Gross Bombs: NFL Props for Week 16
Josh Gross
(-400, DraftKings Sportsbook/Caesars)
The Bills suffered their first loss since Week 5 Sunday, ending an eight-game win streak, but Josh Allen actually improved his MVP odds, putting on a historic performance against the Rams. He was almost the entire offense, throwing for 342 yards and three touchdowns through the air, while also tacking on 82 yards and a score on the ground. At -400 odds, Allen is the heavy favorite to win MVP but isn’t really playable at the current price. However, Buffalo is currently +2.5 underdogs on the road against Detroit this upcoming week, which may open up a buying window at a much more palatable price.
Saquon Barkley, RB, Philadelphia Eagles
(+500, FanDuel Sportsbook)
With 124 yards in Week 14, Saquon Barkley set a new franchise record in single-season rushing yards … with four more games still on the schedule. He’s currently averaging 124.8 rushing yards per game, on pace to pass Eric Dickerson for an NFL record. A non-quarterback hasn’t won the MVP since 2012, but at +500 odds Barkley makes a lot of sense with no other signal caller meaningfully separating from the pack. The Eagles will likely need to win out and clinch the NFC East, which is almost expected given their rest-of-season schedule.
Lamar Jackson, QB, Baltimore Ravens
(+1400, FanDuel Sportsbook/BetMGM)
Lamar Jackson saw his MVP odds plummet going into the bye after losing two of three games. The Ravens need a miracle to pass the Steelers for first place in the AFC North. Baltimore hasn’t been nearly as dominant as last season, but Lamar Jackson has been significantly better as a thrower, currently leading the NFL in passer rating (116.3) and passing DYAR. Although the +1400 price may seem appealing to back the reigning, defending MVP, it’s hard to envision a scenario where Jackson does enough over the last four games to pass Josh Allen, who has already clinched his division with a two-game lead.
