The Premier League and Championship both kick into gear this weekend, and Saturday’s opening slate is loaded. Whether you’re locking in for the league opener or hunting value further down the pyramid, here are three picks worth a look for Saturday, August 22nd.
GettyDavid Moyes should have his team ready for today’s opener vs Crystal Palace
Everton vs. Crystal Palace: Toffees Priced at Home in Season Opener
Everton open their 2026-27 campaign at home to Crystal Palace, and the early signs are promising for David Moyes’ side. Everton head into the opener with a settled squad after quietly mid-table with 49 points last season. Moyes has built something defensively sound and hard to break down at Hill Dickinson Stadium. Crystal Palace, meanwhile, are still adjusting to life under new manager Pierre Sage. That combination of home comfort and an opponent finding its early footing gives the price for a home win some real value.
Pick: EVERTON TO WIN @ +120
Middlesbrough to Win at Blackburn: Boro’s Depth Travels Well
Middlesbrough head to Ewood Park off the back of a dramatic late win over Lincoln City, and much of that strength traces back to the squad we broke down in our own coverage of Middlesbrough’s American-fueled midfield — Sebastian Berhalter, Aidan Morris, and Max Arfsten have given Kim Hellberg a level of depth and cohesion that few Championship sides can match this early in the season. Blackburn will be tough at home, as they always are, but Boro’s quality on the road makes them the right side to back here.
Pick: MIDDLESBROUGH TO WIN @ +115
Wrexham to Beat Watford: Red Dragons Look to Bounce Back
Wrexham return to the Racecourse Ground looking to shake off a frustrating result. Wrexham dropped points late against Cardiff City in the opener, watching an early Kieffer Moore goal slip away to a stoppage-time equalizer in the 98th minute. That kind of late letdown stings, but it doesn’t erase what Phil Parkinson has built — Wrexham finished seventh last season, one spot outside the playoffs, and they get a first home game of the campaign against a Watford side still adjusting under yet another new manager.
Pick: WREXHAM TO WIN @ -110
This is only the opening weekend of a long campaign. Form will fluctuate, injuries will intervene, and unexpected results will continue to shape the tables. Approach these selections conservatively, stake only what you can afford to lose, and remember that no wager is ever guaranteed. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available at 1-800-GAMBLER.
Saturday, Aug. 22nd Premier League & Championship Betting Picks and Odds