NFL Week 13 Betting Preview: Key Early Picks to Consider

As Week 12 of the NFL season concludes, bettors are already looking ahead to the upcoming matchups in Week 13. Betting lines are now established, and analysts are identifying potential opportunities. Among the early picks, the clash between the Los Angeles Rams and the Carolina Panthers stands out, as does the matchup between the Chicago Bears and the Philadelphia Eagles.

Rams vs. Panthers: A Strong Case for Los Angeles

The Rams enter their game against the Panthers with a notable momentum, having recently defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers decisively. The score was settled long before halftime, showcasing the Rams’ prowess on both offense and defense. Currently, they lead the NFL in Expected Points Added (EPA) per play, with figures of 0.172 earned and -0.205 allowed since their bye week in Week 8.

Quarterback Matthew Stafford leads an offense that has shown remarkable efficiency, boasting the highest passing grade in the league according to PFF. The Rams’ passing game has proven challenging for even the toughest defenses. In contrast, the Panthers’ defensive unit has struggled considerably, particularly in the past month, allowing the fifth-highest EPA per dropback in the league.

The Panthers are searching for consistency after losing their last two home games. Their offense, led by running back Rico Dowdle, thrives on the ground. However, they face a formidable Rams front that ranks third in EPA per rush allowed over the last four games. This mismatch suggests that the Rams, currently favored by 9.5 points, may secure a comfortable win.

Bears vs. Eagles: An Opportunity for Chicago

The matchup between the Bears and Eagles presents another intriguing betting opportunity. The Eagles, who are currently favored by 7 points, had a rocky outing against the Cowboys in Week 12. Although they started strong, their offense faltered significantly after the initial drives. A key concern for Philadelphia is the ineffectiveness of their ground game, particularly in the absence of star tackle Lane Johnson. Quarterback Jalen Hurts has shown vulnerability under pressure when the run game struggles, impacting the overall performance of the team.

On the other hand, the Bears have demonstrated a robust offensive strategy, particularly on the ground. Quarterback Caleb Williams has displayed impressive escapability, allowing Chicago to sustain drives and score points consistently. Given the seven-point spread separating these teams, the Bears’ solid ground game and the Eagles’ offensive inconsistencies make this an appealing bet.

As the NFL season progresses, the Week 13 matchups promise to deliver excitement and potentially lucrative betting opportunities. Bettors should keep a close watch on these early lines as they may shift before the games commence.