This is why betting the lookahead lines can be a rewarding and profitable alternative to the standard week-of wagering. 

Last week, one spread jumped out at us, pleading to be taken: Green Bay -2.5 vs. Chicago (DraftKings). The Bears' offense had been sleepwalking. It was about to confront the unappreciated Patriots' defense, whose efforts had been obscured by New England's impotent offense.

Did we expect the Bears to beg, borrow and steal a grand total of three points, along with 142 yards, against the Pats? No, but we'll take it. Did we expect a massive line movement to -6.5? No, but we'll take it, too.

The shift is rare without a major injury or off-the-field news in play. It addresses how the public keeps giving teams second and third chances, as it did with Chicago, only to bail on them after an outcome that establishes a clear pattern.

The pattern, in this case: The Bears' offense reeks.

We welcomed a mini-move with another game. For the Thursday nighter, Philadelphia could be had a week ago for -3 against the Washington Commanders. After the Eagles demolished the Dallas Cowboys, the figure now stands at 3.5, a beneficial change for us Philly backers.

Our third pick is a wash. The San Francisco 49ers remain -6.5 against the Seattle Seahawks. We thought the probable return of Niners running back Christian McCaffrey last Sunday might trigger a shift upward. No such luck.

The Week 12 lines offer a trio of games worth considering.

Week 12 lookahead lines

(Odds via DraftKings Sportsbook)

Steelers (-4.5) at Browns, O/U 41
Buccaneers (-3) at Giants, O/U 43
Chiefs (-11.5) at Panthers, O/U 41
Titans at Texans (-7.5), O/U 42.5
Lions (-6.5) at Colts, O/U 49.5
Patriots at Dolphins (-7), O/U 43.5
Cowboys at Commanders (-10), O/U 45
Vikings (-5) at Bears, O/U 40
Broncos (-3) at Raiders, O/U 41.5
49ers at Packers (-1), O/U 48.5
Cardinals at Seahawks (-1), O/U 48.5
Eagles (-2.5) at Rams, O/U 47
Ravens (-3) at Chargers, O/U 47

Which Week 12 sides make for great plays before Week 11 kicks off? And which underdog offers a great betting opportunity? ... Join SportsLine right now to see Week 12 lookahead picks from NFL expert Mike Tierney!