Rams Patriots Betting – Brady, Pats Aren’t Hospitable Hosts To Bradford, Rams
Online betting players could be treated to a massacre on Thursday night in New England, where the rejuvenated Patriots will host St. Louis, who will be led by their rookie quarterback because their temporary starter was hurt. But it’s the St. Louis defense who will be feeling pain, via the New England offense.
- What: NFL betting
- When: Thursday, August 26th, 7:30 PM ET
- Where: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA
- Pick: New England Patriots
What’s On The Line
The Rams’ offense continued to struggled, but they got a pair of field goals in the fourth quarter to come away with a 19-17 win over Cleveland in their last preseason game, forcing five turnovers along the way. The Patriots won their second in a row, beating Atlanta 28-10 on the road, but more importantly, their best offensive weapon finally got onto the field.
Offensive Matchups: Rams Patriots Betting
Sam Bradford was just 6-of-14 for 24 yards, and the Rams lost A.J. Feeley, who hurt his thumb. One positive was that the Rams had running back Steven Jackson on the field, and he had four carries for 20 yards after coming back from back surgery. But the Rams need their quarterbacks to be better because Jackson is taking a beating in the St. Louis backfield: teams know he’s the Rams’ lone weapon. It could be a rough ride for Bradford, who figures to play a half or more in this game.
The Patriots were ecstatic to see Wes Welker back on the field after last year’s knee injury, and he caught two passes for 20 yards. Tom Brady was 10-of-12 for 85 yards and a touchdown, and he looked sharp. The Patriots also decided to focus on rookie tight ends Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski, who each had four catches, one for a touchdown. These guys are going to be crucial to the offense this year, as Brady has always liked using his tight ends.
Betting Edge: Patriots
Defensive Matchups: Rams Patriots Betting
The Rams were a bit fortunate to be playing Cleveland, but still, forcing five turnovers is no small feat. They recovered three fumbles, and they stopped the Browns on eight of their 13 third-down opportunities. Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo is known as a great defensive mind, so it’s no surprise that this side of the ball has been quicker to improve than the offense, although they’re going to receive a stern test in New England, whose starters will also be playing a half, maybe more.
The Patriots forced a pair of turnovers, and they had the first-string Atlanta offense under control, which bodes for a New England team that had their troubles defensively last year. Rookie corner Devin McCourty was targeted, and made five tackles as he gave a good account of himself, and fellow rookie Brandon Spikes had another solid day at linebacker, posting three tackles.
Betting Edge: Patriots
Notable Injuries: Rams Patriots Betting
Feeley (thumb) is a major worry for this game. Given that the Rams are on a short week, it’s not likely he’ll see any action for the Rams.
Linebackers Tully Banta-Cain (ankle), Gary Guyton (knee) and Jermaine Cunningham (unknown) aren’t likely to feature in this game, along with corner Leigh Bodden (knee). Offensive lineman Nick Kaczur (back) may have to miss the season because of surgery.
Betting Edge: Rams
Outlook and Pick: Rams Patriots Betting
NFL betting odds should have the Patriots as a good-sized favorite in this game, in which the starters will take precedence and have their most extensive action of the preseason. Therefore, we’re expecting this game to be over by halftime. The Patriots have been playing well all preseason, from the rookies to the veterans, and you get the feeling that New England wants to re-establish themselves as NFL powers this year. As for the Rams, their defense played well against Cleveland, but the Patriots are obviously in an entirely different class. Take New England by a wide margin in your sports betting book.
