NFL Lines: Week 1 Odds Are Up

God bless NFL betting. The season doesn’t start for four months and we already have Week 1 lines up. Just for fun – and for your diehard sports betting sharps – let’s discuss some of the more exciting matchups from Executive Writer Shea Matthews.

Vikings vs Saints (-5)

It would be pretty special to see Brett Favre open his final NFL season close to home in New Orleans. Neither roster has changed too much over the offseason – why fix what ain’t broke? – so this matchup would be more about jockeying for NFC supremacy than showing off new faces. If Favre is back, I’d be on a Super Bowl hangover. The Vikes are 6-2 ATS in their last eight season openers.

Free pick: Vikings +5

Falcons vs Steelers (-1)

The Steelers will be thankful to have their home fans behind them in Week 1, as they’ll need all the help they can get with no Ben Roethlisberger and no Santonio Holmes. Matt Ryan and the Falcons will be a formidable challenge but I have a feeling Pittsburgh’s “D” will take it upon themselves to make a statement: that they can win without Ben.

Free pick: Steelers -1

Packers vs Eagles (-1)

The Packers start what some people believe is a crusade to the Super Bowl on the road in Philly. The Eagles have their work cut out for them without Donovan McNabb. While I think the Kevin Kolb era will ultimately be a success, I’d bet at the sportsbook on a big performance from Aaron Rodgers and the more polished Pack in Week 1.

Free pick: Packers +1

Ravens vs Jets (-3)

I truly believe one of these two teams will represent the AFC in the Super Bowl, so this matchup should be a dandy. Joe Flacco gets to take new toy Anquan Boldin for a spin and the Jets will welcome LaDainian Tomlinson, Jason Taylor and Antonio Cromartie. Santonio Holmes will have to serve his suspension first, however. The Jets will be a force but I really like Baltimore’s team and the Ravens should pressure Mark Sanchez plenty.

Free pick: Ravens +3