NFL betting tips: Los Angeles Chargers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers to win big, Sam Darnold to decide Minnesota Vikings fate
After months of anticipation and a number of surprises, the NFL play-offs are finally here.
It is wildcard weekend and some of the league’s top teams are set to face off against this season's stragglers.
With every chance of an upset, it is sure to be an exciting few days as we take a step closer to the Super Bowl.
Sports News Blitz tipster Sam Condy returns with his favourite betting picks ahead of what promises to be a big weekend.
Los Angeles Chargers at Houston Texans
The first play-off game sees the Texans taking on the Chargers at the NRG Stadium.
Despite the home advantage, things are not looking too bright for the Houston outfit. They have struggled through the second half of the season, and there have been few signs of improvement.
With their hosts possessing an almost non-existent offence, the Chargers should have no problem keeping them at bay.
Picking the Chargers to cover the spread is an easy choice this week.
Suggested bet: Los Angeles Chargers (-2.5) @ 8/11
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Denver Broncos at Buffalo Bills
An interesting match-up awaits when the struggling Broncos, who sneaked into the play-offs by the skin of their teeth, go up against a surprisingly dominant Bills side.
One thing in the Broncos favour heading into Sunday’s game is their stellar defence, which is perhaps the best in the league.
Thus, while the Bills can seemingly score at will, I would not bank on it this week.
That is not to say that the Bills will not win – because they probably will – but, with the spread as large as it is, it feels silly not to back the Broncos to at least hold them close.
Suggested bet: Denver Broncos (+8.5) @ 5/6
Washington Commanders at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Let us not sugarcoat anything: the Commanders have looked overwhelmingly average this season.
However, Jayden Daniels has been a shining light for his side, and the quarterback will look to continue an incredible rookie season on Sunday.
Even on his A-game, though, it is unlikely that he can drag Washington through in a tough game against the Buccaneers.
Tampa have cemented themselves as one of the elite sides in the NFL this term, thanks in no small part to their thriving running game and an in-form Bucky Irving.
Against the distinctly average Washington defence, my money is on the Buccaneers to cruise through this week's fixture.
Suggested bet: Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-2.5) @ 8/11
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Minnesota Vikings at Los Angeles Rams
The Vikings have exceeded expectations this season, it must be said.
Largely due to the presence of Sam Darnold at quarterback, the Minnesota franchise has looked capable of making it all the way to the top.
Unfortunately, Darnold’s magic appeared to run out last week when the Vikings succumbed to a heavy defeat at the hands of the Detroit Lions in their closing game of the regular season.
With the Rams uninspiring on offence this season and Darnold in danger of slowing down again, it is hard to choose a winner ahead of this clash.
Instead, I like the under-pick for Monday’s clash.
Suggested bet: Under points (44.5) @ 5/4
The play-offs always bring upsets and surprises, although I do feel good about this week's acca.
If Sam Darnold does turn up, then the Vikings have every chance of scoring high. As a result, I am confident about this week's picks.
Accumulator odds: 11.31/1
