As the NFL season approaches, bettors are eagerly placing their wagers at sportsbooks, with the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs and the Aaron Rodgers-led New York Jets generating the most interest. The Chiefs, with odds fluctuating between -2.5 and -3, have accumulated the most bets by handle and ticket count for Week 1. They are set to face the Ravens in a rematch of the AFC Championship game.
According to BetMGM Sportsbook, Kansas City’s point spread has garnered 70% of the handle and 58% of the bets. This indicates that influential money is siding with the home favorite. However, it’s important to remember that “sharp” and “public” action can vary at different sportsbooks.
Despite acquiring star running back Derrick Henry, the Ravens have lost key players in the offseason, including offensive linemen Morgan Moses and Kevin Zeitler, defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald, linebacker Patrick Queen, and safety Geno Stone. This could impact their performance in Week 1 against the Chiefs.
The New York Jets, on the other hand, have received significant bets as well. They will be facing the 49ers in their season opener, with odds listed as underdogs. Rodgers, who missed most of the 2023 season due to an Achilles injury, seems to be fully recovered.
The Jets have generated 68% of the handle and 57% of the bets, showing a similar level of interest as the Chiefs. The Steelers’ odds are also drawing attention, with uncertainty at quarterback and a strong defensive line expected to make an impact in Week 1.
With Atlanta letting go of key pass rushers and potentially being overvalued in Week 1, the betting landscape for the start of the NFL season is shaping up to be intriguing. As the odds continue to shift, bettors will be keeping a close eye on the matchups and potential upsets that could unfold on the field.
