The first Monday Night Football game of the year will feature the Baltimore Ravens traveling to Las Vegas to take on the Raiders. This will be the first time ever that fans will be allowed in Allegiant Stadium, and it should provide a loud and ruckus atmosphere for a big primetime contest.
Here are our favorite bets and picks for this Week 1 contest on Monday Night Football.
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Monday Night Football Prediction
After starting the season at 6-3, the Raiders ultimately missed the playoffs last year after going just 8-8. But with their fans back in the stadium, they are hoping this season is different.
The Raiders will be challenged in Week 1 against the Baltimore Ravens, who are among the best teams in the AFC. With former MVP Lamar Jackson under center, this is one of the most dynamic offenses in the NFL combined with the deepest defense in the league.
While Week 1 games tend to be a bit random, the Ravens are just the much better team here. They also don’t have any problem playing on the road (or in primetime) and they match up well with the Raiders.
The Ravens have also started very hot over the last three seasons, scoring a combined 144 points in Week 1 games since 2018. While that is certainly impressive, the defense has allowed a combined 26 points in their last five Week 1 games.
Expect the Ravens to put up another strong Week 1 outing, likely winning by double digits.
MNF Pick: Ravens 30, Raiders 17
Will Derek Carr be able to lead the Las Vegas Raiders to an upset victory over the Baltimore Ravens in Week 1 of the NFL season?
Monday Night Football Best Bets
MNF Best Bet: Ravens -4.5 (-110 at BetMGM)
Jon Gruden and the Raiders typically start the season off strong, so picking against this team at home as a 4.5-point underdog is a bit tough. However, the Ravens present a unique challenge for the Raiders.
Their strong rushing attack, on top of their elite defense, makes them really difficult to deal with. The Ravens are also have one of the best special teams units in the league, leaving underdogs like the Raiders without room for error.
With Las Vegas having one of the youngest defenses in the NFL, look for them to struggle in this one and for the Ravens to ultimately win by double digits.
MNF Best Bet: Under 51 (+110 at DraftKings)
The Raiders will have several new starters on their offensive line, including a new center and right tackle. That could spell early season trouble for this unit.
Considering the Ravens have one of the best defenses in the NFL, it would not be surprising at all if the Raiders scored under 20 points in this contest. The Ravens have also had their fair share of preseason injuries, as Rashod Bateman and Marquise “Hollywood” Brown are questionable for this game.
Expect a ton of rushing attempts in this game, and look for the under to ultimately hit.
