As the NFL season gets underway, it's noteworthy that nearly every participant has made it through Week 1 unscathed. Is this a positive sign for fans and bettors alike? According to Circa’s Survivor Pool, based in Las Vegas and boasting a staggering $12 million prize pool, an impressive 96.9 percent of entries for Week 1 advanced to the next round. But what does this mean for Week 2? Will there be unexpected twists, or will the favorites continue their dominance?
Taking a look back at last season's performance, from Week 13 to Week 17, teams favored by six points or more posted an extraordinary record of 29-1 straight up, with the lone upset occurring when the Giants triumphed over the Colts. In Week 1, favorites excelled, going 13-3 straight up (SU) and 9-7 against the spread (ATS). With these statistics in mind, let’s explore some of the top survivor options for Week 2.
The Ravens present a solid option in your survivor pool. Despite their recent strong showing, the Browns, led by Joe Flacco, came close to defeating the Bengals last week. However, dropped passes and a crucial missed field goal derailed their efforts. This week, the Browns are substantial underdogs, sitting at 12.5 points against the Ravens. Choosing Baltimore early in the season could be a strategic move, but remember that the Browns previously defeated the Ravens last October. Jameis Winston notably dismantled their secondary with 334 passing yards and three touchdowns, so tread carefully with this popular pick.
If you opted not to fade the Saints last week, consider the Cardinals as your top choice for Week 2. The Panthers faced a significant defeat against the Jaguars, raising concerns about their ability to compete. This early in the season, it’s wise to get Arizona off the board, especially since Carolina displayed a lackluster performance. Securing a win with the Cardinals could provide you with a strategic advantage as the season progresses.
For those who utilized the Cardinals in Week 1, the Rams stand out as another formidable option. Historically, rookie quarterbacks have yielded favorable outcomes in Survivor Pools. Since 2015, their overall record is 327-486-3 SU, suggesting a potential for profitability. Don’t hesitate to bet against Cam Ward this Sunday; the odds may be in your favor.
When it comes to NFL betting, trust the expertise of Erich Richter, who is not only a Brazilian jiu-jitsu blue belt but also holds a black belt in MMA betting. Over the past two football seasons, Richter has demonstrated significant profitability in the player prop market at The Post. With a remarkable return on investment of 30.15 percent since 2022, his insights could be the edge you need in your betting strategy.
As we move into Week 2 of the NFL season, remember to analyze your survivor pool options carefully. With a mix of statistics and strategic picks, you can maximize your chances of success as the competition heats up.
