NFL Week 7: Intriguing Matchups and Expert Picks Against the Spread
As the NFL season progresses, Week 7 promises to deliver some thrilling matchups, including a highly anticipated Super Bowl rematch. With road favorites going a perfect 9-0 against the spread in Week 6, the momentum is building for teams looking to capitalize on their recent success. Let’s dive into the key matchups and expert picks for this week’s action.
Exciting Matchups on the Horizon
This week features a slate of 12 games kicking off on Sunday, October 20, starting with the Jacksonville Jaguars facing off against the New England Patriots in London. The excitement continues into Monday Night Football, where two games will wrap up the week’s action. Among the most intriguing matchups are the Super Bowl 58 rematch between the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers, as well as the Houston Texans visiting the Green Bay Packers.
Road Favorites on a Roll
After a perfect week for road favorites, the trend has been hard to ignore. The Denver Broncos continued the streak by covering as road favorites against the New Orleans Saints on Thursday Night Football. This brings the total to 13-0 straight up and against the spread for road favorites since Week 5. With this in mind, there’s a keen interest in which road favorites to back in Week 7.
NFL Week 7 Picks Against the Spread
Texans vs. Packers Odds
| Team | Spread | Moneyline | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston Texans | +3 (-115) | +125 | Over 47.5 (-110) |
| Green Bay Packers | -3 (-105) | -150 | Under 47.5 (-110) |
NFL Pick #1: Packers -3 (vs. Texans)
The matchup between the Texans and Packers is one of the most compelling of the early slate. The Texans, currently sitting at 5-1 straight up, have shown resilience but are just 2-4 against the spread. In contrast, the Packers boast a 4-2 record both straight up and against the spread.
The Packers are favored by 3 points at home, and their recent form suggests they can cover this spread. Despite missing key receiver Nico Collins, the Texans have a potent passing attack led by rookie quarterback CJ Stroud, who has been impressive. However, the Packers’ defense, which leads the league in takeaways, could be the deciding factor in this matchup.
With Jordan Love finding a rhythm with his young receiving corps, including standout Jayden Reed, the Packers’ offense has been efficient. Their ability to capitalize on turnovers and play well at Lambeau Field (7-4 against the spread in their last eleven home games) makes them a solid pick to win by more than a field goal.
Chiefs vs. 49ers Odds
| Team | Spread | Moneyline | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas City Chiefs | +1.5 (-110) | +100 | Over 47 (-110) |
| San Francisco 49ers | -1.5 (-110) | -120 | Under 47 (-110) |
NFL Pick #2: Chiefs +1.5 (vs. 49ers)
In a rematch of Super Bowl 58, the Chiefs travel to San Francisco looking to maintain their undefeated record. The 49ers will be eager to avenge their Super Bowl loss, but betting against Patrick Mahomes in this scenario seems risky. Mahomes has a stellar track record as an underdog, boasting a 10-3 straight up and 11-1-1 against the spread record in such situations.
Both teams come into this game with extra rest, and the Chiefs’ defense has been formidable this season. While the 49ers have shown flashes of brilliance, the Chiefs’ ability to handle injuries and maintain their winning ways makes them a strong pick to cover the spread.
Chargers vs. Cardinals Odds
| Team | Spread | Moneyline | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Chargers | -2.5 (-115) | -145 | Over 44 (-110) |
| Arizona Cardinals | +2.5 (-105) | +120 | Under 44 (-110) |
NFL Pick #3: Chargers -2.5 (vs. Cardinals)
The Chargers are another road favorite that stands out in Week 7. With a defense allowing just 13.2 points per game, the Chargers have been a tough matchup for opposing offenses. The Cardinals, on the other hand, have struggled to find their rhythm, scoring more than 14 points only once in their last four games.
Under new head coach Jim Harbaugh, the Chargers have shifted towards a more balanced, ground-and-pound approach. Given Arizona’s defensive struggles, it’s reasonable to expect Justin Herbert and the Chargers to move the ball effectively. With the trend of road favorites covering the spread, backing the Chargers seems like a wise choice.
Conclusion
As NFL Week 7 unfolds, the matchups promise excitement and intrigue, especially with the Super Bowl rematch on the horizon. The trends favoring road favorites add another layer of interest for bettors and fans alike. Whether you’re looking to back the Packers, Chiefs, or Chargers, this week’s slate offers plenty of opportunities to engage with the action.