ARLINGTON, TEXAS - AUGUST 28: CeeDee Lamb #88 of the Dallas Cowboys looks on during the second half of the 2026 NFL preseason game against the New Orleans Saints at AT&T Stadium on August 28, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The first Sunday of the 2026 NFL regular season has arrived, and football fans across the globe are ready to dive into the action. As the excitement builds, the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk brings you a comprehensive gambling preview for Week 1. With odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook, we break down the top picks and player props to help you navigate the opening slate. Whether you're a seasoned bettor or a casual fan, these insights will give you an edge.
Game Picks of the Week
Atlanta Falcons at Pittsburgh Steelers (-5.5)
Mike McCarthy begins his Steelers coaching tenure with a favorable matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. Atlanta named Tua Tagovailoa their starting quarterback last week, but the veteran was ruled out on Friday with an oblique injury. Former Cowboy Cooper Rush will start in his place, and while Tagovailoa is not the player he once was, it is a clear downgrade at the most important position in football. McCarthy has plenty of familiarity with Rush from their time together in Dallas, and there is a good bet the new head coach will use that to his advantage on Sunday. The Steelers may not be a sure-fire playoff team, but the McCarthy/Aaron Rodgers combo will make them competitive all season long. Both Rodgers and McCarthy have always fared well in Week 1, posting 12-6 and 11-7 in season openers, respectively, during their careers. Look for that trend to continue on Sunday and the Steelers to cover with a big win.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+3.5) at Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals and Buccaneers are two of the more fascinating teams to watch this upcoming season. Finally back fully healthy, Cincinnati will look for defensive improvement to complete their top-of-the-league offense. On Tampa Bay’s side of things, with quarterback Baker Mayfield signed to a brand-new long-term deal, the Bucs will try to make the playoffs for the sixth time in the past seven seasons. While Cincinnati clearly has a top-tier offense led by Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase, they did not make nearly enough improvements on the defensive side of the ball to be a 3.5-point favorite in this game. Tampa Bay has consistently been one of the tougher teams in football, and they have a good chance to hang around in this game. Take Tampa and the points in this one.
Washington Commanders at Philadelphia Eagles (-5.5)
The other NFC East matchup this Sunday will feature the Washington Commanders traveling to take on the Philadelphia Eagles. Philadelphia is looking to continue their dominance of the division, hoping to three-peat as NFC East champs in 2026. Looking to bounce back from a disaster of a 2025 season, the Commanders have already suffered some serious injuries before the start of the regular season. Arguably the most significant of which was losing starting left tackle Laremy Tunsil to a triceps injury that will keep him out for a significant time. Philadelphia may have the best defensive line in all of football, and that is a bad matchup for this reeling Commanders’ offensive line. They may be able to figure things out down the road, but there is no way to trust Washington to hang in this game if they are not able to block up Philadelphia’s defensive front. Take Philly to start the regular season with a bang and cover the 5.5.
Cowboys Corner: Betting on CeeDee Lamb
Dallas Cowboys (-2.5) at New York Giants
The Pick: CeeDee Lamb 6+ receptions (-140)
In 12 career games against the Giants, CeeDee Lamb has caught six or more passes seven times. After an uncharacteristic year last season, Lamb is going to come out with something to prove at the start of the regular season. Look for Dallas to get Lamb involved early and often on Sunday. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, Lamb's rapport with Dak Prescott remains strong, and the Giants' secondary may struggle to contain him. This prop bet offers excellent value for a player of Lamb's caliber.
Three-Leg Parlay
2026 Parlay Record: 0-0
- Amon-Ra St. Brown anytime TD
- Dak Prescott 250+ passing yards
- Kansas City Chiefs ML (+427)
This parlay combines three high-upside legs. Amon-Ra St. Brown is a red-zone threat for the Lions, and his anytime touchdown odds are enticing. Dak Prescott should have no trouble moving the ball through the air against a vulnerable Giants defense. Finally, the Chiefs moneyline at +427 offers tremendous value if you believe Patrick Mahomes and company can pull off the upset. As highlighted on Vulius, this parlay could yield a significant payout for risk-takers.
As you enjoy the first full Sunday of NFL action, keep these picks in mind. For more expert analysis and the latest NFL merchandise, visit Vulius.com. Bet responsibly and enjoy the games!
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