Primetime NFL games bring in the numbers -- and the bets. In an attempt to boost gamer bankrolls, this only occasionally profitable bettor will attempt to stack greenbacks under the lights. As always, fade or follow -- that’s up to you.
The Pick: George Kittle UNDER 53.5 receiving yards (-115, BetMGM)
Exhibiting the superhuman quick healing power of comic characters Wolverine, Deadpool and the Incredible Hulk, Kittle — off a torn hamstring suffered in Week 1 against the Seahawks — is set to return.
Yes, you read that correctly — a torn hamstring.
There’s no M.D. attached to this scribe’s name, but Kittle’s rapid rejuvenation is nothing short of extraordinary. As previously seen with a number of players, shredding one’s hamstring is typically a monthslong recovery. Again, the Gold Panner is a freak. It must be the Little Caesars. Pizza! Pizza!
#49ers TE George Kittle says he “fully plans” on playing Sunday night. Says it will be ultimately up to Kyle Shanahan but that’s his expectation.
— Nick Wagoner (@nwagoner) October 16, 2025
Kittle says he has had a fully torn hamstring. Adding here: Kittle says it did not tear off the bone and because of where tear was it…
Call this questioner skeptical. On the surface, it seems unrealistic he goes full bore, though he reportedly won't be on a pitch restriction. Maybe that viewpoint is way off base, but as we’re all aware, soft tissue issues typically linger.
Complicating matters, the Falcons are the stiffest D against opposing tight ends. This season, they’re No. 5 in dropback EPA D, surrendering the fewest yards to plus-sized targets. In six games, Atlanta has allowed only nine total receptions for 88 yards to TEs. Stingy.
Kittle’s long blonde mane will occasionally flow, but given the extended layoff and unfavorable matchup, he’s completely fade material — even with target share available due to ongoing WR absences. Fellow TE Jake Tonges stealing away an occasional look from Mac Jones is possible.
Five weeks to completely heal a ripped hammy?
Kittle isn’t some living breathing superhero. We think.
NO CONTEXT PARLAY PLAY: Christian McCaffrey 30+ receiving yards, Kendrick Bourne 30+ receiving yards, Bijan Robinson 20+ receiving yards (+125, ESPN Bet)