There are two NFL player prop bets offering value in the Baltimore Ravens-Cincinnati Bengals matchup on Thursday Night Football, which kicks off at 8:20 p.m. ET on NFL Network.
The Action Network’s public betting data will often be used in this data-driven analysis of props, along with the FantasyLabs prop tool.
All lines are as of 2:30 p.m. ET on Thursday.
Ravens RB Javorius Allen
The pick: Over 2.5 receptions (-125 at 5Dimes)
The Bengals forced Andrew Luck into 17 pressured drop-backs in their Week 1 matchup — the sixth-most of any quarterback, per Pro Football Focus — so if that continues, Allen could see significant work as a receiver out of the backfield.
Allen saw six targets against the Bills in the season opener and has a relatively secure role in the passing game. The Ravens will likely attempt to get Allen in space against Bengals linebackers as much as possible, especially if Joe Flacco doesn’t have enough time in the pocket to let downfield routes develop.
Ravens RB Alex Collins
The pick: Under 17.5 receiving yards (-145 at 5Dimes)
The early sharp action is on the Bengals, so a negative game script could certainly lead to more pass attempts for the Ravens.
The problem is that Collins played only 34% of offensive snaps in Week 1. One reason for that could have been that the Ravens' rout of the Bills was getting out of hand. Collins also fumbled earlier in the game.
With Kenneth Dixon (knee) on Injured Reserve, Collins could easily rebound to the 15-touch range, most of which will be on early downs as Collins is not a true workhorse back.
