2023 NFL Hall Of Fame Game: Jets vs. Browns Best Bets

2023 NFL Hall of Fame Game: Date, Time & Opening Odds

It’s that time of the year! As we eagerly await the kickoff of the 2023 NFL Hall of Fame Game, a clash between the New York Jets and the Cleveland Browns, there are some intriguing key details that deserve our attention as bettors. This yearly event is set to take place on Thursday, August 3rd, 2023, at the historic Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio. The kickoff time is scheduled for 8:00pm ET, and you can catch the action live on NBC or via the Peacock streaming service.

This game holds special significance as it marks the beginning of the National Football League's 104th season, and it of course couldn't be more fitting to start it in the city where the League was born. The Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium stands adjacent to the revered Pro Football Hall of Fame, and it is only befitting that this matchup coincides with the enshrinement of football legends Joe Thomas of the Browns as well as Joe Klecko, and Darrelle Revis of the Jets into the Hall of Fame’s Class of 2023 just two days after the final whistle.

The 2023 Hall of Fame Game also brings back the Browns to this event after a long absence. The Browns are no strangers to this stage, but their last appearance in Canton dates back to 1999, making this return all the more meaningful for the franchise and its fans.

On the other side of the field, we have the Jets, a team that has been grappling with a prolonged playoff drought in recent years. However, the tide may be turning for the Gang Green, as they made a noteworthy addition to their roster during the offseason with quarterback Aaron Rodgers joining the ranks. This move has sparked optimism among Jets fans, who are suddenly very happy.

The Hall of Fame Game has a long-standing tradition of featuring not only desired football action but also providing opportunities for emerging talent to shine (and for us to bet with that in mind). Historically, both teams' starters tend to see limited playing time, making way for younger players and rookies to showcase their potential as key roster decisions are made. Considering the risk of injuries, coaches from both the Jets and the Browns have publicly stated that their star players are likely to rest during this exhibition contest, which is no surprise.

Last preseason, New York went an undefeated 3-0 while Cleveland went 1-2. Both squads went 7-10 in the regular season. Ultimately, as we look forward to this exhibition clash, it serves as a reminder that NFL season is just around the corner and fans of both teams can't wait to see how their beloved franchises fare.

Most importantly, it gives us an opportunity to bet. After opening as an underdog, the Jets are -130 favorites (Browns: +110 underdogs) at BetMGM and New York is listed as a 2-point favorite. The over/under is at 33.5 points. Without further ado, let’s dig into what we should expect to see from both teams, some best bets to target and DFS plays to consider.

Hall Of Fame Game Betting History

Here’s how the last six Hall of Fame Games finished:

2022: Raiders 27, Jaguars 11 (Raiders -2.5, Over 30.5 Won)

2021: Steelers 16, Cowboys 3 (Steelers -2.5, Under 31.5 Won)

2019: Broncos 14, Falcons 10 (Broncos -2.5, Under 34.0 Won)

2018: Ravens 17, Bears 16 (Ravens -1.5, Under 35.0 Won)

2017: Cowboys 20, Cardinals 18 (Cowboys -1.0, Over 35.0 Won)

2015: Vikings 14, Steelers 3 (Vikings -3, Under 35.0 Won) 

It’s worth noting that betting favorites have won this game five of the last six times it was played. The under has also been victorious in four of the last six games and closed at just 30.5 last year. Keep that in mind as you scroll down. Let's take a look at the Jets first.

2023 Hall Of Fame Game: Jets Outlook

Head coach Robert Saleh has an impressive preseason record, going 5-0-1 overall and 2-0 in preseason openers.

While his defense remains mostly intact, the offense has undergone a significant overhaul, with axed Broncos head coach Nathaniel Hackett taking charge as the Offensive Coordinator and the addition of Rodgers, along with free-agent receivers Mecole Hardman, Allen Lazard, and Randall Cobb. This unit will look completely different than last year's and will likely make a massive leap in terms of overall efficiency and production.

However, don't expect to see Rodgers at all or a large dose of QB Zach Wilson in action during the Hall of Fame Game. It is important to note, though, that Wilson will start and see some playing time. It's pretty rare for a player who started regular season games at quarterback last year to see Hall of Fame Game action, so keep that in mind.

Tim Boyle also has had some proven preseason success, but as a 28 year old with experience playing behind Rodgers in Green Bay (and for Hackett and alongside Lazard and Cobb), the Jets know what they have in him. I don't expect him to see the field for more than a couple series after Wilson, thus paving the way for a full second half from Chris Streveler against third and fourth stringers.

We'll likely witness a heavy dose of Streveler at QB. Streveler, an undrafted prospect from South Dakota, showcased his talents impressively during the 2022 NFL preseason, earning legendary status from a devoted fan base and displaying his dual-threat ability and clutch gene. He's my top pick in DFS lineups.

As we assess the running back situation, the Jets boast an exciting trio of Michael Carter, Zonovan Knight, and rookie Israel Abanikanda behind starter Breece Hall. Keep an eye on Abanikanda, as he should be a standout DFS play in this matchup given the fact that Hall won’t play and both Carter and Knight have NFL experience. I wouldn't be shocked if Abanikanda sees double-digit carries, which is just what we're looking for. Mekhi Becton is expected to start and play tackle for about 20 snaps, so he should have a solid chance to create some solid running lanes early on.

I also love reserve running back Travis Dye, who I expect to see most of his work in the second half.

There are concerns about New York's depth at wide receiver, with several key players nursing injuries. While that doesn't affect this analysis too much since starters and difference-makers won't play, I'm not too enthusiastic about any particular player in this position group. If you have to back someone, it should probably be from this group of wideouts: Irvin Charles, Malik Taylor, Jerome Knapp, T.J. Luther, Jason Brownlee or Xavier Gipson. Again, not for me as there are too many different ways this rotation could go.

On the defensive side, the Jets were one of the NFL's best in 2022, leading the league in yards allowed per play and giving up the fourth-fewest points. Their defense is bolstered by the return of nine out of 11 starters. The addition of Will McDonald IV in the draft (he will play in this game) and trade acquisition Chuck Clark should further strengthen this unit. With a diverse set of skill sets and promising young players, the Jets' defensive line is expected to dominate this season, potentially surpassing their impressive performance from the previous year. Even with second and third-string players on the field, this team has the potential to find success under Defensive Coordinator Jeff Ulbrich and we should see their general scheme displayed here as a bunch of backups know they need to impress in order to receive consideration for the 53-man roster.

In conclusion, I'm placing my bets on Streveler's dynamic play in DFS and player prop markets. His ability to threaten defenses with both his arm and legs makes him a standout player to back. Additionally, I'm excited about Abanikanda's upside at running back after clicking his name a lot when he was a standout at Pitt. Finally, it's important to note that kicker Greg Zuerlein has no competition and will be getting every field goal and extra point attempt. Even though this game has a low total, there's a legitimate chance that he could be the highest-scoring player in the game from a fantasy points perspective.

The Jets' short-term future finally looks promising and I'm optimistic about their chances in this preseason game and beyond.

DFS Core Plays: QB Chris Streveler ($11,400 DraftKings Captain), RB Israel Abanikanda ($7,600), K Greg Zuerlein ($7,600)

DFS GPP Plays: QB Zach Wilson ($7,600), RB Zonovan Knight ($7,600), RB Travis Dye ($7,600)

DFS Cash Plays: Jets D/ST ($7,600)

2023 Hall Of Fame Game: Browns Outlook

As we look ahead to the upcoming season, the Browns are poised to take significant strides forward. Having faced a challenging start last year without Deshaun Watson due to suspension, they now have their franchise quarterback ready to lead the charge in Week 1 of the regular season. Head Coach Kevin Stefanski boasts an impressive preseason record (4-2) and has gone 2-0 in preseason openers.

In this Hall of Fame Game, we'll witness rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson and Kellen Mond taking most of the snaps under center for the Browns. Mond will start and play the first half before the rookie takes over in the second. Thompson-Robinson's dual-threat ability is particularly exciting to watch, but rookie QBs can be risky in DFS plays and prop bets during the early stages of the preseason. Nonetheless, he will get a lot of time under center.

"Yea, I think he's had some good reps. I've been really pleased with that entire group, you know DTR is going to play quite a bit in this game, so we're trying to get him ready to go as a rookie, so I think with each one of his reps, he's taking advantage of them," Stefanski said about Thompson-Robinson's prospects of playing in this game, per Sports Illustrated.

Mond, however, brings a little experience from past NFL offseasons and will be determined to fight for a spot on the roster. He should play the whole first half. Yet, I'm somewhat skeptical about Cleveland's offense against the defensive scheme of the New York Jets, as I'll explain more below.

At running back, we won't see Nick Chubb in action, and I’d assume both Jerome Ford and Demetric Felton Jr. will also sit or be very limited given their presumed regular-season roles.

Instead, Nate McCrary, John Kelly and rookie Hassan Hall are likely to get the bulk of the carries. I wouldn't be shocked to see all three get eight-plus carries. Overall, I'm high on Cleveland's running game and think they'll put out a run-first game plan and I'm going to target their backs in this order: Kelly, Hall and then McCrary.

The Browns' wide receiver room underwent a revamp during the offseason, making it potentially the best group of pass-catchers they've had in recent memory. The versatility of players like Amari Cooper, Donovan Peoples-Jones, Elijah Moore, and Marquise Goodwin adds depth to the offense. Among the returning wideouts, David Bell and Daylen Baldwin are players to keep an eye on during this Hall of Fame Game.

Also consider Anthony Schwartz, a 22-year-old who has an uphill climb to get playing time or even make the final roster. He might be my favorite of the bunch. But, I need to also mention that 3rd round pick Cedric Tillman has reportedly had a great connection with Mond specifically in Training Camp. If I had to rank my favorite wideouts to target in this game it'd be Tillman, Schwartz, Bell and then Baldwin in that order.

David Njoku and Jordan Akins are locked in at TE1 and TE2, but I’m high on third-stringer Harrison Bryant, a pass-catching specialist who hasn’t broken out in the NFL yet. He should be featured in this offense when he’s on the field. If he plays a full half or more, he should eat in this environment. Even if he’s on the field for a couple series, I’m in on him. Who knows, they might even feature him in the hopes of drumming up some trade interest given the fact that he's blocked on the depth chart. Update: Bryant was reportedly in concussion protocol so I'm going to take him down a notch in my rankings and fade him. If he plays, I doubt the team would put him in too many spots to be hit.

On the defensive side, the arrival of Jim Schwartz as the defensive coordinator could prove to be a game-changer for the Browns. His emphasis on creating turnovers and aggressive pass-rushing strategies may lead to significant improvements in their defensive approach and performance. Although this might become riskier during the regular season, the vanilla play-calling in this preseason game might work in their favor since they likely won't get beat down the field.

Schwartz's patented wide front (with defensive ends lined up outside both offensive tackles) adds a new layer to Cleveland's base 4-3 defense. This formation could pose challenges for the Jets' running game, restricting their efficiency when trying to run outside the tackles. However, Schwartz publicly told reporters that the defense was "not ready yet" and I expect to see very basic coverages used.

As I assess the DFS options for this matchup, I'm intrigued by Thompson-Robinson as a GPP captain pivot from Streveler. I also like all of Cleveland's running backs that should get carries in this game as well as kicker Cade York, who, like Zuerlein, doesn't face any competition and will get every field goal and extra point attempt. Also don't forget about Tillman, Schwartz or Baldwin at wideout.

DFS Core Plays: RB John Kelly ($7,600), K Cade York ($7,600), QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson ($7,600), WR Cedric Tillman ($7,600)

DFS GPP Pivots: QB Kellen Mond ($7,600), TE Harrison Bryant ($7,600), RB Hassan Hall ($7,600), RB Nate McCrary ($7,600), WR Anthony Schwartz ($7,600), WR David Bell ($7,600), WR Daylen Baldwin ($7,600)

DFS Cash Plays: Browns D/ST ($7,600)

2023 Hall Of Fame Game Best Bets

Looking at the numbers, it's clear that as the week progressed, the Jets became the target of sharp bettors for the 2023 Hall of Fame Game, with 52% of bets and a staggering 77% of the money favoring them to cover the spread of -2, per BetMGM’s latest data. The line flipped from Jets +1.5 to -2, so the pros had an impact from earlier in the week, when the Browns got a ton of early money.

Additionally, the majority of bets (59%) and money (68%) are on the under 33.5, suggesting a belief that both offenses will struggle to produce points.

I'm placing my faith in the Jets to secure the victory and I think they'll easily cover. I also like the under. While the total of 33.5 points may seem low at first glance, the Hall of Fame Game is not a typical NFL contest.

My confidence in the Jets winning is bolstered by their quarterback situation, with Wilson, Boyle and Streveler as a solid trio. Meanwhile, rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson and Kellen Mond are not nearly as attractive on Cleveland’s side and both have major question marks. Since this is a QB-driven league, this is a huge factor for me.

Ultimately, I'm trusting my instincts and going with the Jets to secure the win and cover and am also betting the under, anticipating a game with limited offensive fireworks.

2023 Hall Of Fame Game PrizePicks Entry

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What Is The NFL Hall Of Fame Game?

The NFL Hall of Fame Game is an annual American football exhibition game that marks the official start of the National Football League (NFL) preseason. It is typically held in early August, one week before the rest of the preseason games begin. The game is played at the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio, which is adjacent to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

The Hall of Fame Game holds special significance as it coincides with the induction of the newest class of Pro Football Hall of Fame inductees. It serves as a tribute to the legends of the sport and celebrates their contributions to the game.

The teams that participate in the Hall of Fame Game are usually selected based on various factors, including historical significance, recent success, and popular appeal. Often, one of the teams playing has a strong connection to a member of the new Hall of Fame class being honored that year.

The Hall of Fame Game is a preseason contest, which means the outcome does not affect the regular-season standings. It provides an opportunity for NFL teams to evaluate their players, especially rookies and those competing for roster spots, in a game situation before the regular season kicks off.

Due to its association with the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the game attracts considerable attention from fans and the media. It serves as a much-anticipated event, not only for football enthusiasts but also for the inductees, their families, and football fans in general.

Overall, the NFL Hall of Fame Game is a special and significant event that celebrates the rich history and legacy of the sport while also signaling the beginning of the NFL preseason.

How To Bet The NFL Hall Of Fame Game

Choose a Reputable Sportsbook: Start by selecting a reputable and licensed sportsbook that offers NFL betting options. There are many online sportsbooks available, so make sure to choose one with a good reputation, user-friendly interface, and a variety of betting markets.

Understand the Betting Markets: Familiarize yourself with the different betting markets available for the Hall of Fame Game. The most common types of bets include the point spread, moneyline, and totals (over/under). Additionally, you can place prop bets on individual player performances or team statistics.

Research the Teams: Since the Hall of Fame Game is an exhibition, teams may approach the game differently than regular-season matchups. Look into the team's depth charts, injury reports, and the coaching staff's approach to the game to get an idea of how they might perform.

Consider Preseason Factors: Keep in mind that the Hall of Fame Game is the first preseason game for both teams. Starters usually play very limited snaps, if at all, as coaches aim to evaluate rookies and younger players fighting for roster spots. This can impact the game's dynamics and scoring potential.

Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget for your bets and stick to it. Betting on preseason games can be riskier due to the unpredictability of playing time and performances. Avoid wagering more than you can afford to lose.

Shop for Odds: Compare the odds offered by different sportsbooks to ensure you get the best value for your bets. Even small differences in odds can make a significant impact on your potential winnings.

Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest news and updates regarding the Hall of Fame Game, including any last-minute changes to player availability or coaching strategies. This information can be crucial in making informed betting decisions.

Bet Responsibly: Remember that betting on sports should be done for entertainment purposes. Never chase losses and avoid making impulsive bets. If you feel like your betting habits are becoming problematic, seek help from responsible gambling resources.

Betting on the NFL Hall of Fame Game can add excitement to the preseason action, but it requires careful consideration and an understanding of the unique aspects of this exhibition matchup. Always approach betting with a well-thought-out strategy and a responsible mindset.

NFL Hall Of Fame Game Betting Strategy

When it comes to betting on the NFL Hall of Fame Game, the exhibition nature of the contest introduces some unique factors that should influence your strategy. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

Limited Playing Time for Starters: In the Hall of Fame Game, starters for both teams typically see very limited playing time, if they play at all. Coaches use this game primarily to evaluate rookies, younger players, and players fighting for roster spots. Therefore, the usual impact of star players may not be as significant as in regular-season games.

Pay Attention to Coaching Intentions: Coaches' statements and past preseason trends can provide insight into their approach for the Hall of Fame Game. Some coaches may prioritize winning as a statement for the upcoming season, while others may focus more on player evaluations and development. Understanding the coach's intentions can help you gauge how seriously each team will take the game.

Preseason Performance: Analyze how each team has historically performed in preseason games. Some teams consistently take these exhibition games seriously and perform well, while others may struggle. Past preseason records and trends can give you an idea of how teams approach these games.

Focus on Player Evaluations: Since younger and less-experienced players see more playing time in the Hall of Fame Game, focus on evaluating their performance during the game. Look for standout rookies, emerging talents, and players trying to make an impression on the coaching staff.

Consider Over/Under Bets: With limited playing time for starters, scoring may be lower than in regular-season games. Keep an eye on the totals (over/under) betting market, as the score might stay below what is typically expected in an NFL matchup.

Shop for Value: As with any sports betting, it's essential to shop for the best odds available. Different sportsbooks may offer slightly different lines and odds for the same game, so compare options to find the best value for your bets.

Be Cautious with Large Bets: Due to the unpredictability of preseason games and limited playing time for starters, consider reducing the size of your bets compared to regular-season games. Avoid placing large bets that could have a significant impact on your bankroll.

Stay Informed: Stay updated on team news, injury reports, and any changes to the coaching staff's approach leading up to the game. Being well-informed will help you make more educated betting decisions.

Bet Responsibly: Always gamble responsibly and within your budget. Preseason games can be more unpredictable than regular-season matchups, so never bet more than you can afford to lose.

Remember that the Hall of Fame Game is an exhibition, and its primary purpose is to celebrate the induction of new Hall of Fame members and provide teams with an opportunity to evaluate players. Approach your betting strategy with a mix of caution, analysis, and a focus on player evaluations to make the most informed decisions.