For the first time since 2019, the NFL is running preseason games. This started last week with the Hall of Fame Game, which saw the Pittsburgh Steelers beat the Dallas Cowboys, 16-3 — although almost none of the top skill players took the field. For those who include the NFL preseason in their NFL betting, picking these early games can be tricky because the starters (especially at the skill positions) play so little, if at all. Even so, we have four games for you to consider later this week.
NFL News: Must-Bet Preseason Games (8/12-8/15)
Dallas Cowboys (+100) vs Arizona Cardinals (-120)
The Cowboys come in with a slight edge in terms of preparation, as they had the extra preseason game in Canton. Quarterback Garrett Gilbert made his case to take the backup spot behind Dak Prescott, as he looked sharp in the pocket and hit receivers in stride. However, he was not able to get the Dallas offense into the end zone. Prescott is not expected to play once again this time — and neither is Arizona quarterback Kyler Murray, and if Murray does appear, he likely would play no more than one series. The pressure is high on both coaches, although the Dallas press gets a little more vocal and may put the screws on Mike McCarthy if his team is 0-2 at this point in August. Even so, Kliff Kingsbury comes into his fourth season with real expectations. Take Dallas on the moneyline.
Pittsburgh Steelers (+100) vs Philadelphia Eagles (-120)
The Steelers also represent some value this week — and for similar reasons to Dallas, as they already have a game in the bank. One of the most encouraging signs from the Pittsburgh-Dallas game for Steeler fans was the work that their team got on the field. Backup quarterback Mason Rudolph found Chase Claypool three times for 62 yards, and Rudolph should get a lot of time in this game as well. Philadelphia comes in with a new head coach and new personnel at a number of key positions, and so their focus is much more likely to be aimed at evaluating players as opposed to winning the game. Take Pittsburgh on the moneyline.
Cincinnati Bengals (+200) vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-240)
The Bengals come in with considerably more value than preseason teams generally have. However, they are facing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who are the defending Super Bowl champions. With that said, it is highly unlikely that Tampa Bay quarterback Tom Brady will take the field — in fact, while the team returns all 22 starters, don’t expect to see many of those players on the field. The Bengals get quarterback Joe Burrow back from his knee injury a year ago. I’m going to look hard at the value that the Bengals are getting here, particularly in a game that will be decided by backups. Take Cincinnati on the moneyline.
Washington Football Team (-135) vs New England Patriots (+115)
Did you know that New England has won six of their last eight preseason games — and have had a winning record in three of the last preseasons? Bill Belichick does not prioritize winning these exhibitions, but he is extremely skilled at getting his teams ready to play while also evaluating the young players on the roster. Washington has indicated that they will use their starters, but it would be surprising to see them stay in the game more than one possession. I see the Patriots winning the preparation game. Take New England on the moneyline.
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