Week 1 in the NFL was full of ups and downs, with surprising results all around. It will conclude on Monday night as the Ravens and Raiders will do battle in Las Vegas. Normally, MNF is played as a doubleheader in the first week, with LV just playing the host role in game two. But now, it’s a single game, with the normal start time. And that’s how the week will end.
Baltimore lost their three primary running backs for the season in the course of eight days. They also lost star DB Marcus Peters, who has revived his career in a major way with the Ravens. They were able to pick up a slew of veterans to try and offset the losses, which could be critical. This is a team that wins the game by running the ball, after all.
For Las Vegas, they might be without Josh Jacobs. This is still to be determined, but he is questionable with an illness of some kind. If that kept him out, Kenyan Drake would debut as a starter with his new club. He split carries with Chase Edmonds a year ago, so he is used to it all. There is some real pressure on Jon Gruden to help his team win this year.
Betting Odds & News
Monday night’s spread is set at BAL -4. The over/under is 50.5 points. The BAL moneyline is -200, and the LV moneyline is +170.
Ravens Seeking Road Win
A victory here would give Baltimore a nice start to the year. Especially considering that they have to face the Chiefs in week 2. They are being given a few tough games to start, to challenge themselves. Lamar Jackson should be able to dominate right away, even with all new backs now here. It will be like his rookie year again, re-establishing the chemistry.
They found some new weapons in the receiving game, though injuries will keep some of them out. Look for Sammy Watkins to get off to a quick start for his new team. And look for the team’s o-line to be ready to do some serious blocking.
There is no gaping hole on the roster, making Baltimore as dangerous as any team.
Raiders Seeking an Upset
A victory would do nicely for Las Vegas in week 1, especially because many consider them the underdog. After the second year in a row featuring a late-season implosion, it will be interesting to see how they begin. Starting 6-4 seems to be their generic downfall.
Whenever they begin with that record, the losses pile up shortly after. But, they should be equipped for success. They have some new receivers, but Darren Waller is back. They have some big names on D who are ready to make an impact right away.
But it is obvious. The only way Vegas gets the win is if they manage to keep Lamar Jackson in check.
Ravens Win
Baltimore will cruise to an MNF win to open their season up.
Betting Picks:
- BAL -4
- Over 50.5
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