Welcome to Week 5 of the NFL season! The Cincinnati Bengals are poised to challenge Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens, while the Denver Broncos aim to secure consecutive victories against the Davante Adams-less Las Vegas Raiders. Additionally, Justin Fields seeks to solidify his position as the starting quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers with a prime-time win over the Dallas Cowboys.
As we do weekly, we’ve gathered the top picks and betting insights from CBSSports.com and SportsLine, compiling them into one easy-to-navigate location. Here, you can find expert predictions against the spread from CBS Sports professionals, alongside distinctive content for each game, including advice from leading SportsLine experts, insights from the SportsLine Projection Model, our staff’s best bets, survivor selections, and much more. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
All NFL odds are derived from SportsLine consensus odds.
What picks can you confidently back in Week 5? Which Super Bowl contender might suffer a significant loss? Check out SportsLine, where an exceptional model simulates each NFL game 10,000 times and has yielded over $7,000 for $100 bettors on top-tier NFL selections since it launched.
New York Jets at Minnesota Vikings (London)
Time: Sunday, 9:30 a.m. ET (NFL Network), stream live on fubo (try for free)
Opening Odds: Jets -3.5, O/U 44.5
“I’m genuinely looking forward to this matchup because it showcases the best quarterback in the NFL facing off against Aaron Rodgers. HAHAHA! See what I did there? If I had made that statement three months ago, I might have been ridiculed online. Currently, Sam Darnold boasts the highest QB rating in the league after four weeks and leads all quarterbacks with 11 touchdown passes (no one else has more than eight). His success can be attributed to the plethora of offensive weapons at his disposal, and he’s shown the ability to utilize them effectively.
“The Jets are ranked second in pass defense across the NFL, although that statistic may be somewhat misleading. They limited Bo Nix to just 60 yards in Week 4, which isn’t as remarkable as it appears. In fact, three of the top eight passing defenses share a commonality: they’ve all faced Nix.
“While I’m uncertain if Darnold will outperform Rodgers, I like his chances. The Jets quarterback endured a tough outing in Week 4, suffering five sacks and absorbing 14 hits against the Broncos
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Baltimore Ravens at Cincinnati Bengals
Time: Sunday, 1 p.m. ET (CBS), stream on Paramount+ (click here)
Open: Bengals -1.5, O/U 46.5
“The saying goes that styles determine outcomes, and the Bengals are currently lacking depth at defensive tackle, which has made them vulnerable to the run—something the Panthers clearly demonstrated. They are about to face a challenging opponent. The Bengals’ defensive line resembles the one that allowed the Ravens to run the ball 45 times for a total of 274 yards. Baltimore boasts a dynamic rushing attack led by multiple players, which will pose significant challenges. Lamar Jackson has consistently had explosive runs against this defense, averaging 5.0 yards per carry last season against them. Even though Mike Macdonald is no longer the Ravens’ defensive coordinator, he established a strategy that effectively contained Joe Burrow, who has a 1-3 record against Baltimore over the past two years, completing passes for an average of just 5.9 yards each attempt and maintaining an 85.3 quarterback rating. The Ravens have a 4-2 record against the spread (ATS) in their last six games at Cincinnati and are 7-3 ATS on the road since last season, posting an impressive 5.60 average cover margin, ranking third in the NFL. In contrast, Cincinnati has a 5-5-1 home ATS record during this timeframe. Lamar Jackson boasts a 5-2 ATS record in his last seven encounters at Cincinnati, quite close to where he played college football in Louisville, and he enjoys showcasing his talents there.”
Jason La Canfora has identified Ravens -2.5 as his best bet this week. For more of his top picks, head on over to SportsLine.
Buffalo Bills at Houston Texans
Time: Sunday, 1 p.m. ET (CBS), stream on Paramount+ (click here)
Open: Texans -1.5, O/U 48
“The Texans are generating an alarming average of 10 penalties per game, while the Bills are committing only half that number. In what is expected to be an exciting quarterback duel between Josh Allen and C.J. Stroud, this discrepancy may prove decisive. The Texans are a developing team striving for maturity, whereas Buffalo is a seasoned squad eager to bounce back after a tough loss last Sunday in Baltimore. Both Allen (+350) and Stroud (+1000) are my top picks for MVP right now, and they will likely deliver an offensive spectacle. It’s a good idea to start all fantasy players you can in this matchup.”
SportsLine expert Eric Cohen has made specific score predictions for the NFL’s Week 5, favoring the Bills to
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Open: Bears -5.5, O/U 42
“Don’t blink now, but the Bears offense is beginning to find its rhythm. In the last two weeks, Caleb Williams has significantly improved his aerial performance, recently achieving his best statistical game of the season with a passer rating of 106.6 against the Rams in Week 4. Although this team still faces some developmental challenges, they enjoy a favorable home matchup against the Panthers, who are currently allowing a league-high average of 32.3 points per game this season. Andy Dalton has improved the Carolina offense since stepping in for Bryce Young, yet he is not a player to be excessively feared, especially against a Bears defense that ranks just outside the top ten for fewest yards allowed per play and is tied for the third-most turnovers created. Additionally, Chicago has been quite formidable at home, boasting a record of 7-0 straight up and 6-1 against the spread at Soldier Field over their last seven games, covering the spread in five consecutive matches.”
Tyler Sullivan believes the Bears will cover at home this weekend. For his top bets for Week 5, click here.
Cleveland Browns at Washington Commanders
Time: Sunday, 1 p.m. ET (FOX), stream on fubo (try for free)
Open: Browns -2.5, O/U 43.5
Before placing any NFL picks or parlays for Week 5, be sure to review insights from SportsLine’s senior analyst, Larry Hartstein. Hartstein secured a tie for 52nd place (out of 1,598 participants) in the 2022 Westgate Las Vegas SuperContest, boasting an impressive record of 53-34-3 against the spread. His weekly selections for the Vegas contest underpin his NFL best bets column, which has produced a record of 83-55-3 (60.1%, +22.15 units) since it began in 2022.
This week, he is backing Cleveland as a best bet:
“The Commanders have flourished as underdogs over the past two weeks but are now shifting to a role as significant favorites. This matchup poses the toughest defense Jayden Daniels has faced. The Browns’ offense has struggled with poor performance from both the offensive line and quarterback, accompanied by numerous dropped passes. However, against the Commanders’ unreliable defense, the Browns’ offense has a chance for improvement. I expect a close contest and am taking the points.”
To explore Hartstein’s additional best bets for Week 5, visit SportsLine.
Indianapolis Colts at Jacksonville Jaguars
Time: Sunday, 1 p.m. ET (CBS), stream on Paramount+ (<a href="https://www.paramountplus.com/shows/nfl-on-cbs/?ftag=PPM-22-“`html
of every game this week, click here.
Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots
Time: Sunday, 1 p.m. ET (FOX), stream on fubo (try for free)
Open: Dolphins -3.5, O/U 45
“If you haven’t been paying attention, the situation in Miami hasn’t been favorable. The Dolphins are the sole team in the NFL that has yet to lead a game with time remaining on the clock, and, without Tua Tagovailoa, they’ve been outscored by an average of 20 points over their last two matches. It was predictable to see Tyler Huntley struggle to find rhythm in an offense he had less than two weeks to assimilate, especially now as he prepares to face Jerod Mayo’s defense on the road.
“While it’s true that the Patriots offense isn’t one of the league’s most dynamic, and they recently lost center David Andrews to a shoulder injury, the Dolphins have a disappointing record of 1-6 without Tagovailoa at quarterback, having failed to score a touchdown in their sole win. Expect this to be a low-scoring game, but I’m predicting the Patriots to secure a victory at home.”
Jordan Dajani expects the Patriots to defeat the Dolphins this weekend. For his weekly column, click here.
Arizona Cardinals at San Francisco 49ers
Time: Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET (FOX), stream on fubo (try for free)
Open: 49ers -9.5, O/U 47
“The 49ers have achieved four consecutive victories in this matchup, scoring 38, 38, 35, and 45 points in those games. After witnessing the Cardinals being exposed by the Commanders last Sunday, do we really have faith in them to contain Brock Purdy’s 49ers on the road? Personally, I don’t. I anticipate a convincing win with another impressive score from San Francisco.”
SportsLine expert Eric Cohen has provided his exact NFL score predictions for Week 5, and he favors the 49ers for a strong performance on Sunday. To check out Cohen’s precise score predictions for each game this week, head on over to SportsLine.
Las Vegas Raiders at Denver Broncos
Time: Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET (FOX), stream on fubo (“`html
This season, Vance Joseph’s defense is currently ranked second in terms of yards allowed per game (256.5) and third in points allowed per game (13.8). They have now successfully kept opponents to 13 points or fewer for three consecutive games.
“Recently, the Raiders have been dominant against the Broncos, but the recent news about the Davante Adams trade may disrupt team cohesion. Additionally, he may not be playing on Sunday due to a hamstring injury.”
Jordan Dajani predicts that the Broncos will continue their winning streak this weekend. For his Week 5 column, click here.
Green Bay Packers at Los Angeles Rams
Time: Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET (CBS), stream on Paramount+ (click here)
Open: Rams -1.5, O/U 48.5
“Jordan Love had a rocky return last week against the Vikings, yet the Packers quarterback managed to rally his team late in the game. This demonstrates the potential I envisioned for the Green Bay team at the start of the season, and I believe they are ready to showcase that capability again in Los Angeles as road favorites. The Rams’ defense has been struggling mightily this past month, ranking 31st in scoring, 32nd in yards allowed per play, and 30th on third down (50% conversion rate). While all eyes will be on Love as he aims to regain his peak form, this might also turn into a standout performance for Josh Jacobs, since the Rams have the worst record for rushing yards allowed this season at 165.6 yards per game.”
Tyler Sullivan forecasts a double-digit victory for the Packers over the Rams this weekend. To view his best bets for Week 5, click here.
New York Giants at Seattle Seahawks
Time: Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET (CBS), stream on Paramount+ (click here)
Open: Seahawks -3.5, O/U 43
“Although this is a long journey for the Giants, they will be well-rested after playing last Thursday, while the Seahawks had a game on Monday night. Seattle’s defense is currently dealing with significant injuries, which could provide an opportunity for the Giants’ offense to demonstrate improvement. Meanwhile, the Seahawks’ offense displayed its scoring ability on Monday night. Expect a high-scoring game as the Giants attempt to stay competitive, but Seattle will ultimately secure the win.”
CBS Sports Senior NFL Writer Pete Prisco believes the Giants will cover the spread in Seattle. To read his comprehensive breakdown of every game this week, click here.
Dallas Cowboys at Pittsburgh Steelers
Time: Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET (NBC), stream on fubo (<a href="https://www.f
Line.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. New Orleans Saints
Time: Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET (ESPN), stream available on fubo (try for free)
Opening Line: Chiefs -8, O/U 44.5
The Kansas City Chiefs aim to maintain their perfect record as they face the New Orleans Saints on “Monday Night Football.” The Saints have dropped their last two games, including a narrow 26-24 loss to Atlanta on Sunday. Meanwhile, the Chiefs secured a victory over the Los Angeles Chargers, winning 17-10 in Week 4. Before placing any bets or making predictions about the Saints vs. Chiefs matchup, it’s essential to see which side SportsLine NFL expert Danny Vithlani supports. Vithlani is currently enjoying an impressive run, boasting a 22-7 record (+1431) on NFL spread picks.
Vithlani anticipates the Under in this contest; however, to discover his official take on the spread, visit SportsLine.
NFL Week 5 Preview: Key Matchups, Expert Picks, and Betting Insights
Key Matchups to Watch
NFL Week 5 features several exciting matchups that could influence playoff standings and provide thrilling entertainment for fans. Here are the games that you won’t want to miss:
1. Baltimore Ravens vs. Cincinnati Bengals
This AFC North clash is critical for both teams as they aim to establish dominance in the division. The Ravens, boasting a strong defense, will challenge the Bengals’ potent offense led by quarterback Joe Burrow. Expect a fierce battle in the trenches as both teams jockey for position in the playoff race.
2. Buffalo Bills vs. Houston Texans
The Bills are coming off a strong start to the season and will look to improve to 4-1 against the Texans. Buffalo’s high-powered offense, featuring quarterback Josh Allen, could be too much for Houston’s defense. However, the Texans have shown resilience and could pull off an upset if their young quarterback plays well.
3. Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos
The Chiefs face a crucial matchup against a struggling Broncos team. Patrick Mahomes will look to exploit Denver’s weaknesses, aiming to keep Kansas City’s winning streak alive. The Broncos must step up defensively to stay competitive in this rivalry.
Expert Picks for Week 5
Expert analysts have weighed in on the Week 5 games, providing valuable insights for fans and bettors alike. Here are some key picks:
- Baltimore Ravens vs. Cincinnati Bengals: Experts lean towards the Ravens, citing their strong defensive play and home-field advantage.
- Buffalo Bills vs. Houston Texans: Many analysts predict a victory for the Bills, with a strong likelihood of covering the spread.
- Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos: Experts suggest backing the Chiefs, as their offense has consistently outperformed Denver’s shaky defensive unit.
Betting Insights for Week 5
Understanding the betting landscape is critical for fans looking to wager on NFL games. Here are some insights to consider:
Point Spreads and Over/Under
Matchup | Point Spread | Over/Under |
---|---|---|
Baltimore Ravens vs. Cincinnati Bengals | Ravens -3.5 | 44.5 |
Buffalo Bills vs. Houston Texans | Bills -5.5 | 48.0 |
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos | Chiefs -7.0 | 50.0 |
Trends to Consider
- The Ravens have covered the spread in 4 out of their last 5 home games.
- The Bills have an impressive record against the Texans, winning the last 6 matchups.
- Chiefs games frequently go over the total points, with the last 5 matchups reaching or exceeding the over/under.
Player Matchups to Monitor
Individual performances will play a significant role in the outcomes of these games. Here are the key players to watch:
Ravens vs. Bengals
- Lamar Jackson (Ravens): His ability to extend plays and make accurate throws will be crucial.
- Joe Burrow (Bengals): Expect him to target his star receivers, especially Ja’Marr Chase, in crucial moments.
Bills vs. Texans
- Josh Allen (Bills): His dual-threat capability can exploit any defensive coverage.
- C.J. Stroud (Texans): The rookie needs to manage the game effectively for the Texans to stay competitive.
Chiefs vs. Broncos
- Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs): Look for him to connect with Travis Kelce and Tyreek Hill downfield.
- Russell Wilson (Broncos): He must showcase his veteran experience against a formidable Kansas City defense.
Fantasy Football Considerations
As fans engage in fantasy football, Week 5 provides numerous opportunities for lineup optimization:
- Start: Lamar Jackson (Ravens) – High upside against a vulnerable Bengals defense.
- Start: Josh Allen (Bills) – Expected to put up significant points against the Texans.
- Consider: Joe Burrow (Bengals) – Could be a high-scoring affair, making him a viable option.
Benefits of Staying Informed
Staying updated on match previews, expert picks, and betting insights enhances your NFL experience. Here are some practical benefits:
- Informed Betting: Understanding the dynamics of each game can improve your betting strategy.
- Enhanced Viewing Experience: Knowing key players and matchups makes watching the games more exciting.
- Fantasy Football Success: Having insights into player performance helps in optimizing your fantasy lineup.
Case Studies: Recent Trends in NFL Betting
Analyzing recent trends can guide your betting strategies. Here are a few case studies:
Case Study 1: Ravens’ Home Advantage
The Ravens have been dominant at home, with a record of 7-1 against the spread in their last eight home games. This trend suggests betting on the Ravens when they play at M&T Bank Stadium could yield favorable results.
Case Study 2: Bills’ Offensive Prowess
The Bills have consistently scored 30+ points in their last three games. This trend indicates that the over on their game totals might be a sound betting decision.
Conclusion
As NFL Week 5 approaches, these matchups promise to deliver excitement and drama. Understanding key players, betting odds, and expert insights will not only enhance your viewing experience but also empower you to make informed decisions whether you’re betting or managing your fantasy team. With critical games on the horizon, fans are in for a thrilling weekend of football.