Christmas is a time for holiday cheer, surprises and underdogs barking loud in the NFL. In fact, Christmas Day favorites have found themselves on the naughty list of late. With a record of just 4-8 ATS since 2010, these favorites have looked like Santa slipping on Scott Calvin's icy roof. Maybe Santa himself is handing out unexpected gifts to underdog teams.
Balancing the Sleigh: A Totals Split
Santa's sack of toys has been evenly weighted when it comes to point totals on Christmas Day games. Since 2010, the Over/Under record is a balanced 5-7. Whether it's the holiday spirit, or too much eggnog, predicting high-scoring sled rides or defensive snowball fights has been as tricky as guessing your secret Santa gift.
The last few weeks have not been outstanding by any stretch. More like doing the doggy paddle and treading water. Ran into Santa at the mall and asked him for some UD wins. Had a decent NFL 💰yesterday and hoping it continues in the NBA tonight.
— Corey (@Tee_box) December 18, 2023
GL y’all pic.twitter.com/WMBmWxPxZl
Home Teams Bring Christmas Cheer
There's something magical about being at home for Christmas, and NFL teams seem to thrive on the festive home-field advantage. Flaunting a 8-4 SU record, home teams have outscored their opponents 314-264 since 2010. Our computer picks love the home squads' to keep the festive tradition alive. It's as if a little of Bing Crosby's "snow and mistletoe" adds an extra spring to the home team's step.
Santa brought football for Christmas 🎁🏈
— NFL (@NFL) May 12, 2023
📺: 2023 NFL Schedule Release on @NFLNetwork pic.twitter.com/TkmN53UDhX
Yuletide Extremes
NFL Christmas Day games are like your family's dinner conversations - either a blowout or really close! Five games have ended with a margin of over 14 points in the last ten Christmas Day games. Apparently those teams found a lump of coal in their stockings. In contrast, six games have been cutting it as close as your Christmas Eve shopping, finishing within one score.
A Holiday Gamble
Betting on NFL games on Christmas Day is like unwrapping presents filled with both surprise and excitement. This year, the matchups make for a splendid yuletide of football. Starting with a merry AFC West Chiefs-Raiders battle, followed by Giants-Eagles and finally a delightful Ravens-49ers contest, these festive football games are sure to add bright tidings of joy to your celebrations.
So, as you sit back and enjoy your (spiked) eggnog and leftover turkey, remember these Christmas Day betting trends. They might just be the secret ingredient to an even merrier holiday season.
