The Pittsburgh Steelers get set to host the New England Patriots on Thursday Night Football. At the time of writing, the Steelers are six-point favorites in this game. However, this is not the most popular bet on the board.
There are three Pittsburgh Steelers bets that fans love tonight. What are those bets? Let’s take a look at those below.
1. Under 30
The most popular bet in this game is Under the point total according to John Ewing of BetMGM. This is surprising considering that this is the lowest point total offered in any NFL game since 2005. Yet, 77% of bets and 78% of the handle is on the Under.
A big reason for this is the quarterback matchup. Bailey Zappe and Mitchell Trubisky will suit up on each side. It does not help that both defenses have played well recently. The New England Patriots are coming off of a 6-0 game. NFL bettors seem to be confident that this trend will continue.
2. Diontae Johnson Over 4.5 Receptions
Steelers WR Diontae Johnson is attracting a lot of attention from NFL bettors. Ewing reports that 99% of bets on BetMGM are on Johnson having more than 4.5 receptions in this game. Why is there so much confidence in Johnson?
One trend that does not work in his favor is how many times he has had more than four receptions this season. Through 12 games, Johnson has only had 5+ receptions three times.
However, more recent trends are in Johnson’s favor. That is because he has gotten targeted 5+ times in nearly every game he has played this season. Plus, Johnson has had four receptions in his last two games. NFL bettors seem to believe he is due to get over the hump.
3. Chris Boswell Over 1.5 Field Goals
Finally, NFL bettors expect Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Chris Boswell to have more than 1.5 field goals in this game. Ewing reports that 99% of bets on this line are Over.
Considering the type of matchup we have in this game, you can see why. Two backup quarterbacks are playing in this game. The expectation is for offensive opportunities to be limited. Boswell has had two or more field goals in seven games this season.
On top of this, the New England Patriots defense has limited opportunities. They have allowed the fewest points in the NFL since Week 9. Plus, they only allow 310 yards per game. NFL bettors are assuming that this trend will continue tonight.
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