Underdogs throwing NFL betting landscape into disarray

If you’ve been participating in any survivor pools, you know this all too well. The top-picked team has lost every week so far:

• Week 1: Bengals (-7.5) vs. Patriots – loss
• Week 2: Ravens (-8.5) vs. Raiders – loss
• Week 3: Buccaneers (-5.5) vs. Broncos – loss

The only two favorites of 5.5 points or more to both win the game and cover the spread have been:

• Week 1: Lions (-5.5) vs. Rams – win and cover
• Week 2: Jets (-6.5) vs. Patriots – win and cover

Week 3 continued the trend, with the New York Giants, Denver Broncos, Carolina Panthers and Los Angeles Rams all covering their spreads and pulling off outright victories.

Monday night was no different, as the Washington Commanders went into Cincinnati and stunned the Bengals behind a historic performance from Jayden Daniels. Daniels completed 21 of 23 passes for 254 yards, added 39 rushing yards and accounted for three total touchdowns in the upset victory.

This trend of underdogs exceeding expectations has been a recurring theme, and bettors backing these teams have been handsomely rewarded, while those favoring the heavy favorites have been caught off guard.

Oddsmakers face the unique challenge of adjusting lines for upcoming matchups. While sportsbooks will likely tighten spreads, the underdogs' early-season success has thrown a wrench in what many expected to be a more predictable slate.

As the NFL season continues to unfold, fans and bettors alike are left to wonder if the surprises will keep coming.

Odds via FanDuel Sportsbook.