Buccaneers vs. Vikings: NFL Week 1 Odds & Picks (2023)
Sunday marks the first full slate of NFL games for the 2023 season. Make sure to check in with BettingPros throughout the year for top picks and predictions for each and every NFL game. Our writers dive into their favorite picks and predictions for every remaining game on this weekend’s NFL slate. And let’s take a closer look at Buccaneers vs. Vikings.
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NFL Week 1 Odds, Picks & Predictions: Buccaneers vs. Vikings
Buccaneers vs. Vikings
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have so many undrafted free agents on the roster. Either they're insane at finding gems, or the team is less skilled than all other teams in the NFL. Baker Mayfield has Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. But after that, his receiver core drops off. Trey Palmer has potential as the No. 3 receiver, but with Russell Gage injured, the offense already looks depleted. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay defense was just average last season. The secondary should be good. But other than that, the Buccaneers will struggle. On the other hand, the Vikings were probably lucky to win many games last year. However, analytically, the team was still above-average. On defense, the Vikings were dominant against the run. On offense, the Vikings showed off a lot of playmaking. The Vikings no longer have Dalvin Cook, but they do have Alexander Mattison, who is poised for a breakout season. The Vikings still don't get enough respect. Take Minnesota -5.5.
Pick: Vikings -5.5 (-110)
What is Betting Against the Spread?
Betting "against the spread" refers to the act of choosing the winning team based on a numeric handicap placed on the team that oddsmakers believe is superior, rather than picking the outright winner. For example, if the Rams face the Bengals, and oddsmakers set the spread at Rams -3.5, you would need Los Angeles to win by 4 or more points in order to cash your Rams bet.
What is an Over/Under Bet?
Over/Under is a wager based on how many points you think will be scored in a specific game. Oddsmakers set the total, and bettors decide whether the final score will be higher or lower than that number. If an Over/Under is set at 44.5 points and you bet Over, you will need the combined score of both teams to be 45 points or higher to win your bet.
What is a Moneyline Bet?
A moneyline bet involves choosing which team you believe will win a specific matchup. The moneyline favorite carries a minus designation, like -130. This means that you need to wager $130 to earn a $100 profit. Conversely, the underdog carries a plus designation, like +110. This means that you win $110 in profit on a $100 bet.
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