ESPN analysts name three early NFL Week 7 bets as Vikings prepare to host Colts
The picks are Minnesota minus 5.5, Pittsburgh minus 2.5 and under 39.5 points in Dolphins–Jets. ESPN says the DraftKings odds may change.
ESPN analysts published three early NFL Week 7 betting picks on October 19: the Minnesota Vikings minus 5.5 points against the Indianapolis Colts, the Pittsburgh Steelers minus 2.5 against the New Orleans Saints, and under 39.5 points in Miami Dolphins–New York Jets. The recommendations offer an early view of three games as teams move on from Week 6; ESPN says its DraftKings odds are subject to change.
Minnesota is scheduled to host Indianapolis on Sunday, October 25, at 1 p.m. EDT, according to the Colts’ official schedule. ESPN describes the Vikings as seeking to maintain a perfect start after their bye week and lists their 5.5-point spread as tied for the second largest of Week 7.
Why Matt Bowen backed Minnesota against Indianapolis
ESPN analyst Matt Bowen chose the Vikings to cover because of Brian Flores’ defense. In Bowen’s assessment, its pressure could disrupt Colts quarterback Daniel Jones and an Indianapolis offense he described as lacking a strong vertical element in its game plan. Bowen cited Minnesota’s 12.8 points allowed per game and a 67.6% blitz rate, which ESPN described as the league’s highest. Those figures underpin his case for giving the points at home.
Moody’s Steelers pick and Maldonado’s points total
Eric Moody selected Pittsburgh minus 2.5 against New Orleans. His reasoning included two straight Steelers wins, most recently an overtime victory over Tampa Bay, and what he described as the Saints’ defensive struggles. ESPN’s account says New Orleans allowed 31.7 points per game over its previous three contests, ranked 29th in total yards allowed and had conceded 138 rushing yards per game through six weeks. Moody said that could create opportunities for Steelers running back Jaylen Warren.
Pamela Maldonado recommended under 39.5 points for Miami against the New York Jets. She pointed to the Dolphins scoring 13 points or fewer in four of five games and the Jets converting 35% of third downs. Maldonado also cited 14 sacks taken by Miami quarterback Malik Willis and argued that New York’s pass rush could make sustained Dolphins drives difficult. Her pick calls for the teams to combine for fewer than 40 points.
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Sources and context
- Early bets for NFL Week 7: Three games we're jumping on right nowESPN
- Colts Historical 2026 ScheduleIndianapolis Colts
AI-assisted article checked against the listed sources. NewsJaws did not conduct interviews or attend the reported events.