The Best NFL Pre-Season Bets to Make in 2025

What Are NFL Pre-Season Bets?

NFL Pre-Season Bets involve wagering on exhibition games held before the regular season kicks off. These bets often include moneylines, point spreads, totals (also called over under), and player props. Unlike the regular season, where stars dominate, preseason games are about backups, rookies, and play-callers. That creates new variables—and new value.

If you're wondering does NFL preseason matter, the answer is yes for smart bettors. While the games don’t affect standings, they matter for rosters and rhythm. Teams use these games to test depth, and that’s where betting angles emerge.

When Does NFL Preseason Start?

The 2025 NFL preseason date officially begins on July 31 with the Hall of Fame Game. Most teams play three exhibition games, though the teams in the Hall of Fame Game play four. So if you’re asking how many NFL preseason games are there, the answer is: usually three per team, with four for two teams.

Knowing the NFL preseason game schedule is key. Games are spread out across August, ending just before Labor Day weekend. This gives teams one week to prepare for the season opener.

Betting Trends for NFL Preseason Games

Betting on NFL preseason odds is different from regular season lines. In preseason, underdogs have a strong track record. Since 2004, preseason underdogs have covered the point spread in over 53% of games.

Low totals also cash often. Teams don't run full playbooks. Offensive timing is rough, and defense often dominates. Many totals fall between 32–37 points.

For example, in the 2024 preseason, 9 of the 12 Week 1 games went under 35 points. Bettors who followed the trend saw solid returns. These trends shape many NFL preseason predictions every year.

Best NFL Pre-Season Bets for 2025

Finding value in NFL pre-season bets means identifying mismatches in depth, motivation, or coaching strategy. Below are three top picks based on the 2025 NFL preseason game schedule and team-specific insights.

1. Lions vs. Chargers (Hall of Fame Game – July 31)

Pick: Lions -1.5
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Reasoning: This NFL preseason first game pits two teams with very different preseason attitudes. The Lions have a deep quarterback room with Teddy Bridgewater likely seeing early reps. Meanwhile, the Chargers are resting Justin Herbert and expected to rotate in undrafted rookies for most of the game.

Detroit also enters the game with more positional battles—particularly at wide receiver and cornerback—giving second- and third-string players something to prove. In contrast, the Chargers under new coaching have shown no urgency to win in the preseason.

Why this works: In past Hall of Fame games, teams with stable coaching and deeper QB rotations (like Detroit) have covered spreads over 60% of the time. That makes this a solid early line before market movement.

2. Patriots vs. Panthers (Week 2 – August 10)

Pick: Over 33.5
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Reasoning: Both teams have open quarterback battles. New England is testing rookie QB Spencer Rattler against veteran Jacoby Brissett, while the Panthers are trying to get Bryce Young reps to rebuild his confidence.

With two offenses needing live reps and coaches signaling more aggressive preseason plans, this game sets up well for an over under bet on points. Both defenses are also dealing with injuries to starters, and rotational players gave up multiple big plays in last year’s preseason.

Why this works: Quarterback battles mean longer drives and more scoring. These scenarios often push totals over expectations, especially in Week 2 where playbooks expand.

3. Steelers vs. Falcons (Week 3 – August 17)

Pick: Steelers ML (Moneyline)
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Reasoning: Mike Tomlin is one of the few coaches who treats preseason like a test of toughness. His teams are 12-4 in their last 16 preseason games. The Steelers also boast excellent depth at running back and offensive line, giving them the ability to control tempo even late in the game.

The Falcons, on the other hand, are expected to rest key starters like Bijan Robinson and Drake London. Backup QB play in Atlanta has also been erratic throughout training camp.

Why this works: Experienced coaches with a track record of winning in August are great bets. Tomlin's teams bring consistency even when starters sit, making the NFL pre season odds on the Steelers appealing.

Long-Term Wagers: Futures and MVP Bets

Beyond game-by-game betting, preseason is a great time to place futures bets. These include wagers on who will win the Super Bowl, make the playoffs, or lead in specific NFL preseason stats.

One popular pick for 2025 is Saquon Barkley at 50-1 odds to win MVP. Early bettors get the best prices, especially if the player starts the season hot.

Also, look out for win totals. Sportsbooks often post early win lines based on preseason play. Use preseason games to gauge depth and lock in good numbers.

How to Read NFL Pre Season Odds

NFL pre season odds usually shift more during the week compared to regular season lines. That’s because injury updates and player rotation news come late. Always check reports on which starters will play. This affects the point spread and over under dramatically.

Example: If a team announces it will rest its top two quarterbacks, the line might move 3–4 points. Being first to react gives you value.

Also watch for live betting options. These let you bet during the game and are great when watching NFL preseason streaming on services like NFL+, ESPN+, or local network apps.

Where to Watch NFL Preseason Football Games

If you’re wondering how to follow the action, NFL preseason streaming options include NFL Network, local sports stations, and digital platforms. Many games are nationally televised, especially the football pre season game between high-profile teams.

Make sure to follow updated NFL preseason game schedules on league websites or sportsbook apps. Knowing kickoff times is essential for live betting and injury updates.

NFL Preseason Strategy: Quality Over Quantity

Don’t bet every game. Pick your spots. Preseason lines are softer than regular season ones, but that doesn’t mean they're always beatable. Look for:

• Quarterback depth
  
  
• Coaching style
  
  
• Motivation levels
  
  
• Travel and weather

Also, learn how to use terms like point spread betting, futures, and over under in context. These are key tools when making your NFL pre season betting choices.

How Many Regular Season NFL Games?

One question many new fans ask is: how many regular season NFL games are there? The answer: 18 weeks, with each team playing 17 games and having one bye week. This gives bettors a long season to track trends and adjust.

But remember, it all starts in the preseason. That’s where breakout players emerge and sharp bettors gain an edge.

Final Thoughts: Does NFL Preseason Matter?

Yes, it does—for teams and for bettors. Preseason gives insight into depth, preparation, and potential. While stars often sit, the games reveal team culture, coach tendencies, and future stars.

Smart bettors don’t ignore the preseason—they use it to gather info and gain a head start. With the right approach, NFL Pre-Season Bets can set the tone for a winning season.

Check out our full betting toolset to start spotting profitable lines.