NFL Week 7 – Predictions & Best Bets

NFL Week 7
Published by NYSB Staff
Last Updated: 14. Oct 2025.

By Week 7, the NFL season has reached the point where contenders and pretenders begin to separate. Offensive identities are clearer, defensive adjustments have been made, and the market has largely settled, but not without opportunities. This slate features divisional rivalries, a London game, and several primetime showdowns with playoff implications.

From Steelers–Bengals on Thursday night to a Monday doubleheader featuring Buccaneers–Lions and Texans–Seahawks, Week 7 offers value across the board. Below, we break down every matchup with odds and best bets. (Odds current as of Wednesday, October 15, 2025 — lines subject to change.)


Week 7 Matchups & Best Bets at a Glance

Matchup

Date / Time (ET)

Best Bet

Steelers @ Bengals

Thu, Oct 16, 8:15 p.m.

Bengals -3.5 

Rams @ Jaguars (London)

Sun, Oct 19, 9:30 a.m.

Jaguars -2 

Saints @ Bears

Sun, Oct 19, 1:00 p.m.

Bears +2.5 

Dolphins @ Browns

Sun, Oct 19, 1:00 p.m.

Under 44.5 

Raiders @ Chiefs

Sun, Oct 19, 1:00 p.m.

Chiefs -6 

Panthers @ Jets

Sun, Oct 19, 1:00 p.m.

Jets -3 

Eagles @ Vikings

Sun, Oct 19, 1:00 p.m.

Eagles -1.5 

Patriots @ Titans

Sun, Oct 19, 1:00 p.m.

Titans -2 

Giants @ Broncos

Sun, Oct 19, 4:05 p.m.

Broncos -2.5 

Colts @ Chargers

Sun, Oct 19, 4:05 p.m.

Over 48 

Packers @ Cardinals

Sun, Oct 19, 4:25 p.m.

Packers -1.5 

Commanders @ Cowboys

Sun, Oct 19, 4:25 p.m.

Cowboys -3 

Falcons @ 49ers

Sun, Oct 19, 8:20 p.m.

49ers -5 

Buccaneers @ Lions

Mon, Oct 20, 7:00 p.m.

Lions -4 

Texans @ Seahawks

Mon, Oct 20, 10:00 p.m.

Under 43 


Pittsburgh Steelers at Cincinnati Bengals

Thursday, October 16, 8:15 p.m. ET (Prime Video)

Best Bet:

Bengals -3.5 — stronger passing game at home


The Steelers bring their trademark defensive toughness, led by T.J. Watt and a front seven capable of disrupting any quarterback. But their offense continues to sputter, with inconsistent protection and a passing game that struggles to sustain drives. Kenny Pickett has shown flashes of promise, yet the lack of rhythm on third downs and in the red zone often kills momentum. Pittsburgh’s defense can keep them competitive, but it needs more help from an offense that rarely turns stops into points.

Cincinnati, meanwhile, looks sharper each week. Joe Burrow’s growing chemistry with Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins gives the Bengals explosive upside, while an improved running game keeps defenses honest. However, tight ends Mike Gesicki and Tanner Hudson are both sidelined, which could limit Cincinnati’s short-yardage and red-zone packages. Expect Noah Fant and Drew Sample to take on larger roles, with the passing game relying more heavily on perimeter matchups.

Even with those absences, Lou Anarumo’s defense continues to perform at a high level, ranking near the top of the league in turnover margin and second-half scoring defense. At home, the Bengals’ edge in quarterback play, coaching, and depth should still prove decisive. The Steelers’ defense may slow them early, but Cincinnati’s rhythm and big-play capability make them the side to back in another hard-fought AFC North clash.


Los Angeles Rams at Jacksonville Jaguars (London)

Sunday, October 19, 9:30 a.m. ET (NFL Network)

Best Bet:

Jaguars -2 — more composed overseas


London games reward stability, and Jacksonville is one of the NFL’s most experienced teams overseas, giving them an advantage in preparation and routine. Trevor Lawrence’s efficient play and Doug Pederson’s attention to detail in travel planning and practice schedules should shine against a Rams team that still struggles with offensive line consistency.

The Rams rely heavily on Matthew Stafford and Cooper Kupp to move the chains, but sustained drives could be difficult against a Jaguars defense that is working to improve its coverage and run containment under the new scheme. 

Jacksonville’s balanced offense, led by Travis Etienne on the ground and Calvin Ridley through the air, offers enough versatility to challenge Los Angeles at all levels. With better structure, travel experience, and a defense capable of creating turnovers, the Jaguars are well-positioned to control this matchup and cover the spread overseas.


New Orleans Saints at Chicago Bears

Sunday, October 19, 1:00 p.m. ET

Best Bet:

Bears +2.5 — value as home underdog


The Bears have been quietly improving, particularly on offense where the ground game has finally found rhythm behind a stronger offensive line and consistent backfield production. Justin Fields’ mobility has opened up play-action opportunities, while the defense continues to limit explosive plays. At Soldier Field, their ability to shorten the game, control the clock, and lean on defensive pressure should keep it close. 

New Orleans, meanwhile, remains unpredictable — strong one week, flat the next — and often struggles to move the ball efficiently outdoors in tough conditions. With Chicago showing better balance and confidence at home, the Bears look like a solid value play as home underdogs in what could be a grind-it-out, low-scoring affair.


Miami Dolphins at Cleveland Browns

Sunday, October 19, 1:00 p.m. ET

Best Bet:

Under 44.5 — defensive battle expected


Cleveland’s defense has been elite at home, consistently holding opponents below 20 points thanks to a relentless pass rush and improved secondary play. Bad weather could further limit Miami’s big-play potential, forcing Tua Tagovailoa to lean more on short throws and the running game. The Browns rely heavily on their front seven, led by Myles Garrett, to set the tone and have forced teams into low-scoring, physical contests all season. 

Miami’s defense, while overshadowed by its offense, has also shown the ability to pressure the quarterback and contain the run, which should help keep Cleveland’s attack in check. With both defenses capable of controlling the line of scrimmage and the potential for sloppy field conditions, this matchup has all the makings of a slow-paced, defensive struggle that favors the under.


Las Vegas Raiders at Kansas City Chiefs

Sunday, October 19, 1:00 p.m. ET

Best Bet:

Chiefs -6 — stronger at Arrowhead


Kansas City rarely drops consecutive home games, and this matchup sets up well for Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid’s group to rebound. Rashee Rice’s return from suspension gives the Chiefs a much-needed vertical weapon, helping stretch the field and diversify a passing attack that has leaned heavily on Travis Kelce. Expect Mahomes to work the short-to-intermediate routes early before taking calculated deep shots once the Raiders’ secondary adjusts.

Las Vegas continues to show flashes but remains overly dependent on Davante Adams and sporadic quarterback play. Their defense struggles against motion-heavy offenses, which the Chiefs excel at exploiting. Kansas City’s defense, meanwhile, has quietly become a stabilizing force—ranking among the AFC’s top units in third-down and red-zone efficiency.

Arrowhead’s crowd noise, Kansas City’s defensive form, and the return of another playmaker all tilt this firmly toward the home side. With better coaching, balance, and situational execution, the Chiefs should cover the number comfortably in another statement divisional win.


Carolina Panthers at New York Jets

Sunday, October 19, 1:00 p.m. ET

Best Bet:

Jets -3 — defensive edge at home


The Jets’ defense continues to rank among the league’s best, led by Sauce Gardner and a relentless front seven that excels at creating pressure without heavy blitzing. The unit has been especially effective in limiting red-zone opportunities and forcing turnovers, giving the offense shorter fields to work with. Against a young Panthers quarterback and an offense still finding its footing, New York should control field position and dictate tempo. 

Offensively, the Jets don’t need to be flashy — a steady run game and smart, mistake-free football should be enough to take advantage of Carolina’s defensive lapses. With home-field advantage and one of the NFL’s most aggressive defenses, New York looks poised to cover comfortably. For Jets backers, FanDuel’s offer of Bet $5, Get $300 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins adds extra value to the play.


Philadelphia Eagles at Minnesota Vikings

Sunday, October 19, 1:00 p.m. ET

Best Bet:

Eagles -1.5 — stronger in the trenches


The Eagles remain dominant in the trenches, with their defensive front capable of wrecking games and their offensive line providing elite protection for Jalen Hurts. That physical advantage has defined their success, allowing them to dictate tempo and control possession. Minnesota, meanwhile, has struggled to protect its quarterback and establish a consistent run game, often forcing their offense into predictable passing situations. 

Philadelphia’s depth gives them multiple ways to win — they can pound the ball behind their powerful front or exploit mismatches downfield with A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. Unless the Vikings can find early rhythm on offense, the Eagles’ pressure and balance should be too much, setting them up to grind out another road victory.


New England Patriots at Tennessee Titans

Sunday, October 19, 1:00 p.m. ET

Best Bet: 

Titans -2 — physical edge at home


Tennessee enters Week 7 in transition after firing head coach Brian Callahan, with Mike McCoy stepping in as interim. That kind of midseason upheaval can cut both ways — teams often play inspired football in the short term, but offensive rhythm can suffer as systems adjust. Expect a simplified, run-heavy approach built around Derrick Henry, whose ability to control tempo and wear down defenses remains Tennessee’s best path to victory.

Defensively, the Titans are still physical up front and capable of forcing turnovers, particularly at home. The Patriots, meanwhile, remain disciplined but continue to struggle with offensive execution and red-zone efficiency. Their defense can keep them in games, but the lack of explosive plays on offense has been a persistent issue.

Unless New England can find balance through the air, Tennessee’s physicality and home-field edge — even amid coaching changes — make them the side to trust in what’s likely to be a grind-it-out, low-scoring contest.


New York Giants at Denver Broncos

Sunday, October 19, 4:05 p.m. ET

Best Bet: 

Broncos -2.5 — altitude advantage


The Giants have struggled to sustain drives and protect their quarterback, with offensive line issues continuing to limit their rhythm and scoring potential. Daniel Jones has faced constant pressure, and the lack of consistent separation from receivers has compounded their problems on third downs. Denver’s altitude and improving defense create a tough road environment, particularly for a Giants team that has struggled late in games.

The Broncos have started to find a groove defensively, generating steady pressure and forcing key turnovers. Offensively, their ability to control tempo with the ground game and mix in timely play-action passes gives them an edge at home. With the crowd behind them and confidence growing after a string of strong defensive performances, the Broncos look well-positioned to grind out another home win.

If you’re backing either side in this matchup, BetMGM’s welcome bonus of Get Up To $1500 In Bonus Bets (Promo Code: NYSB1500) offers one of the best-value welcome bonuses for New York bettors looking to wager on Giants games this season.


Indianapolis Colts at Los Angeles Chargers

Sunday, October 19, 4:05 p.m. ET

Best Bet:

Over 48 — offensive shootout potential


Both teams have explosive playmakers and defenses that can give up points in bunches. Justin Herbert and the Chargers’ passing attack should test Indianapolis’ secondary, spreading the field with speed and quick reads. The Colts can counter with Jonathan Taylor’s power and balance, using play-action to exploit Los Angeles’ aggressive defensive fronts. Both quarterbacks are capable of explosive drives, and defensive lapses could quickly turn into touchdowns. 

The Chargers’ tempo and willingness to air it out could push the total higher, while Indianapolis’ balanced approach helps keep drives alive and create sustained scoring chances. With two top-10 passing units, inconsistent red-zone defenses, and offenses built around rhythm and big plays, expect momentum swings, quick scoring bursts, and a game where the over remains firmly in play throughout.


Green Bay Packers at Arizona Cardinals

Sunday, October 19, 4:25 p.m. ET

Best Bet:

Packers -1.5 — steadier all-around team


Jordan Love has continued to settle into his role, showing growing command of the offense and better chemistry with his young receivers. Green Bay’s defense has quietly been solid, forcing turnovers and improving in red-zone efficiency. Arizona plays hard but often fades in the second half, struggling to maintain consistency once fatigue sets in. 

The Cardinals’ defense can generate pressure early, but depth issues have hurt them late in games. With the Packers’ discipline, steadier quarterback play, and ability to finish drives, they’re the more reliable side in a coin-flip matchup, particularly if the run game continues to find balance.


Washington Commanders at Dallas Cowboys

Sunday, October 19, 4:25 p.m. ET

Best Bet:

Cowboys -3 — pass rush dominance


Dallas remains dangerous at home, especially when its pass rush can dictate the pace of the game. Micah Parsons anchors a unit that overwhelms opposing quarterbacks, and when the defense sets the tone early, the Cowboys usually capitalize with short fields and efficient scoring drives. However, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb’s status is uncertain after suffering a high-ankle sprain, which could limit Dallas’ explosiveness in the passing game. Expect Dak Prescott to lean more on Brandin Cooks, tight end Jake Ferguson, and the ground game to maintain balance.

The Commanders have improved offensively under Jayden Daniels, showing more creativity and confidence, but facing Dallas’ relentless front seven on the road is a massive challenge. Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence should generate consistent pressure, forcing Daniels into hurried throws and off-script plays. Washington’s offensive line has improved, yet sustaining protection against this defense remains a tall order.

Even if the offense scales back without Lamb at full strength, Dallas’ dominance in the trenches and home-field intensity should carry them. Look for the Cowboys’ defense to set the tone again in a game that could hinge on turnovers.


Atlanta Falcons at San Francisco 49ers

Sunday, October 19, 8:20 p.m. ET (NBC)

Best Bet:

49ers -5 — superior depth


San Francisco remains among the league’s most complete and well-coached teams. Their physical defense, led by Nick Bosa and Fred Warner, consistently sets the tone and controls field position, while their diverse offense led by Christian McCaffrey and Deebo Samuel gives them multiple ways to win, from explosive runs to creative passing schemes. Brock Purdy’s poise and decision-making continue to complement Kyle Shanahan’s system perfectly, allowing the 49ers to adapt mid-game and wear opponents down. 

The Falcons will compete behind a solid ground attack and physicality, but they’re likely to struggle to match San Francisco’s depth, speed, and versatility over four quarters. Expect the 49ers to pull away late behind dominant line play and efficient execution on both sides of the ball.


Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Detroit Lions

Monday, October 20, 7:00 p.m. ET (ESPN)

Best Bet:

Lions -4 — stronger offensive balance


Detroit has been one of the most efficient teams in football, thriving at home behind Jared Goff and a balanced offensive attack that spreads the ball well and controls tempo. The Lions’ offensive line remains one of the league’s best, giving Goff time to pick apart coverages and find rhythm with Amon-Ra St. Brown and the running game. Defensively, they’ve tightened up in key moments, forcing opponents into long drives and minimizing explosive plays — though they’ll be without safety Brian Branch, suspended for this game, which could leave the secondary slightly more vulnerable to deep shots.

Tampa Bay’s offense, led by Baker Mayfield, has been inconsistent, alternating strong stretches with untimely turnovers. To stay competitive, the Buccaneers will need to hit on chunk plays and avoid third-and-long situations against a Detroit front that can collapse pockets quickly.

Even with Branch’s absence, Detroit’s home-field energy, offensive precision, and balanced game plan make them the more complete side. The Lions should control tempo from start to finish. If you’re betting this one, Caesars’ welcome bonus: Bet $1, Double Your Winnings on Your Next 20 Wagers (Promo Code: SAFEBETS20X) adds an extra boost.


Houston Texans at Seattle Seahawks

Monday, October 20, 10:00 p.m. ET (ESPN+)

Best Bet:

Under 43 — defenses set the tone


Seattle’s defense at home tends to tighten up, particularly with its aggressive secondary and improving pass rush feeding off crowd energy. The Seahawks’ front has been on a roll, ranking among the league leaders in sacks and takeaways over the past month. That pressure could challenge C.J. Stroud, who’s been nursing a minor wrist issue — not enough to sideline him, but potentially limiting his deep accuracy.

Houston’s offense has leaned more conservative lately, focusing on quick reads, short passes, and a steady run game to limit turnovers. Its defense has also stepped up, especially against the run, which could keep this matchup close for stretches.

Both teams prefer physical, possession-based football, which should slow the pace and make points hard to come by. In a battle defined by defense, field position, and time of possession, the under remains the smart play.


Week 7 Betting Takeaways

By midseason, the separation between elite and struggling teams is clearer than ever — but Week 7 still presents value for bettors who read the market right. The 49ers’ injuries to Fred Warner and Brock Purdy have slightly narrowed their margin for error, while the Titans’ coaching change and the Bengals’ tight end injuries inject uncertainty into previously stable spots.

Defensive matchups like Browns–Dolphins and Titans–Patriots continue to lean toward the under, whereas games featuring dynamic offenses — like Colts–Chargers and Raiders–Chiefs (with Rashee Rice returning) — point to higher totals. The Lions–Buccaneers primetime clash may open up slightly through the air with Brian Branch suspended, but Detroit’s balance still makes them a dependable favorite at home.

For New York bettors, the Jets’ defense again headlines local interest, while the Giants face an uphill climb in Denver’s altitude. And across the board, this week reinforces one theme — health and consistency are now just as important as matchups.

As always, line shopping remains essential: check out the latest offers from the best NFL sportsbooks to maximize every wager

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