MNF Week 1: Predictions and Bets

By Josh Blatt and Ethan Irish

    The Denver Broncos are heading to Seattle to take on the Seahawks in the first Monday Night Football game of season. Of course we have Russell Wilson making his short-awaited return to the Pacific Northwest, after being traded this past March. Geno Smith is making the start for Seattle at quarterback, and this isn't the type of matchup that we would expect to be MNF worthy-- but alas here we are. Second year running back Javonte Williams looks to improve on a noteworthy rookie season where he posted 903 yards on 203 carries, as well as 316 receiving yards on 43 receptions. Seattle receiver DK Metcalf will be attempting to recreate some of the magic of seasons past without the premier quarterback play of Russell Wilson, hopefully Geno Smith can get some deep balls to him, where he thrives. Monday's game doesn't project to be great, but there are a few things that we can look out for, and a couple bets that we may enjoy.

Josh's MNF Predictions: 

1. Russell Wilson combines for 250 total yards.

    Wilson looks poised to take out some frustration on a struggling Seahawks organization, however I don't believe he hits his passing prop of o253.5, especially with safeties Jamal Adams and Quandre Diggs looming. If he's going to reach that number in any facet-- it'll be with his legs as well.

2. Jerry Jeudy catches the ball five or more times.

    Coming off of a season in which he only played in 10 games, Jerry Jeudy looks ready to become one of Russell Wilson's new favorite targets. I expect him to catch the ball five times for over 45 yards. Especially with the mindset of short throws on crossing routes for the Broncos.

Josh's MNF Bets:

[Confident] Broncos 1st Half Winner (-230) (Fanduel)

[RISKY] Over 5 Touchdowns Scored (+100) (Fanduel)

Ethan's MNF Predictions:

1. Denver will win.

    This is really my only prediction that I am pretty confident in. These teams are very different than what they were last season with Russell Wilson going to Denver and Geno Smith starting for the Seahawks. This could just be a classic revenge game for Wilson going against his former team. While the Seahawks are definitely worse than they were last year, Geno Smith actually is not that bad, which is not really a compliment. He's mid, that's about it. It will be as decent game hopefully and I am interested to see how Denver's defense looks after the departure of defensive minded head coach Vic Fangio.

Ethan's MNF Bet:

Same Game Parlay (+367) (Fanduel):

- Javonte Williams Anytime TD                                                                                                  - Russell Wilson 200+ Passing Yards                                                                                          - Jerry Jeudy 50+ Receiving Yards                                                                                                - Broncos ML