Published on: January 9, 2025, 06:47h. 

Last updated on: January 9, 2025, 06:49h.

Johnny Avello, the popular Las Vegas Strip bookmaker, states that the trader desk he manages for DraftKings has expanded from six individuals to 75 worldwide since he joined the company in 2018. Avello established the trader team and now mentions that due to their expertise, he doesn’t need to be as hands-on as before.

NFL Betting Trends

Betting on the widely popular NFL is a significant factor contributing to this growth. Avello highlights the league’s well-executed scheduling, with games taking place from Thursday through Monday, including Christmas Day games. This consistent schedule throughout the regular season is advantageous for sportsbooks.

“Additionally, having college games on a Tuesday,” Avello remarks from his Las Vegas office at DraftKings, “creates an exciting period for football fans.”

Insights on NFL Wild Card Weekend

This weekend kicks off the NFL Wild Card Weekend, featuring six games spread over three days, each with various betting storylines.

Avello, as DraftKings’ Director of Race & Sportsbook Operations, offers his perspectives on the upcoming games:

Chargers Vs. Texans, Saturday 4:30 p.m. EST, CBS

• Spread: Chargers -3 (-105), Texans +3 (-115)
• Moneyline: Chargers -162, Texans +136
• Over/Under: 41.5

“Minimal line movement is observed in these games, particularly on the side. While some total movement is noted, the spread remains stable. The Chargers have attracted significant betting interest in this match-up,” mentions Avello.

Most of the betting action favors the Chargers. While it’s still early and trends may shift, the Chargers are currently popular among bettors for this game.

“The Texans entered the season as Super Bowl contenders but have faced some challenges. Bettors seem to favor the Chargers, who have shown more momentum and improved play recently,” Avello adds.

Steelers Vs. Ravens, Saturday 8 p.m. EST, Amazon Prime

• Spread: Steelers +9.5 (-108), Ravens -9.5 (-112)
• Moneyline: Steelers +350, Ravens -455
• Over/Under: 43.5

“Lamar Jackson excels in any year and has impressive stats. The history between these two teams indicates close games. The Ravens are favored by 9.5 points, with a slight decrease in the total,” explains Avello.

We anticipate heavy betting on Baltimore in both the money line and parlays. Bettors often prefer laying favorable odds with big favorites for better payoff opportunities,” Avello forecasts.

He further analyzes the match-up and potential outcomes, considering the strengths and weaknesses of each team in this upcoming game.

Broncos Vs. Bills, Sunday 1 p.m. EST, CBS

• Spread: Broncos +8.5 (-112), Bills -8.5 (-108)
• Moneyline: Broncos +340, Bills -440
• Over/Under: 47.5

“The Bills benefit from a strong home-field advantage, contributing to their current status as favorites. The game features key players like Josh Allen and Bo Nix, each bringing their unique strengths to the field,” Avello reveals.

While the Bills possess certain weaknesses in their pass defense, they aim to outscore their opponents,” Avello explains, emphasizing the betting dynamics surrounding this game.

The analysis unfolds further to provide insights into player performance, team strategies, and potential game outcomes for this highly anticipated match-up.

Packers Vs. Eagles, Sunday 4:30 p.m. EST, FOX

• Spread: Packers +4.5 (-105), Eagles -4.5 (-115)
• Moneyline: Packers +190, Eagles -230
• Over/Under: 45.5

“Intriguing updates regarding player health and strategic considerations play a crucial role in assessing this game. Both teams feature key players pivotal to their success in this match-up,” explains Avello, shedding light on critical factors influencing betting trends.

Analysis covers aspects such as player health, team dynamics, and game strategies to provide a comprehensive view of the game and potential outcomes,” elaborates Avello on the significance of these factors in navigating betting decisions.

He emphasizes the importance of balanced analysis and strategic insights to make informed betting choices for this anticipated clash between two formidable teams.

Commanders Vs. Buccaneers, Sunday 8 p.m. EST, NBC

• Spread: Commanders +3 (-105), Buccaneers -3 (-115)
• Moneyline: Commanders +145, Buccaneers -175
• Over/Under: 50.5

Assessing the gameplay style, team dynamics, and strategic considerations play critical roles in evaluating this game. The match-up between the Commanders and the Buccaneers features key players pivotal to their respective teams’ success, and insights into these factors help navigate betting decisions effectively,” Avello elaborates.

Delving into player performances, tactical strategies, and team dynamics provides a deeper understanding of the game dynamics and potential outcomes, shaping informed betting choices for this exciting encounter.

He underscores the importance of comprehensive analysis and strategic insights to capitalize on betting opportunities and navigate the complexities of this high-profile match-up.

Vikings Vs. Rams, Monday 8 p.m. EST, ESPN/ABC

• Spread: Vikings -1.5 (-108), Rams +1.5 (-112)
• Moneyline: Vikings -118, Rams -102
• Over/Under: 47.5

“Close monitoring of shifts in betting trends and analysis of player performances, team dynamics, and strategic considerations form the core of decision-making strategies for this game. Both teams showcase formidable players and strategies critical to their success, influencing the betting landscape for this highly anticipated match,” reveals Avello.

Strategic insights into player performances, team dynamics, and game strategies provide a comprehensive view of the game dynamics and potential outcomes, guiding informed betting decisions for this thrilling match-up,” he emphasizes.

He underscores the value of strategic analysis and tactical insights in navigating the intricacies of this high-stakes encounter, offering key perspectives to assist bettors in maximizing their understanding and leveraging opportunities effectively.

Odds: DraftKings