We had a pair of historic point spreads in Week 3, and both resulted in rather quirky finishes. New England Patriots bettors suffered a particularly rough bad beat, while Dallas Cowboys bettors got a crucial late score for the historic cover.
The New England Patriots were 21-point favorites against the New York Jets and the Dallas Cowboys clocked in as 21.5-point favorites against the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins and Jets stink so the numbers weren’t surprising. What might surprise some is the history on such numbers. Dating back to 1984 and prior to Week 3, the NFL had eight teams that were favorites of at least 20 points. In all eight instances the favorite failed to cover the spread.
The Cowboys jumped out to a 10-0 lead against Miami, but their offense stalled out in the second quarter. They led 10-6 at halftime before finally getting going in the third quarter. A field goal and Dak Prescott rushing touchdown put them up 24-6 heading into the fourth quarter. The win was assured, but as they started resting starters, the cover seemed unlikely. However, Tony Pollard took over on the final extensive Cowboys drive. He rushed for 40 yards and a touchdown, finding the end zone with 3:45 remaining. The Dolphins turned the ball over on downs and the late cover was assured.
The Patriots were rolling the Jets with ease, taking a 30-0 lead late in the third quarter. The Jets punted the ball with 21 seconds left in the third quarter, and it appeared New England might very well double up the point spread. However, Gunner Olszewski muffed the punt and Arthur Maulet jumped on the ball for the score to cut the lead to 30-7.
Even with the Jets score, the Patriots felt comfortable enough to rest Tom Brady. However, his replacement, Jarrett Stidham proceeded to throw a pass that Jamal Adams picked off and ran back 61 yards for a touchdown. It cut the lead to 30-14, and the Patriots actually brought Brady back into the game briefly. The Patriots did not score the rest of the way, and the bad beat was secured if you had the Patriots to cover. If you had the Jets, well done!
Odds and lines subject to change. See website for actual odds.
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