Hold the offense: Bet Colts-Bears to go under the 40.5 point total

The total for this game kept rising earlier in the week after Colts QB Anthony Richardson was named the No. 1 starter.

 Meanwhile, Bears QB Justin Fields isn't expected to play.

 Regardless, l like the under 40.5 point total. Here's why. 

Colts @ Bears: Under 40.5 (-110)

While I think the Bears and Colts are set to play plenty of key starters on offense, both teams have plenty to iron out when it comes to moving the football effectively.

On one hand, Richardson, named the Colts No. 1 QB earlier this week, threw a pick on his first NFL drive last week, and looked quite uncomfortable doing it. 

As a result, he's likely to see the field a lot, and that's a good thing for under bettors because I'm not sure the Florida alum is better right now than backup QBs Gardner Minshew or Sam Ehlinger. 

At first glance, Fields' stats last week (129 passing yards and two touchdown passes on just three completions) jump off the page. But most of those yards were gained after successful screen passes. In addition, the Bears, working out a new offensive scheme, have determined Fields will not play against Indy. So, be very careful.

Finally, as a contrarian, I like the fact that the total in this game keeps going up. I also tend to take a hard look at the under total in NFL preseason games. Especially in this spot, and given the uncertainty, still, surrounding both of the offensive units.