The 2019 NFL season has reached the stretch run, and we're here with a betting preview for Monday night's game on ESPN between the New York Giants and Philadelphia Eagles.
The Giants are long out of the playoff hunt, but the Eagles are still in the race for the NFC East crown, despite a 5-7 record entering Monday's tilt.
ESPN betting analysts Joe Fortenbaugh and Doug Kezirian offer their best bets for the Week 14 finale.
Note: Odds courtesy of Caesars Sportsbook as of Sunday evening, unless otherwise noted.
New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles (-9.5, 45)
Eagles over 27.5 points
Fortenbaugh: Given that this franchise ranks 29th in the NFL in scoring defense (28.2 PPG) and 26th in total defense (372.8 YPG), it should come as no real shock that the Giants have surrendered 28 or more points in nine of 12 games this season.
• With Jeffery: 5-3, 26.3 points per game
• Without Jeffery: 0-4, 15.7 points per game
Look for Jeffery and quarterback Carson Wentz to have solid nights against a Giants defense that is surrendering an average of 258.6 passing yards per game this season (25th in the NFL).
Game total over 45 points
Kezirian: The scrutiny of Wentz and Doug Pederson is prevalent in Philadelphia, thanks to three straight losses. However, the Eagles are still in the playoff mix and can join Dallas in first place with a win. I expect a solid game plan to carve up a Giants defense that ranks second-worst in yards allowed per pass attempt. Wentz should have a field day.
Rain is in the forecast, but I doubt that will inhibit scoring all that much. In fact, it usually hurts a defender's footing and lends itself to the over, unless wind becomes an issue. Wind is not supposed to be a factor Monday. Of course, one main headline is Eli Manning returning for New York, and he's familiar with this Eagles defense. He should have enough success and might help this situation with costly turnovers. Six of these teams' past seven meetings have gone over the total, so let's keep it rolling.