NFL 2025 - We're finally here

The 2025 NFL season is finally here, and I have to admit that I have missed it a lot. Now it's time for Sunday nights and night games, drama on the field and, not least, good opportunities in the betting market.

This year's season has several exciting new features. Overtime rules have been changed so that both teams always get one possession of the ball, touchbacks are being moved to the 35-yard line, and we'll see new uniforms in divisional games. Small details perhaps, but they can have a big impact when the margins get thin.

As usual, I will be following the NFL closely throughout the fall. But at the start of the season, it's good to be a little cautious with your bets, we have little fresh data to build on, and a lot can change quickly. However, there are two games in the opening round that I want to look at.

Los Angeles Chargers – Kansas City Chiefs

Match start: 6 September at 02:00

The Chiefs face the Chargers in a divisional matchup where I think the line is still playable. Last year, Kansas City won both games, and the team enters the season with Patrick Mahomes healthy and ready. Rashee Rice is back at receiver, which gives the offense more strings to play on.

The Chargers, on the other hand, are struggling with injury problems. There is uncertainty on both the offensive line and among the receivers, and that makes life difficult for Justin Herbert. When the Chiefs have a stable defense and an offense that always delivers, I see value in taking -3 before the line moves up to -3.5. We therefore land on the following bets:

NFL At 02:00 Los Angeles Chargers - Kansas City Chiefs: Chiefs - 3 (1.88)

New England Patriots – Las Vegas Raiders

Match start: September 7

The Patriots are predicted to be a success this season, but I'm more skeptical. The offense is still being reassembled, the line isn't fully fleshed out, and it may take time for them to find their rhythm. Facing Maxx Crosby and the Raiders defense in Week 1 is not a dream start.

Las Vegas also has several offensive weapons that could cause trouble for the Patriots. I see this as a game that should be closer to “pick'em”, and therefore I think +4 is a good value.

NFL At 19:00 New England Patriots – Las Vegas Raiders: Raiders +4 (1.65)

Conclusion

The season is long, and I'm starting out cautiously with my bets. Still, it's hard not to see value in these two games. The Chiefs simply look better equipped than the Chargers in Week 1, while the Raiders should have every chance to cover the line against a Patriots team that's still fumbling a bit.

Now the NFL is back and I'm looking forward to following the season, week by week.

Join us further

We have a dedicated channel for American football in the Discord, where we discuss the games, share analysis, and follow the season closely. Would you like to join the conversation?

Click here to join