Thanksgiving Week NFL and College Football Betting Picks

Thanksgiving Week NFL and College Football Betting Preview: Early Picks and Predictions

Thanksgiving week is here, and with it comes a jam-packed schedule of NFL Week 13 action and some intriguing college football matchups. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for some betting value, this week has something for everyone. Let’s dive into the highlights and early betting picks that are already generating buzz.

Thanksgiving Day NFL Showdowns

The holiday kicks off with a trio of NFL games that promise to keep fans entertained from the first bite of turkey to the last slice of pie. First up, the Detroit Lions, who are currently the Super Bowl favorites, host the Chicago Bears. The Lions have been on an absolute tear, and this divisional matchup could be another statement game for Detroit.

Later in the day, the Dallas Cowboys welcome the New York Giants to AT&T Stadium. The Cowboys are riding high after an electrifying win over the Washington Commanders, and they’ll look to keep the momentum going against another NFC East rival.

Finally, the Miami Dolphins take on the Green Bay Packers in prime time. With Miami’s explosive offense and Green Bay’s young roster, this game could be a fascinating clash of styles to close out the holiday slate.

Black Friday and Sunday Showdowns

The action doesn’t stop on Thursday. On Black Friday, the Las Vegas Raiders face the Kansas City Chiefs in what promises to be a heated AFC West battle. Then, Sunday brings a full slate of 11 games, highlighted by a marquee matchup between Jalen Hurts and the Philadelphia Eagles visiting Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens at 4:25 p.m. ET.

Sunday night features another blockbuster as the San Francisco 49ers take on the Buffalo Bills on “Sunday Night Football.” And don’t forget about “Monday Night Football,” where Bo Nix and the Denver Broncos host Jameis Winston and the Cleveland Browns.

Early Betting Picks

Our experts have already identified some early value in the betting lines. Here’s a breakdown of their first bets:

• Joe Fortenbaugh: Seattle Seahawks (-2) over New York Jets. Joe believes this line should be at least Seattle -3. The Seahawks are leading the NFC West and have everything to play for, while the Jets are limping through a disastrous season. New York has failed to cover the spread in seven of their last eight games, missing by an average of 11.6 points per game. Expect Geno Smith to shine against his former team.
• Andre Snellings: Detroit Lions (-11) over Chicago Bears. The Lions are on a nine-game win streak, averaging 19.3 points per game more than their opponents. With the NFL’s top scoring offense and second-stingiest defense, Detroit looks unstoppable. Meanwhile, the Bears, despite some recent improvement, are still a 4-7 team on a five-game losing streak.
• Tyler Fulghum: Pittsburgh Steelers–Cincinnati Bengals UNDER 46.5. Tyler is banking on a low-scoring divisional battle, with Mike Tomlin’s defense keeping things tight against a Bengals team fighting to stay alive this season.
• Pamela Maldonado: Nebraska Cornhuskers at Iowa Hawkeyes OVER 39.5. Iowa’s offense has been revitalized this season, averaging 28 points per game thanks to a dominant rushing attack led by Kaleb Johnson. With Iowa 6-0 to the over at home, Pamela sees this as a strong play.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving week is shaping up to be a feast for football fans and bettors alike. With marquee matchups, divisional rivalries, and some juicy betting lines, there’s no shortage of excitement. Whether you’re backing the Lions to keep rolling, betting on a defensive slugfest in Pittsburgh, or riding Iowa’s offensive resurgence, this week has plenty of opportunities to cash in. Let the games begin!