The final week of the regular season has arrived. It has been a profitable year for early-week bettors following our advice.
Play-off implications are close to sorted out, although there are still some divisional issues to be settled.
The big one is a final-week AFC North showdown: the Pittsburgh Steelers vs. the Baltimore Ravens for the division title. Another relevant one is the Carolina Panthers visiting the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the NFC South, with the loser eliminated from the playoffs.
Amazingly, the NFC West is supplying three of the top franchises in the Super Bowl betting, all below +1000.
When betting on NFL odds Week 18, remember that, with draft pick implications, there are several matches where franchises are not playing 100% to win, but for our previews, we know the sides are going all out to win!
NFL Odds Week 18 At-a-Glance
The week 18 feature matches are highlighted in our live odds previews. Be cautious, as many franchises, such as the Las Vegas Raiders last week, are currently increasing their draft picks through laddering strategies.
Motivation is crucial in week 18, so keep an eye on the live odds before placing your bets.
Carolina Panthers vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-3)
Saturday, January 3 – 4:30 PM ET
This is a pivotal clash where the winner claims the spoils. Considering the Bucs have struggled in the second half of the season, Carolina at +3 with Bovada appears to be strong value, given the Division is at stake.
Tampa faces a challenge despite being at home. The moneyline of +240 or slightly less is worth considering if the spread falls below the key number of +3.
A side note: Tetairoa McMillan could clinch Offensive Rookie of the Year with a Panthers win this week, so many Tyler Shough ticket holders could hedge in a two-horse race.
Luckily, I have a Shough ticket and will back the Panthers, as unless Baker Mayfield delivers, the fading Tampa Bay franchise looks cooked!
Seattle Seahawks vs. San Francisco 49ers (-1)
Saturday, January 3 – 8:00 PM ET
Another major NFC West clash between two Super Bowl contenders in San Francisco, with the home team currently the slight favourites.
With the NFC West title and No. 1 NFC seed at stake, everything is to play for. There will be an interesting contrast between the NFL’s best defense, the Seahawks, and the 49ers, the top offense.
This is a tough match to call, but it promises intrigue as both continue in the playoffs. A key question is: How good is Brock Purdy?
A robust performance and win against the Seahawks’ defence would be impressive, especially with the NFC No.1 seed advantage and the 49ers’ Super Bowl odds at +900.
Baltimore Ravens vs. Pittsburgh Steelers (+3)
Sunday, January 4 – 8:20 PM ET
Another winner-takes-all division contest for postseason play in Pittsburgh.
The Ravens’ continued contention is a testament to their resolve after Lamar Jackson’s injury. Since returning, Jackson has not reached his previous form, while backup Snoop Huntley has proven an able deputy.
Whoever plays quarterback will affect the handicap, which is currently set at +3 in favor of the home team. If Huntley starts, the line moves above +3; if Lamar plays, it could be as short as -2.5 for the Ravens. With Huntley in, I would lean toward the Ravens since he is not a downgrade from Jackson.
GET YOUR NFL WEEK 18 BETS ON!
This week’s top NFL Week 18 clashes feature the Panthers at Buccaneers and Ravens at Steelers, where winners advance and losers’ seasons end!
Find the Best NFL Odds for Week 18
*The line and/or odds on picks in this article might have moved since the content was commissioned. For updated line movements, visit BMR’s free betting odds product.
