Week 9 betting: Colts keep trotting along, Nico Collins comes back strong - ESPN

Value is value, no matter where — or how — you find it. And that's what we'll aim to do each week in this space — find value.

We have our full crew back this week, as Ben Solak makes his return to the lineup.

Solak, Seth Walder and Matt Bowen bring different perspectives into how they approach sports betting. Solak leans on his expertise in player evaluation and the X's and O's to find edges, while Walder relies on statistical models to pick out plus-expected value bets. Bowen, a former NFL safety, predicts positive matchups and game winners from tape study and his understanding of the league.

These weekly picks will not be limited to a certain bet type. From spreads and money lines to totals or even defensive player props, a good price might be found anywhere.

Results will be tracked throughout the season, with flat one-unit wagers for each listed bet.

With that, let's dive into Week 9. As always, odds are from ESPN BET Sportsbook.

Note: Defensive prop bets will be added as they become available.

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Game bets | Defensive props | Offensive props

Indianapolis Colts to cover -3.5 (Even) at Steelers

Bowen: The Colts are averaging a league-best 32.9 points. Balance in the call sheet. A game changer at running back in Jonathan Taylor. Plus, Daniel Jones can play as a point guard, with versatile pass catchers at all three levels of the field. Expect more points here against a Steelers defense that lacks team speed. Let's take the Colts to cover on the road.

Detroit Lions to cover -8.5 (-105) vs. Vikings

Solak: This is an excellent spot for the Lions coming off the bye, as Dan Campbell has covered 70% of his home games as the head coach of the Lions and 70% of his games with additional rest. Safety Brian Branch