This Monday night delivers two thrilling matchups featuring the Ravens vs. Buccaneers and the Chargers vs. Cardinals. Here’s a breakdown of both games, including betting recommendations based on recent trends, player performance, and game flow.
NFL Week 7 Monday Night Football: Game Overviews, Best Bets & Top Plays
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Game 1: Baltimore Ravens vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Game Overview:
The Ravens (4-2) head to Tampa to face the Buccaneers (4-2) in a clash between two of the league’s most exciting offenses. The Ravens, led by Lamar Jackson, boast the NFL’s top rushing attack, averaging 205.3 yards per game, largely thanks to the combination of Jackson and Derrick Henry. Their offense has been on fire, scoring 30+ points in three consecutive games.
Tampa Bay’s offense, led by Baker Mayfield, has been lighting up scoreboards as well, fresh off a 51-point explosion against the Saints. Mayfield’s connection with receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin has been electric, while rookie Bucky Irving is making waves in the backfield. However, the Bucs face a tough challenge against a stingy Ravens defense that’s particularly stout against the run, allowing just 59 yards per game.
Favorite Bet: Ravens -3.5
Baltimore’s dynamic offense, coupled with their ability to control the clock with the league’s best ground game, makes them the safer bet to cover the 3.5-point spread.
Lamar Jackson has a nearly perfect career record against NFC opponents (22-1), and with the Ravens’ recent offensive surge, they should be able to outpace the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay’s defense has struggled in the secondary, which could open up big plays for Jackson through the air as well.
Favorite Player Prop: Mike Evans Anytime TD (+135)
With the Ravens ranked 31st in pass defense (275.7 yards allowed per game), Evans is primed to have a big game. He’s a red zone threat and has hit in 2 of his last 3 games. Betting on Evans to score offers solid value, especially given Baltimore’s struggles against elite receivers.
Game 2: Los Angeles Chargers vs. Arizona Cardinals
Game Overview:
The Chargers (3-2) take on the Cardinals (2-4) in a battle of two teams looking to stay in the playoff hunt. The Chargers’ defense has been elite, allowing just 13.2 points per game, while their offense has leaned heavily on the run game with J.K. Dobbins leading the way. Justin Herbert has yet to find his rhythm in Jim Harbaugh’s offense, but they’re still managing to grind out wins, thanks in large part to their defense.
Arizona, on the other hand, has been inconsistent, but Kyler Murray is still a dynamic playmaker capable of taking over a game. The Cardinals have a weak defense, allowing 27.2 points per game (28th in the league), and have struggled to stop the run, giving up 153 yards per game on the ground.
Favorite Bet: Under 44 Points
Given the Chargers’ defensive strength and their offensive struggles, this game is shaping up to be a low-scoring affair. The Chargers rank 1st in points allowed, and their offense has averaged just 18.2 points per game. Meanwhile, Arizona has been inconsistent offensively, and if Marvin Harrison Jr. remains limited, they’ll lack firepower in the passing game. A slow, grind-it-out game favors the under.
Favorite Player Prop: J.K. Dobbins Over 96.5 Rush + Rec Yards (-115)
The Cardinals’ defense ranks 29th against the run, and Dobbins has been the focal point of the Chargers’ offense, especially with Gus Edwards on IR. Dobbins has hit this mark in 5 of his last 6 road games, and with the Cardinals’ inability to stop the run, he should easily surpass 96.5 combined yards.
NFL Week 7 MNF Summary
Both Monday night matchups offer exciting betting opportunities. The Ravens look set to continue their dominance, making the -3.5 spread a smart pick, while Mike Evans offers solid value as a touchdown scorer.
In the later game, expect a low-scoring affair between the Chargers and Cardinals, with J.K. Dobbins poised for an impressive performance.
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