Bear Bets presents a compelling betting preview for the upcoming 2024 NFL season!
As the excitement builds, the “Bear Bets” team continues to analyze the year ahead from a betting perspective, offering keen insights for fans and bettors alike.
In the latest discussion, Chris “The Bear” Fallica and Geoff Schwartz welcomed back Sam Panayotovich and Will Hill to explore betting strategies focused on the AFC.
The panel shared their top picks, including some intriguing long shots, so let’s dive into their betting recommendations!
What wagers stand out in the AFC East?
Schwartz: New England Patriots Under 4.5 wins, Under 337.5 total points, potential bet on worst record in NFL (+320)
Hill: Patriots Under 4.5 wins, consider betting on last winless team
“Where will they find their first win? Their schedule includes tough matchups like the Bengals, Seahawks, and 49ers. It’s hard to see them securing five wins.”
The Bear: Miami Dolphins Under 9.5 wins, likely to miss the playoffs, and consider all Tua Tagovailoa Unders
“With significant roster changes and a new defensive coordinator, the Dolphins are facing challenges. Last season, they struggled against playoff teams. If Tua stays healthy again, it would be a surprise.”
Hill: Bet on Dolphins to miss the playoffs, but timing is key
“Their schedule’s first half is manageable, but the second half is tough. They perform well in warm weather, but cold conditions could hinder their performance.”
Schwartz: Aaron Rodgers for Comeback Player of the Year
“Rodgers has a compelling storyline and is unlikely to face injuries for two consecutive years.”
Hill: Jets to win the AFC
“Once Rodgers takes the field, he will shine. With a solid team and a strong defense, the Jets have immense potential.”
Sammy P: Jets over Philadelphia Eagles and Eagles over Jets wagers in Super Bowl (+12500 average value)
“Given the value, this is a worthwhile play.”
Sammy P: Keon Coleman for Offensive Rookie of the Year
“With Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis gone, Coleman is poised to be the top target in Buffalo. If he achieves 80 receptions and 12 touchdowns, he could easily take home the Rookie of the Year award.”
What wagers are appealing in the AFC North?
The Bear: Baltimore Ravens Under 11.5 wins, likely to miss the playoffs
“With key losses on the offensive line, and considering Lamar Jackson’s injury history, this could be a challenging season for the Ravens.”
Hill: Bet Cincinnati Bengals to win the division over Ravens
“Fading a solid coach-quarterback duo is risky, but the Ravens have lost significant talent. The Bengals, with Joe Burrow healthy and a favorable schedule, appear to have the upper hand.”
Sammy P: Ravens to miss the playoffs (+240)
“The Ravens face one of the toughest schedules this season, starting strong.”
Schwartz: Cleveland Browns to win the division (+600) and make the playoffs (+145)
“With a strong roster, the Browns have the potential to excel, provided Deshaun Watson performs adequately.”
Schwartz: Myles Garrett Over 13.75 sacks, TJ Watt Over 13.75 sacks
“Sack totals are a market I consistently favor. These players often exceed expectations, and their career numbers support this projection.”
What bets are worth considering in the AFC South?
The Bear: Trevor Lawrence to lead the league in passing (+2500)
“Despite some uncertainty about his generational talent, Lawrence threw for over 4,000 yards last season while dealing with injuries and a lack of support from his receivers.”
Sammy P: Consider Over on Will Levis totals and to lead the league in passing (+4000)
“With a likely pass-heavy game script and talented receivers like DeAndre Hopkins, Levis has a shot if everything aligns.”
The Bear: Consider Titans Over 6.5 wins
“The AFC South presents opportunities, as teams like the Texans and Colts might be overrated. The Titans could surprise many this season.”