Free NFL Best Bets For Week 3 from Handicapping Experts

Football rolls into Week 3, and we’re riding momentum after a perfect 3-0 sweep last week. Confidence is high, and we’ve targeted three more matchups that bring strong betting value. Backed by sharp analysis, key trends, and matchup breakdowns, these plays are built to keep the streak alive and deliver more winners.

Last Week's Results

• Baltimore -11.5 over Cleveland (Won)
• LA Rams -5.5 Over Tennessee (Won)
• Philadelphia/ Kansas City Under 47 (Won)

Below, let's take a look at some of my favorite NFL picks for today, in best bets form.

Backup QBs Kick Off This Week's Best Bets

Minnesota -3 over Cincinnati sets up as a sharp play in a battle of backup quarterbacks, with Carson Wentz stepping in for the Vikings and Jake Browning starting for the Bengals. Wentz brings 94 career starts and a steadier hand than J.J. McCarthy, who struggled with turnovers and a sub-60% completion rate before injury.

Minnesota’s defense, led by Javon Hargrave and Ivan Pace, has the pass rush to exploit Cincinnati’s offensive line, which ranks in the bottom five in both pass-block and run-block win rate. With the Vikings at home and the Bengals missing Joe Burrow, the edge in game control, crowd impact, and defensive pressure favors Minnesota. Lay the field goal with confidence.

Best Bet#1

• Minnesota -3

A Resurgent Pittsburgh Squad Highlights Best Bet #2

Pittsburgh -1.5 over New England is a sharp play rooted in matchup edges and situational trends. The Steelers are coming off a frustrating loss to Seattle but still boast a veteran-led offense with Aaron Rodgers under center and a defense capable of generating pressure. New England, while riding high after a 33–27 win over Miami, faces a tougher test here—especially with secondary injuries and a run defense allowing 4.2 yards per carry.

Pittsburgh has averaged 25.5 points per game and ranks top-10 in explosive pass plays, while the Patriots have historically struggled in this spot. With Mike Tomlin’s squad looking to bounce back and the market leaning toward a correction, laying the short number on the road offers solid value.

Best Bet #2

• Pittsburgh -1.5

A Low-Scoring Affair Rounds Out Our Best Bets

The Under 46 in Denver vs. LA Chargers is backed by defensive form and game script indicators that point toward a slower, grind-it-out affair. The Chargers have allowed just 15 points per game through two weeks, ranking third in the NFL, while Denver’s offense—led by rookie Bo Nix—has leaned heavily on the run and averaged just 5.5 yards per pass attempt.

Both teams rank bottom-half in pace and have shown a preference for ball control over tempo, with LA running just 53 plays last week and Denver averaging 54 per game. Add in divisional familiarity and a Chargers pass rush that should limit explosive plays, and this total looks inflated. Expect a 23–20 type finish that stays comfortably under the number.

Best Bet#3

• Denver/ LA Chargers Under 46

Recapping today's NFL Best Bets

• Minnesota -3
• Pittsburgh -1.5
• Denver/LA hargers Under 46