NFL betting contest: Average Joes favor Saints over Raiders in Week 3

By Adam Burke VSiN September 26, 2026 - 3:28 pm The Edge Boost/Average Joe Contest for NFL Week 3 closed with more than 22,000 selections locked in, giving a clear picture of the public’s favorite plays. Picks were made using Circa Sports lines as of 7 p.m. PT on Fridays, with a final deadline of 8 a.m. PT on Saturday. The most lopsided choice was the Saints at –3, attracting 94 percent of the votes on that game. Out of 1,079 total picks for the Saints‑Raiders matchup, 1,009 favored New Orleans while only 70 backed Las Vegas. Commentary noted that many participants view the Raiders’ 2‑0 start as suspect, either doubting the team’s legitimacy or expressing confidence in the Saints’ ability to bounce back after opening the season against the Lions and Ravens. In the Jaguars‑Patriots contest, Jacksonville was favored by a field goal at –3, earning 87 percent support. The split showed 527 picks for Jacksonville and 606 total, suggesting faith in the Jaguars despite their recent loss to Denver. The article cautioned that New England’s defense remains formidable even if rookie quarterback Drake Maye struggles against stronger competition. Seattle emerged as a strong favorite over Washington, laying –7.5 and capturing 85 percent of the vote. The Seahawks received 464 picks compared with 546 total for the game. The piece linked the optimism to the anticipated return of Sam Darnold and the unusual elbow injury of Jayden Daniels, while noting a lack of enthusiasm for Marcus Mariota. On the totals side, the over 43.5 for the Raiders‑Saints game drew 92 percent approval, with 91 of 99 picks favoring the high‑scoring outcome. The writer pointed out that, although totals usually attract less action, this particular line was heavily backed, citing Tyler Shough’s limited throwing velocity as a factor. The Jets‑Lions over 48 line garnered 89 percent support, translating to 118 picks out of 133. The article highlighted the historical correlation between Detroit and the over, noting the Lions have allowed 71 points and scored 62 in their first two games, averaging 66.5 points per contest. Finally, the Titans‑Giants game saw the under 38.5 attract 88 percent of the vote, with 169 of 191 picks backing the low‑scoring outcome. The reasoning cited expected adverse weather at MetLife Stadium, the absence of Jaxson Dart for New York, and the risky potential of Jameis Winston to produce both multiple touchdown passes and pick‑sixes.