About a quarter of the way into the season teams are starting to establish what the season ahead holds for them. However, there is still plenty of time for things to change.
Every week is pivotal when just 17 games control the fate of a franchise, here is the slate ahead for Week 5 of the NFL regular season, as well as the best NFL picks against the spread and their odds at sportsbooks like Bovada.
NFL Week 5 Odds & Spreads (Courtesy of Bovada)
Thursday Night Football (Oct. 5th)
8:15 PM EST
- Bears at Commanders (-1.5)
Sunday Football (Oct. 8th)
1 PM EST
- Jaguars at Bills (-3.5)
- Texas at Falcons (-3.5)
- Panthers at Lions (-6)
- Titans at Colts (-1)
- Giants at Dolphins (-4.5)
- Saints at Patriots (-2.5)
- Ravens (-1) at Steelers
4:05 PM EST
- Eagles (-6.5) at Rams
- Bengals (-7.5) at Cardinals
4:25 PM EST
- Jets (-1) at Broncos
- Chiefs (-4.5) at Vikings
8:20 PM EST
- Cowboys at 49ers (-3)
Monday Night Football (Oct. 9th)
8:15 PM EST
- Packers at Raiders (PK)
>> Find the latest odds at Bovada <<
Overview of the 2023 NFL Season: Storylines to Follow in Week 5
While it’s easy to lose sight of the importance in each week of the season, there are plenty of stories that are constantly circulating throughout the year of football. Here are some of the top storylines for Week 5 that you should keep an eye out for.
Battle of The Big Dogs
There are no small games in the NFL, but there are certainly big ones, and for Week 5, there are some big time matchups that could help shake out the standings in both conferences. On the AFC side, the young and surging Jaguars travel to Buffalo in hopes of knocking off the Bills.
While on the NFC, the 49ers play host to the Dallas Cowboys in a faceoff between two NFC hopefuls. Both games promise to be exciting and worth watching this week.
Can The Vikings Prevail?
No one was given a tougher slate to start the season than Minnesota, with games against the Eagles, Chargers, and now Chiefs in their first 5 weeks.
They dropped the ball to open the season against Tampa Bay on top of that, which has this team in danger of falling too far behind to make it up during the season. Going against Kansas City here is a critical game for them, or else they could be in trouble and be on track to miss the playoffs.
The AFC North Bloodbath
Across the NFL, it’s apparent that the AFC North is the toughest division. All four teams have a legitimate chance at making the playoffs individually, but with the four teams in each other’s way, only three would likely make it at best. So that makes each contest between each other very important.
For Baltimore and Pittsburgh, that means they’re in for a big game this week. While there is still plenty of time until the regular season ends, this is a game that could easily be looked back on as one that holds a team out of the final AFC playoff picture. Both teams need to come in with complete focus and play at their absolute best in order to secure the victory.
>> Check out MyBookie for the best odds <<
Explaining NFL ATS Bets: What They Are, and the Pros & Cons of Betting Them
What Are Spreads?
Spreads are expected point differentials put out by betting platforms in order to provide an even betting option for consumers to wager on. The platforms will assess the matchup and place a line that may allow for a team to win by a certain amount of points in order to make it a fair consideration to both sides of the bet.
Reading a Spread
When it comes to reading a spread, a point total is placed for both teams to assess betting lines for each contest.
The favorite in the game will likely be assessed with a spread that is a negative number (ex. -3.5) In this situation, a team would need to lead by 4 or more points at the final score in order to cover the spread.
The team that is projected to lose would have a positive number placed on their side, and they must lose within that number in order to cover the spread. For instance, if they had a line of +6.5, they would need to lose by less than 6 points or win in order to cover the spread.
PK signifies an even spread, and bettors may choose between both teams who they expect to win in the contest for even odds on either side of the game.
Advantages of Placing ATS Bets
The advantages to placing spread bets is that it is the most commonly offered bet across platforms, making it easy to compare odds and find the best book for you. On top of that, spreads are great to get a 1:1 style bet so that what you’re risking isn’t winning you back minimal returns.
Disadvantages of Betting Spreads
Spread betting is great, but there are some disadvantages to it. For instance, you may correctly pick the winner, but they just missed the point total needed for you to win, and that can be heartbreaking. On top of that, you can sometimes have the scores in games change on a single play, putting the bet out of your favor when it seemed like a sure thing.
NFL Week 5 Against the Spread Predictions: Game-by-Game Analysis
Every week has games that are going to excite, and this one is no different. With the odds out on each game, here is a breakdown of every contest with an analysis of the varying spreads for each matchup.
Bears at Commanders (-1.5)
Analysis: QB Justin Fields continues to be a threat on the ground, but the passing hasn’t reached the point that it’s needed for this offense to take the next step. Offensive Coordinator Luke Getsy could start feeling the hot seat soon if the unit doesn’t produce. They may not get a better chance to get in rhythm than against the Commanders in a short week.
For Washington, the offense has looked decent behind QB Sam Howell with the quality supporting cast around him. Defensively, the front seven has played well, but the secondary continues to allow too many big plays. If they can contain the Bears downfield passing opportunities, it could be enough to get the win at home.
Writer’s Pick: Commanders -1.5
This Thursday Night contest looks primed for a chaos-type performance, but the Commanders appear to be the more well-rounded ball club. Expect them to win in this one at home and cover the spread on top of that.
Jaguars at Bills (-3.5)
Analysis: QB Trevor Lawrence has fully arrived and looks to be one of the league’s best quarterbacks with the excellent supporting cast this offense has. With the combined rushing attack of Travis Etienne and Tank Bigsby, the offensive balance is good enough to compete with anyone. The defense will have to step it up, though, against one of the league’s best offenses in order to secure the victory.
For Buffalo, QB Josh Allen remains one of the NFL’s best, and this team is poised to return back to familiar territory with the playoffs. However, this team needs to secure big wins against tough opponents for momentum’s sake. Jacksonville would be a big-time win to grab here early in the season.
Writer’s Pick: Jaguars +3.5
This could easily be the best game of the week, and it truly could go either way. So take the Jaguars with the points when the sportsbooks offer you enough of a spread to give you an advantage in this contest.
>> Find out more at SportsBetting.ag
Texans at Falcons (-3.5)
Analysis: RBs Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier are one of the most dominant rushing duos in the NFL, and the Falcons have leaned on them heavily through the first quarter of the season. This team is willing to go all in on pounding the football on the ground, and it has worked to this point to where there is now a very real chance at playoffs. The season is young, but Head Coach Arthur Smith has this squad on the right track.
For the Houston Texans, Head Coach Demeco Ryans has helped this team improve week to week in an encouraging sign for the long-term picture of this franchise. However, this team is still young and in the rebuilding phase. QB CJ Stroud has shown promising signs and is capable of exploding any week. Could they come together for a big-time upset against Atlanta?
Writer’s Pick: Falcons -3.5
Atlanta is gearing up to potentially compete for the NFC South while the Texans are still in a full-on rebuild. Expect the Falcons to control this game and pull out the victory by enough to cover the spread.
Panthers at Lions (-1)
Analysis: QB Bryce Young has shown plenty of flashes as this Panthers team still works toward improving from week to week. Head Coach Frank Reich seems to have this team on the right track offensively, while the defense is capable of holding up well against anyone. This Lions team, though, will be a nice challenge for Carolina to prove themselves.
For Detroit, they return home from Green Bay to host the Panthers in an NFC battle between two underrated teams. RB Jahmyr Gibbs has seen his role increase from week to week and has become a key piece of this offense both on the ground and through the air, he’ll need to continue to succeed for the Lions to be at their best.
Writer’s Pick: Lions -1
Detroit is a team that should continue to grow week to week with its young contributors. This Panthers team is still figuring things out, expect Detroit to win this one and cover in the process.
Titans at Colts (-1)
Analysis: The Titans opened the season looking sluggish but deserve a good amount of credit for bouncing back against tough competition to open the season. QB Ryan Tannehill healthy and effective is crucial for this team that fell apart last season when he got injured. They are a better team than this Indianapolis squad, but they can’t come out flat, or they are more than capable of fumbling this one.
QB Anthony Richardson has been exciting to watch this season despite his inconsistencies, but week to week he continues to grow, which is huge for this team. Now, star RB Jonathan Taylor is able to return off of the IR and could help take this offense to another level. Getting him added to this offense could help this Indianapolis team take the next step and potentially pull out a big win against their divisional foe.
Writer’s Pick: Titans ML
Jonathan Taylor is a star, but if the Titans are playing like they’re capable, then they are the better team here. Head Coach Mike Vrabel is great at overachieving and handling business. They are plenty capable of doing so and beating the Colts.
>> Start betting at BetAnySports <<
Giants at Dolphins (-4.5)
Analysis: The Miami Dolphins passing attack has been prolific to start the season as QB Tua Tagovailoa has been on the money with WRs Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle to effectively push the football downfield at will against any secondary.
With RB Jeff Wilson Sr now back, the run game should also be able to take a step forward. So long as the defense is able to do their job, the Giants will have their hands full in this one.
QB Daniel Jones is going to be feeling the pressure to produce on Sunday with the offensive attack on the opposing sideline, and he’s plenty capable. However, things have been inconsistent to this point in the season.
RB Saquon Barkley remains the identity of this offense, and if the Giants can control the football and keep this Dolphins passing attack off the field, they could be in a position to nab a big win.
Writer’s Pick: Dolphins -4.5
The Dolphins offense is just way too electric for this Giants team to keep up. -4.5 isn’t easy, but with the way Miami puts up points, this is one of the safer bets of the week, assuming the Tua, Tyreek, Waddle trio stays healthy.
Saints at Patriots (-2.5)
Analysis: The New England Patriots have improved week to week and started to become one of the more underrated teams in the NFL. QB Mac Jones looks much improved from last season, and WR Kendrick Bourne has been a go-to weapon for him in the passing game to open this offense up.
Defensively, the Patriots keep their identity of being one of the most opportunistic units in the league, and they’ll look to continue that trend here against New Orleans.
The Saints travel to Foxboro in hopes of scoring a big-time win on the road behind QB Derek Carr and WR Chris Olave, who have formed a nice connection over the first four weeks of the season.
With RB Alvin Kamara back in the offense, the rushing attack has been more productive as well. Can the offense continue to produce against one of the league’s best defenses?
Writer’s Pick: Patriots -2.5
New England is one of the hardest teams to match up against, regardless of who you are, and the Saints have had their issues this season. With that, the Patriots should be able to take advantage at home and win this one by a field goal or more.
>> Find the latest odds at EveryGame <<
Ravens (-1) at Steelers
Analysis: The AFC North is one of the most well-rounded divisions in the NFL, and so each in-division battle is bound to excite as a result. Here in the Steelers vs. Ravens, there are expectations of a great game. For the Steelers, the offense has had its issues, but the defense remains one of the league’s best, with Head Coach Mike Tomlin as a major benefit to this team’s chances.
For the visiting Ravens, TE Mark Andrews back and healthy, has helped this offensive passing attack despite the injury to RB JK Dobbins. This team still has their moments where they waver between strong and sloppy, but when they’re at their best, they can beat anybody.
Writer’s Pick: Steelers ML
Both teams are very strong but have had their flat moments this season. It’s a tough matchup to predict, but roll with the Steelers at home to squeak this one out and score a big-time victory.
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Eagles (-6.5) at Rams
Analysis: Head Coach Sean McVay and QB Matthew Stafford have looked impressive to start this season, but the team is still in need of securing a victory in order to push themselves over the .500 mark. Many expected this Rams team to kilter over to start the season, but they’ve done a nice job rebounding off last season and could present a challenge here to the Eagles with home-field advantage.
For Philadelphia, the team continues to impress as a team that looks to be bound for another postseason run so long as nothing goes off the rails. However, the Eagles have had a tendency to let up in games that will need to be ironed out in closer contests, or they’re at risk of losing some tight contests. If the Rams will do that, who knows, but the Eagles need to be sure not to find out.
Writer’s Pick: Eagles -6.5
The Rams have been one of the surprising overachievers to this point in the season, but they still have plenty of issues that should get exposed against stronger teams. The Eagles are about as strong as it gets in the NFL, and they should be able to win by seven or more as a result in this one.
Bengals (-7.5) at Cardinals
Analysis: For the Arizona Cardinals, the most optimistic angle for this game is that there are only so many more until QB Kyler Murray returns. This team has potential, and with a star under center there is a chance the team could outperform expectations, but for now, the team is still underwhelming week to week. Can they come together for a strong surprise outing against a good Bengals roster?
For Cincinnati, things haven’t been operating at 100%, but they’ve appeared to get back in rhythm now to reinstill confidence from fans. QB Joe Burrow is still one of the best passers in the league and is surrounded by one of the league’s top receiving duos in Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. They have the talent on both sides of the football to dominate this contest, but will they come in fully focused like they’re capable of is the question.
Writer’s Pick: Bengals -7.5
The Cardinals have looked rough this season, and against a team of the caliber of Cincinnati, those issues should look much more prevalent. The Bengals haven’t started out the season looking their best, but they’re still a much better team and should cover this spread as a result.
Jets (-1) at Broncos
Analysis: The Jets travel to Mile High City, where they’ll face off against the Broncos in a battle between two very good defenses. The Jets are in their fourth week with QB Zach Wilson leading the offense, but it’s impossible not to mention the loss of Aaron Rodgers to this offense. Wilson has done alright managing the team, but he needs to take the next step if there is any hope of contending for more than a low-seed playoff bid. This Broncos game will be a nice test on Wilson to step up.
In a Wilson vs Wilson affair, the Broncos offense has lacked the next level of production to elevate this team to the next level. Against this Jets defense, those issues could be exposed more than ever unless the team progresses. Head Coach Sean Payton was brought in to help make this team take the next step, a good way to prove that is to squeeze out tight contests like this one should be.
Writer’s Pick: Jets -1
This game is going to be a tight defensive affair, however, expect the Jets to find a way to squeak out a major in-conference victory here that could easily be one that is very important to the AFC wildcard picture.
>> Place your bets at BetUS <<
Chiefs (-4.5) at Vikings
Analysis: Minnesota’s season hasn’t been pretty, as they’ve had a tough start with way more losses than they’d hoped. Now they draw the team no one wants to face when they’re desperately seeking a victory, the reigning champions. QB Kirk Cousins has looked great this season, and the offense has produced as a result.
However, the defensive talent has not been there for the Vikings, and it has resulted in some early-season struggles that will need to be corrected if they want to beat Kansas City.
For the Chiefs, the team looks to be back in rhythm ever since Travis Kelce rejoined the offense. QB Patrick Mahomes continues to flash as one of the league’s top passers, and the defense has come into its own. Now they’ll get a nice test in a game on the road against Minnesota, which could be a nice confidence booster for a team looking to get back to the Super Bowl.
Writer’s Pick: Vikings +4.5
Kansas City is the clear favorite to win this one, and there’s a very good chance that they pull this one out, but with their backs against the wall, expect the Vikings to at least keep this one close and cover as a result.
Cowboys at 49ers (-3)
Analysis: QB Dak Prescott and the Cowboys travel to San Francisco for the Sunday Night Football game, one that is considered one of the top matchups for the week. The Cowboys have looked strong to start the season, but there is still unknown about their offense against top defenses. This will be a great test to get some more clarity.
For San Francisco, they’ve also started out the season strong. QB Brock Purdy has looked phenomenal in this offense, and the defense continues to strive. This game against Dallas, though, could easily be considered their strongest opponent to this point in the season, will their success continue?
Writer’s Pick: 49ers -3
The Cowboys are a very talented team, but there are issues when they face off against some of the league’s best. The 49ers have a defense that is capable of knocking this offense out of rhythm and winning this game by more than the spread.
Packers at Raiders (PK)
Analysis: The Jordan Love era has been in action for four weeks to this point, and things appear to be going alright for Green Bay. He hasn’t burst onto the scene as some future superstar per se, but the quarterback has proven to be more than capable of running this offense and has given the Packers a decent start to the season as a result. Now, in his second primetime game of the season, we’ll see how he looks on the big stage.
For the Raiders, QB Jimmy Garoppolo has been very effective, with wideouts Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers forming one of the better-receiving duos in the league. The Raiders have had a tough slate with the Bills, Steelers, and Chargers in their past three outings. Can they get a victory over Green Bay to get another crucial early-season win?
Writer’s Pick: Raiders ML
The Raiders have an efficient offense and a menacing pass rush that plays to their favor in this contest. There are plenty of questions surrounding both teams, but the Raiders seem to have enough rhythm working in their favor to pull this one out on Monday Night.
>> Check out the latest odds at Lucky99 <<
How to Bet on NFL Spreads During Week 5
You never have to worry about being too late to start placing your best bets on the NFL season! But if you haven’t yet, what are you waiting for!?! Here is a step-by-step guide to get an account registered and start betting today with one of our most trusted sports betting platforms in BetOnline!
Step 1: Register for a Sportsbook Account
- Visit BetOnline and click the green ‘Join’ button
- Fill out all the signup information as needed to register
Step 2: Activate Your Account
- Check your email account for the verification link
- If you can’t find it, try checking your junk folder
- Once you’ve found it
- Verify your account by clicking the confirmation link
Step 3: Make Your First Deposit
- Deposit money into your account using your preferred payment method
- Take advantage of the site’s promotional offer
Step 4: Place Your Bets Online
- Go to the Sportsbook
- Start placing your bets with BetOnline
Week 5 NFL Against the Spread Betting Tips & Strategies
Now that the games have been covered and getting an account created has been discussed, you’re almost ready to start placing your bets. However, before you hit the books, here are a few tips and strategies you should keep in mind when NFL online betting on Week 5.
1. Sign Up With Multiple Sportsbooks
There are countless betting options available worldwide, and when you’re betting on sports, it’s a great idea to take advantage of that. Take advantage of sign-up bonuses. Then, most importantly, find the best odds for the bets you want to place! This can only help you, so it’s well worth looking into.
2. Find & Utilize Promotional Offers
Sportsbooks will often run promotions for as much as they can in order to encourage their users to place bets. Obviously, you don’t have to use every one, but it’s worth trying to keep up with the daily promos that are offered and see if any can be for your benefit. Whether it’s boosted odds, promotional bets, or no-sweat bet-type promotions, there are great options you won’t want to miss out on.
3. Stay Up To Date On The Injury Reports
Already this season, we have seen some big names miss time, and it isn’t discussed until later in the week. When placing your bets for this football season, try to be sure you’re tracking injuries and keeping up with stars across the league so that you are fully informed when placing your bets.
Otherwise, it could come back to haunt you. Whether you use NFL betting systems or prefer free-style betting, make sure to keep in mind our tips.
Best Sites to Bet Against the Spread On Week 5 Of The 2023 – 2024 NFL Season
Bovada: Bovada is one of the most trusted sportsbooks in the industry that will offer you countless benefits when signing up. When looking for dependability, you’ll want to look for Bovada. Not to mention, they also offer a 50% deposit match for new sign-ups up to $250 using fiat currency or a 75% match up to $750 with Bitcoin using code BTCSWB750. A 5x rollover applies to both bonuses.
BUSR: We mentioned how great promotional offers are to you as a bettor, well, BUSR is constantly offering a wide variety of promos each day on their site. Sign up today, and you could be eligible to take advantage of their welcome offer, where you’ll receive a $1,500 sign-on bonus.
BetOnline: BetOnline is an easy-to-navigate sportsbook that is excellent for finding great odds and building the perfect parlay for Week 5 of the NFL. New users who sign up are rewarded with a 50% deposit match up to $1,000, although you’ll have to make a $55 deposit and meet a 10x rollover.
MyBookie: MyBookie is excellent for betting spreads as it offers tighter lines than most other platforms. They offer a sign-up promotion so that you can be eligible for a 50% deposit match of up to $1,000 with a $50 minimum deposit.
Sportsbetting.ag: Sportsbetting.ag loves to give better odds to the underdogs, which is great for those who have a hunch on any upsets for this week of football. Creating an account will make users eligible for a 50% welcome bonus up to $1,000 using code SB1000, although a $55 minimum deposit and 10x rollover apply.
Guide to NFL Week 5 ATS Betting: Frequently Asked Questions
There are countless questions and topics to discuss in regard to Week 5, but here are some of the most commonly asked questions that we can try to answer for you ahead of the action.
Is Betting ATS On the NFL Safe?
Betting against the spread is safe and generally offered on most sports betting platforms. Be sure to make sure you bet with a dependable sportsbook, but as long as you do your research and bet responsibly, it is safe to do.
When Will Week 5 of the NFL Start?
Week 5 kicks off Thursday, October 5th, when the Chicago Bears travel to Washington to play the Commanders. The game is scheduled to start at 8:15 PM EST and will be streamed on Amazon Prime Video.
What Teams Aren’t Playing In Week 5?
The teams that aren’t playing in Week 5 of the NFL are the Cleveland Browns, the Los Angeles Chargers, the Seattle Seahawks, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. These teams are on bye this week, which is a week off that is granted to each team sometime during the 18-week regular season.
Why Should I Bet On NFL Spreads Over Other Options?
You should bet on spreads over other wager options because it’s an evenly placed bet that allows you to make back what you put in. On top of that, teams who win generally cover, so this is the much more advantageous option for even betting compared to other lines, such as over/under.
Ready to Place Your NFL Week 5 Against the Spread Bets?
Week 5 will be enjoyable for those watching regardless, but you may as well add some extra incentive by placing some wagers on the action and proving you know your stuff as a die-hard NFL online betting fan.
For a recommended sportsbook, we believe any of the top sites listed above are great options. However, Bovada or MyBookie would be the top option for us.
Regardless of where you decide to place your bets, be sure to always do so safely and responsibly!
DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for entertainment purposes only. While online gambling can come as an entertainment form, you should never prioritize gambling to solve financial problems.
Do you have problems with gambling, or do you know someone that does? Regardless of what party it might be, it’s crucial to quickly get a hold of this situation by calling the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700. When you call, you’re immediately transferred to an advisor on hand to give you the desired help needed to make gambling safer for you and your loved ones. That said, it’s crucial to remember that all gambling sites and guides are for those who are 21+ only.
Remember, casino sites listed in our reviews might not be accessible in your region. As a result, it’s necessary to check local laws and regulations to see whether online gambling is legal or not.
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