NFL Week 1 Free Pick – Chicago vs. Indianapolis

Preview

This Superbowl rematch lacks all the appeal of “the big game”, but there’s a lot that you as a football betting investor need to know about both of these teams before you move ahead in the NFL wagering season. What should you be watching for?

Questions about Chicago

Kyle Orton. The Bears were an atrocious 7-9 ATS last season. Those confused by the choice to side with Orton over Grossman should know that Orton is the one who makes the least amount of mistakes between the two. The problem is that, on paper, Orton still has 12 career touchdowns against 15 career interceptions.

The final verdict on Orton will be null, considering nobody expects anything out of him. Without Bernard Berrian, the Bears passing offense will be as dismal as ever. They averaged 231.75 passing yards last season, but that will drop as the careful Kyle Orton plays intelligently and conservatively.

The running game will be a mess. Matt Forte wasn’t even a household name last year where he played college. What the hell makes him a solid pick this year playing for a team that hasn’t produced a solid rusher in years?

Questions Surrounding Indianapolis

The Colts will get a truckload out of Reggie Wayne and Joseph Addai. Even without Jeff Saturday, the Colts are one of the favorites to storm through the AFC. An 11-5 season is well within reach considering the schedule.

The biggest question remains on whether the “aging” Marvin Harrison can overcome the injury that held him to only five games last season. However, players don’t just suddenly morph into geriatric old men with the flip of the calendar. I believe that Harrison, who has always maintained a strong fitness regimen, will have a bounce-back year. You’ll see it coming if you’re a smart betting man. You’ll miss the boat if you choose to spend your gambling dollars elsewhere.

Final Verdict

The Bears are outclassed at every position in this game except linebacker, where they still have Lance Briggs and Brian Urlacher looking to tear off heads. However, the surgical Peyton Manning will exhaust this defense before they break at the half. He’ll reward the betting investors who believed in them last year, when they went 9-7 ATS.

Chicago Bears vs. Indianapolis Colts

Sunday, September 7th --- Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis --- 8:15pm EST

NFL Betting Line: IND -9.5 (44)

NFL Free Pick: Indianapolis -9.5 (UNDER)