Bettina's Expert Picks
My 3 hottest sports picks of the week.
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Bettina Carlson - Jan 21, 2026, 4:59am EST
Sports betting has long been more than just a sideshow – for many fans, it's an integral part of matchday. Smart betting requires more than just gut feeling: current form, injuries, and above all – accurate data! All of this can make a difference in our information-driven world. For this reason, we've created a column that provides you with three hot tips every week. Gut feeling plays only a minor role. We rely on a special algorithm that transforms all available numbers and data into a lucrative betting tip. We'll reveal the name of the software below.
This week I'm taking a look at the games I've found the best lines for the German Bundesliga this week. Check out my top 3 picks.
Tip 1: Bayer Leverkusen – Werder Bremen
Bayer Leverkusen's winning streak continues – and this time, against Bremen, it's a sure thing: Bayer wins! While Leverkusen have had a dip in form in recent matches, they generally shine with a strong attack and a confident demeanor. Werder Bremen, on the other hand, have struggled with weaknesses, dropped points, and only managed sporadic goals. The model rates Leverkusen's victory with five stars and a probability of 90.3% – a clear statement. With a projected score of 3.22 goals and 6.26 shots on goal, their attack dominates. Bremen only manages 0.4 goals and 1.03 shots on goal, appearing to lack chances. A bet on Leverkusen is therefore the logical choice, also considering the odds. The bet is: Bayer Leverkusen to win at odds of -170 with FanDuel.
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Claim OfferTip 2: Union Berlin - Borussia Dortmund
Low goals as a trademark: Union Berlin and Borussia Dortmund are preparing a defensive highlight. Union has kept a clean sheet in recent matches and scored sparingly themselves, resulting in narrow victories. Dortmund has played with control, avoiding risks and finding the net efficiently. The model recommends Under 2.5 goals with five stars – a trend confirmed by current form. Union is predicted to score 0.46 goals, Dortmund 1.01 – combined. Shots on goal remain modest: 2.38 and 1.35 respectively. Those betting on Under 2.5 goals are taking advantage of both teams' defensive strength and the reliable predictions. We're doing the same and are betting on Under 2.5 goals at odds of -120 with DraftKings Sportsbook.

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New Customers: Bet $5+ Get $300 in Bonus Bets If Your Bet Wins!
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1 per new customer. Get max. $300 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Min. -500 odds req. Token and Bonus Bets are single-use and non-withdrawable. Token expires 2/1/2026. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Bonus Bets issued as (12) $25 Bonus Bets. Stake removed from payout. Terms: sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos
Ends 1/25/26 at 11:59 PM ET.
Must be physically located in AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA (select parishes), MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WY or WV (each an “Eligible Jurisdiction” or, collectively, the “Eligible Jurisdictions”). Must be 21+ years of age or older (18+ if in DC/KY/WY).
New Customers Only.
GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY).
Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD).
21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new customer. Must register new account to receive reward Token. Must select Token BEFORE placing min. $5 bet to receive $300 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Min. -500 odds req. Token and Bonus Bets are single-use and non-withdrawable. Token expires 2/1/26. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos. Ends 1/25/26 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK.
Claim OfferTip 3: Mainz 05 - VfL Wolfsburg
Mainz 05 on the upswing – home advantage will secure victory against Wolfsburg! The 05ers have impressed in recent matches with improving form, a solid defense, and an effective attack. Wolfsburg, on the other hand, stumbled over themselves, dropped points unnecessarily, and looked porous in defense. The model rates Mainz with four stars and a 62% chance of winning – a strong home indicator. With a projected score of 1.89 goals and 3.16 shots on goal, Mainz dominates locally. Wolfsburg only manages 1.20 goals and 2.96 shots, thus remaining at a disadvantage. Our software calculated odds of 1.91 for Mainz – but we are getting the following value: Mainz 05 win at odds of +130 at FanDuel Sportsbook.
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21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

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21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Claim OfferPromos of the Week – Get More Out Of Your Bet
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