Get Sports Strong

By David Delano

Now that the NHL and NBA seasons have concluded, the MLB and WNBA will have more of an opportunity to grab the attention of sports bettors. But for most sports bettors, the countdown to the NFL season has long begun! 

It’s never too early to talk about football, so let’s take an early look at some of the Week 1 lines worth jumping on early with the lines available as of June 23.

Bengals at Browns (+3)

Line Available at Bookmarker

The Bengals have taken in 80% of the tickets early, according to pregame.com, but the Browns have taken 42% of the cash and some early sharp money. The Browns have a reputation for being a disappointment, but not so much against the Bengals. Cleveland head coach Kevin Stefanski comes into this season under alot of pressure but is 5-1 straight up against the Bengals in his career. Also, Cincinnati has not won its first road game of the season since 2015. The “Battle of Ohio” is usually competitive, and the early value here is on the Browns.

Jaguars (-3.5) at Colts

Line Available at BetOnline, DraftKings, Circa and Caesars

The Jaguars have had the Colts’ number over the years, even when they have appeared to be the inferior team coming in. Jacksonville is 6-1 ATS in their last seven games against the Colts, including four outright wins as an underdog over that period.

The Jags are favorites in the AFC South this season, coming off just their second division title since 2000. With the Colts led by rookie head coach Shane Steichen and possibly rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson, I love the Jaguars in Week 1.

49ers at Steelers (+3)

Line Available at BetOnline, Bookmaker, DraftKings, and BetUS

Mike Tomlin did it again in 2022, leading the Steelers to a winning record despite key injuries, a rookie quarterback, and low national expectations. Expect the Steelers to be an improved team this season, with quarterback Kenny Pickett taking a leap forward. The 49ers made it to the NFC Championship last season, but I don’t trust them as a road favorite here, with Sam Darnold possibly being the starting quarterback. 

The Steelers are a tasty Week 1 home dog. 

Packers at Bears (-2.5)

Line Available On All Available Sportsbooks

The Packers are 19-5 ATS in their last 24 trips to Chicago, but the good news for the Bears fans is that Daddy (Aaron Rodgers) has a new home in New York! At most sportsbooks, Green Bay has the worst odds to win the NFC North this season, and this is an excellent spot for an improved Bears squad to get some revenge against their division rival.

Rams (+6) at Seahawks

Line Available at Bookmaker, DraftKings, and Circa

After a disappointing season, the Rams have parted ways with several key defensive players, including Jalen Ramsey and Bobby Wagner. As for the Seahawks, they were one of the brightest surprises in the NFL last season, but it will be harder for them to sneak up on the opposition in 2023. 

The Rams have covered the spread in their last five meetings against the Seahawks, and they are also 5-1 ATS in their last six Week 1 games. After spending the offseason hearing about how bad they are expected to be, Sean McVay will have his troops ready to compete and cover this number in Seattle.

Follow David Delano @getsportsstrong on Twitter