NFL Week 7: Expert Picks Favor Carolina, Question Baltimore’s Playoff Odds
As Week 7 of the NFL season approaches, analysts are identifying key betting opportunities, with a strong lean towards the Carolina Panthers and a surprising look at the Baltimore Ravens‘ playoff potential. Despite a challenging start to the season for some teams, expert insights suggest favorable conditions for strategic wagers.
NFL betting analyst Moody recommends backing the Carolina Panthers, citing their recent momentum and the struggling New York Jets. The Panthers have won two straight games and scored 27 or more points in three of their last four, highlighted by standout performances from running back Rico Dowdle, who totaled 234 yards two weeks ago and 239 in a Week 6 victory over Dallas. Carolina’s defense also successfully contained the running games of both Javonte williams and the Dallas Cowboys. Conversely, the Jets managed a mere 82 total yards against the Broncos in London, marking the third-lowest single-game total in franchise history. Moody notes the Panthers are 4-1 against the spread in their last five games.
Meanwhile, ESPN’s Walder is focusing on the Baltimore Ravens’ chances of making the playoffs, finding value in the odds. Despite a 1-5 start, Walder argues the Ravens are not a fundamentally flawed team, especially with a healthy lamar Jackson at quarterback. He points to the team facing the NFL’s hardest schedule to date and a considerably easier path ahead. The odds currently list the Ravens as even money to miss the playoffs, a proposition Walder finds surprising, especially considering ESPN’s football power Index (FPI) gives them a 25% chance of reaching the postseason, assuming Jackson returns after the Week 7 bye.
Last week: Moody – 49ers +2.5 at Buccaneers (Buccaneers won, 30-19); Walder – Steelers -4.5 vs. Browns (Steelers won, 23-9)
