The Las Vegas Raiders‘ choice to bench top defensive end Maxx Crosby for Sunday’s clash with the New York Giants has turned into a hot topic on the NFL betting front this week. What started as a simple injury report has changed how people bet on a game that matters a lot for draft picks and gambling.
Raiders Sit Crosby, Sportsbooks React as Giants Turn Betting Favorites
Crosby could not play because of an ongoing knee problem that has bothered him most of the season. He had pushed through the pain for weeks without skipping a game, but the Raiders decided to put his health first after recent medical check-ups. This decision upset Crosby, who did not agree with it and left the team’s building when he found out he would not be playing, reported ESPN. Later on, head coach Pete Carroll played down any drama, describing Crosby’s reaction as normal for such a fierce competitor.
The announcement’s timing had an impact on betting. The Raiders and Giants go into Week 17 with the same 2–13 records. This makes Sunday’s game key in deciding which team gets the likely No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. After news of Crosby’s absence came out, bookmakers changed their odds. The Giants became slight favorites even though they are playing away.
Many big sportsbooks saw quick changes in the moneyline and spread. This showed that bettors think the Raiders’ defense will have trouble without its best player. Crosby’s effect is clear: he tops the team in sacks and tackles for loss. He also often draws extra blockers, which creates chances for his teammates. Taking him out of the game changed predictions right away.
Raiders’ Injuries Turn Raiders-Giants Clash Into Hot Betting Event
The situation has sparked talk among bettors about Las Vegas adopting a long-term plan instead of chasing wins late in the season. This idea spread online, though the Raiders deny any claims of losing on purpose. Crosby has spoken out against draft-related discussions, insisting he cares about playing his best when he is on the field.
Betting interest has grown because Las Vegas will play without tight end Brock Bowers and safety Jeremy Chinn further weakening a team that has trouble finishing games. Gamblers pay close attention to injury reports, and the Raiders’ growing list of injured players has made the Giants a more popular bet against the spread.
Bookmakers now walk a fine line. Though the game features two teams near the bottom of the standings, the stakes – from draft order to market swings – have boosted its importance. Even tiny bits of news, like Crosby maybe sitting out the last game, too, could spark more shifts in the odds.
In a year marked by slim margins and surprise results, Crosby’s no-show has turned a clash of struggling teams into one of the weekend’s most-watched betting events.