 31-15 SU and 31-12-3 away in Game Three when facing a foe in its preseason home opener, including 26-9-1 ATS when taking points. Not only is Chicago 3-0 SUATS in Game Three of the preseason, including 2-0 SUATS under head coach Matt Nagy, the Bears pair up nicely in this matchup with added fuel from THE CLINCHER: Tennessee is 0-4 SUATS at home in preseason games under head coach Mike Vrabel

Rating: 2 Units

This is just simply a play on HC John Harbough as he is 19-0 SU and 17-1-1 ATS in the preseason since 2016.

Rating: 2 Units

Minnesota HC Zimmer has a 37-16 SU and 36-17 ATS career log in games against AFC foes, including 20-5 SU and 17-8 ATS in NFLX games. While  defending Super Bowl losers are 7-15 SU  and 5-16-1 ATS in Game Three of the preseason since 1998.

Rating: 2 Units

Playing against any Game Two favorite of 4 or more points off a SUATS win versus an opponent off a SU loss is 25-7-1 (78%) ATS.

Rating: 2 Units

Playing against any Game Two favorite of 4 or more points off a SUATS win versus an opponent off a SU loss is 25-7-1 (78%) ATS.

Rating: 2 Units

Playing against any Game Two favorite of 4 or more points off a SUATS win versus an opponent off a SU loss is 25-7-1 (78%) ATS.

Rating: 2 Units

We’re riding yet another NFL coach who realizes the importance of winning in the preseason, Mike Zimmer. Then again, between Zimmer’s 37-16 SU and 36-17 ATS career log in games against AFC foes, including 20-5 SU and 17-8 ATS in NFLX games, he commands our attention. Toss in the fact that last season’s 28-11 loss at Indy in Week Two of the regular campaign contributed to
the Vikings’ fi rst losing season since 2014, the first year Zimmer took over the program. Meanwhile, Indianapolis chips in with a dismal 9-25 SU and 10-22-2 ATS preseason log in non-division frays. The Colts’ first ever preseason meeting with an NFC North division foe does not end well. Not according to THE CLINCHER: Viking head coach Mike Zimmer is 9-1 SU and 7-3 ATS in
all games when avenging a loss against AFC opponents.

Rating: 2 Units

Playing against any Game Two favorite of 4 or more points off a SUATS win versus an opponent off a SU loss is 25-7-1 (78%) ATS.

Rating: 4 Unit NFLX Game of the Week

The critical keys to successfully handicapping the NFL preseason
are rather simple: being aware of head coaches and their approach to the preseason, identifying games of importance, and knowing the quarterback rotation. In the case of the Ravens, they check all three boxes tonight. There is no coach in the league that makes winning a priority during the preseason more than John Harbaugh. In fact,  Baltimore head coach John Harbaugh is
18-0 SU and 16-1-1 ATS in the preseason since 2016.

Rating: 2 Units

KC head coach Andy Reid has struggled in Game Two of the preseason, going 4-7 SU and 3-8 ATS since 2009, including 1-5 ATS if coming off a win. Reid has also struggled against NFC West division foes during these fake games, including 0-6 ATS when not taking points. Flip the script and you’ll find an Arizona squad that stands 12-5 ATS at home when not favored in Game Two of the preseason. Play the percentages. Play the Cardinals.  

Rating: 2 Units

Eagles QB Jalen Hurts looked comfortable in his preseason debut last weekend, moving the ball efficiently down the field. So did Joe Flacco in reserve. And while New England's quarterbacks didn't have the same success as Philadelphia's, its running game did as rookie Rhamondre Stevenson went over 100 yards. The Eagles' defense still is a work in progress, and I would expect the Patriots to have a much better outcome in the second half.

Rating: 2 Units

The motivation edge in this contest is clear. The invading Bengals bring plenty while the host Bucs have next to none. That’s been the case for defending Super Bowl champions, who have been money burners when laying points during the preseason, going 45-62-2 ATS since 1983, including 4-14 ATS since 2011. Then there is Tampa head coach Bruce Arians and his 4-5 SU and 3-6 ATS career mark when laying points at home in these exhibition contests. We doubt seriously if we’ll see Tom Brady tonight, yet fully expect to see Joe Burrow operating behind a new offensive line as Cincy looks to meld together ASAP, knowing the Bengals are 4-1 SUATS versus NFC South foes in the preseason since 2011. And finally, game one preseason favorites of 6 or more points are 10-5 SU but only 5-10 ATS.

Rating: 2 Units

No coach in the league makes winning a priority during the preseason more than John Harbaugh, especially right out of the gate. His outstanding 7-0 SUATS ledger at home in preseason openers – and the Black Birds’ 5-0 SUATS record in preseason openers when facing NFC South foes – confirms it. On the flip side, New Orleans head coach Sean Payton enters with a cold hand in the preseason, as evidenced by his 7-14 SU and 6-15 ATS mark in his last twenty-one preseason contests. Consider also that Baltimore head coach John Harbaugh is 17-0 SU and 15-1-1 ATS in the preseason since 2016.

Rating: 2 Units

Mike Zimmer has coached the Vikings for seven preseasons, and he's won his opening game in all seven en route to putting together an impressive 20-5 record overall. And yet we're catching a point at home here, likely due to Minnesota's so-so depth behind Kirk Cousins while Denver brings in two fringe NFL starters batting to be named QB1. But it's not like the Vikings were stacked at QB in those previous 20 wins for Zimmer, so I'm trusting the excellent coach to give us a win here.

Rating: 2 Units

Looking at this matchup from a defensive perspective, the Arizona Cardinals have tremendous depth at all three levels. When you combine that with scheme continuity, you are more than likely going to get a consistent performance from their reserves, as you would from their starters. Offensively speaking, when dealing with the preseason, you're mainly dealing with the QB depth chart and the decision will come down to who do you trust the most. For the Cardinals we are likely to see Kyler Murray, albeit briefly, then Colt McCoy and then Chris Streveler. McCoy is a long-time vet, and Streveler has been in this offense for two full seasons, starting a game last year late in the season. I trust all three more than I trust the trio of Cowboy QBs we'll see in this game.

Rating:2 Units

The Falcons flipped from underdogs to favorites, and I agree with the move. Mike Vrabel is 2-6 ATS in the preseason since taking over in Nashville. Perhaps that's because he learned under Bill Belichick, who also doesn't care much about winning exhibition games. This is a much bigger night for Arthur Smith; the first-year Atlanta head coach spent nine years as a Titans assistant and wants to get off to a good start in front of the home crowd at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Although Matt Ryan won't play, rookie Kyle Pitts should. Look for Smith to showcase the new offense he's installed and feature Pitts, the highest-drafted tight end ever, for some potential big plays.

Rating: 2 Units

"We're gonna play our guys." So says Washington coach Ron Rivera, which means the starters will get their uniforms dirty. One regular figuring to break a sweat is newly acquired QB Ryan Fitzpatrick. Since taking over in D.C., Rivera is 7-5 in the preseason, and his teams have averaged 26 ppg in their openers — well above the norm. Who knows how coach Bill Belichick will dole out minutes for the Patriots, though his teams have gone 3-1 in each of the previous two preseasons. Mac Jones figures to accumulate some snaps, and rookie QBs often have a rough go in their debuts. Both coaches have declared their starting QB jobs open, and Fitz figures most likely of the four contenders on both teams to shine.

Rating: 2 Units

Rating: 2 Units

Home team is 8-2 ATS in their last 10 meetings.

Rating: 2 Units

New Orleans is  0-4 ATS in their last 4 home games,  0-5 ATS in their last 5 games overall, and 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games on field turf.

Rating: 2 Units

Detroit is 5-11 ATS in their last 16 Thursday games while Cleveland is 6-2 ATS in their last 8 Thursday games and 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games overall.

Rating: 2 Units

Baltimore is 9-2-1 ATS in their last 12 games on grass,  4-1 ATS in their last 5 road games, and 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 Thursday games. While Washington is 2-5 ATS in their last 7 Thursday games.

Rating: 2 Units

Minnesota is 10-1-1 ATS in their last 12 games on turf and 4-1 ATS in their last 5 Thursday games. while Buffalo is 1-4 ATS in their last 5 Thursday games.

Rating: 2 Units

Atlanta is 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games on grass, 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games overall, and 1-4 ATS in their last 5 road games.

Rating: 2 Units

The underdog (Los Angeles) is 6-0 ATS in their last 6 meetings between these two teams.

Rating: 2 Units

The Kansas City Chiefs are 2-22 ATS coming off a loss when facing an opponent coming off a win.

Rating: 2 Units

Arizona is 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games overall. Minnesota is 6-2 ATS in their last 8 Saturday games, 35-15-1 ATS in their last 51 games on field turf, and 36-16-1 ATS in their last 53 home games.  In addition, Arizona is 0-3-2 ATS in their last 5 meetings overall and 0-2-2 ATS in their last 4 meetings in Minnesota.

Rating: 2 Units

Buffalo is only 3-12 SU and 2-12-1 ATS in the preseason against NFC North foes. Buffalo has lost six of the past seven preseasons. The Lions bring a 14-2 SU and 15-1 ATS record into this exhibition season against AFC East opponents (9-1 SUATS in this series) – including 10-0 ATS at home.  Buffalo is 1-9 SUATS in its final preseason road game the last ten years.

Rating: 2 Units

Oakland is 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 games on fieldturf.

Rating: 3 Units

Atlanta is 2-5 ATS in their last 7 home games, 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games on grass, and 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games overall.  The road team is 4-0 ATS in their last 4 meetings.

Rating: 4 Unit NFLX Game of the Week

San Francisco is 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games overall and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 road games.  The home team is 5-2 ATS in their last 7 meetings.

Rating: 2 Units

Minnesota is 35-15-1 ATS in their last 51 games on field turf and 36-16-1 ATS in their last 53 home games. In addition, the favorite is 5-1 ATS in their last 6 meetings while the home team is 5-1 ATS in their last 6 meetings.

Rating: 2 Units

Dallas is 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games overall and 0-3-1 ATS in their last 4 Saturday games while the Rams are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 vs. NFC and 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games overall.

Rating: 2 Units

Browns are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games overall.

Rating: 3 Units

Carolina is 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games overall and 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games on grass.

Rating: 2 Units

New York is 21-13-2 ATS in game Two of the preseason while the Falcons HC, Quinn, is 1-11 SU and 0-12 ATS last twelve preseason games.  In addition, Atlanta is 0-7 ATS on Thursday in the preseason.

Rating: 3 Unit NFLX Play of the Week

Green Bay is  2-7-1 ATS in their last 10 road games and 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 games on field turf. While Baltimore is 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 Thursday games.  In addition, the favorite is 4-0 in their last four meetings.

Rating: 2 Units

Oakland will have excitement tonight surrounding Antonio Brown’s debut with the Black-and-Silver – along with a boost from the fact that the Raiders are in a unique scheduling situation today (lost twice to the Rams in both regular and preseason skirmishes last year) – and we have ourselves another bummed out Super Bowl loser hitting the highway in a sketchy role. Th clincher: the Rams are 1-9 SUATS in their last 10 NFLX away games.

Rating: 2 Units

Minnesota HD, Mike Zimmer, plays to win these meaningless preseason games going a money making 14-7 ATS while New Orleans HD, Sean Payton is just the opposite going a money burning 5-12 ATS his L17.  No brainer here.  Take the Vikings.

Rating: 2 Units

Defending Super Bowl winners in the preseason, in their first road outing of the campaign are only 7-20 SU and 8-17-2 ATS since 1991. In addition, Bill Belichick, is 0-4 SUATS as a favorite in his NFL preseason career in initial road games. Meanwhile, the Lions are 14-2 SU and 15-1 ATS in preseason games when playing AFC East opposition. The Pats’ are also 0-5 ATS against NFC North foes in exhibition play, while Detroit is 5-1 SUATS  in preseason openers the past six years

Rating: 2 Units

Cleveland is 23-17 as an underdog their L40 preseason contest including a stellar 8-1 their L9 as a home underdog.

Rating: 2 Units

The Texans are 7-2 SUATS preseason away off home  game while the Rams are 2-10 ATS preseason versus AFC South; and 2-8 preseason  home off home.

Rating: 2 Units

In this series  the visitor is 6-0-1.  Kansas City is also 4-1 SUATS away  on Saturdays.  Chicago is 0-7 at home vs the AFC West.

Rating: 2 Units

Teams are a solid 56-30-2 ATS (9-2 SUATS last three seasons) when taking to the road off a pair of home victories in the preseason since 1983. Better yet, send them away off a double-digit win and they become a 30-10-1 ATS winning proposition. Let them come in as dogs and they stellar 20-5-1 ATS!

Rating: 2 Units

Teams are a solid 56-30-2 ATS (9-2 SUATS last three seasons) when taking to the road off a pair of home victories in the preseason since 1983. Better yet, send them away off a double-digit win and they become a 30-10-1 ATS winning proposition. Let them come in as dogs and they stellar 20-5-1 ATS!

Rating: 2 Units

The Browns are just 2-6 SUATS in Game Three dress rehearsals. With defending Super Bowl champs 10-2 SU and 8-4 ATS. ‘Hard Knocks’ teams are 3-9 SU and 2-10 ATS in Week Three of the preseason, including 1-7 SU and 0-8 ATS against opponents that won at least one preseason game the previous year.

Rating: 2 Units

Baltimore's John Harbaugh has a terrific preseason track record, so I'm willing to back the Ravens for a couple of units. The proof, John Harbaugh is 30-12 in preseason games, and 7-3 in Preseason Week 2 games.

Rating: 2 Units

Pete Carroll has been know to put many an NFLX opponents into submission this time of the year. Not only does he bring the league’s best preseason record into this battle, he’s also 7-1 SUATS the last eight games games against San Diego in these practice contests. We’ll take advantage of the two extra days to prepare – and the generous spread based on Seattle’s rumored demise – right to the bank again once again tonight.

Rating: 3 Units

Hue Jackson has won his previous five preseason games after saying that he valued them more than he initially believed. He has the quarterback to win this contest (Baker Mayfield), while the Bills' Sean McDermott hasn't shown much of an interest in winning exhibition contests. Bill coach Sean McDermott is 1-4 in preseason games and 0-1 in Preseason Week 2 games.

Rating: 2 Units

The Giants are 1-3-1 ATS vs the NFC North. While the Lions are 6-1 on Friday and 10-1 SU and 9-2 ATS at home off and away game

Rating: 4 Unit NFLX Play of the Week

The Pats own a 9-2 SU and 8-3 ATS mark in this preseason series. In addition, Belichick is 8-2 SU and 7-3 ATS at home during the preseason when coming off a home game. In addition defending Super Bowl champions are 7-19 SU and 8-16-2 ATS in their first preseason road game since 1991, including 0-6 SUATS when facing an opponent playing in its second preseason home game.

Rating: 2 Units

The Broncos are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 Saturday games. While the Underdog is 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 meetings between these two teams.

Rating: 2 Units

  Dallas was favored in each of its preseason games last season, while the Niners stand 1-4 SUATS in home openers the past five NFLX seasons. It also goes hand in hand with Frisco’s icy 1-4 SUATS mark in preseason openers the last five years. What’s more important, though, is the fact that NFL teams that failed to make the playoffs the previous season despite finishing the year 6-2 or better are a dismal 2-14 ATS as favorites in preseason openers.

Rating: 2 Units

Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll continues to lay the groundwork for success by making the preseason his top priority. He’s learned that winning starts here and it’s evident given his 34-14-1 ATS career mark in NFLX games with Seattle. In addition, Carroll has also hosted teams currently residing in the AFC South on eight different occasions during his NFL career, winning all eight games by an average win margin of more than 13 PPG. If you're still not convinced consider that Carroll is 20-5 ATS against AFC opponents during the preseason.

Rating: 2 Units

No team had a more glaring weakness in one unit than the Vikings did at offensive line last season. Free agent OTs Riley Reiff and Mike Remmers are huge upgrades. QB Sam Bradford is an accurate-but-conservative passer, and while his WR group is weak, maybe improved blocking will allow him to make more big plays. Rookie RB Dalvin Cook is a special talent who should be the focal point of the offense before long. DEs Danielle Hunter, Everson Griffen and Brian Robison combined for 28 sacks last season on the league's 3rd ranked defense, while DTs Linval Joseph and Shariff Floyd are space-eaters in the run game. In the secondary, S Harrison Smith and CB Xavier Rhodes are among the top performers at their positions, the latter allowing a league-best 42% completion percentage and 39.2 QB Rating on passes thrown his way last year.

Rating: 2 Units

Head coach Jay Gruden gets the most out of his offense, leaving the franchise to wonder if QB Kirk Cousins is the long-term starter or just a guy who benefits from fantastic play-designs. Jordan Reed is the best TE in the NFC and a matchup nightmare, and the rebuilt WR group of Terrelle Pryor, Jamison Crowder and Josh Doctson is promising. RBs Rob Kelley and rookie Samaje Perine will battle for touches in Washington's effective run game. After two-straight seasons as a bottom-five defense, new coordinator Greg Manusky is installing an aggressive, physical scheme. OLB Ryan Kerrigan is the top pass-rusher, but his counterpart Trent Murphy will miss four games with a PED suspension. The defensive line may consist entirely of new starters, including first-round draft pick DE Jonathan Allen, and the secondary needs to improve after adding former Cardinals S D.J. Swearinger.

Rating: 2 Units

Chicago's offense will center around RB Jordan Howard, who ran for 961 yards in his last nine games as a rookie. But opponents will stack the box against one of the league's weakest passing games. QB Mike Glennon was brought in to keep the seat warm for No. 2 overall draft pick Mitchell Trubisky, and after losing WR Alshon Jeffery in free agency, Chicago is hoping 2015 first-round draft pick WR Kevin White is finally ready to contribute. Coordinator Vic Fangio has the pieces in place to make Chicago's defense a strength. Veteran LBs Danny Trevathan and Jerrell Freeman anchor a solid front seven that has depth and talent on the edge. 2016 first-round pick Leonard Floyd showed flashes of pass-rushing dominance as a rookie, and free agent signing CB Prince Amukamara reinforces a secondary that was inconsistent and riddled by injuries last season.

Rating: 2 Units

NFL teams that have just enjoyed winning back-to-back home games (Cleveland) during the preseason are a solid 60-33-2 ATS (13-5 last two seasons) when taking to the road in the preseason since 1983. Better yet, have these teams come into this game as dogs and they are a whopping 22-5-1 ATS!

Rating: 2 Units

Baltimore was the league's most pass-heavy team last season, and has indicated they'd like to run more often. The problem is that their options at RB are Terrance West and Buck Allen, with pass-catcher Danny Woodhead bound to see plenty of playing time. West did, however, run well last season, as he rushed for a career-high 774 yards. Off an up-and-down season, QB Joe Flacco needs third-year WR Breshad Perriman and newly-acquired, oft-injured WR Jeremy Maclin to become serious threats. Baltimore's defense boasted the league's second-best third-down conversion rate last season, and made significant upgrades to their secondary with the signings of S Tony Jefferson and CB Brandon Carr, along with first-round draft pick CB Marlon Humphrey. DT Brandon Williams is an elite run-stuffer, LB C.J. Mosley is as good in coverage as any linebacker and edge-rusher Terrell Suggs still has some gas left in the tank.

Rating: 2 Units

It’s dress rehearsal week in the NFL and with it we turn to coaches that have shown a strong desire to make a determined effort to win games while utilizing veteran starters during this week. We need look no further than to Pete Carroll, who tackles the preseason like the regular season year in and year out. Enter the perfect fodder, the Chiefs. Kansas City is 5-14 SU and 7-12 ATS in dress rehearsals since 1998, including 1-6 SUATS the last seven against NFC opponents. KC is also 0-3 SUATS away in the preseason against .500 or greater opponents following an away game. Seattle coach Carroll is 8-3 SUATS during Week Three of the preseason in his NFL career, including 8-0 SU and 7-1 ATS as a favorite and 3-0 SUATS at home – with every win by double-digits.

Rating: 2 Units

The genius of head coach Bill Belichick and QB Tom Brady is their ability to change the game plan week-to-week, anticipating their opponents' approach and praying upon their weaknesses. The rich got richer this offseason, as the defending champions added weapons in WR Brandin Cooks, RBs Mike Gillislee and Rex Burkhead and TE Dwayne Allen. On top of that, TE Rob Gronkowski, arguably the best ever at his position, enters the year fully healthy. Devoid of stars, New England's bend-don't-break defense allowed the fewest points in the NFL last season. They win with scheme as opposed to individual talent. CB Stephon Gilmore joins a solid secondary that rarely gives up big plays, and DE Kony Ealy will inject some life into the pass rush. LB Dont'a Hightower is an old-fashioned bruiser in the middle of the defense, while DT Alan Branch is unmovable against the run.

Rating: 2 Units

Carolina moved away from the power running game that was so effective in 2015, using more three-wide formations and running QB Cam Newton far less often. The offense struggled: Newton regressed as a passer (his 52.9% completion percentage was a career-worst) while receivers rarely created separation. First-round draft pick RB Christian McCaffrey is effective as a power runner and a slot receiver, and second-rounder WR Curtis Samuel is also a moveable chess piece with run-after-catch ability. New coordinator Steve Wilks, a Carolina assistant since 2012, won't be changing a thing about the Panthers' 4-3 scheme. LBs Luke Kuechly, Thomas Davis and Shaq Thompson are the most athletic and effective linebacking corps in the league, though Davis is bound to slow down at age 34. The defensive line was too inconsistent last year, and the Panthers' inexperienced secondary was asked to cover for too long on too many plays.