Post sports gambling editor/producer and digital sports editor Matt Ehalt is back for his third season in the NFL Bettor’s Guide.
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS (-10) over Indianapolis Colts
First, the general manager exited. Then, the star offensive lineman. Next, the star defensive lineman.
The Colts became the first sellers of the NFL season, and their carcass of a roster heads to Jacksonville as the biggest Week 8 underdog.
We know Daniel Jones will be under center.
Perhaps Jonathan Taylor will be moved before the game. Same for Josh Downs. And even if they don’t get traded, the motivation isn’t going to be at an all-time high.
We like the Jaguars for one main reason in this game: They are the NFL’s best team at stopping the one thing the Colts do best.
Jacksonville entered Week 8 with the NFL’s best rushing defense, allowing just 72.2 rushing yards per game.
The Colts rely heavily on Taylor and their rushing attack since Jones has been a shell of himself in his return from a torn Achilles.
Stopping Taylor is easier said than done, but limiting his effectiveness puts the onus on a passing attack that lacks playmakers.
Aiding Jacksonville’s cause is that in trading guard Quenton Nelson, the Colts had three days to practice with their new-look offensive line. That’s far from ideal.
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On the flip side, removing DeForest Buckner from the defensive line should only make things easier for Trevor Lawrence and Co.
The Jaguars had a week off and should have no problem attacking a bottom-half defense that has been weaker against the run, especially with Bhayshul Tuten finding his groove.
As an added bonus, the Jaguars have won their two home games in Florida by an average of 26.5 points this season. Don’t let the big spread scare you away.
2026 record: 3-4
Last week: Panthers (L)
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Matt Ehalt has been picking against the spread since his childhood days when he entered his father’s newspaper pool and even took the top prize on more than one occasion. He specializes in NFL wagers and is quite successful with NCAA brackets.
