Football Betting Strategies for NFL Preseason Week 2 - August 7th-8th
Preseason NFL Games Favor the Under: A Look at This Week's Matchups
Preseason NFL games often see a higher number of low-scoring contests, particularly when West Coast teams play early games and predominantly use backup rotations. This trend is set to continue in this week's games, as several factors come into play.
In the Cleveland Browns vs Carolina Panthers game, the Under (total points scored) looks like a smart angle. The Browns' defense is known for clamping down in early matchups, and the Panthers offense may struggle to find rhythm. Both teams are likely to rely on their backups, which could impact offensive efficiency.
The Washington Commanders vs New England Patriots game also seems to favour the Under. Both teams are expected to play limited snaps for their starters, and for bettors seeking balance, Under or small dog plays may offer a discreet edge. The teams are also expected to manage the clock conservatively, which could lead to a slower-paced game.
The Cincinnati Bengals vs Philadelphia Eagles and Indianapolis Colts vs Baltimore Ravens games could also see the Under hit. The Bengals, despite roster depth that is stronger than early analysts expect, may see their starters sit, making the game a competitive work-in-progress. Similarly, John Harbaugh, coach of the Ravens, is cautious with starters in the preseason, which could impact their offensive performance and betting odds.
The Detroit Lions vs Atlanta Falcons game could see the Under hit due to the teams trading fourth-quarter drives in Week 1 but having limited tempo overall. The market may also mis-price mid-market spreads in this game.
The Las Vegas Raiders vs Seattle Seahawks game is expected to have a total of less than 37.5 points. This is partly due to the Seahawks playing away, which can present challenges like time zone adjustments and less offensive rhythm. Both teams are also likely to rely on their backups, which could depress scoring.
Historically, preseason games show extended stretches where teams prioritize running the ball, ball control, and clock management to test player depth rather than move quickly or generate points. This, combined with the factors mentioned above, creates conditions strongly correlating with lower scoring totals.
In conclusion, factors such as time zone effects, fewer starters playing, higher defensive intensity by hopeful players, and coaching strategies prioritizing evaluation over aggressive offense contribute to the Under being favored in preseason games featuring West Coast teams playing early with backups.
- The NFL preseason games, particularly those involving West Coast teams, often favor the 'Under' in terms of total points scored due to low-scoring contests.
- The game between the Cleveland Browns and Carolina Panthers could see the 'Under' hit, as the Browns' defense is known for clamping down in early matchups and the Panthers offense may struggle.
- Bettors seeking balance might find 'small dog plays' advantageous in the Washington Commanders vs New England Patriots game, as both teams are expected to play limited snaps for their starters.
- The Under also seems likely in the Cincinnati Bengals vs Philadelphia Eagles and Indianapolis Colts vs Baltimore Ravens games, as both teams may sit their starters, leading to competitive work-in-progress matchups.
- The Detroit Lions vs Atlanta Falcons game could see the Under hit, with teams trading fourth-quarter drives in Week 1 but limited tempo overall, and possibly mis-priced mid-market spreads.
- The 'Under' seems favored in the Las Vegas Raiders vs Seattle Seahawks game, as the Seahawks playing away could present challenges like time zone adjustments and less offensive rhythm, and both teams are likely to rely on their backups, which could depress scoring.
