Online betting sure is heating up right now. We have the World Series on the horizon, some big UFC cards and, of course, the NFL. Ready for some Thursday night picks? Try these on for size. Jacksonville Jaguars @ Philadelphia Eagles
Thursday, August 27, 7:00 p.m. ET
NFL picks favorite: Eagles -7
As far as we can see, the Jags/Eagles game is a fairly easy decision for bettors. Jacksonville lacks depth and is likely to be careful with its few prized offensive starters, so Maurice Jones-Drew, David Garrard and Torry Holt likely won’t play much. The Eagles boast many capable offensive backups, from A.J. Feeley at quarterback to LeSean McCoy at running back, so they should score plenty of points on a night when Michael Vick could make his return.
BSNblog Pick: Eagles -7
St. Louis Rams @ Cincinnati Bengals
Thursday, August 27, 7:30 p.m. ET
NFL picks favorite: Bengals -2.5
If Carson Palmer is healthy for Week 1, the Bengals’ NFL odds should see a nice boost, as he has a solid supporting cast in the resurgent Chad Johnson, the reliable Laveranues Coles and the talented if enigmatic Chris Henry. None of that information really helps their chances against St. Louis this week, though. Carson Palmer may not play because of his high ankle sprain, meaning the Bengals’ terrible backup quarterbacks may get the reins.
The Rams may be less cautious as they try to break in youngsters like Adam Carriker and James Laurinatis, so don’t be surprised if they’re the more motivated team. Sportsbook software recommends them.
BSNblog Pick: Rams +2.5
Miami Dolphins @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Saturday, August 27, 8:00 p.m. T
NFL picks favorite: Buccaneers -2.5
Tampa Bay is favored to win this all-Florida battle at home, but probably only because of that home field advantage. Football-wise, the Bucs have very little going for them. Antonio Bryant’s knee injury puts a big hole in their receiving corps, their quarterback situation is very murky and their defense doesn’t seem the same with Derrick Brooks and co-ordinator Monte Kiffin gone, not to mention Angel Crowell out for the year with a torn bicep.
The Dolphins have that wildcat working for them again and shouldn’t have much trouble using it to torture Tampa.
BSNblog Pick: Dolphins +2.5
