NFL best bets today: Week 18 picks highlight Seahawks vs. 49ers play [1/3/2026]

Updated: Jan 3, 2026, 5:04 AM ET | First published: Jan 3, 2026, 12:05 AM ET

Written by Ryan Leaver, Senior Sports and Betting Editor

Get NFL best bets and predictions for Saturday, January 3, 2026.

Today’s NFL picks for January 3, 2026 are here, with Seahawks vs. 49ers among the top plays identified by our model across Saturday’s NFL schedule.

Dimers’ predictive analytics engine runs 24/7, going over the latest football odds to find legitimate betting edges. The result? Data-backed picks that help Dimers Pro members make smarter decisions.

List of NFL best bets tonight [1/3, updated 5:04AM ET]

Below, you’ll find today’s best football bets, ranked by edge for Saturday, January 3, 2026.

49ers +2.5 (-102)

Edge: 7.7%
Probability: 58.2%
Matchup: Seahawks vs. 49ers (8:00PM ET, Saturday)

Our model has identified value on 49ers +2.5 at -102 odds. A 58.2% probability produces an edge of 7.7%, making this the strongest play for today's NFL slate.

NFL best bets summary: Saturday, 1/3/2026

As of 5:04AM ET, here is our top NFL bet by edge recommended by our model:

Matchup	Bet	Odds	Edge	Probability
Seahawks vs. 49ers	49ers +2.5	-102 @ DraftKings	7.7%	58.2%

List of upcoming NFL games to bet on [1/3/2026]

Panthers vs. Buccaneers (4:30PM ET, Saturday)
Seahawks vs. 49ers (8:00PM ET, Saturday)

AI betting support with Dimebot

Learn how Dimebot uses Dimers’ data to deliver quick answers and insights, helping you make faster, more informed decisions.

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Conclusion

Our NFL best bets are locked and loaded for January 3, 2026, featuring plays such as 49ers +2.5. Powered by advanced simulations, these picks are here to boost your betting game.

This article, enhanced by AI and automation, aims to deliver accurate NFL insights quickly, with human oversight ensuring high editorial quality. Our predictions are drawn from current data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice on responsible gambling, please call 1-800-GAMBLER.

All odds and probabilities in this article are correct and accurate at the time of publication.

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Written by

Ryan Leaver

Senior Sports and Betting Editor

Ryan Leaver uses advanced statistical models and simulations to predict outcomes and provide predictions for the NBA, NFL, college football, college basketball, and soccer. He offers detailed game previews, best bets, props, and futures articles.

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