Football is officially back! I know, players have already reported to training camp, but nothing signifies the real start of the NFL preseason like the Hall of Fame Game and, more importantly, actual betting lines.
With the Chicago Bears taking on the Baltimore Ravens in Canton, Ohio on Aug. 2, current lines have this matchup at a pick'em, with a -120 vig toward Baltimore. The total is also available at 34.
In early betting, 61% of tickets and 96% of dollars wagered are on the Bears, while 52% of bettors are leaning toward the under.
This game should provide a first look at Ravens first-round pick Lamar Jackson, who has been showered with plenty of hype so far this offseason. However, with reports that Baltimore plans on having both Jackson and Joe Flacco on the field at the same time during the regular season, don't expect the Ravens to show their hand until the games become meaningful.
According to Bet Labs, favorites have a slight 5-4-3 against-the-spread (ATS) edge since the 2004 Hall of Fame Game. The 2011 game was canceled due to NFL lockout, and the 2016 edition was canceled due to poor field conditions.
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Totals have split right down the middle for a 6-6 over/under record as well.
Please visit The Action Network's NFL Live Odds page for updated Hall of Fame Game, preseason and regular season NFL betting lines.
