The NFL preseason may not count toward the standings, but it always matters. For bettors, oddsmakers, and sharp fans, August provides the first real glimpse of roster depth, rookie potential, and coaching strategies.
Preseason results shape narratives heading into Week 1 and influence how sportsbooks set lines. Teams that dominate, even with their backups, signal strength and cohesion that can carry over into the regular season.
This year, several franchises have separated themselves from the pack, showcasing the talent and discipline that could translate into betting value.
Baltimore Ravens: Depth and Culture on Display
No preseason discussion is complete without the Baltimore Ravens, who have turned August into a showcase of their depth and culture. Baltimore’s second- and third-string players consistently dominate, highlighting not only a stacked roster but also an organizational commitment to winning, no matter the stage.
For bettors, the Ravens’ preseason streak of dominance is more than trivia; it suggests that John Harbaugh’s squads enter the regular season sharper and better conditioned.
This has historically influenced NFL odds, with early-season totals tightening around Baltimore games as sportsbooks account for the team’s disciplined defense and efficient execution.
Pittsburgh Steelers: A Promising Quarterback Transition
The Pittsburgh Steelers entered preseason 2023 with questions at quarterback, and their performance turned heads. Kenny Pickett’s efficient drives, combined with improvements to the offensive line, signaled that Pittsburgh could be far more competitive than the market anticipated.
Defensively, the Steelers’ depth pieces flashed strength in the pass rush, hinting at a unit that can pressure quarterbacks well into the regular season. Sportsbooks took note, with subtle adjustments in NFL odds reflecting newfound optimism.
Bettors who paid attention in August saw the Steelers’ line value before the public perception caught up.
San Francisco 49ers: Depth Beyond the Stars
The San Francisco 49ers already boast one of the league’s most talented rosters, but the preseason showcased their depth. Backup quarterbacks and rotational defenders performed at a high level, underscoring the strength of a roster built for sustainability.
For bettors, the key takeaway is simple: San Francisco is not overly reliant on its stars. Even when starters sit, the 49ers execute with precision. Oddsmakers react accordingly, tightening spreads in games where San Francisco appears as a heavy favorite. Their preseason dominance only strengthens the case that they’re among the safest early-season bets in the NFL.
Detroit Lions: Momentum and Confidence
The Detroit Lions have quickly become one of the NFL’s most intriguing teams. Their preseason performances mirrored the energy and confidence that fueled last year’s late-season surge. Jared Goff and the first-team offense looked efficient, while the defense played aggressively, forcing turnovers at a high rate.
This combination matters for bettors because Detroit’s rise is no longer just a feel-good story; it’s translating into respect at the sportsbooks. Early NFL odds indicate that the Lions are priced competitively against established powerhouses, a shift that reflects both their preseason performance and long-term momentum.
Jacksonville Jaguars: A Balanced Attack
The Jacksonville Jaguars used the preseason to confirm what many bettors suspected: this team is ready to contend. Trevor Lawrence looked poised and sharp, while the defensive front showed depth and versatility.
Jacksonville’s ability to dominate in controlled preseason snaps demonstrates balance on both sides of the ball. Oddsmakers have responded by shortening their early-season spreads and boosting totals in matchups where the Jaguars’ offense is expected to thrive.
For bettors, Jacksonville is no longer a sleeper; they’re a serious consideration in Week 1 wagers.
Philadelphia Eagles: Championship Depth
Fresh off a Super Bowl appearance, the Philadelphia Eagles didn’t need to prove much. Still, their preseason revealed why they remain among the NFC’s elite. Depth across the offensive and defensive lines ensured that even backups controlled the trenches, a critical sign for long-term sustainability.
For betting markets, Philadelphia’s preseason strength adds confidence to its status as a favorite in most matchups. Their dominance in the “boring” areas, blocking, tackling, and play execution, directly supports why NFL odds consistently tilt in their favor.
Coaching Philosophies That Shape Preseason Results
Not all teams approach the preseason the same way. Coaches like John Harbaugh (Ravens) and Mike Tomlin (Steelers) emphasize winning culture and sharpness in August. Others use the games primarily for evaluation, resting starters, and experimenting with schemes.
For bettors, this matters. Teams that treat preseason as a serious tune-up often look sharper in Week 1, which influences betting spreads and totals. Oddsmakers closely track these coaching philosophies, adjusting NFL odds to reflect organizational trends that repeat year after year.
Public Perception and Overreaction
Preseason performances also fuel public perception. A rookie quarterback with a flashy debut or a defense that forces multiple turnovers can spark hype that significantly impacts NFL odds.
Sharp bettors recognize when lines move too far in response to preseason noise, creating opportunities to fade the public and capture value.
Understanding the difference between preseason signal (depth, execution, coaching) and noise (one-off highlight plays) is critical to betting successfully once the regular season begins.
Preseason Strength Translates to Betting Value
The preseason is more than a warm-up; it’s a window into roster depth, coaching culture, and early-season readiness. Teams like the Ravens, Steelers, 49ers, Lions, Jaguars, and Eagles have showcased strength that bettors should respect.
For fans and bettors alike, August football provides insight that sportsbooks act on quickly. The strongest preseason teams often translate their discipline and depth into regular-season wins, tighter spreads, and favorable NFL odds.
Those who watch closely and act early position themselves to profit when the games finally count.
*Content reflects information available as of 2025/08/26; subject to change.
