The Action Network Sports Betting Podcast NFL Week 18 Recap & Wild Card Weekend Early Picks
Jan 5, 2026
Patrick Everson, a seasoned sports betting journalist at VegasInsider, joins the discussion to unveil what's happening behind the sportsbook counter in Las Vegas. He shares unique insights on the early betting trends for Wild Card Weekend, revealing where the money is flowing. The team dissects the thrilling Ravens-Steelers finale and its playoff implications, while also examining the surprising performances from the NFC West. Additionally, they discuss the challenges facing teams like Denver, and Brandon’s bold predictions for the playoffs.
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Unusual, Wide-Open Playoff Field
- The 2023 playoff field is unusually chaotic with several 11+ win teams missing the playoffs.
- Brandon Anderson says there are no clear juggernauts, making futures and upsets more likely in the postseason.
Week 18 Chaos: Steelers Over Ravens
- The Steelers beat the Ravens 26-24 with chaotic late-game plays and kicker miscues.
- Evan Abrams recounts watching his story rewrite multiple times during the game's wild fourth quarter.
Steelers Defense: Improved But Explosive-Prone
- Pittsburgh's defense improved midseason but still yields big explosive plays.
- Brandon Anderson notes the Steelers' season-long pattern of solid run defense mixed with vulnerability to long plays.