A smart bettor knows to monitor line movements as the week goes along. Often when the bet is made is nearly as important as whom the bet is on. Here are Week 8’s biggest spread moves and the likely reasons for said moves.
Baltimore Ravens (-2) at Carolina Panthers
Opening: Baltimore Ravens (EVEN) at Carolina Panthers
The Ravens have been impressive on the road, going 5-2 against the spread in their last seven games outside of Baltimore. But the Panthers have been even better at home. They’ve won their last five and are 6-2 in their last eight games in Charlotte. The Ravens have the top scoring defense in the league (14.4 points per game) despite facing high-powered offenses like Pittsburgh and New Orleans.
Related: NFL Betting Guide | Week 8 Opening Odds
Indianapolis Colts (-3) at Oakland Raiders
Opening: Indianapolis Colts (-1.5) at Oakland Raiders
The devaluation of the Raiders continues after they shipped Amari Cooper to Dallas. That, plus their 1-5 record and continued reports of dysfunction, makes them one of the least attractive bets one could find. The Colts haven’t fared well in the series, though. They’ve covered in just two of their last nine meetings with Oakland. They’re also 1-7 in their last eight road games. But the team playing Oakland is going to look attractive every week.
New Orleans Saints (+1) at Minnesota Vikings
Opening: New Orleans Saints (+2.5) at Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings needed a miracle to beat New Orleans in the playoffs last season. That’s partially why money is coming in on the Saints, but more important is their performance this season. The Saints are undefeated since their surprising Week 1 loss to Tampa Bay. Though Minnesota is on a three-game win streak, they’re 4-2-1 despite playing an easier schedule. Their opponent winning percentage (44 percent) is the third-lowest in the NFC. They also suffered one of the most embarrassing losses of the season when Buffalo beat them 27-6 at home. Even though the Vikings have won eight of their last nine at home, the Saints are playing much better right now.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+4.5) at Cincinnati Bengals
Opening: Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+6) at Cincinnati Bengals
The Bucs got off to a hot start but have now failed to cover in four straight. They needed overtime to beat the Browns at home and avoid falling to 2-4. They’ve also struggled on the road recently. They’ve won two of their last 13 and covered in three of their last 12. The Bengals are coming off an embarrassing primetime loss and will be playing on a short week, but they’ve covered five of their last seven at home. They’re 3-1 against the spread as favorites this season.
Cleveland Browns (+8.5) at Pittsburgh Steelers
Opening: Cleveland Browns (+7) at Pittsburgh Steelers
The Browns and Steelers tied Week 1 in Cleveland. The Browns are now 5-2 against the spread despite their 2-4-1 record. They’ve also had more overtime games (four) than non-overtime games this season. On top of that, the Steelers are 1-7 against the spread in their last eight home games. But the Steelers are traditionally a better team at home and are coming off a bye. They’re also a public team with a huge fan base, so the move makes sense. However, it wouldn’t be a shock if a ton of money came in on the Browns before kickoff.
