Minnesota Vikings vs. Chicago Bears
NFL Week 1 concludes with a NFC North battle between the Vikings and Bears on Monday Night Football in Chicago. While I’ve been high on the Vikings all offseason, it’s a big stage for J.J. McCarthy in his NFL debut, particularly with a dinged up group of receivers. I’m leaning towards Chicago in the game, and may ultimately get there before the game kicks off. That said, I have a clear prop angle on the Bears side that I know I’m playing in this game.
Chicago surprised many with how high it selected Colston Loveland in the NFL Draft, along with the fact it took Loveland as the top tight end off the board. Ty Warren was a big betting favorite to be the first tight end selected. That indicates the Bears really like Loveland’s fit with first year head coach, Ben Johnson.
Johnson made his name as the offensive coordinator for the high flying Lions offense, and now take a job with a division rival. The Bears made a huge move to bring in a tight end that fits Johnson’s system, and will look to get Loveland heavily involves right away. This reminds me a lot of when Detroit brought in Sam LaPorta, who set a lot of rookie tight end records, until Brock Bowers came along just a season later.
LaPorta played in all 17 games for the Lions as a rookie, and using the number of 2.5 receptions that Loveland is set at tonight, went 16-1 to the over on that number. That includes five receptions on five targets in his NFL debut against the Chiefs. I’m expecting a similar role for Loveland here, who looked to have good chemistry with Caleb Williams in their brief preseason stints.
The Vikings ranked just below average last season in terms of receptions per game allowed to the tight end position at 5.2. It’s a good matchup for the rookie to begin his career, and I project Loveland to be a big part of Chicago’s game plan to kick the season off on MNF.
NFL Pick: Colston Loveland OVER 2.5 Receptions (-149) 1-unit
For my full NFL Week 1 card, check out my best bets article on DK Network.
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