Our football staff is focused on seven of Sunday's biggest games for our NFL predictions in Week 7 on October 19.
First, we'll focus on Raiders vs Chiefs and Dolphins vs Browns in the early window. Later in the afternoon, we have a trio of predictions for Commanders vs Cowboys, Giants vs Broncos, and Chargers vs Colts. We also have picks for Panthers vs Jets, Patriots vs Titans, and more.
Let's dive into our expert NFL picks and best bets for the Week 7 Sunday slate.
NFL Predictions & Picks — Week 7
| Game | Time (ET) | Pick |
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  | 1:00 p.m. | |
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  | 1:00 p.m. | |
  | 1:00 p.m. | |
  | 4:25 p.m. | |
  | 4:05 p.m. | |
  | 4:05 p.m. | |
Specific betting recommendations come from the sportsbook offering preferred odds as of writing. Always shop for the best price using our NFL Odds page, which automatically surfaces the best lines for every game. | ||
Raiders vs Chiefs Best Bet
I will almost always take an opportunity to bet on a divisional underdog of 12 points or more.
I am eyeing the matchup of Maxx Crosby vs. Jawaan Taylor.
Taylor is the 62nd-rated RT in the league. Maxx is going to have his way with Taylor and make it a long day for Patrick Mahomes.
Voluntarily putting your money on the Geno Smith experience is always a risk, but this is far too many points for the Raiders in this spot.
Pick: Raiders +12 (-110)
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Panthers vs Jets Best Bet
These two teams have no intention of throwing the ball, which is sort of important when it comes to generating a bunch of points in an NFL game.
The Panthers are dead last in the NFL in pass rate over expectation, and the Jets rank 7th-to-last.
The Jets also seem likely to be without their only viable player in the passing game, Garrett Wilson, and the Panthers defense has been playing quite a bit better, so much so that they are actually third in run defense DVOA through the first six weeks.
The clock is going to keep ticking in this game, with a very minimal amount of points.
Pick: Under 42.5 (-115)
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Patriots vs Titans Best Bet
The Patriots have had an easy road to 4-2.
Their wins have came against the Dolphins, Panthers, Bills, and Saints.
While the Titans are not a world-beater by any means, they are coming off of the firing of their head coach, Brian Callahan, and OL coach, Bill Callahan.
This could be a turning point for this Titans' team.
The Titans have enough defensive pieces to remain competent.
I do not think the Titans win this game, but I think they keep it close in Mike Vrabel's homecoming.
Pick: Titans +7 (-110)
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Dolphins vs Browns Best Bet
The Dolphins are a team in turmoil. However, to price them as underdogs against the Browns feels like an overstep.
The Dolphins still have the explosive play capability to stay in this game, as demonstrated by their 4.5% big-time throw rate.
Miami has the advantage in the passing game on both sides of the ball.
Browns' quarterback Dillon Gabriel will get everything to click eventually, but I don't think this is the week.
Pick: Dolphins +3 (-120)
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Commanders vs Cowboys Best Bet
By Bet Labs
The system titled "Great Condition Divisional Road 'Dogs" works on the belief that divisional underdogs traveling in good weather during the early and middle parts of the season carry hidden value.
In the NFL, division games are often tighter and more unpredictable because of the familiarity and rivalry factors, which narrow the talent gap.
When the visiting team is the 'dog in September, October, or November conditions are generally stable with limited wind allowing both teams to execute their normal game plans without weather being a major factor.
In these spots the public often overvalues the home side, yet divisional familiarity and the motivational boost of playing a rival make the road 'dog more competitive than the line suggests.
Pick: Commanders +1.5 (-115)
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Colts vs Chargers Best Bet
The Chargers are decimated, especially the RB room.
Najee Harris and Omarion Hampton are both on the IR, and Kimani Vidal is currently the RB1.
Joe Alt is questionable, and he is desperately needed on this Chargers' offensive line that has been abysmal.
Laiatu Latu has been amazing for the Colts this season, coming in as the 7th-rated edge defender, and I am not sure how the Chargers are going to stop him up front.
Pick: Colts Moneyline (+110)
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Giants vs Broncos Best Bet
Outside of Garett Bolles, Denver's offensive line has not been great to start the season.
The Giants' defensive line is extremely stout, and I think they will be able to pressure Bo Nix and force him to make a few mistakes.
Offensively for the Giants, Cam Skattebo has emerged as the clear cut RB1.
Last week against the Eagles, the Giants recorded season-high marks in rushing yards (172), touchdowns (4), and yards after contact (125).
The Giants' run game has been revitalized by two rookies on offense. This lays the groundwork for their offensive attack, which should help them keep this game inside the number.
Pick: Giants +7 (-110)
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