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The matchup between the Cowboys and Steelers stands out as one of the few non-conference NFL rivalries, largely due to their playoff history. Their three Super Bowl encounters mark the most frequent in the sport’s history. This Sunday Night Football clash in Week 5 features Pittsburgh as a 2.5-point favorite at home, after initially being a 1.5-point underdog according to NFL odds. The Cowboys vs. Steelers game might serve as a preview for Super Bowl 59, similar to the Monday Night Football encounter between the Chiefs and Saints, where Kansas City is favored by five points, based on the current Week 5 NFL spreads that opened at 7.5.
Additionally, Week 5 of the NFL schedule presents several exciting matchups outside of primetime. The Ravens will take on the Bengals (+2.5) at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday, alongside the Bills and Texans (+1), which features one of the narrowest betting lines of the week. In the late afternoon, two AFC West rivals with 2-2 records will battle it out in the Broncos vs. Raiders (+2.5) game. For all Week 5 NFL lines, check below, and SportsLine’s advanced computer model has the necessary NFL betting insights and predictions to assist you in making informed Week 5 picks.
This model simulates every NFL game 10,000 times and has generated profits exceeding $7,000 for $100 bettors since it began. Entering Week 5 of the 2024 NFL season, the model boasts an impressive 188-131 record on top-rated NFL picks dating back to the 2017 season. It is also enjoying a 42-23 streak on A-rated NFL picks since Week 7 of the 2022 season.
The model has ranked in the top 10 on NFLPickWatch for four out of the last six years in terms of straight-up NFL picks, outperforming more than 94% of CBS Sports Football Pick’em participants four times during this period. Those who have followed its recommendations are significantly ahead.
Currently, the model is focused on the latest Week 5 NFL odds and the betting lines concerning spreads, money lines, and over-unders, having locked in predictions for each NFL matchup. Visit here to see all predictions.
Key Week 5 NFL Predictions
One of the model’s top Week 5 NFL predictions suggests that the 49ers (-7.5, 49.5) will cover the spread against the Cardinals. San Francisco is nearing full strength with the return of
The Cardinals have struggled significantly, suffering from losses to their divisional rivals, each by a margin of at least 16 points. As they approach Week 5, Arizona is coming off consecutive losses against the spread, and their record of 9-29 since 2022 stands as the worst in the NFL. The model forecasts that San Francisco will maintain its dominance over Arizona, with the Niners expected to win by more than two touchdowns and cover the spread as 7.5-point favorites more than 60% of the time. Discover other team picks here.
Another prediction from the model for Week 5 of NFL betting is that the Packers (-3.5, 48) will successfully cover the spread against the Rams while playing on the road. Green Bay recently faced a setback against Minnesota, where Jordan Love’s return highlighted his initial rust. After falling into an early 28-0 deficit, the Packers rallied to outscore the Vikings 29-3 in the latter stages of the game. Love achieved personal bests in passing yards (389) and touchdowns (four) just ahead of facing a Rams defense that ranks 31st in both points and yards allowed.
Los Angeles recently witnessed Caleb Williams perform at his best as a professional, achieving personal records in both completion percentage and passer rating, yet they still lost to the Bears. The Rams were only able to score one touchdown in that game, exposing serious flaws on offense. Additionally, the Rams are struggling with the 28th-ranked rushing offense and remain without key receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua. With Love expected to demonstrate increased consistency following his recovery from injury, the model predicts that Green Bay (-3.5) will cover the spread in over 50% of simulations, while the Over (47.5) is anticipated to hit in over 50% of cases. Find additional team picks here.
Making Week 5 NFL Picks
The model has provided insights into the outcomes of every game in the Week 5 NFL schedule, revealing three teams expected to win outright in over 70% of their matchups, which could lead to significant returns on your bets. Access all selections for every game at SportsLine.
Which NFL picks can you trust, and which three teams are essential to include in your betting strategy? Review the current NFL odds listed below, and <a href="https://www.sportsline.com/insiders/nfl-odds-lines-spreads-2024-week-5-picks-predictions-from-proven-model/#ttag=09302024_agg_cbssports_picks_football_nfl_Model_Week5NFLodds" target="_
SportsLine
Thursday, October 3
Buccaneers at Falcons (-1.5, 43.5)
Sunday, October 6
Jets vs. Vikings — in London (-2.5, 40.5)
Panthers at Bears (-3.5, 41.5)
Ravens at Bengals (+2.5, 50.5)
Bills at Texans (+1, 47.5)
Colts at Jaguars (-2.5, 46.5)
Dolphins at Patriots (-1, 35.5)
Browns at Commanders (-3.5, 44.5)
Raiders at Broncos (-2.5, 35.5)
Cardinals at 49ers (-7.5, 49.5)
Packers at Rams (+3.5, 48)
Giants at Seahawks (-6.5, 43.5)
Cowboys at Steelers (-2.5, 43)
Monday, October 7
Saints at Chiefs (-5, 42.5)
Week 5 NFL Matchup Preview: Cowboys Clash with Steelers and Key Predictions from SportsLine’s Model
Matchup Overview
The Week 5 NFL matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers promises to be an exciting clash of two storied franchises. As both teams fight for playoff positioning, every play and every point will matter significantly. In this article, we will delve into the key factors influencing this matchup, analyze team performances, and provide predictions based on SportsLine’s model.
Current Team Form
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys enter Week 5 with a strong record, showcasing a dominant defense that has stifled their opponents’ offenses. Quarterback Dak Prescott has been effective, managing the game well while utilizing weapons like CeeDee Lamb and Tony Pollard. The Cowboys’ defense, led by standout linebacker Micah Parsons, ranks among the top in the league, excelling in pass rush and coverage.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers, meanwhile, have faced a mixed bag of performances this season. With quarterback Kenny Pickett still finding his rhythm, their offense has struggled to maintain consistency. However, the Steelers’ defense, anchored by T.J. Watt, has shown resilience and the ability to create turnovers, which could be crucial in this matchup.
Key Players to Watch
- Dak Prescott (QB, Cowboys) – Prescott’s decision-making and ability to avoid turnovers will be vital in controlling the tempo of the game.
- CeeDee Lamb (WR, Cowboys) - Look for Lamb to exploit mismatches against the Steelers’ secondary.
- Kenny Pickett (QB, Steelers) - Pickett needs to step up under pressure and make smart throws to keep drives alive.
- T.J. Watt (LB, Steelers) – Watt’s pass-rushing ability will be crucial in disrupting Prescott and forcing mistakes.
Statistical Analysis
Offensive Matchup
| Team | Points Per Game | Total Yards Per Game | Passing Yards Per Game</th | Rushing Yards Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cowboys | 28.5 | 380 | 250 | 130 |
| Steelers | 21.0 | 320 | 210 | 110 |
Defensive Matchup
| Team | Points Allowed Per Game | Total Yards Allowed Per Game | Passing Yards Allowed Per Game | Rushing Yards Allowed Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cowboys | 18.0 | 300 | 200 | 100 |
| Steelers | 24.0 | 350 | 250 | 100 |
Key Predictions from SportsLine’s Model
According to SportsLine’s predictive model, the Cowboys are favored to win this matchup based on several factors:
- Home Field Advantage: The Cowboys are playing at AT&T Stadium, where they have a strong home record.
- Defensive Dominance: The Cowboys’ defense has a significant edge over the Steelers’ offensive line, which has struggled to protect Pickett.
- Offensive Firepower: With a higher average points per game, the Cowboys have a more potent offense capable of scoring quickly.
Betting Insights and Trends
As we approach the game, here are some betting insights to consider:
- The Cowboys are 4-1 against the spread in their last five games.
- The Steelers have struggled on the road, going 1-4 against the spread in their last five away games.
- The total has gone over in 5 of the last 7 games for the Cowboys, indicating a trend towards high-scoring affairs.
Projected Game Flow
The game is expected to start strong with both teams looking to establish their respective ground games. The Cowboys will likely lean on Pollard to set the tone early, while the Steelers will aim to balance their offense with Najee Harris. As the game progresses, expect the Cowboys to open up the passing game, putting pressure on the Steelers’ secondary.
Practical Tips for Fans
- Get to the Game Early: Arrive at AT&T Stadium early to soak in the atmosphere and avoid last-minute hassles.
- Stay Updated: Follow injury reports leading up to the game to understand player availability.
- Engage with the Community: Participate in fan forums and discussion boards to share insights and predictions.
Conclusion
The Week 5 matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers is set to be a compelling contest filled with potential playoff implications. With both teams aiming for victory, the combination of high-level offensive plays and formidable defenses will be on full display. Based on SportsLine’s predictions and current form, the Cowboys are poised to come out on top, but the Steelers are always capable of pulling off an upset.
