NFL betting line analysis: Pittsburgh Steelers will batter St. Louis Rams

By foxsports
Published

James Hernandez has more than 10 years in the sports handicapping industry and will contribute his Look Between the Lines sports capping article weekly to FOXSports.com, as our pro football betting expert. Have comments or questions? Follow him on Twitter @jhern81 or email him at jameshernandez1981@gmail.com.

THURSDAY NIGHT

Washington Redskins at New York Giants (under 44.5)

The Giants have managed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory, surrendering fourth-quarter leads in consecutive games on the way to a 0-2 start to the season. On the other hand Washington's defense has been one of the surprises of the season, allowing just 27 total points through two weeks. Play the under here, both offensive units continue to be a work in progress and that should lend itself to a very conservative game plan by both teams.

SUNDAY

Pittsburgh Steelers (pick 'em) over Saint Louis Rams

One week after hanging 43 on the San Francisco defense, the Steelers welcome back one of the games best all-purpose offensive weapons in Le'Veon Bell. Offensive coordinator Todd Haley was able to squeeze 204 rushing yards and three scores out of DeAngelo Williams in relief of Bell. Pittsburgh will use the balance of a top-five offense to outlast that Rams' stout defensive line and steal a crucial road victory.

Minnesota Vikings (-2.5) over San Diego Chargers

It is going to be Mike Zimmer's defense that gets it done on Sunday. Minnesota's run defense allowed just 38 yards rushing on 16 carries (2.3 YPC) and the key to defeating San Diego is making its offense one-dimensional. Rivers is great, but you can't like his chances if he has to drop back and throw 35 times behind a depleted offensive line. Get this number before it gets to bet up to 3, it may be the difference between a win and a push.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+7) over Houston Texans

The Texans have only been able to muster 159 yards on the ground in two games and the Bucs defense is coming off a big confidence boost from last week's game in New Orleans. They were able to sack Drew Brees four times, allowing him just 255 yards and beating him up. Being at home may work against a young Texans team that may come out pressing to find some offense. Take the points here in a game that looks like it could come down to the wire.

New York Jets (+2.5) over Philadelphia Eagles

Whatever you do, do not wait to bet this game. The number here is time sensitive and will eventually turn into pick 'em or worse by game time. Offensively the new-look Eagles look lost and unsure of themselves under alleged offensive guru Chip Kelly. On the other side of the spectrum this Jets team appears to be performing at a playoff-caliber level and exceeding the lackluster preseason expectations. Jump on New York early here as you are backing the team playing better at home and getting points in the process. Take the points here, but don't be shocked to see Gang Green get the outright victory and improve to 3-0 on the season.

New Orleans Saints at Carolina Panthers (under 45.5)

Not only are the Saints 0-2, but they may also be without Brees this week and beyond depending on an MRI this week. Even with Brees, New Orleans has been struggling to consistently move the ball downfield and convert in crucial third-down situations. The Panthers are 2-0, but Cam is without his top wideout from a year ago and Greg Olsen has been invisible through two games. Neither team is lighting up the scoreboard so far this season, you can expect for that to continue in a game that is sure to be a tightly contested divisional battle.

Jacksonville Jaguars (+14) over New England Patriots

As good as the Patriots are, I just refuse to lay double-digit points in the NFL. New England is coming off of two impressive wins over potential AFC contenders, but the defense is still a work in progress allowing 53 points in two games. Take the points and fade the public perception in this game -- sometimes the most lopsided spreads become the most satisfying winners.

Cincinnati Bengals (+3) over Baltimore Ravens

With all the offseason buzz surrounding the Steelers and Ravens as the teams to beat in the AFC North, it's the Bengals who sit atop the division standings and appear to be its most complete team. Baltimore is desperately searching for someone to fill the pass-rushing duties of Terrell Suggs and until they do you can expect teams to take their shots downfield to expose a vulnerable secondary. Take the points with the better team here in what should be a close game decided in the fourth quarter.

Oakland Raiders at Cleveland Browns (over 41.5)

Oakland has been suspect defensively, allowing 33 points per game to the Bengals and Ravens, while the Browns aren't far behind surrendering 27.5 per contest. The temperature should be in the low 70s and that along with two subpar defenses make the over the play in this matchup.

Indianapolis Colts (-4.5) over Tennessee Titans

Chuck Pagano's coaching seat is getting hotter as we speak so look for him to do all he can to put an end to this losing streak at two and get his team back on track. Jump on the Colts early because Indy has become a favorite betting team of the public and it wouldn't surprise me one bit if this number moved from 4.5 to 6 or even 6.5 by kickoff on Sunday afternoon.  

Atlanta Falcons (-2) over Dallas Cowboys

Dan Quinn will have a game plan in place for journeyman Brandon Weeden and that should include constant pressure from various blitz packages. Both defenses have exceeded expectations to begin the year and I expect that to continue in a low scoring game that will be decided by the team that makes the fewest mistakes. Dallas is too depleted offensively to pull this game out, so take the healthier team here as Atlanta sneaks out a road win.

Arizona Cardinals (-6) over San Francisco 49ers

The Cardinals are now 15-2 in Carson Palmer's last 17 starts and a win Sunday will give the team its first 3-0 start since the 2012 season. After San Francisco's secondary was shredded last week by Ben Roethlisberger (369 yards, three touchdowns), you can bet Bruce Arians and Palmer will take note. Lay the points as one of the league's hottest offenses continues to roll with a double-digit victory at home.

Chicago Bears (+14) over Seattle Seahawks

The Bears are without Jay Cutler and Alshon Jeffrey so therefore the public perception is they have no chance to compete with a Seahawks team at home desperate for a win. Look for the Bears to play fast and loose in a spot where no one is giving them a chance to win. Take the points here and hope for a sloppy game from the Seahawks in a spot where all the pressure will be on the home team.

Buffalo Bills (+3) over Miami Dolphins

Rex Ryan was admittedly embarrassed after being "outcoached" by Bill Belichick many were saying the same thing about Joe Philbin after Miami suffered a 23-20 loss in Jacksonville. Take the team with just a little more to play for here, but don't be surprised if the Fins pull out a money line win while the Bills cover the game spread.

Detroit Lions (+3) over Denver Broncos

This Denver offense has looked spotty at times and appears to be ripe for the picking due to an inconsistent running game and a quarterback who struggles throwing the deep ball. Expect Matt Stafford to gut his way through another defensive matchup and will his offense to victory behind some stellar play from his offensive playmakers. Take the points with the home dog here as Detroit gets on the board with a much-needed victory in its home opener.

MONDAY NIGHT

Green Bay Packers (-6.5) over Kansas City Chiefs

According to Cold Hard Football Facts, Aaron Rodgers is now a ridiculous 45-10 in games played in Lambeau field and has gone completed over 400 consecutive pass attempts without an interception at home. In another words, Rodgers is unbeatable at home until further notice so lay the number here with the Pack and watch Rodgers easily notch his 46th home victory with a double-digit win on Monday Night Football.