The pick — Chicago Bears to win 3 games through Week 5 (+215, DraftKings)
- DraftKings offer: Bet $5 and get $150 in Bonus Bets
Two hours up I-57 from Casa de Evans is a major metropolitan area currently abuzz. The Democratic National Convention is partially responsible for the heightened energy, but a certain team on Lake Shore Drive has the city buzzing with positivity.
When it comes to the Bears, Chicago is brimming with hope. Ask any local about the prospects at Halas Hall, and every one of them believes a second-season appearance is inevitable.
For a community that typically dwells in pessimism, a rosy outlook is rare. However, as witnessed throughout training camp and the preseason, the sunny feelings are warranted.
The last time the Windy City overflowed with this level of optimism, “Money for Nothing” cranked on the FM dial. The chicks, though, were never for free.
[ Gamer's Guide to the Gridiron: Fantasy football forecasts and NFL betting picks ]
Combing over the various sportsbook offerings, most Black and Blue fans are sinking dollars into predictable markets — making the playoffs (+100, Caesars), winning the NFC North (+340, FanDuel), going OVER 9.5 wins (+130, BetMGM) and even winning Super Bowl LIX (+4000, BetMGM).
Some of those futures bets are attractive, but none exhibit more voluptuous curves than the Bears collecting three or more wins in their first five games. Yes, the bet is real, and it’s spectacular. Available at +215 on DraftKings, it’s worth the investment.
Why?
Chicago enters the regular season equipped with balance. Caleb Williams and the Bears' much improved offense may be stealing the headlines, but the team boasts an offensive line and defense that should finish at or near the top 10 in myriad efficiency categories. The mustard topping the hot dog is Matt Eberflus’ special teams, which should be an above-average unit.
Tally it up, and the Bears own no visible weaknesses. They are the franchise’s most well-rounded squad in decades.
Most enticing, the early season schedule isn’t overly intimidating. Chicago opens at home against the Titans, has two road games at the Texans and Colts and finishes Weeks 4-5 welcoming the Rams and Panthers to Soldier Field.
ESPN’s Mike Clay gives the Bears a 58% or greater win probability to secure victories in three of those affairs. Houston and Indianapolis — both encounters projected as coin flips — are also winnable, but the value resides with the exact number above.
Given the fruitful potential payday, notching a minimum 3-2 mark through Week 5 is hardly scaling Willis Tower with makeshift suction cups.
Buy the hype, and Bear the (expletive) down.