Vic's Picks Week 5

Enjoy this post from World Champion and New York Giants legend Victor Cruz

YTD: 4-5-1 (+1.3 units)

Baltimore Ravens -3

Only have one pick this week. After a tough Week 4 in which we are on the wrong side of two coin flip games, we look to get back in the winner’s circle.

I am once again taking the Ravens. This time we are taking them -3 at home on Sunday Night Football against their division rival and reigning AFC Champs, Cincinnati Bengals. Something has to give for this Baltimore team. One of these week’s they have to finish the job at home and no better time to do it than on SNF against the Bengals.

I know the Ravens defense has struggled mightily the first quarter of the season, but I feel like it’s the week they get back on track.  This Baltimore secondary is way too talented to be this sluggish to start the season. Right now, this defense is one of the worst in the NFL. They’re allowing 25 points per game and an astounding 6.23 yards per play. I know you’re probably questioning why I am bringing up reasons to not back Baltimore, but, as I said, something has to give with them and I just feel like this week is the time. Plus, they’re going up against a Bengals offense that has also struggled to start the season. This Cincy offense ranks 16th in EPA/play and 27th in success rate. As I said, no better time to get right than on SNF!

We know Lamar Jackson and the Ravens offense will show up. They always do. So far this season, Baltimore is averaging a shade under 30 points per game (29.8) and rank in the top third of the NFL in both explosive run and pass plays. Cincy’s defense has been very solid to start the year, but this is their first true test of the season. After all, they’ve faced the following QBs this season: Mitch Trubisky, Cooper Rush, Joe Flacco, and injured Tua. No disrespect to any of the aforementioned guys, but let’s be real here, Lamar Jackson is in a different tier. He can beat you with his arm and legs. He’s been on a tear to start the year, ranking 4th in the NFL in adjusted EPA/play. Jackson is the first elite QB this Cincy D will face and I am betting on Lamar to do his thing and for the Ravens defense to get right. After all, water has to find its level at some point and I am betting on it happening on Sunday night.

Jackson is 5-2 ATS at home in primetime games and expect him to make it 6-2. Rolling with the Ravens -3 at even odds on Prophet Exchange!  Get better prices on moneylines and even odds on all spreads and totals all season long on Prophet Exchange. Sign up today to receive a 50% deposit match up to a bonus of $250.

Must be 21+ and present in NJ. Terms and Conditions Apply for Deposit Match. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER