Premier League best bets: Everton vs. Leeds United odds, predictions, and picks

It’s been a while since Everton fans could feel any sense of optimism going into a new season.The Toffees have been sweating out relegation for the past four seasons, finishing 16th, 17th, 15th, and 13th, respectively, and escaping the drop in dramatic fashion on a couple of occasions during that span.The days of narrowly escaping relegation are meant to be over, as the club showed signs of progress when David Moyes took over as manager in January.Everton went 8-7-4 (W-D-L) with a plus-8 goal difference in 19 matches under Moyes, and their statistical profile painted the Toffees as one of the best teams in the Premier League during that span.They’ll try to carry that momentum in a tricky road match with Leeds United at Elland Road on Monday night.Moyes, who managed Everton during a successful spell between 2002 and 2013, is known for his ability to get his teams defensively organized, and he’ll need to do just that against a Leeds side that will want to put the ball on the carpet and buzz around all night.Stylistically, Everton should match up well with a team that wants the game to be frenzied.

Leeds will want to attack directly off turnovers, while the Toffees will want the game to lumber ahead, hoping to keep things as predictable as possible.Leeds were brilliant in the Championship last season, but playing the high-risk style of soccer they want to deploy in the Premier League will be tough.This stylistic matchup should suit Everton, who carry significant value as a road underdog.The Play: Everton +210 (bet365)Michael Leboff is a long-suffering Islanders fan, but a long-profiting sports bettor with 10 years of experience in the gambling industry.He loves using game theory to help punters win bracket pools, find long shots, and learn how to beat the market in mainstream and niche sports....