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NFL Bettors Are Banking On Bears Underachieving After The Roquan Smith News

Chicago Bears linebacker Roquan Smith listens to reporters at a news conference in Lake Forest, Ill., Wednesday, April 20, 2022. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

It was already shaping up to be an extremely difficult season for the Chicago Bears.

And now, Roquan Smith — one of the few great talents the Bears have on their roster — isn’t happy.

Earlier today, Smith penned a long letter and released it to social media. In the message, he explained to fans why he’s demanding a trade after a contract dispute spilled over to Training Camp.

https://twitter.com/SideActionHQ/status/1557056614288334851

Chicago Bears O/U Wins Total

Even before the Roquan Smith situation went from bad to worse, bettors have been quick to slam the Bears to finish the upcoming season with under 6.5 wins.

According to Caesars Sportsbook, the under bet prop on the Bears at 6.5 wins has received more money than any NFL team. Moreover, 95% of total money wagered is on the under.

Now, Draftkings has the under 6.5 at -155, with the over coming in with some more value at +135.

Obviously, the Bears not having their best player in Roquan Smith would help the 95% of bettors feel even more confident about their bet. But Bears GM Ryan Poles is still holding out hope that they can get a deal done with the interior linebacker ahead of Week One of the NFL season

“There are record-setting pieces for this contract that I thought would show (Roquan Smith) the respect that he deserves, and obviously that hasn’t been the case. … We’re doing everything we can to get this done,” Poles said after Tuesday’s practice via Bears beat writer Chris Emma.

The Bears are setting themselves up for a rebuilding year with first year head coach Matt Eberflus taking over after the failed Matt Nagy tenure.

With or without Roquan Smith, the under feels like a safe bet for the Bears this season.


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