2024 NFL Week 14 best bets suggest fading the Jets while backing the Chiefs.
What could possibly go wrong with this strategy?
For the sake of bettors everywhere — and their wallets — it’s hoped that everything will go smoothly.
Let’s examine the best betting opportunities for NFL Week 14.
(All times ET)
SUNDAY, DEC. 8
Jets @ Dolphins (1 p.m., CBS)
For over thirty years, a Jets fan has tried to avoid betting on or against the team, as emotions can cloud judgment.
However, this time is different.
Recently, the Jets announced linebacker C.J. Mosley will go on injured reserve, and both Breece Hall and Sauce Gardner are doubtful for Sunday’s game.
Following a heartbreaking 26-21 defeat to the Seahawks, the Jets were once ahead 21-7. Aaron Rodgers missed a wide-open Garrett Wilson for a potential three-touchdown lead, only to throw a 92-yard pick-six on the next play.
With no playoff hopes remaining, the Jets’ locker room acknowledges that their season is effectively over.
Now, they face a post-Thanksgiving trip to Florida, where the Dolphins are enjoying extra rest after playing last Thursday. The Dolphins are healthy and eager to chase down Denver for the final wild-card spot.
Head coach Mike McDaniel has struggled against stronger teams, with a record of 1-15 against opponents above .500. However, when facing weaker competition, the Dolphins tend to excel, easily defeating teams like the Raiders and Patriots.
Regrettably, the Jets fit the profile of a weaker team.
Panthers @ Eagles (1 p.m., FOX and FOX Sports App)
The Eagles are arguably the best team in the NFL at this moment.
Leading the league in rushing, they present a challenging matchup for the Panthers. Carolina has allowed over 2,000 rushing yards this season, averaging 166 yards per game, which is the worst in the NFL.
While the Panthers have shown improvement in recent weeks, defeating the Saints and Giants while narrowly losing to the Chiefs and Buccaneers, it’s essential to note that three of those contests took place at home, and one was in Germany.
It’s easy to overlook the Panthers, just as the Eagles did against the Browns and Jaguars, both of which were close games without a cover.
Expect the Eagles to build a significant lead by the third quarter, leading to potential resting of starters in the fourth quarter. This adds a layer of risk to this bet.
However, even the Eagles’ backup players should find success against a struggling Panthers defense.
Chargers @ Chiefs (8:20 p.m., NBC/Peacock)
Betting against Jim Harbaugh two weeks in a row is typically unwise, but this situation revolves around injuries.
Last week, that was the case as well.
Consider this: J.K. Dobbins is on injured reserve, which weakens the ground game, while rookie Ladd McConkey’s limited practice time raises concerns about the passing game. If McConkey does not play, the Chiefs may stack the box and challenge Justin Herbert to perform with a limited receiving corps.
The Falcons recently demonstrated this strategy, restricting the Chargers to 187 yards of offense and preventing them from crossing midfield in the second half. However, Kirk Cousins’ four interceptions in crucial moments led to a painful defeat for the Chargers.
In contrast, Patrick Mahomes is unlikely to replicate those mistakes.
Despite not covering in six consecutive games, the Chiefs have managed to win. They were seven-point favorites earlier this season against the Chargers at SoFi Stadium. While some criticisms of the Chiefs’ performance are valid, they continue to find ways to survive and win.
On Sunday night, the Chiefs are expected to secure a victory, adding yet another division title to their impressive record under head coach Andy Reid and quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
