Seattle Seahawks vs. Arizona Cardinals TNF Prediction (September 25, 2025)

It’s already Week 4 of the NFL season, and Thursday Night Football brings us an NFC battle between the Seattle Seahawks and the Arizona Cardinals.

Arizona is hosting Seattle at the State Farm Arena. Kickoff is at 8:15 pm ET, a mere 1.5 points separate the teams, and both want to get a leg up in a super competitive division. They’re neck and neck so far this season; both have 2-1 records. 

The market has the squads at almost even odds; the Seahawks –126 ML vs. the Cardinals +108 ML.

Who’s gonna win this one? Keep scrolling to see all of the details, including game context, stakes, the latest betting odds, team breakdowns, historical trends, analytics, game projections, and our picks for the four best bets!

Game Details

• Matchup: Seattle Seahawks (2-1) vs. Arizona Cardinals (2-1)
• Date & Time: Thursday, September 25, at 8:15 pm ET (5:15 pm PT)
• Where: State Farm Stadium, Glendale, Arizona
• How To Watch: Thursday Night Football streaming on Amazon Prime

Game Context & Stakes

Here’s what’s on the line for this game and how Seattle and Arizona have been performing on the gridiron:

• Division importance: NFC West matchups carry more weight early on in the season; getting a win here gives a team head-to-head leverage later on in the season.
• Seattle offense check: Sam Darnold remains active, and he has support from Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Cooper Kupp. Their run/pass split has been good, so play-action has worked. Protection has held up well, although the right tackle spot is being monitored.
• Arizona defense performance: The Cardinals have had a fair amount of trouble generating consistent pressure without blitzing heavily. Their secondary has given up medium-to-deep throws when opponents stretch the field.
• Home/road factor / ATS trends: Arizona is 7–3 against the spread in its last 10 home games. Seattle is 1–0 ATS on the road in 2025.

Injuries / Availability

• Arizona: James Conner is now out for the season with an ankle injury; WR Zay Jones is in concussion protocol and did not practice; OL Kelvin Beachum is listed as a non-participant (knee); Paris Johnson Jr. is limited. 
• Seattle: OT Josh Jones (ankle) and FB Robbie Ouzts (ankle) did not practice this week; a number of other players are limited.

• Rest & travel: Seattle has to travel cross-country on short notice: Arizona is at home, so there is no travel-related fatigue at play, and they’ve preserved prep time.

Betting Odds

Ready to place your bets? Here are the current odds and lines courtesy of FanDuel:

Line Movement & Market Sentiment

• Opening vs Current: The line is tight, so any change could tell us where the big money is going. But so far? It’s holding onto Seahawks’ favoritism.
• Public vs Handle: Expect more public tickets to come in on Seattle due to its name recognition. But the pro action might lean toward Arizona due to injury-driven value.
• Sharp Influence: Watch for reverse line moves. If money comes in on the Cardinals, the spread might move toward +1 or even a pick’em.
• Narrative: Casual bettors could overrate Seattle’s consistency, but Arizona still has the home-field advantage, so under the right game circumstances, the Cardinals could benefit.

Team Portraits & Matchup Breakdown

Seattle is in better shape health-wise and has the better form; Arizona is dealing with injuries in the backfield and offensive line.

Main Matchups to Watch

• Seattle corners vs. Arizona receivers: Woolen and Witherspoon have forced quarterbacks into shorter, contested throws. Arizona needs Marvin Harrison Jr. to stretch coverage vertically and Michael Wilson to win in traffic if they want to move the ball.
• Arizona’s front seven vs. Seattle’s run game: The Cardinals’ interior has held runners to under four yards a carry, but Kenneth Walker and Zach Charbonnet are built to finish runs past first contact. If they’re consistently picking up four or five on early downs? That changes how Arizona can defend.
• QB protection and blitz response: Seattle has generated pressure without resorting to heavy blitzing, and Murray has already been hit too much behind an injured line. Sam Darnold has managed the collapsing pockets better; he’s using quicker throws to limit sacks.
• Special teams: Jason Myers has hit from 50+ this season, and Seattle’s coverage teams have limited returns. Chad Ryland is still dependable inside 45, and Arizona’s return unit has the speed to change field position if they find the space.

Historical Trends & Analytics

• Head-to-head: The Seahawks have won 7 straight against Arizona, and they’ve covered in 5 of those.
• Totals: The Under has hit in 4 of the last 6 meetings, including 3 in a row in Arizona.
• Seattle as road favorite: 4–2 SU and ATS in their last 6 games laying points away from home.
• Arizona as home underdog: 3–7 SU, 4–6 ATS in their last 10 at State Farm Stadium.
• DVOA rankings: Seahawks offense is 10th, defense 8th, and special teams 15th; Cardinals offense is 21st, defense 25th, and special teams 20th.
• EPA/play splits: Seattle ranks top 12 in passing EPA, middle of the pack in rushing EPA; Arizona is in the bottom 10 in both.
• Win probability models: ESPN’s predictor gives Arizona a 51.9% chance, despite the Seahawks being the slight betting favs.

Power Ratings, Projections, and Simulations

• Model spread: Projection makes it Seahawks –2.7, which is a modest edge compared to the market’s –1.5.
• Vegas comparison: The current line of –1.5 still leaves a small advantage on Seattle if you trust the model.
• Simulations: Seattle covers 56% of runs, and Arizona covers 44%.
• Expected pace: The projected yardage and drive counts point toward a mid-40s outcome; the Over hits if both quarterbacks connect downfield, but Under stays in play if drives stall out inside the 30.

Risks, Wild Cards & Gameplan Scenarios

Before you make your bets, you have to look at all of the variables! Here are the risks, possible game scripts, and how it’ll affect wagers.

Our Best Bets

What have we got for you in terms of best bets for this game? These four:

Lines for Seahawks vs. Cardinals are shifting fast as kickoff nears—spreads, totals, and props can all move. Compare the latest odds with our football betting sites to lock in the best value.

Seahawks Supremacy or Cardinals Conquest?

Final Score Prediction: Seahawks 23, Cardinals 17

The Seahawks cover –1.5 and the game total stays under 43.5!

We’re going with the Seahawks in this matchup. Why? Because its defense has been much stronger against the pass and way more disciplined against the run, and that gives them a pretty big advantage over Arizona. The Cardinals’ offense hasn’t been able to sustain drives regularly, which is why it makes it so hard to see them keep up with Seattle over four quarters.

That defensive advantage is why the Seahawks –1.5 is our best play. The total also points toward the Under, since both teams have shown some limitations when it comes to finishing red-zone trips.

Stick to your bankroll plan, size your bets properly, and always check for the latest injury reports and conditions before kickoff!

Best Bets Recap

• Spread: Seahawks –1.5 (6/10)
• Moneyline: Seahawks ML –126 (5/10)
• Total: Under 43.5 (7/10)
• Alt/Prop: 1H Under 21.5 (6/10)

New York City FC vs. Inter Miami Picks & Prediction (September 24, 2025)

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami are headed to the Big Apple (ok, Queens) to take on New York City FC on Wednesday at 7:30 pm ET.

What’s on the line? A lot, actually. NYCFC has already locked in a playoff berth, but seeding in the Eastern Conference is still in play; a top-four finish gives teams a stronger position once the MLS Cup Playoffs kick off in October.

Miami is pushing to secure its own spot and prove it can translate Messi’s current scoring run into results when they aren’t at home. But NYCFC is hard to beat at Citi Field, and Miami hasn’t been its usual self on the road, so this matchup will have a direct impact on how the bracket looks when the postseason starts!

Can Messi help his team win one on the road, or will NYCFC’s home advantage be too much for Miami? We’ve got thoughts!

Keep reading for a breakdown of the latest betting odds, market interpretation, team forms and updates, the players to watch, tactical matchups, and what we feel are the four best bets.

Game Details

• Fixture: New York City FC (16-5-9 vs. Inter Miami CF (15-7-6)
• Date & Time: Wednesday, September 24, at 7:30 PM ET
• Venue: Citi Field, New York, NY
• How to Watch: Streaming on Apple TV with the MLS Season Pass (U.S.); MLS on DIRECTV

Betting Odds & Market Context

If you’re betting on this game, here are the current odds and lines posted on DraftKings:

• Messi Scorer Props:
  • 1 Goal +400
  • Anytime +105
  • 2+ Goals +550

Interpretation

• The lines look like the sportsbooks are bracing for a match with scoring, but not one that totally blows open. 
• The Under 3.5 is the favorite at −140, and that says there’s a ceiling around two or three goals total. 
• And “both teams to score” is priced heavily on the yes side, so the expectation is that neither defense can hold out for the full 90 minutes. 
• Messi’s anytime goal prop at +105 is another dead giveaway; the market is treating him as the most likely scorer on the field, and the odds are short because bettors pile on that play. 
• For the moneyline, the split is pretty much even; NYCFC’s slight edge comes from playing at home, but oddsmakers are leaving a lot of room for Miami to get a result.

Current Form & Team News

How have NYCFC and Inter Miami been playing recently? And are there any injuries or team updates that could change the outcome?

Head-to-Head History

• Overall record: NYCFC has won the majority of meetings; they took eight of the last 13. Inter Miami have only managed one win, and the rest were draws.
• Scoring trends: The games usually land around two or three total goals. Both sides have scored in recent meetups, but matches don’t get into four- or five-goal contests.
• Tactical balance: At Yankee Stadium, NYCFC’s compact pitch has changed matches into midfield battles and quick turnovers. Miami’s best chances have happened when Messi drops deeper to break pressure and hit diagonal switches.
• Notable recent results: Messi has been on the scoresheet in multiple fixtures, including the last two. NYCFC has leveraged home advantage with close wins that are usually decided by set pieces or moments in transition.

Main Players to Watch

Here’s who we’ll be watching when these teams take the field:

NYCFC

• Hannes Wolf (Forward): Wolf has emerged as a reliable scoring outlet for NYCFC, capable of finding space in the box and punishing defensive lapses. His ability to make intelligent runs and combine with teammates makes him a constant danger against a Miami defense that can be exposed in transition.
• Alonso Martínez (Forward): Martínez is the spearhead of the NYCFC attack, leading the line with pace and clinical finishing. If NYCFC is going to capitalize on their home advantage, Martínez’s ability to convert chances in tight matches could prove decisive.
• Maxi Morález (Midfielder): The veteran playmaker pulls the strings in midfield. Morález’s vision and creativity give NYCFC the edge in building attacks, and his knack for unlocking compact defenses will be tested against Miami’s experienced midfield trio.

Inter Miami

• Lionel Messi (Forward): Messi remains the focal point of Inter Miami’s attack and the player most likely to shift the outcome single-handedly. Whether through set pieces, threaded passes, or moments of brilliance, Messi is the ultimate X-factor in this matchup.
• Luis Suárez (Forward): Suárez’s finishing instincts and physical presence complement Messi perfectly. His ability to hold up play and exploit defensive mistakes gives Miami a second major threat in the final third, especially when paired with Messi’s creativity.
• Sergio Busquets (Midfielder): Busquets provides balance and control in the center of the park. His composure under pressure and ability to dictate tempo will be vital if Miami hopes to withstand NYCFC’s high press and maintain possession in a tough away environment.

Tactical Matchup

• NYCFC: At Yankee Stadium, New York keeps the ball moving, pulling teams side to side until a passing lane opens, then hitting forward quickly through Morález or Bakrar. Their front line works in tandem to press high; they’re trying to win the ball close to goal and convert turnovers into chances before Miami can reset.
• Inter Miami: Messi remains the hub, dropping between midfield and defense to link play. Alba’s forward runs give them width on the left, and Suárez pins center-backs and looks for cut-backs. Set-pieces give them another way to the goal, but their back line has been exposed by opponents who attack vertically after winning possession.
• Key Battle: NYCFC’s pressing structure against Busquets in the buildup. If he can find Messi or Suárez early, Miami can go forward; if NYCFC crowd him out, Miami are forced into long passes and lose control of possession.
• X-Factor: How well NYCFC’s defenders close the gaps Messi likes to drift into around the edge of the box. If they can restrict those touches? Miami’s attack becomes way easier to contain.

Our Best Bets

You have some options here! We’ve broken down what we think are the four best bets for this matchup.

Odds for NYCFC vs Inter Miami are moving as kickoff nears—lines on totals, spreads, and Messi props can shift quickly. Compare the best value with our top soccer betting apps before you bet.

Alternative / Riskier Bets

If you don’t want to play it safe and are looking for some high-risk/high-reward options, you could take a look at these:

• Correct Score 2–1 NYCFC (+850 range): This lines up with both teams finding the net but staying under 3.5 goals.
• Messi to Score 2+ (+550): A much longer shot, but his recent scoring streak does make it viable.
• Draw (+270): Because the clubs are pretty evenly matched, a point apiece can’t be ruled out in a compact venue like Yankee Stadium.

Possible Outcomes & Scenarios

• Miami scores first: If Messi or Suárez strikes first? NYCFC will have to push numbers forward. That opens up lanes for Miami to counter with Messi carrying the ball and Alba joining in from the left. Totals bettors would immediately start looking at the Over.
• NYCFC’s goal first: A home allows them to slow the match, circulate possession, and force Miami into narrower channels on the tight pitch. Messi will then have to drop deeper to create any progression.
• Disciplinary swing: A red card alters the state of the game dramatically. If Miami loses a defender? NYCFC can press higher and pin them back. If NYCFC goes down a man, Messi gets the extra room between the lines to dictate attacks.
• Venue factor: Yankee Stadium’s smaller dimensions cut down the space for wide play. Alba’s overlaps are harder to time, and NYCFC will benefit by setting traps in central zones and winning the ball closer to the goal.

Our Best Bets for NYCFC vs Inter Miami

We’ve got NYCFC for this one, but it’ll be close. When Messi is playing like Messi, there’s no way a team can run away with a game against Miami.

NYCFC and Inter Miami both have more than enough in attack to make this a game that’s worth betting on, but the home side has the advantage in how the game will go. Why? Because the smaller surface in Queens plays to their pressing and quick transitions, and Miami’s record away from DRV PNK hasn’t been great.

Messi’s recent run means that he’ll be involved, but NYCFC’s structure and home record both point toward a close win. A 2–1 scoreline ties the outlook together; both teams on the board, the total staying under four, and NYCFC making their venue work for them!

Best Bets Recap

• BTTS – Yes (−250): 7.5/10
• Under 3.5 Goals (−150): 6.5/10
• Messi Anytime Goalscorer (+105): 7/10
• NYCFC to Win (+125):  6/10

Final Score Prediction: NYCFC 2 – 1 Inter Miami

NYCFC’s solid home record and Miami’s road lapses make a 2–1 scoreline for the hosts the most fitting call; the bets align on BTTS, Under 3.5, Messi Anytime, and a lean to NYCFC on the moneyline!

How Prop Bets Became the Craziest Part of the Super Bowl

Football season is prime time for betting on the outcomes of however many games there are per week. It could be 27 matchups at this point, what with the NFL and college games. Maybe that’s an exaggeration.

Anyway, there are so many bets flowing into sportsbooks about who wins on Sundays, Mondays, and Thursdays, but the real insanity comes when the Super Bowl rolls around in January.

And while we love the big game, we are also partial to the prop bets. Not the player props, but the weird ones. The weirder, the better!

What are prop bets? The formal term is proposition bets, and these are the side wagers on specific occurrences or stats within a game, not just on the final score.

The Super Bowl has taken prop betting from a niche novelty into a full-blown national spectacle. It’s no longer only about who takes the trophy; it also includes how long the national anthem runs, what color Gatorade the winning coach gets showered with, or the celebs who could appear on screen.

How and why have Super Bowl prop bets become one of the most popular parts of the big game, and what are some of the craziest ones you can bet on? Come with us and we’ll tell you!

What Are Prop Bets? A Quick Primer

In common sports betting, you can bet on who wins (moneyline), by how much (point spread), or the combined score (over/under).

But prop bets are a whole different ballgame. It’s a wager on an outcome other than the final score or result, and you can bet on specific events within the game instead of the game as a whole.

Instead of betting which team wins, a prop bet could be on a quarterback’s total passing yards or if the first play will be a run or pass. Standard bets focus on the game’s outcome, and props focus on individual stats or in-game occurrences. And they can range from serious stat lines to absolutely odd goings-on.

Common Game-Related Prop Bets

Most prop bets are tied to player or team performance, and they’re known as player props or team props. You can wager on who will score the first touchdown of the Super Bowl, or if a particular running back will rush for over/under 100 yards.

‘Serious’ Props vs. Novelty/Fun Props

Props can be analytical, or they can be silly. On one end, you have serious, stat-based props that experienced bettors or fantasy fans love (like player yardage totals, or whether the game will go into overtime). They involve game data and are researched.

• Then there are the novelty or “exotic” props, and these are the goofy bets that have very little to do with gameplay and everything to do with entertainment. During the Super Bowl, sportsbooks roll out a list of the fun ones: everything from the length of the national anthem performance and halftime show to the shade of the Gatorade dumped on the winning coach are in play.
• Serious props give smart bettors an edge if they do their homework, but novelty props? They’re pure fun, and you can’t handicap the Gatorade color with stats! Both props have their fans, but it’s the combo that makes Super Bowl prop betting so special; there’s something for the diehard game analyst and the casual party-goer who’s just there for the snacks and social aspect!

A Brief History of Super Bowl Prop Bets

We went all the way back to the 80s to find out how Super Bowl props got their start and how they gained traction! Let’s take a trip down memory lane.

Why Prop Bets Became So Popular

Don’t get it twisted: The Super Bowl isn’t merely a football game. No, it’s the most-watched television event of the year, and it draws in over 100 million viewers.

And a lot of the viewers are not die-hard football fans. It’s a cultural event that families, friends, and coworkers all watch together. Prop bets have done so well in this environment because they give everyone something to engage with. Even if you don’t know jack about football, you can have an opinion on “Heads or Tails” for the coin toss or if the halftime show will feature a certain song.

The Super Bowl’s huge audience meant there was a big demand for bets that were more fun than technical. Sportsbooks saw that, and now they offer a cornucopia of props that can entertain any viewer. From the stat geek to the people who are just there for the company, there’s a prop bet for everyone’s interests!

The Craziest Super Bowl Prop Bets of All Time

The Super Bowl has inspired some truly bizarre and legendary prop bets. Here’s a look at a few of the wildest props that have been offered (and sometimes actually hit!):

How Sportsbooks Set Super Bowl Prop Lines

For bookmakers, Super Bowl props are a balancing act. On one hand, they want to offer a fun, sprawling menu of crazy bets to attract casual wagering (props generate huge buzz and handle). On the other hand, some of these bets can be risky or prone to insider information, so the books have to protect themselves. Generally, sportsbooks keep bet limits on novelty props relatively low – you might only be able to bet a certain amount (say $50 or $100 max) on things like the anthem or coin toss. This ensures the book can’t get hammered too badly on a single prop. They also use historical data and research when setting the initial lines.

For example, when the singer for the national anthem is announced, bookmakers will immediately study that singer’s past performances to gauge how long they usually hold the notes. They’ll factor in tempo, style, and even try to find out if there are planned guitar solos or choir sections. All of that goes into setting a time like “Over/Under 2 minutes, 5 seconds” for the anthem. Similarly, for Gatorade color, oddsmakers might actually look at recent team celebrations or even team colors (some teams favor certain flavors) before hanging odds.

The goal is to post a number or odds that will attract bets on both sides. For instance, if they set the anthem Over/Under at 2:00, and most people start betting “over”, they might nudge the line higher or adjust the payout odds to encourage some “under” money. They’re always trying to balance the action to limit their risk.

Sharp Info vs. Public Betting

One challenge with Super Bowl props is the sharp vs. square dynamic. Casual fans will bet props for fun and usually in small amounts (the “public” money). But sharp bettors and opportunists look for soft lines or even the chance to exploit inside info. A famous example: in 2019, a rehearsal recording of Gladys Knight singing the anthem leaked, showing she went long. As soon as that rumor hit betting circles, smart bettors hammered the Over on anthem length at offshore books. Sportsbooks saw a wave of max bets coming in on one side and realized something was up . In response, they quickly adjusted – some books moved the Over/Under time up by 8 seconds or more before taking it off the board . Others kept the line but made the Over heavily juiced (requiring bettors to risk more). This cat-and-mouse game is common with novelty props. If a book hears that, say, the anthem singer’s dress rehearsal was timed, they know bettors might have that info too. They’ll either close the betting or move the odds dramatically to account for it.

Ultimately, setting prop lines involves a mix of research, market feel, and risk management. Oddsmakers comb through data (or pop culture news) to set an initial line, then they watch how bettors react. They’ll adjust lines and odds based on betting patterns. If too much money piles on one side, they’ll tweak things to entice bets on the other side or just accept they might have liability. And for truly out-there props (like “Will it snow during the game?” or “Will a player retire immediately after the game?”), Sportsbooks are super cautious; they only offer those if they’re confident the outcomes are random enough and not in any way exploitable.

The Psychology of Super Bowl Props

Why do millions of people, including those who never bet on sports otherwise, get in on Super Bowl props? It comes down to psychology and fun. Prop bets are typically low-stakes (you can wager a few bucks) but offer a high level of entertainment. It’s the thrill of having skin in the game on a very specific outcome, without the stress of, say, betting your mortgage on the game’s winner. Many casual bettors treat prop money as the cost of enjoyment – like buying a movie ticket. If it pays back, great, but if not, the ride was worth it. Every prop essentially gamifies a piece of the event.

The anthem isn’t usually something that would make your heart pound – but put $10 on it hitting the Over and suddenly you’re living and dying by every melismatic note the singer holds. This emotional amplification is a big draw. Even rational folks know these bets are largely chance, yet they relish the added excitement.

Psychologically, prop bets also allow people to follow their hunches or personal attachments.

• Is your favorite singer doing halftime?
• Bet on what they’ll sing first.
• Love a particular player? Bet on them to score a TD.
• Think the underdog has a trick play up their sleeve? Bet on a two-point conversion happening.

These are ways to engage with the game that aren’t possible through conventional bets. Props personalize the betting experience. Each person’s prop card might reflect their own predictions or hopes (e.g., a fan of defense might bet on a defensive TD prop). This personal connection makes the game feel more rewarding to watch because you’re looking for “your” scenario to unfold.

Super Bowl Props by the Numbers

The Super Bowl has turned prop betting into a massive side industry. Sportsbooks don’t just post a handful of extras anymore, no, no, no! They build whole menus around it!

• How many bets? DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM routinely list 400+ props, covering everything from first downs to halftime surprises.
• Money in play: At the most popular sportsbooks, half or more of the total handle often comes from props, and that adds up to tens of millions nationally.
• Top draws: The coin toss still rules the prop roost, followed closely by first touchdown scorer, anytime touchdown, MVP, anthem timing, and the Gatorade color.

Can You Make Money on Prop Bets?

Props are undoubtedly fun, but can they be more than a one-off at a party? Sometimes, but don’t get your hopes too high.

• Where bettors strike: Experienced players will occasionally locate stat-based props where the number doesn’t line up with team tendencies.
• Info edges: Situations like anthem rehearsal timings have impacted odds in the past, but sportsbooks now move really quickly to protect themselves and their profit.
• Bottom line: Prop betting is best seen as entertainment, with payouts being a nice bonus and not a life-changing windfall.
• Extra help: Use our Super Bowl Prop Bet Tracker Tool to organize your bets and follow results during the game.

The Best Places to Bet Super Bowl Props

Super Bowl Sunday is when the sportsbooks put their creativity on full display. Some of them pile on hundreds of lines, and others concentrate on the specialty markets that tie into the broadcast. Here are the five best places to get your Super Bowl props on!

Want to read full reviews and comparisons of mainstream sportsbooks? You can check out our guide to the Best Football Betting Sites!

Why We Love the Madness of Super Bowl Props

Super Bowl props are ridiculously fun, and that’s why we love them! They turn a football game into a betting buffet: one dude swears the Gatorade will be orange, someone else brought a legit stopwatch to time the anthem, and another person is banking on a backup tight end to score first. Half the time, the bets are over before the kickoff, and the other half, you’re clenching your jaw over a coin toss.

The point of props isn’t to make a hefty profit; it’s to make the night pop unpredictably and be way more fun than a boring straight bet on the spread. Prop betting adds extra stakes and some much-needed personality. It gives everyone in the room something dumb to root for, which is why it’s now on par with Super Bowl traditions like the commercials that make you cry.

Look below for a quick recap of Super Bowl prop bets:

• They got their start as a one-off idea with William Perry’s touchdown, and now account for a massive share of Super Bowl action.
• Sportsbooks post hundreds of props, and fans bet on everything from player stats to the length of the national anthem.
• Their popularity stems from giving everyone a reason to stay engaged.
• They make the whole broadcast feel like it matters, from the opening coin toss to the Gatorade shower.
• Props should be treated as entertainment: have fun with them, but never risk more than you’re okay with losing!

Phoenix Mercury vs. Minnesota Lynx Preview & Prediction (September 23, 2025)

The Minnesota Lynx once again proved in Game 1 why they’re one of the toughest playoff teams in the league. While the game ended 89:62 in their favor, the Phoenix Mercury showed enough fight in the first half,  suggesting that this series is far from over.

It’s 1-0 against the Phoenix Mercury, leaving them with a much higher stake in this game. They’ll have to win if they want to avoid going home down 0-2. 

We will explore why Lynx holds the edge and also where Phoenix has hope for a comeback. Then, we will give you our best value bets for Game 2.

Game Details

• Matchup: Phoenix Mercury (27-17) vs. Minnesota Lynx (34-10): Game 2 of the  WNBA Semifinals
• Date & Time: Tuesday, September 23, at 7:30 pm ET
• Venue: Target Center, Minneapolis, MN
• How to Watch: ESPN, WNBA League Pass

Game 1 Recap & Takeaways

Final Score: Lynx 82 – Mercury 69

• First Half: The Phoenix Mercury started strong. It pounded the pair and kept it close, leaving Lynx to struggle with turnovers and slow perimeter defense early in the game.
• Second Half: Lynx found stability and locked down defensively. This approach forced Phoenix into contested jumpers while Lynx controlled the boards. It also allowed Lynx to outscore Phoenix 44-28 after halftime.

Key Performers

• Courtnery Williams (23 pts): She was efficient in shooting and also led the momentum swing in the game. 
• Kayla McBride: 21 pts, 4 threes, and big second-half buckets.
• Napheesa Collier: 18 pts, 9 rebs, defensive anchor.
• Phoenix bright spots: Kahleah Copper’s slashing was impressive. We were also impressed by Alyssa Thomas’s inside scoring, but the performance lacked perimeter shooting.

Adjustment Highlight

The Lynx used more double teams in the post and pushed the pace in transition. This forced Phoenix to become tired late.

Mercury’s Issue

Mercury’s team went ice cold from beyond the arc, hitting only 2 threes after halftime. The team’s fatigue and lack of bench depth showed in the match, a weakness the Minnesota Lynx will likely exploit in the second game.

Key Stats & Betting Trends

• The Lynx are 12-3 at home this season, making them one of the WNBA’s strongest home teams.
• Phoenix is 5-11 on the road. The team is historically weaker outside its home court.
• Lynx has covered the spread in 7 of its last 9 games, making them the home favorite in this game.
• Mercury is just 2-8 ATS in its last 10 road playoff games.
• Game 1 had a total of 151 points, which went well under the current line of 158.5.
• Lynx’s defense has repeatedly held down opponents to 69.8 PPG over its last five games. As such, the team trends toward unders.
• Phoenix has failed to score above 95 points in its last 6 matchups with Minnesota.

Matchups & Players to Watch

• Mercury Guards: Diana Taurasi or Sophie Cunningham will have to step up from three to open spacing in this game, although that is still in question. On the other end, Minnesota will continue collapsing on Copper and Thomas without perimeter threats.
• Napheesa Collier: She brings an elite two-way presence and will be crucial in scoring and shutting down Phoenix’s inside game.
• Kayla McBride vs. Mercury wings: Mercury will have trouble on their hands and won’t be able to trade buckets if McBride gets hot again from deep.
• Courtney Williams vs. Mercury backcourt: Williams controlled the tempo in Game 1 and will push to do so again in this game. As such, Phoenix will have to disrupt her rhythm to limit the damage from her end.
• Bench units: Minnesota’s role players gave the team a big lift in Game 1. On the other hand, Phoenix’s bench will have to find scoring to avoid another second-half fade.

Injury/Availability Notes

• Minnesota will have to play without DiJonai Carrington. However, the team’s bench rotation held strong in the first game and should hold again in this game.
• The core players at Phoenix are healthy, but the team still has depth concerns. We’ve also seen fatigue in the first game from the team’s over-reliance on starters.
• We’ve not received any new major injuries. Nevertheless, stamina and foul trouble will be critical factors in this game.

Odds & Betting Context

These latest odds are provided by ESPN BET:

• Compared to Game 1: The spread is slightly wider for Game 2, reflecting confidence in Minnesota after the team’s dominant finish. On the other hand, the total remains nearly unchanged despite Game 1’s under.

Predictions & Best Bets

Key Betting Angles & Extra Tips

Lynx has dominated 3Q in recent games. As such, you should watch halftime adjustments before betting. A live bet on Lynx at half could be smart if Phoenix starts hot again.

Phoenix, on the other hand, will have to do the following if it wants to win:

• Hit at least 8-10 threes
• Avoid foul trouble for Copper and Thomas
• Get a bench contribution of at least 15-20 points

If the Phoenix team fails in any two of these three areas, it will likely not recover, leaving Lynx with the win.

Mercury Fighting Uphill Battle in Game 2

Our Final Score Prediction

• Projected Final Score: Lynx 85 – Mercury 72
• This scoreline projects a Lynx cover and under 159.5

We expect Phoenix to be aggressive and push to avoid another second-half collapse in this game. However, the Lynx defense and depth are solid enough for the team to again control the tempo after halftime.

Lynx dominated the second half of Game 1, showing superior depth and defense. Mercury, on the other hand, shows limited upset potential because of their lack of perimeter shooting.

Our best bets are 

• Lynx -7.5: High confidence
• Under 159.5: Moderate-High confidence
• First Half: Mercury +3.5: Moderate
• Napheesa Collier Over Rebounds (8.5-9.5 range): Moderate

Indiana Fever vs. Las Vegas Aces Game 2 Prediction (September 23, 2025)

Game 2 of the WNBA Semifinals goes down on Tuesday night at the Michelob ULTRA Arena on the Vegas Strip.

The Indiana Fever shocked pretty much everyone by beating the Las Vegas Aces, 89–73 in Game 1; Kelsey Mitchell got 34 points with 12-of-23 shooting, and Aliyah Boston totally owned the interior with amazing rebounding and rim protection.

The Fever’s outside shooting put the nail in the coffin for the Aces; they hit 52% from deep, which is well above their norm, and their defense rotated cleanly to keep the Aces out of whack. Even without Caitlin Clark, who’s out for the season with a groin injury, the Fever used the third quarter to pull ahead 28–19.

Game 2 will be a challenge of adjustments for Vegas; A’ja Wilson, who nabbed her fourth MVP award, was forced into 6-of-22 shooting for just 16 points. She’ll need to get better looks in the paint to balance the Aces. Jackie Young got 19 points, but the backcourt collectively couldn’t contain Indiana’s insane perimeter attack.

We think Vegas will look for quicker offensive flow and tighter coverage on the arc, and Indiana may be a little too cocky since they won the first game on the road.

Who do we think will win it? Keep reading for a breakdown of the betting odds, a Game 1 recap, main matchups to watch, stats, insights, and what we think are the four best bets for Game 2 of the WNBA Semis!

Game Details

• Matchup: Indiana Fever (24-20) vs. Las Vegas Aces (30-14); Game 2 of the  WNBA Semifinals
• Date & Time: Tuesday, September 23, at 9:30 pm ET
• Venue: Michelob ULTRA Arena, Las Vegas, NV
• How to Watch: ESPN, WNBA League Pass

Current Betting Odds

Don’t know where to lay your bets? We have the latest odds and lines courtesy of FanDuel!

What This Means

• The market is expecting Las Vegas to make a comeback, which is evident in the heavy −450 moneyline.
• An 8.5-point spread signals that bookmakers think the Aces can reassert control, but it also leaves some room for Indiana to cover as an underdog.
• The total of 164.5 points indicates expectations of a faster pace and more scoring from Vegas after their subpar offensive performance in Game 1.

Game 1 Recap & Implications

How did Game 1 play out? Here’s a quick recap and what it tells us:

Final Score: Indiana 89 – Las Vegas 73.

How the Fever did it:

• Kelsey Mitchell carried the offense with 34 points on 12-of-23 shooting; she hit from the deep and attacked lanes.
• Odyssey Sims and Natasha Howard gave excellent support; Howard also controlled the boards to limit any second chances.
• Indiana’s defense forced the Aces into hurried looks and kept A’ja Wilson from finding her usual rhythm.
• Shooting gap was decisive: The Fever were close to 50% from the floor, and the Aces were around 40%.
  

Why it matters for Game 2:

• Indiana proved that they can disrupt Vegas’ half-court sets.
• The Aces are now backed into a corner; losing both home games would put them at a disadvantage.
• The Fevers’ confidence is pretty high, and they’ll help them think that they can win another one.

Main Factors & Matchups to Watch

Who and what are we watching for Game 2 of the WNBA Semifinals? The following factors:

Statistical & Trend Insights

Here’s where things are after Game 1; the numbers indicate there are a few obvious pressure points for both squads heading into Game 2.

• Season Records: Aces 30–14; Fever 24–20.
• Head-to-Head: Las Vegas has controlled this matchup for years, but Indiana has now taken 2 of the last 3, including their playoff opener.
• Shooting Splits: The Fever shot 43% from deep in Game 1, which is way above their season average of 34%. If the Aces do not close out harder on the perimeter? That could happen again.
• ATS Trends: Indiana has covered in 7 of their last 10 games. Las Vegas is only 4–6 against the number in the same stretch.
• Totals Trends: Fever games have finished under the posted total in 6 of their last 8. The Aces usually have a higher-scoring pace, but playoff basketball has slowed down possessions.

What Each Team Needs to Do

Indiana’s Game 1 plan worked, but it’s not gonna look the same in Game 2! The Fever have to keep Mitchell scoring and find other ways to get points, and the Aces need to clean up their half-court offense and get Wilson back up to her MVP level, where she belongs.

Our Best Bets

Okay, for our best bets, we’ve narrowed it down to three angles and what looks like a really solid prop!

Risks & Variables

• Regression risk: Indiana shot almost 50% from the field and 43% from three in Game 1; both are well above their regular-season averages. If their accuracy cools? It’ll be much harder for them to stay in range.
• Wilson’s response: A’ja Wilson had a bad shooting night, but she still managed to grab 13 rebounds. If she finds her usual scoring touch and pushes into the high-20s or 30s, the Aces will be in control.
• Early separation: If Las Vegas builds a big lead by halftime, Indiana will be forced into quicker perimeter looks, and that makes it harder to cover the number.
• Foul trouble: Whistles on Mitchell, Boston, or Wilson in the first half could totally alter lineups and the game’s trajectory.

We Expect a Bounce-Back, Not a Blowout

Our Final Score Prediction

• Projected Final Score: Aces 88 – Fever 78
• Result: The Aces win, but Indiana covers +8.5.
• Total: It stays just under 165.

We don’t think the Fever have enough gas in the tank to do what they did in Game 1, so we are backing the Aces to take Game 2.

Why? Because A’ja Wilson will be back to her MVP self (we hope), and although Indiana will stay in it, we can’t see a way for them to win, even if they have another stellar performance from Mitchell.

It’s not gonna be a blowout by any means; it’ll be close at times, but in the end? Vegas will prevail!

Best Bets Recap

• Fever +8.5 spread: 75%
• Under 164.5 total points: 65%
• Aces −450 moneyline: 40%
• Kelsey Mitchell Over 20.5 points: 70%

Before locking in your Fever vs. Aces Game 2 bets, compare the latest lines and secure the best value by using one of our trusted platforms—check out our full list of top betting sites.

The Math Behind Sports Betting Teasers and Why They’re Risky

Today, we are gonna talk about a lesser-known form of betting. I’d never heard of them before, and I know betting, so chances are pretty good that others aren’t familiar with them either!

They are called sports betting teasers. What are they? Bets that let you shift point spreads in your favor. Sounds amazing, yah? You could give your team an extra 6 points on the spread, and that makes riskier bets feel a lot safer.

Sportsbooks market teasers as a flexible way to up your win rate, and it’s not hard to see why they appeal to bettors! But those extra points? They come at a price, and the math barely ever works out for the bettor in the long run.

And that’s why we are covering these teaser bets; you’ll find out how they work, how the odds are calculated, and why teasers are, for the most part, a long-term losing strategy despite the short-term attraction!

What Are Teasers in Sports Betting?

Okay, so this teaser bet thing is basically a modified parlay bet where you can adjust the point spreads (or totals) of multiple games in your favor.

When you “tease” the spread, you make each individual leg of the parlay easier to win, but in exchange, the sportsbook decreases the payout you’d receive if you win. It’s just like a standard parlay; every single leg has to cover the new spread for the teaser to pay out. If one team fails to cover the teased line? The whole bet loses.

Common Teaser Formats

Football betting is where teasers are the most popular, and the run-of-the-mill teaser allows you to move the spread by 6, 6.5, or 7 points on each game.

How Teasers Differ from Parlays

A traditional parlay combines multiple bets at standard odds, yielding a high payout if all winners are picked. But a teaser combines bets with more favorable spreads and thus pays out less than an equivalent parlay.

If a normal 2-team NFL parlay of spread bets pays roughly 13 to 5 odds (i.e., +260) if both picks win, whereas a typical 2-team 6-point teaser might pay around 10 to 11 (i.e., -110). The teaser bettor is “buying” points on each game, trading a lower payout for a higher probability of winning. It’s a tempting trade-off: teasers can turn losing bets into winners.

Let’s put it into a scenario where the Philadelphia Eagles were +3.5 underdogs and lost by 6 points, and the Kansas City Chiefs were -8 favorites but only won by 4. Neither team covered the original spread, so both bets would have lost. But a 6-point teaser could change those lines to Eagles +9.5 and Chiefs -2, and both teams would have covered those teaser spreads. The teaser turned two losing bets into a winning ticket. And this kind of outcome shows why teasers seem really smart at first look.

Even though teasers let you win bets that you would have lost, the payout is way smaller than a regular parlay or even two straight bets. That reduction in payout? That’s the sportsbook’s built-in advantage!

How Teasers Are Priced by Sportsbooks

As we said, teasers are just like parlays but with adjusted spreads, and sportsbooks price them accordingly. Instead of calculating odds for each unique combination of adjusted spreads, bookies usually will use a fixed payout table for teasers.

The Math behind Teasers

Yes, when taken at face value, a teaser does improve the probability of winning each individual bet. A standard point spread is set so that each side is around a 50% proposition (ignoring the juice). When you add 6 points in your favor, that bet might become something like a 70–75% proposition. And this is the main appeal of teasers: you’re turning bets that are 50/50 into bets that you’ll win more often than you don’t.

But how much more often, and is it enough to overcome the lower payout? This is where the math comes in, and it ain’t pretty.

Why Teasers Are Risky for Bettors

If teasers make winning so much easier, why aren’t they profitable for bettors? Because sportsbooks have tipped the scales against you.

Teasers give bettors that false sense of security we mentioned; they see a heavy favorite teased down to essentially just win the game, or an underdog getting a double-digit cushion, and it feels pretty much like a lock. But this safety is almost always an illusion; in reality, the long-term returns on teasers have been poor for most bettors.

Negative Expected Value (-EV)

The main issue is that you’re usually overpaying for the points that you buy in a teaser. The drop in payout (relative to a normal parlay) is larger than the true increase in probability for the teased outcomes. As we said above, you need about a ~73% win rate per leg to break even on a basic teaser, but those 6 extra points will only boost a given bet’s win probability by ~15–19 percentage points on average.

The gap between the required improvement and the actual improvement is where the sportsbook makes its money. In gambling terms? It means teasers are usually -EV bets, and you’re losing more than you win, even if it feels like you’re winning a lot. Sports betting analysts call teasers “sucker bets” for this very reason! The house edge is just too high in most cases, and bettors drawn in by the higher win percentages don’t realize that the payouts have been slashed even more.

The All-or-nothing Trap

Another risky factor is the psychological comfort of teasers. Because each leg is safer, bettors may put in more teams or bet larger amounts, thinking their money is protected, but one loss ruins the whole ticket.

A bettor who would normally avoid a certain game because the spread is sharp could be tempted to include it in a teaser (“we get an extra 6 points, so it should be fine!”). This can cause them to force bets that shouldn’t be made, and bettors sometimes tease too many teams together, attracted by the higher payouts on 4, 5, or 6-team teasers. The odds of winning all those legs, even with the extra points, become vanishingly small, and the sportsbooks’ payout doesn’t fully reflect just how hard it is.

The mathematical analysis shows that the sportsbook’s edge grows with more legs if you’re not extremely selective. Casino game designers would be beaming with pride; a random 6-team NFL teaser can carry a huge house edge, and it’s way higher than a single-game wager.

Sharp Bettors’ Perspective

Professional or “sharp” bettors usually stay well clear of teasers, except in rare instances where they see there’s a clear value. The consensus among sharps is that most teaser bets “look” easier than they really are.

Unless each teased leg has a strong statistical edge, you’re just compounding negative expected value across multiple games. Sharp bettors will flat-out refuse to tease certain sports or scenarios, like teasing basketball (with its high scoring variance) or teasing college football (with insanely unpredictable outcomes), which are considered bad propositions.

Even in the NFL, sharps have really strict rules: never tease through zero (going from e.g. -2 to +4) because you waste points crossing a spread where a game can’t realistically land on a tie in the pros. They also pay close attention to the price; most won’t play a standard two-team NFL teaser unless they can get -120 odds or better on a 6-point teaser.

The guidelines exist because, outside of very specific conditions, teasers don’t yield a positive return.

Teasers are risky for bettors because they appeal to our desire to win more often, but they stack the deck against us with worse payouts and the difficulty of hitting every leg. You might cash a teaser here or there, but the long-run expectation is that you’ll lose money on them. The odds are literally against you, and that’s a feature, not a bug.

When (If Ever) Teasers Make Sense

Are teasers ever a smart play? Yes, but only in a few super-specific scenarios. In those cases, a teaser can tilt the odds in the bettor’s favor. Wong teasers have become really popular among sharp NFL bettors, to the point that sportsbooks have adjusted their rules in response.

Real-Life Examples and Scenarios

Time to walk through a scenario to show how teasers play out in practice! Let’s say that it’s Sunday in the NFL and you spot two games that you want to bet on:

• Game 1: Team A is a 7-point favorite. You’re not sure they’ll cover a full touchdown, but you think they’ll probably win the game.
• Game 2: Team B is a +3 underdog. You believe they can keep it close, though winning outright isn’t a possibility.

If you bet these separately against the spread, you need Team A to win by >7 and Team B to lose by <3 (or win) to cash both. Suppose the results come in and Team A wins by only 3 points, and Team B loses by 7 points. Both straight bets would fail, and that’s frustrating because Team A did win (just not by enough) and Team B was somewhat competitive.

Now think about the teaser outcome: If you had done a 2-team, 6-point teaser instead, Team A’s line becomes -1 and Team B’s becomes +9. In the above scenario, Team A winning by 3 easily covers the -1, and Team B losing by 7 still covers the +9. Your teaser wins even though the original spread bets lost. This mirrors the kind of real-life case that draws people to teasers: you turned a would-be losing day into a winning teaser by using those extra points to your advantage.

A high-profile example occurred in the NFL playoffs a few years back: a favorite was -7 and only won by a field goal, while an underdog of +2 lost by 6 – anyone who teased those sides (favorite down to -1, dog up to +8) cashed their teaser, whereas straight bettors got burned. It feels vindicating to “be on the right side” thanks to a teaser. But one or two anecdotes do not make a solid bet! You have to consider the full track record of those wagers.

If a bettor did 100 two-team teasers over the course of a season, without a clear edge (just picking games they liked and teasing them), how would they fare versus doing 100 straight bets?

• If our hypothetical bettor is about average, hitting around 50% of their plays against the spread and they placed 100 straight bets at -110 odds and won 50, lost 50, their net would be a small loss (winning 50 bets yields +45.5 units, losing 50 yields -50 units, for a net of -4.5 units, roughly -4.5% of total risk).
• Now think about 100 teasers (so 200 individual legs) with the same level of picking skill. Each teaser requires both picks to win. Even if each leg has, say, a 69–70% chance (as the general NFL data showed for teased sides), the chance of winning a given 2-team teaser is only around 48–49%. Out of 100 teasers, this bettor might win about 48 and lose 52 on average. Winning 48 teasers at -110 odds gives +43.6 units; losing 52 costs -52 units, netting about -8.4 units. That’s nearly double the loss of the straight bets scenario. 

In terms of ROI, the straight bets lost ~4.5%, while the teasers lost ~8.4%. The teasers performed worse because of that higher break-even threshold; even though more individual legs won, the requirement to win all legs and the reduced payout wiped out all of the gains.

To be clear, none of this means you’ll never have a hot streak with teasers. You could win a bunch in a row (and certainly, sportsbook advertising will highlight winners). But the same could be said of roulette spins or lottery tickets; short-term variance can and does fool you. The real question is what happens over hundreds of bets. And in that sense, the odds are unforgiving: unless you’re selectively picking only the cream-of-the-crop teaser opportunities (and staying disciplined with odds), a large sample of teaser bets will make the math catch up to you. The occasional big win from a teaser is almost always offset by small losses elsewhere.

In real life, we’ve seen even the most experienced bettors swear off teasers after doing the year-end accounting. They realize that if they had just bet those teams against the spread individually (or maybe done a smaller parlay), they might have lost less or even come out ahead. The teaser’s draw is that it rescues some losing bets, but it also converts your winning bets into losing ones whenever one leg fails. And those failures, when they’re priced with extra juice? They will overtake the wins every time.

Final Verdict: The Odds Are Against You

Teasers are a trap, full stop. They dangle six free points and make you think you’ve outsmarted the sportsbook, but the house has already baked those points into the price. And that’s the whole reason for their existence: they cash in on bettors who want the game to feel safer than it really is.

Yes, you’ll hit some (everyone does), but run enough of them? The numbers will catch up and bite you where it hurts. The break-even rate is brutal, and unless you’re dialed in on super specific spots, you’re gonna hemorrhage money. Sportsbooks wouldn’t plaster teasers all over their boards if they weren’t a steady source of profit.

Below are the main points that you should remember if you’re considering sports betting teasers:

• Teasers are designed to play into your emotions. They may look like they’re a shortcut to more wins, but that’s the opposite of what will happen.
• The “safety net” is super misleading. Those extra points? They don’t guarantee long-term success once you factor in the lower payouts.
• The math never lies. When you work out the probabilities, most teasers come out with a negative expected value.
• Rare exceptions do exist! A properly structured Wong teaser, where you move through the NFL’s key numbers, can sometimes tilt the math back in your favor.
• Approach with caution. If you’re betting seriously and care about your bankroll, teasers should be the rare exception, not a part of your regular card.

Want to test out a teaser using real math support? You can use our Free Arbitrage Betting Calculator to compare your edge across multiple sportsbooks!

Detroit Lions vs. Baltimore Ravens MNF Prediction (September 22, 2025)

Week 3 of the NFL season is gonna go out with a bang. The Detroit Lions are headed to Baltimore to play the Ravens in what sports analysts are saying could be a potential Super Bowl preview!

Monday Night Football features two squads that were in contention for the Super Bowl two years ago, and last season, both were bounced in the Divisional Round.

We’re nowhere near playoff stakes, but they’re both trying to get above .500. They both come into this one at 1–1; Detroit beat Chicago last week, and Baltimore took out Cleveland.

This is only the eighth time the teams have ever played each other, and the Ravens are the 4.5-point favorites at home. Why? Because they’ve been formidable at home and they’ve got Lamar Jackson, that’s why.

Who are we backing? Keep scrolling to see the game details, betting odds, team profiles, recent form, matchup analysis, trend, insights, our picks for the three best bets, and a bonus angle for the pros!

Game Details

• Matchup: Detroit Lions (1-1) vs. Baltimore Ravens (1-1)
• Date & Time: Monday, September 22, at 8:15 pm ET
• Where: M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, Maryland
• How To Watch: Airing on ESPN and ABC

Betting Odds

Monday Night Football is prime time betting territory! Here are the current odds and lines listing on BetMGM:

Baltimore is the favorite by more than a field goal, and that means the oddsmakers are giving the Ravens the advantage but not projecting it’ll be a blowout. The total at 53.5 signals expectations for a lot of scoring, and if heavier betting comes in on Detroit, the line could move closer to -3.5.

Team Profiles & Recent Form

Let’s take a look at how the Lions and the Ravens have performed in the first two weeks of the season:

Matchup Analysis

Detroit’s blocking against Baltimore’s rush and Lamar Jackson’s ability to escape pressure will be the deciding factors in how long each offense stays on the field!

Betting Trends & Insights

• Detroit (ATS): The Lions have covered 7 of their last 10 games as underdogs. When the pass protection holds, Goff pushes the offense into scoring range often enough to keep them inside the number.
• Baltimore (SU / ATS): The Ravens are 13–4 straight up in primetime home games under Harbaugh. They’ve also covered 8 of their last 11 when laying less than a touchdown.
• Totals: Both teams are top-10 in yards per play so far. The 53.5 line signals that bookmakers expect touchdowns over field goals when drives get into scoring territory.

Our Best Bets

We’ve got some angles that look pretty good for this game! Here’s what we think are the go-to bets and an angle for the more experienced bettors:

Bettor Summary

• Best Value: Ravens -4.5. The line is still under 6, and Baltimore’s pass rush, combined with their strong track record in night games at home, makes this the most reliable side.
• Secondary Angle: Over 53.5. Both teams are putting points on the scoreboard, and defensive breakdowns on each squad make a higher total very possible.
• Pass on Standalone: Ravens ML (-235). The price is way too inflated to back by itself and only makes sense when it’s part of a parlay or paired with a total.
• Extra Angle: Props tied to an offensive game script, like Lamar Jackson rushing yards or Amon-Ra St. Brown receptions, can shore up the overall betting card.

Risk Factors & Potential Upsets

• Pass Protection: If Detroit’s offensive line wins enough one-on-one matchups, Jared Goff will have time to attack downfield and convert third downs, which gives the Lions a clear route to covering the number.
• Turnovers: A turnover by Lamar Jackson or a forced takeaway on a Detroit drive would give the Lions short fields and change drive expectations, and that means Detroit has a chance of pulling off an upset against Baltimore.
• Special Teams: Justin Tucker’s range and Riley Patterson’s accuracy inside 50 mean one or two kicks could end up deciding the spread.

The Lions Fight Hard, but Can’t Get Past Baltimore

Projected Final Score: Ravens 31 – Lions 24

We admire the Lions’ scrappiness, but that doesn’t mean we think they can pull off the upset here; we are firmly in the Ravens camp for this game.

Detroit’s offense will def produce, but their defense has not proven that it can hold up against quarterbacks who buy time and attack downfield. Lamar Jackson gives Baltimore that and more, and the Ravens’ pass rush should disrupt enough possessions to separate. Points will be scored on both sides, but Baltimore? It has the finishers to cover at home!

Best Bets Recap

• Ravens -4.5: (7.5/10)
• Over 53.5: (6.5/10)
• Ravens ML: -235 (5/10)

Monday Night Football is here! Before betting on Lions vs Ravens, compare spreads, totals, and props with our football betting sites to secure top odds, fast payouts, and trusted platforms.

Chiefs vs. Giants Prediction & Best Bets (September 21, 2025)

The Chiefs and their golden boy, Patrick Mahomes, are not having a good start to the 2025 NFL season. No, sir, Kansas City is in the hole 0-2 and is facing another team that’s in the same boat; the NY Giants are also 0-2.

The two will play on Sunday, Sept. 21, at 8:20 pm at MetLife Stadium in NJ, and one of them will end their losing streak; the other will go deeper into the hole and be 0-3.

The Giants got over 500 yards of offense against Dallas last week, which was one of their most productive outings in years, but still came up short in OT. Their defensive front, usually a huge strength, wore down in the fourth quarter and couldn’t finish drives.

The Chiefs aren’t desperate yet, but they will be if they lose this prime-time game to NY!

What’s the market look like pre-game? DraftKings has Kansas City as a 6-point favorite (-110) with a moneyline of -325. The Giants are priced at +6 (-110) and +260 on the moneyline. The total is set at 45.5, with the Over at -108 and the Under at -112.

Kansas City has to get its offense back on track behind Mahomes and Andy Reid, and the Giants want to convert the home-field energy into an upset bid. It’ll be a doozy, that’s for sure!

Keep reading for the latest betting odds, injury/availability report, main matchups to watch, stat trends, what both teams need to do to win, and what we feel are the four best bets!

Game Details

• Matchup: Kansas City Chiefs (0-2) at New York Giants (0-2)
• Date & Time: Sunday, September 21; kickoff is at 8:20 pm ET
• Where: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey
• How To Watch: Airing on NBC and streaming on Peacock

Betting Odds

Want to wager on the game? Here’s what DraftKings has listed for the odds and lines:

Injury & Availability Report

Who’s playing and who’s out, and how will it affect the game plan? Here’s what we know as of publication:

Impact on Game

If Thomas plays, the Giants’ offense has a lot more time to work downfield. And for Kansas City, having both Worthy and Royals active is super important; if they’re out? Mahomes will have to rely more on Travis Kelce and shorter routes.

Main Matchups to Watch

Here’s who and what we are watching in the game:

• Mahomes vs. Giants Secondary: Mahomes will push coverage vertically, even if Kansas City is short on receivers. The Giants can’t afford breakdowns in assignment, or he’ll turn modest windows into scoring chances.
• Giants Offensive Line vs. Chiefs Pass Rush: Chris Jones anchors a Kansas City front that can collapse pockets really fast. Andrew Thomas’ return would give New York a better blindside, but interior blocking also has to hold up to keep drives moving.
• Giants Run Game vs. Chiefs Run Defense: If Saquon Barkley and the rotation can get consistent gains, New York can control the tempo and keep Mahomes on the sideline. If the Chiefs stuff early downs? That will force the Giants into predictable passing situations.
• Chiefs WRs vs. Giants Coverage: Because Xavier Worthy and Jalen Royals are not at full strength, Kansas City will probably rely heavily on Travis Kelce, and that puts immense pressure on the Giants’ linebackers and safeties to handle mismatches over the middle.

Statistical Trends & Betting Angles

The betting history between the Chiefs and the Giants and their current form give us a decent picture of where the best betting angles could be!

Against the Spread (ATS)

• Kansas City has been pretty reliable in this spot: 13–6 ATS as a road favorite since 2021. But they’ve opened 0–2 ATS this year, which has left bettors burned not once, but twice.
• New York is only 2–6 ATS in its last 8 home games, and four of those losses were by double digits against quarterbacks in the Mahomes/Allen tier.

Totals

• Six of the Chiefs’ last 10 have stayed Under, and that shows there have been slower starts and fewer explosive plays compared to how they played in their peak years.
• The Giants’ last 10 home games have skewed Under when their red-zone offense falters; they’ve averaged only 1.7 TDs per game at MetLife in that time.

Historical Context

• Kansas City has won 4 of its last 5 meetings with NFC opponents by more than a touchdown.
• The Giants have had a really hard time in primetime and nationally spotlighted games.

What the Giants Need to Do to Cover / Win

• Protect the QB: The offensive line has to keep Kansas City’s pass rush from collapsing the pocket. Quick sets, slide protection, and extra help from tight ends or backs are mandatory.
• Mix the run and short passing game: Barkley needs regular touches, but they need to pair it with quick throws to Odunze and Slayton so the Chiefs can’t load up against the run.
• Force red-zone field goals: The Giants need stops inside the 20; holding Kansas City to three points instead of seven keeps the game within reach.
• Win the turnover margin: A takeaway or two gives New York short fields, and that is the best way to keep up with Mahomes. Protecting the ball on offense is just as important.
• Hit vertical shots: Playing everything underneath will not be enough. The Giants have to connect on a couple of deep attempts to stretch Kansas City’s coverage!

What the Chiefs Need to Do to Cover / Win

• Start Fast: Kansas City cannot afford another slow start, so scripted throws to Kelce and early touches for Pacheco can keep its drives on schedule.
• Leverage Kelce in matchups: Because they have limited receivers, Kelce has to be moved around the formation to attack linebackers and safeties who can’t cover him in space.
• Protect Mahomes: The offensive line has to neutralize New York’s edge rush, so expect to see chip blocks from backs and tight ends to buy time on longer routes.
• Limit mistakes: Penalties have stalled out way too many drives in their 0–2 start. Staying disciplined is a non-negotiable if they want to cover a near-touchdown spread.
• Shut down Barkley early: Forcing New York into long-yardage passing downs will let the Chiefs dictate with their pass rush.

Our Best Bets

The Chiefs are the favorite, but the current lines still leave some room for other bets! Here are the four we like:

The Chiefs Get Back on Track

Final Score Prediction: Chiefs 28 – Giants 17

Kansas City covers the -6 spread and the total edges Over!

Neither team is off to a great start, but only one of them has Mahomes, and it would be a shocker if Kansas City allows 0–3 to happen. That’s one of the biggest reasons we are backing the Chiefs here. 

The Giants do have some juice on offense, but their line just cannot hold up against Chris Jones and that pass rush. Mahomes doesn’t need his receivers to be absolutely perfect when he’s got Kelce picking apart coverage. The Giants will stay in it for a bit, but we just can’t see them pulling off a win against KC.

Best Bets Recap

• Chiefs -6 (-108): ★★★★☆ (7.5/10)
• Chiefs ML (-305): ★★★☆☆ (6/10)
• Over 44.5 (-112): ★★★★☆ (6.5/10)
• Travis Kelce Anytime TD: ★★★★★ (8/10)

Gear up for the Chiefs vs Giants Sunday Night Football showdown! Compare spreads, totals, and props with our top football betting sites to secure the best value and maximize your edge.

Cincinnati Bengals vs. Minnesota Vikings Prediction (September 21, 2025)

Both teams will have to fall back and rely on their quarterback backups to steady the ship in this game. Jake Browning will step in as Joe Burrow is officially on the injured reserve list for the Cincinnati Bengals. On the Minnesota end, Casrion Wentz will step in for rookie J. J. McCarthy.

The Cincinnati Bengals have a strong start and will push to stay perfect in this game. We can’t say the same for Minnesota, as the team desperately needs a win at home to avoid slipping into an early hole.

We have a few thoughts, but the biggest question on our mind is whether the Bengals’ defense will continue forcing turnovers. Or will Wentz and Justin Jefferson connect for enough explosive plays to swing the game in Minnesota’s favor? We will analyze both teams, share our thoughts on the match direction, and also give you our best bet and score prediction.

Game Details

• Matchup: Cincinnati Bengals (2-0) vs. Minnesota Vikings (1-1)
• Game Details: Sunday, September 20 at  1:00 pm ET
• Location: U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, MN
• How To Watch: CBS

Current Odds & Betting Landscape (via FanDuel)

• Implied Probability: The Books give Minnesota about a 60% chance of winning outright.
• Betting Interpretation: The bets are essentially a toss-up with a field-goal spread, reflecting uncertainty around both QB situations. As for the total, we think it is modest. It suggests that oddsmakers expect a slower, more controlled game rather than a shootout.

Situations, Storylines, & Game Flow Factors

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• Quarterback Situation
  • Edge Analysis: Carson Wentz has more starts under his belt than Jake Browning. But when it comes to continuity in the roster, Browning has the edge.
• Trends & Intangibles
  • Head-to-head: The teams’ last two meetings went to OT, with the Bengals winning both by a field goal (by three points).
  • Bengals on the road: The team is 4-2 ATS in their last six road games.
  • Vikings at home: 2-5 ATS in their last seven home games as favorites.
  • Turnover battle: The Bengals have a +3 turnover differential, while the Vikings are at -2.

Problem Game Script & Key Turning Points

• The Bengals may attempt to lean on defense early and pressure Wentz while shortening the field for Browning.
• On the other hand, the Vikings will push to establish the run with Akers. However, their protection issues up front could force Wentz into long 3rd downs.
• For explosive plays, we’ll have to look towards Jefferson as he faces a depleted Bengals secondary. He is more likely to force explosive plays.
• Critical factor: The QB with fewer mistakes will probably take the win. Nevertheless, expect a field-position grind with scoring bursts off turnovers.

Best Bets & Confidence Level

Prediction & Final Call

• Game flow: Expect a defensive struggle early, with short fields setting up the most scoring chances. Jefferson will likely make big plays, but the Bengals’ defensive line may tip the balance late.
• Final Score Prediction: Bengals 20, Vikings 17

Bengals Defense Holds the Edge

Both teams have no choice but to play backups at QB. For the Bengals, their defense and turnover margin tilt the matchup slightly their way. The Vikings, on the other hand, have limited consistency because of their O-line injuries, plus the loss of Aaron Jones.

The Bengals will likely cover the +3 spread, with value on the ML. Overall, expect a lower-scoring battle—under 42.5 looks strong.

Get more from your Bengals vs Vikings bets—shop the sharpest spreads, totals, and props with our top sports betting sites and maximize every wager with trusted platforms.

The History of the First Casinos in the U.S. (10 Unique Facts)

Casinos are so much more than glittering lights and jackpots—and you might not know it, but they are deeply ingrained into American culture and history. That’s right, they are historic, and rightly so!

But what exactly is the origin story behind the high-stakes world in the U.S.? In order to answer that question, we have to go back, back to the time before poker chips and slot machines. Back to the era when gambling was only found in places like colonial lotteries and on riverboat card tables. Strap in as we tell you the story of how the first casinos in the U.S. got their humble beginnings.

The Beginning: Gambling before Casinos

Way before purpose-built casinos were ever even a thought, gambling got its initial footing in taverns, homes, and even aboard riverboats as it evolved alongside the fledgling nation! Up first? The colonial times!

Colonial America

Yes, there was gambling in colonial America, but it wasn’t like it is today, which is a fun pastime; it was actually a way to fund important projects and bring communities together—a two-for-one.

In the early days of the first colonies, gambling took on several forms—things like lotteries, card games, dice throws, and horse races, just to name a few. Lotteries were super popular, but not like they are today, which is a get-rich-quick pastime; they were a practical way to generate funds for public works. The Ivy League institutions like Harvard, Princeton, and Yale all owe their early funding to colonial-era lotteries! Surprised about that little tidbit? We were, too! Road construction and churches were also built with the proceeds that were generated from lotteries.

Alas, the colonies were divided on how they viewed gambling. In Puritan New England, it was mostly condemned, as it was seen as sinful and frivolous. But in the Southern colonies, it was looked upon more openly as a fun social activity. Gambling was a mirror of the nation’s growing divisions—both geographically and morally. For some, it was simply harmless entertainment; for others, it was a slippery slope that led to vice.

Riverboat Gambling

Then came the riverboats, and they changed gambling games into a traveling spectacle. It was a combination of elegance and opportunity for those who liked to try their luck on the Mississippi River.

As the 19th century dawned, the Mississippi River became an iconic symbol of America’s westward expansion and economic growth—and with it came the dawn of riverboat gambling. The enormous paddlewheel steamers weren’t just transporting goods back and forth along the watery thoroughfare—they were also carrying card sharks, gamblers, and adventurers who were looking for some entertainment onboard.

Riverboat gambling had a truly distinctive appeal, and it operated in a legal gray area—it literally floated away from the laws of any particular state it was passing through. Poker and faro were two of the most popular games, and it brought on players who were just as interested in the fun as they were in the winning money part of it. The riverboats themselves were cultural icons, and they brought forth a sense of romance and mystery to gambling. Don’t mistake them for mere venues; they were total experiences! They had a sophisticated Southern charm and the bonus of games.

The Birth of the First U.S. Casinos

As the U.S. expanded, the concept of designated gambling spaces began to expand with it, and so it moved from the informal games to the more structured environments that laid the foundation for modern physical casinos.

Regulation and Expansion

As gambling kept growing in the U.S., it didn’t take long for lawmakers and society to take notice. With the popularity came a lot of scrutiny, and with that came the first waves of regulation—but that didn’t stop the eventual rise of casino empires.

Early Attempts at Regulation

When gambling put down solid roots, not everyone was ready or willing to just roll with it—no such luck. Although most viewed and welcomed gambling as entertainment, others saw it as a dangerous vice that needed controlling. In the 19th century, laws against gambling began to crop up across the U.S., and it usually targeted certain games or establishments. But any enforcement was spotty at best, and gambling houses went underground. They continued their operations in secret, and law enforcement usually turned a blind eye to it—or took a cut of the action.

New Orleans, once a gambling haven, faced a crackdown in the mid-1800s when authorities attempted to “clean” up its reputation. California, too, passed anti-gambling laws during its Gold Rush boom, though the rules were loosely, if ever, enforced. The real impact of any regulations was to drive gambling into the shadows, which made it even harder to monitor, but it never stamped it out. It was super clear that the public appetite for gaming wasn’t going anywhere, regardless of any laws.

Las Vegas: Laying the Foundation

On to Vegas! Nevada legalized gambling in 1931, and it turned a dusty and mostly deserted desert town into the epicenter of a multibillion-dollar industry.

But Las Vegas didn’t just appear like an oasis as the entertainment mecca we now know. At first, it was not much more than a pit stop for travelers in the early 1900s. But when Nevada decided to legalize gambling during the Great Depression? That’s when everything changed. The move was initially intended to boost the state’s struggling economy, but it laid the groundwork for a new kind of casino—and one that was much grander than a backroom gambling house.

The El Rancho Vegas, which opened its doors in 1941, was the city’s first luxury casino—it was a hotel and a live entertainment joint. It was a novelty at first; no one imagined that combining gambling with hospitality would turn the concept of a casino into a full-blown destination. Visionaries like Bugsy Siegel took this idea even further when he envisioned and created iconic venues like The Flamingo that totally redefined what a casino could be. Las Vegas wasn’t just a city in the desert anymore—it was a promise of escape, glamour, and the possibility of winning big money.

The Legacy of Early Casinos

The earliest days of U.S. casinos did way more than entertain—they put in the work to make them the cultural phenomenon that remains to this day!

Social and Cultural Impact

Casinos didn’t only change how Americans would spend some of their leisure time—they actually changed entire communities.

As we said earlier, in the 19th and early 20th centuries, gambling was a social equalizer. Early casinos and gambling houses brought in people from all walks of life, which meant that wealthy travelers, working-class locals, and sometimes notorious outlaws often found themselves seated at the same table, mingling and playing the games in front of them. The co-mingling of people and cultures made for really unique social spaces where regular societal boundaries blurred and fortunes were made—or lost.

Eventually, casinos weren’t just places to gamble. They gradually changed into destinations that had dining, entertainment, and luxury accommodations. They also formed the identity of cities like New Orleans, San Francisco, and Las Vegas, turning them into cultural landmarks. Gambling was no longer an activity—it was an integral part of the American story.

Innovations in Casino Design and Experience

What started out as dimly lit, shady gambling rooms grew into dazzling entertainment hubs, but the transition from simple gambling houses to sprawling casino resorts wasn’t always about scale—it was about making it a whole experience. Early casinos, like those in New Orleans, concentrated solely on the games. But by the middle of the 20th century, that focus changed into wanting to give people an all-encompassing escape.

Las Vegas was at the forefront of the innovations, and casinos started to incorporate themes, like the Venetian’s nod to Italy or Caesars Palace’s Roman grandeur, which built immersive environments that took visitors to a whole other world. Slot machines, which were once a novelty, became way more sophisticated and lucrative, making them appeal to a bigger audience. Entertainment also became a must-have, and there were performances from stars like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley that drew in crowds who probably weren’t there to gamble—they wanted to see their favorite stars perform live.

The changes were the framework for modern casinos, where gaming is just one piece of a bigger picture that includes bougie dining and shopping, nightlife, and luxurious relaxation at fancy spas. It was no longer just about the cards or the dice—it was now about the whole experience.

Fun Facts About Early U.S. Casinos

The history of early U.S. casinos is loaded with lots of quirky details, clever workarounds, and legendary moments that showcase the ingenuity and colorful characters of the gambling world. We thought it would be fun to tell you some fun facts about how some of it played out!

Conclusion: From Humble to Historic

From lotteries that funded Ivy League schools like Harvard in colonial America to the neon-lit streets of Las Vegas, the history of casinos is a legendary tale of change, resilience, and cultural significance. In its own way, gambling has always reflected the American spirit—bold, ambitious, and not at all scared to take a few risks.

Look below for a quick recap of the history of the first casinos in the U.S.:

• Gambling’s roots can be traced back to colonial America, where lotteries were used to fund important and needed public projects.
• Riverboats brought gambling to the Mississippi—they were elegant and could operate in a space of legal ambiguity when gambling was frowned upon by society.
• The first gambling houses in cities like New Orleans and San Francisco were instrumental in laying the groundwork for today’s land-based casinos.
• Early regulation did attempt to curb or outright stop gambling, but the legalization in Nevada changed the game forever.
• Casinos were made into destinations that mixed gaming with entertainment and luxury.

Modern casinos owe their entire existence to the early pioneers! These visionaries turned simple games of chance into the sprawling industry that it is today and will continue to be in the future. They didn’t only build the first casinos—they built entire dreams.

FAQs

The history of early casinos in the U.S. is chock full of really interesting stories, isn’t it? We think so! In case you have more questions about how it all came to be, below are some of the most common FAQs our readers have sent us!