NFL Preseason Odds for Friday Night Slate + What To Watch For

Written By:

Zachary Kelley

Published On:

August 14, 2026 11:38 AM

NFL Preseason Odds for Friday Night Slate + What To Watch For
  • The Atlanta Falcons are 4.0-point underdogs against the Denver Broncos with Tua Tagovailoa starting under center.
  • Betting odds favor the Miami Dolphins (-3) over the Washington Commanders as Washington looks for answers to replace Laremy Tunsil.
  • The New York Jets are a touchdown favorite against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with New York’s starters expected to play.

ATLANTA – The Friday night NFL Preseason slate offers three games worth betting on. The action begins in Atlanta, where Tua Tagovailoa makes his Falcons debut as a 4.0-point underdog against the Denver Broncos.

Denver Broncos vs Atlanta Falcons Betting Lines

TeamSpreadMoneylineTotal
Denver Broncos-4.0 (-105)-195O 40.0 (-110)
Atlanta Falcons+4.0 (-115)+165U 40.0 (-110)

The quarterback battle in Atlanta can’t truly begin until Michael Penix Jr. is cleared for 11-on-11, but Tua can make a strong first impression on Friday night. He projects for 20.5 passing yards at Georgia sportsbook apps in what anticipates a short outing, but stringing together a strong opening drive could cash Tagovailoa’s line.

Another quarterback debut will be made in the Miami Dolphins’ preseason opener with the Washington Commanders. The Dolphins have -125 odds to cover the 3.0-point legal sports betting spread in Malik Willis’ first game in aqua and orange.

Miami Dolphins vs Washington Commanders Betting Lines

TeamSpreadMoneylineTotal
Miami Dolphins-3.0 (-125)-185O 36 (-110)
Washington Commanders+3.0 (+105)+160O 36 (-110)

New head coach Jeff Hafley told the media that he plans on Willis getting some action, citing that the team needs to experience the game together. It’s a logical move considering Willis needs to get used to the new system and develop connections with his receiving room that offers plenty of question marks.

For Washington, eyes will be on replacing Laremy Tunsil after he suffered a triceps tear in practice. Brandon Coleman expects to fill in at left tackle, as he manned the position when the Commanders made it to the NFC Championship in 2024, but Coleman struggled at guard last season.

The Jets Are 6.0-Point Favorites?

Yes, the New York Jets are 6.0-point favorites at NFL betting sites against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Friday night. The odds are in New York’s favor since Aaron Glenn told the media that “everybody’s is playing,” meaning bettors can expect to see Geno Smith’s return to New York and the debut of rookie pass rusher David Bailey.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Vs New York Jets Betting Lines

TeamSpreadMoneylineTotal
Tampa Bay Buccaneers+6.0 (-120)+210O 36 (-105)
New York Jets-6.0 (+100)-250U 36 (-115)

On the other side of things, the Buccaneers aren’t expected to play any starters. Head coach Todd Bowles explicitly said quarterback Baker Mayfield definitely won’t play, but it’s still the Jets so back Buccaneers +6.0 points at +100 odds.

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Ben Fiore

Zachary Kelley

Zach graduated from Florida State University with a degree in Writing, Editing, and Media. Zach is interested in the legalization aspect of sports betting and enjoys participating in DFS. He has a passion for sports writing and most enjoys writing about football and baseball both professional and collegiate.