NFL Picks: Preseason Week 1 Eagles vs. Ravens

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The drumroll of the NFL preseason has commenced, and M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland is buzzing with anticipation, eager to witness an electrifying clash between the Philadephia Eagles and the Baltimore Ravens. This Saturday’s game promises intrigue, excitement, and a lot of action. Dive deep into our comprehensive betting analysis, coupled with the latest odds for this much-anticipated face-off.

Historically, these teams have had some close encounters. Their last bout on October 18, 2020, saw the Ravens clinching a narrow victory, 30-28. If we rewind a tad further to the 2019 preseason, the Ravens again demonstrated their supremacy against the Eagles with a 26-15 win, despite being on foreign turf.

BUSR NFL LINES: 

Spread: Eagles +5 (-110), Ravens -5 (-110) 

Moneyline: Eagles +158, Ravens -196

Total: Eagles O 36 (-110), Ravens U 36 (-110) 

Philadelphia Eagles Spotlight: Marcus Mariota’s Moment

The previous season was nothing short of a fairy tale for the Philadelphia Eagles. Surpassing all projections and defying the odds, they staged a thrilling campaign to reach Super Bowl LVII. They came close but were narrowly defeated by the Kansas City Chiefs, 38-35. The regular season witnessed them stamping their authority with a stellar 14-3 record. Their NFL Odds changing offense, third-best in the league, delivered an average of 28.1 points per game. 

Jalen Hurts, with his consistent performances, emerged as the lynchpin for the Eagles in 2022. His dual-threat capabilities were on full display throughout the season. Yet, as is customary, most of the leading names, including Hurts, will not feature in this preseason match. This presents Marcus Mariota with a golden opportunity. He will lead the charge against the Ravens, and the stakes are high. Mariota, known for his agility and adaptability, is a fresh recruit for the Eagles and comes from a respectable season with the Atlanta Falcons. Alongside Mariota, Ian Book and the promising rookie Tanner McKee offer depth and options for the team.

Baltimore Ravens Spotlight: Hopes Pinned on Lamar Jackson

The Baltimore Ravens, despite challenges, had a commendable 10-7 record in 2022, enabling them to claim the second spot in the AFC North. The team’s heartbreak was palpable when Lamar Jackson, their mainstay, succumbed to an injury in Week 13. Yet, displaying resilience, the Ravens gave their all in the playoffs. Their statistics from last season placed them 19th in terms of average points per game. However, their rushing prowess was undeniable and was a spectacle to behold.

Without Jackson, Tyler Huntley will likely steer the ship for the Ravens in this preseason game. Huntley, with his finesse and football IQ, has previously showcased that he can be trusted. Ravens enthusiasts can also expect to get glimpses of Josh Johnson and Anthony Brown, adding more layers to the team’s strategy.

Final Thoughts and Betting Recommendations

Betting is as much about instincts as it is about statistics. And here, my instincts are siding with the Eagles with a +5 spread. The Ravens, with their staggering 23-game preseason winning streak, are undoubtedly the favorites. But the game of football is full of surprises.

Both teams, with their emphasis on ground play, might not have a high-scoring game, which makes a six or more-point lead for the Ravens seem ambitious. The Eagles are beefing up their defenses and are on track to be among the elite this NFL season. The infusion of fresh blood, especially the five defensive recruits, adds zest and determination to the squad.

So, as the curtains rise on Week 1 of the 2023 NFL preseason, gear up for an enthralling contest. The rejuvenated Eagles are all set to soar against the formidable Ravens. Every play and every moment will be worth watching.