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Football bettingLas Vegas Raiders draw heavy betting action to open the season
Bettors are backing the Raiders heavily at sportsbooks ahead of their matchup with the Miami Dolphins.
Written by the BettingEdgeHub desk, 13 September 2026
Las Vegas opens today as a moneyline favourite at minus one hundred seventy against the Miami Dolphins. The visitors sit at plus one hundred forty on the board. Kickoff takes place at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
Bookmakers report that the Raiders represent their biggest liability in the long term futures market. Nevada bettors have driven up the volume significantly on a team priced at plus twelve thousand five hundred to win the championship.
Offseason changes drive confidence
The franchise enters the new campaign under head coach Klint Kubiak following a dismal three and fourteen season. Management secured the top overall draft pick and selected Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza.
Veterans enter the lineup immediately to bridge the gap for the rookie quarterback. Kirk Cousins signed a deal worth twenty million dollars fully guaranteed to start under center for Week One.
Defensive upgrades and rookie plans
New additions on defence aim to support star pass rusher Maxx Crosby. Linebackers Nakobe Dean and Quay Walker join edge defender Kwity Paye to revamp the front seven.
Bookmakers compare the quarterback situation to other rookie developments around the league. Cousins will hold the job while Mendoza waits, though strong performances could keep the veteran on the field all year.
Rams remain a liability
Market liability extends past the opener for major bookmakers. The Los Angeles Rams continue to attract substantial wagers despite losing their Thursday night opener twenty seven to seven against the San Francisco 49ers, holding steady as title favourites at plus six hundred.
Backing the Raiders requires caution because early season excitement does not always translate to immediate wins on the field.
