Prop bets are an easy way to add some extra excitement into NFL Sundays. Here’s 3 of the smartest plays from the Week 1 slate:
DJ Moore
Over 47.5 receiving yards
I was astounded to discover how low the books have set this number. DJ Moore, one of the most talented wide receivers in the NFL, is going to be the focal point of the Chicago Bears offense this season. I expect a concerted effort to feed him the ball. Although he’ll probably see a lot of Jaire Alexander on Sunday, the amount of targets that he will attract from Justin Fields will be more than enough to grab 48 receiving yards.
Also, Moore caught two passes this preseason. One went for 40 yards, the other 62. Take the over.
CeeDee Lamb
Over 73.5 receiving yards
CeeDee is a budding superstar. In 2023, he ranked 2nd in PFF receiving grade vs. man coverage, tied with Ja’marr Chase and just ahead of AJ Brown. Enter Wink Martindale’s New York Giants defense: 1st in man-coverage percentage last year (45.5%). Considering Lamb’s prowess at making contested catches in man coverage, betting his “over” is a smart play.
Josh Allen
Over 35.5 rushing yards
Although 35.5 is a steep number for quarterback rushing yards, it’s set that high for good reason. Allen’s rushed for 750+ yards in each of the last two seasons, averaging upwards of 45 rushing yards per game in that span. The matchup against the Jets also suggests that he will get out on the run. The Jets could very-well trot out the best defense in the NFL this year. Their coverage is phenomenal, which will force Allen to resort to using his legs (probably more than he hopes to).