NFL Week 1 Best Bets: Analyst Highlights Kupp, Murray Props & Jacobs Under
ESPN analyst Solak has identified several promising bets for the opening week of the NFL season, focusing on player props with perceived value based on his modeling. These picks target opportunities where the odds offered by ESPN Bet diverge favorably from his calculated “fair price.”
Solak’s analysis centers on Cooper Kupp exceeding 90 receiving yards against the Seahawks at +750, a bet he values at +357. Despite initial skepticism regarding Kupp’s acquisition by Seattle due to salary, age, and injury concerns, Solak notes Kupp’s continued effectiveness when healthy last season-a 29% target rate (seventh among receivers with 150+ routes) and 2.1 yards per route run. He acknowledges uncertainty with Kupp in a new offense but frames it as a reason to embrace the alternate line.
Another highlighted pick is Kyler Murray to throw under 0.5 interceptions against the Saints at -115, wich Solak assesses as a fair -133. He points to Arizona being 6.5-point road favorites against a team expected to be among the league’s weakest, suggesting a conservative game plan that minimizes risk. Solak also suggests considering Josh Jacobs under 1.5 receptions (+140) and alternate receiving yardage props.
