NFL Player Awards Betting: Top OPOY & CPOY Candidates

As the NFL season reaches its midpoint, the race for individual awards intensifies. Among the most closely contested honors are the AP NFL Offensive Player of the Year (OPOY) and Comeback Player of the Year (CPOY). Let’s dive into the betting favorites, analyze the key contenders, and explore value picks for these prestigious awards.

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Offensive Player of the Year: The Contenders

The race for Offensive Player of the Year is shaping up to be a battle of dominance between skill position stars and quarterbacks. Here are the top contenders:

Derrick Henry (+100)

The Baltimore Ravens running back continues to be the engine of his team’s offense:

Case for Henry: Derrick Henry‘s ability to take over games single-handedly, especially in a run-heavy scheme, makes him the focal point of the Ravens’ attack.
Potential Drawback: If Baltimore falters in the playoff race, voters may look elsewhere for a more “team-success" narrative.

Betting Insight: Henry is a solid favorite at even money, but his value may plateau unless the Ravens string together wins.

Saquon Barkley (+175)

Saquon Barkley is putting up highlight-reel performances, showcasing his versatility as a runner and receiver:

Case for Barkley: His explosiveness and ability to shine in pivotal moments could sway voters. Highlight-worthy plays, like hurdling defenders, resonate strongly in award narratives.
Potential Drawback: If the Philadelphia Eagles falter down the stretch again, Barkley’s candidacy could weaken.

At +175, Barkley provides decent value, especially given his consistent impact in games.

Lamar Jackson (+1600)

The Ravens quarterback is making a strong MVP case, but his dual-threat capability also makes him a contender for OPOY:

Case for Jackson: Leading a the top offensive team in the league, Lamar Jackson’s electrifying playstyle stands out.
Potential Drawback: If Jackson secures the MVP award, voters may hesitate to give both honors to the same player.

At +1600, Jackson is a strong dark-horse candidate, especially if the Ravens continue their winning ways.

Ja’Marr Chase (+1000)

The Cincinnati Bengals star receiver is delivering big games as Cincinnati fights to stay in playoff contention:

Case for Chase: With the ability to dominate games, Ja’Marr Chase is a sleeper candidate if Cincinnati can climb the standings.
Potential Drawback: Voter fatigue could be an issue, as wide receivers often take a backseat to quarterbacks and running backs.

Chase’s odds at +1000 are enticing, and his production in December could drastically shorten this line.

Best Bet for OPOY

Saquon Barkley (+175): Given Barkley’s highlight moments and pivotal role in Philadelphia’s offense, he offers strong value as a frontrunner if the Eagles stay competitive.

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Comeback Player of the Year: The Storylines to Watch

The Comeback Player of the Year award often rewards players who overcome significant adversity to perform at a high level. This year’s race features intriguing narratives:

Kirk Cousins (-120)

Kirk Cousins has rebounded with strong performances, particularly in prime-time games:

Case for Cousins: His improved consistency and leadership have kept the Atlanta Falcons in the playoff hunt.
Potential Drawback: Lack of a dramatic “comeback" story compared to other contenders.

Joe Burrow (+250)

Joe Burrow has bounced back from early-season struggles to lead the Bengals’ offense:

Case for Burrow: If Cincinnati surges into the playoffs, his leadership through adversity could win over voters.
Potential Drawback: Burrow’s struggles in the early weeks could hurt his narrative.

Nick Chubb (+2900)

Nick Chubb’s remarkable recovery from a devastating knee injury puts him in the conversation:

Case for Chubb: Returning from a blown-out knee within a year and performing at an elite level is a compelling storyline.
Potential Drawback: Limited games post-injury may not provide enough evidence for voters.

At +2900, Chubb is a longshot worth monitoring if he can deliver standout performances down the stretch.

Best Bet for CPOY

Nick Chubb (+2900): Chubb’s odds are an excellent value pick. If he performs well in the final weeks, his incredible recovery story could capture voters’ attention.

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Betting Insights and Strategies

Offensive Player of the Year

Best Bet: Saquon Barkley (+175)
Value Play: Ja’Marr Chase (+1000)
Longshot: Lamar Jackson (+1600)

Comeback Player of the Year

Best Bet: Kirk Cousins (-120)
Value Play: Joe Burrow (+250)
Longshot: Nick Chubb (+2900)

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Final Thoughts

The races for Offensive Player of the Year and Comeback Player of the Year are packed with intrigue and betting value. While Derrick Henry and Kirk Cousins lead the charge, value exists in candidates like Saquon Barkley, Ja’Marr Chase, and Nick Chubb. As the season progresses, keep an eye on team performance and player narratives to uncover the best opportunities in these award markets.