After last February’s stunning Super Bowl upset loss to Philadelphia the Patriots had plenty to ponder. Encompassing everything was the admission that New England is not perfect after all. Despite their status as a perennial NFL betting favorite their weaknesses were exposed. For one thing New England’s defense proved to not be of championship caliber. Furthermore, questionable tactics by head coach Bill Belichick also hurt. It follows that “The Patriot Way” is now being questioned. Indeed, the Patriots have been humbled. In contrast Washington is always humble. Specifically, they have made the playoffs just twice in ten years.
Washington Redskins vs. New England Patriots
Date and Time: Thursday, August 9, 2018, 7:30 p.m. ET
Location: Gillete Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts
NFL Betting Online Odds at SBG:
| Team | Spread | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redskins | +3 (-105) | 37 (-115) |  |
| Patriots | -3 (-115) | 37 (-105) | |
| |||
Washington Redskins vs. New England Patriots TV Coverage: Check Listings
Alex Smith
Now that Alex Smith has replaced Kirk Cousins Washington will work to acclimate their new quarterback. While Smith was successful in Kansas City he was not a champion. Likewise, Smith was surrounded by better talent with the Chiefs. Extending priorities in preseason is getting Smith used to Jay Gruden’s offense. Gruden enters his fifth NFL betting Season as Redskins coach. Simultaneously he is trying to jumpstart the fortunes of a consistent loser.
Ground Attack on the Lookout
Embracing Smith’s arrival is Washington tight end Vernon Davis. Specifically, the two were teammates at San Francisco. Correspondingly Davis believes the Redskins have upgraded themselves at quarterback. While the offense is expected to improve the Redskins defense remains a sportsbook concern. Starting with the fact Washington ranked dead last against the rush in 2017. In like manner the defense was a subpar 21st overall. Gruden will also use preseason to try and create more offensive balance. Of major concern is that in four seasons the ground attack has been ineffective.
Frustration in the Horizon
Starting with their Super Bowl loss it was a tumultuous offseason for the Patriots. Compared to past years it appears as if rifts are developing with Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady. Correspondingly owner Bob Kraft is frustrated too. To demonstrate Brady blew off voluntary workouts. In addition, Rob Gronkowski did as well. Moreover, there is resentment that Belichick benched cornerback Malcom Butler at the Super Bowl.
Brady is Happy
Brady will have a new left side protecting him. Left tackle Nate Solder is gone. Accordingly, leading rusher Dion Lewis also departed. As did top receivers Brandin Cooks and Danny Amendola. To sum up none of this made Brady happy. And yet despite the turmoil nobody else in the AFC East seems primed to take advantage.
Team vs Team
Consider that Washington has been a strong preseason road team. For one thing they have paid in six of their last nine away exhibitions. In turn Washington has gone over the total in six of their last eight away preseason tilts. In contrast New England has been a weak preseason home team. For example, they are 1-5 vs. the line in their last six exhibitions at Gillete Stadium. Eight of their last 11 home preseason games went over the total.
Matchup to Watch
Comparable NFL betting preseason trends all point to Washington and over the total. Along the same lines there will be plenty of in game substituting. As a result the strong numbers serve as a good guide.
Redskins vs. Patriots Betting Odds Pick
In conclusion the Redskins and over the total is the call!
NFL Betting Online Pick: Washington Redskins
NFL Betting Online Score Prediction: Redskins 27, Patriots 20
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