Baltimore Ravens @ Cincinnati Bengals: Spread
|
This is an absolute must win for Baltimore as the Ravens at 7-4, are second place in the AFC North. Mathematically, the Ravens could win the division and make the playoffs, but realistically if they are going to make the playoffs it will be as a wildcard team. Nonetheless, they are only favored by a touchdown against one of the worst teams in the NFL. |
The main reason Baltimore will cover is because its defense is too strong for Cincinnati. The Ravens have the second best ranked defense in the NFL and are allowing an average of only 17 points per game. Additionally, they have only allowed an average of only 11 points per game to opponents who do not have winning records. This season Baltimore has devoured opponents that who currently do not have winning records, outscoring them by an average margin of 16 points per game. The Bengals’ are by far one of the worst offensive teams in the league. They have the worst ranked offense and are averaging 13.5 points per game, ranking second worst in the NFL. Ryan Fitzpatrick has already thrown 7 picks and will have a tough time picking apart the Ravens secondary, as it has already picked off the opposition 19 times this season. Cincinnati will not score more than 13 against the Ravens.
The trends also favor Baltimore. The Ravens are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 overall and 5-0 ATS in their last 5 divisional games and also hold the same record for their last 5 games versus opponents with losing records. Cincinnati is 1-7 ATS in its last 8 divisional games. Expect this to be a one sided affair. The Ravens will completely dominate the opposition and cover 7 points.
There are a few trends that favour the Giants in this one. As I mentioned already, they are 9-2 ATS this season. Additionally, they are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 versus divisional opponents and 13-3 ATS in their last 16 versus teams with a winning record. The Redskins are 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 overall and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 at home. The Giants are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 against Washington. Expect this to be a gruesome, physical game. The Giants will dominate the Redskins. They may not blow them out but they will dominate them in terms of total yards and time of possession. Take the Giants with the points.
Prediction: Baltimore 26 Cincinnati 10
Related posts: