With the holiday season just around the corner, football fans and sports bettors alike are gearing up for a thrilling lineup of NFL games on Thanksgiving Day. This year’s matchups promise plenty of excitement, especially with the Dallas Cowboys taking on the New York Giants in a high-stakes prime time showdown. As experts, including Jay Kornegay of the Westgate Superbook, weigh in on the best bets, this Thanksgiving promises to be a game-changer for sports enthusiasts.
Cowboys vs. Giants: A Thanksgiving night battle
As the Cowboys prepare for their Thanksgiving game, momentum is on their side following a decisive victory against the Washington Commanders. Their impressive win has pushed them into the favorite’s seat against the struggling New York Giants. The betting line has already shifted significantly, moving from a 2.5-point spread to a 4-point edge for Dallas. This change reflects growing public confidence in the Cowboys, despite their up-and-down season.
The Giants, meanwhile, are grappling with internal issues, from quarterback Daniel Jones’ inconsistency to speculation about head coach Brian Daboll’s future with the team. With these question marks hanging over the franchise, betting on the Giants is seen as a risky move. While the Cowboys have been prone to occasional slip-ups, their overall form is expected to keep them in control during this Thanksgiving tilt.
The Miami Dolphins: A potential underdog victory
While all eyes will be on the Cowboys, there are other exciting matchups to keep an eye on this Thanksgiving, particularly when the Miami Dolphins face the Green Bay Packers. The Dolphins, currently listed as 3.5-point underdogs, are showing signs of strength after quarterback Tua Tagovailoa returned from injury. His leadership has helped balance the Dolphins’ offensive play, making them an intriguing team to watch—especially with the cold, potentially slippery conditions in Green Bay.
This game may not get as much attention as the Cowboys-Giants showdown, but it’s one that could yield unexpected results. Green Bay’s struggles this season, combined with Miami’s rejuvenated form, make this one of the most interesting matchups of the day for bettors.
Key Thanksgiving matchups you can’t miss
Several Thanksgiving games stand out in terms of betting potential, with teams riding hot streaks or battling inconsistencies. Here’s a closer look at the key matchups:
Detroit Lions vs. Chicago Bears
The Lions have been dominant against the spread this season, boasting a 9-2 record, and they’re laying a hefty 10-point spread against the Bears. Detroit has been on a roll, with consistent performances that have seen them cover spreads with ease. Against the Bears, a team that’s struggled in various facets of the game, the Lions are poised to continue their strong run, making them a solid bet for those looking to wager on favorites this Thanksgiving.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Las Vegas Raiders
The Chiefs have had a rollercoaster season, especially when it comes to covering big spreads. As heavy favorites, the Chiefs haven’t been as consistent as bettors might expect, opening the door for underdog opportunities. The Raiders, despite their own inconsistencies, could provide an upset chance for those looking to back the underdogs. Kansas City’s recent struggles make this game one of the more unpredictable Thanksgiving matchups.
Atlanta Falcons vs. Los Angeles Chargers
The Falcons’ season has been full of ups and downs, but with the Chargers also enduring their fair share of struggles, this game could be a pivotal moment for Atlanta. Bettors should keep a close eye on this matchup, as both teams have shown flashes of brilliance that could translate into a tight, competitive contest.
Betting tips: Where to put your money this Thanksgiving
With so many intriguing matchups, Thanksgiving Day presents a wealth of betting opportunities. If you’re looking for where to put your money, here are a few key recommendations from experts:
Moneyline dog: Pittsburgh Steelers (+130) vs. Cincinnati Bengals
The Steelers may have come off a tough loss, but their resilience in bouncing back makes them a strong candidate for an upset against the Cincinnati Bengals. This game could be a classic example of a team eager to turn things around after a loss, and Pittsburgh has the potential to deliver.
Safe bet: Indianapolis Colts (-2.5) vs. New England Patriots
The Colts are favored by just 2.5 points against the Patriots, who have struggled throughout the season. With New England’s offense failing to find consistency, this is a relatively low-risk bet for those looking to bet on favorites.
Avoid: Los Angeles Rams vs. New Orleans Saints
For bettors seeking a bit more certainty, the Rams-Saints matchup is one to steer clear of. The unpredictable form of both teams makes this game difficult to call, so it’s best to avoid placing bets here until more clarity emerges.
Final thoughts: What to expect this Thanksgiving
The Thanksgiving slate is packed with high-stakes matchups that will keep sports bettors on the edge of their seats. With expert insights and betting trends at your disposal, you can make informed decisions as you place your wagers. Whether you’re backing the Cowboys to continue their dominance or taking a chance on the Dolphins to upset the Packers, there are plenty of opportunities to win.
For those looking for survivor pool picks, the Kansas City Chiefs are a popular option, but bettors should proceed with caution, as the Raiders are fully capable of pulling off an upset. As the day unfolds, it’s clear that Thanksgiving will be a thrilling day for both football fans and sports bettors alike.
