Following a long and eventful offseason, the 2024 NFL campaign is just around the corner. Training camp has already produced a myriad of storylines across the league, and the preseason has started in earnest after last week’s full slate of games. This week, all 32 teams will take to the field once again for the final game of the preseason, as each team looks to ease back into game shape while giving some run to its younger players and those looking to compete for a roster spot. With Week 3 of the NFL preseason kicking off on Thursday and rolling into the weekend, let's take a look at the NFL odds, plus my NFL picks and NFL best bets for the final week of NFL preseason action.'
New England Patriots vs Washington Commanders Under 34.5 (-110)
Much like what I’ve said in previous columns about games involving the Patriots this preseason, this is another spot where it makes sense for both teams involved to adhere to a conservative game script and focus on ironing out some kinks before the season gets underway.'
Rookie Patriots quarterback Drake Maye made a major impression in last week’s game against the Eagles, as he led the New England offense down the field for his first-ever NFL touchdown drive. While that game might’ve been enough to sell Patriots fans on the rookie QB, head coach Jerod Mayo has indicated that Maye will indeed play in the preseason finale, but it's expected that he'll only be on the field for a couple of drives. The problem for New England occurs as soon as Maye leaves the field, as the Patriots offense gets a lot more stagnant with Jacoby Brissett or Bailey Zappe under center. It's no coincidence that both New England games during this preseason have finished with a total of 20 and 27 points respectively, and I wouldn’t expect anything different in this one.'