Yours Truly adventures into the sports gambling waters to give my boring safe picks, along with a bet for the Kool-Aid drinking fanbase.
This season, SB Nation has partnered with FanDuel Sportsbook to give you our expert opinions on our recommendations for your picks if you participate in sports gambling. As this is my first time giving prop recommendations over simple pick ‘ems (I was a top rated game-picker among NFL analysts according to Tallysight last year and the year before I was Top 10), I’m going to jump in with some player props.
Some would opt to go big and bold for Week 1 and for their first attempt. Instead, I’m going safe. I’m going from what I believe and expect to happen in Week 1, and that is a Derrick Henry Anytime Touchdown (-125).
I don’t care that it’s expected. Ravens free agent additions almost always deliver in Week 1.
2022
- Safety Marcus Williams Interception
- Defensive tackle Michael Pierce forced fumble
2021
- RB Latavius Murray touchdown
2020
- Defensive end Calais Campbell tipped ball turned into an interceptions
2019
- RB Mark Ingram ran for 107 yards, two touchdowns
- Free safety Earl Thomas interception
2018
- Wide receiver Michael Crabtree touchdown
- Wide receiver John Brown touchdown
- Wide receiver Willie Snead IV touchdown
If you’re going for a “riskier” bet, might I suggest the over/under on Zay Flowers receiving yards (53.5 yards). Either side is -113 for the prop bet.
Last season, the rookie receiver posted seven games under 53.5 receiving yards and nine games above. Against the Chiefs in the AFC Championship game, Flowers had 115 yards and a touchdown. If the Chiefs are looking to go blitz-heavy once again, Flowers will be one of Jackson’s favored targets to get the ball out quick on hot routes. I think this one cashes.
Final prop is one for the purple-Kool-Aid drinking Ravens fans. If you have belief in the Ravens’ stars, there’s a Game Special bet for you.
Derrick Henry, Zay Flowers, and Mark Andrews to Combine for 3+ TDs: +460
As I said, I expect Henry to find the end zone. It’s not too far off to expect both Andrews, Jackson’s favorite receiving target and fiercely motivated tight end— and Flowers to get into the end zone, too. At +460, it won’t be easy. But, the Ravens, with Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken and Co., have been preparing for this for months.