Here are our EPL picks for Saturday 17 October 2026. Our model likes 6 bets here. The one it likes most is Coventry City +0.75 Goal Handicap, priced at +135 when we wrote this. Here is the thinking behind each pick, in plain English.

Tottenham Hotspur vs Coventry City: Coventry City +0.75 Goal Handicap (+135)

Odds correct at time of publishing

Tottenham Hotspur is trudging through a rough patch at home, with only one win in their last five games, averaging a mere 0.8 goals per match and struggling to convert opportunities, evidenced by a low xG of 0. This puts them in a precarious position against a resilient Coventry City side, who, despite some inconsistency, are showing signs of life with two recent away victories and a more balanced attack. Coventry’s away scoring average of 1.2 and their ability to hold opponents to 1 goal per game make them a tough nut to crack. The stats hint at a closer contest than the odds suggest. With Tottenham's lackluster form and Coventry's fighting spirit, backing Coventry City at +0.75 is a savvy move. They could very well come away with at least a draw, making this handicap a tantalizing prospect for value-seekers.

Troyes vs RC Lens: RC Lens -1 Goal Handicap (+140)

Odds correct at time of publishing

As Troyes prepares to host RC Lens, the trends paint a strikingly clear picture. Troyes has struggled mightily at home, managing only one win in their last five games and averaging a mere 0.8 goals per match. Their xG numbers tell a story of stagnation, sitting at a frustrating zero while conceding an average of 2.6 goals—indicative of a defense that's more sieve than shield. On the flip side, Lens presents a stark contrast. They've shown the ability to capitalize on defensive frailties, evidenced by their recent form and superior scoring power. With Troyes’ lack of attacking threat coupled with their defensive woes, taking RC Lens at -1 feels like a solid play. Expect them to assert their dominance, exploiting every crack in Troyes' shaky armor and cruising to a comfortable victory. The signs are all there; this one should tilt decisively in favor of the visitors.

Real Betis vs Barcelona: Real Betis +1 Goal Handicap (+130)

Odds correct at time of publishing

As we gear up for this thrilling clash between Real Betis and Barcelona, it’s hard not to notice Betis’ impressive home form, boasting a 4-1-0 record in their last five outings. They've been formidable at home, averaging two goals while only conceding a mere 0.6, which paints a picture of a solid defense combined with a potent attack. Despite Barcelona's five-game unbeaten run, Betis has historically fared well against them at home, even if recent results tell a different story. The fact that Betis has not lost at home in their last five matches gives them a psychological edge. With their high shot volume (averaging 17.8 per game) and Barcelona struggling to maintain clean sheets, taking Betis with a handicap of 1 seems like a savvy play, especially as they look to take the fight to the Catalans on their own turf.

Tottenham Hotspur vs Coventry City: Coventry City +1.25 Goal Handicap (-130)

Odds correct at time of publishing

As Tottenham Hotspur welcomes Coventry City, recent form suggests an intriguing matchup. Spurs have struggled at home, with a dismal record of just one win in their last five, averaging a mere 0.6 goals scored. Their inconsistency has been glaring, particularly against teams that can capitalize on defensive lapses. Meanwhile, Coventry, despite their own challenges, has shown resilience away, boasting two wins in their last five and an average of 1.2 goals scored per game. What stands out in this fixture is the xG narrative. Tottenham's inability to create clear chances is alarming, evident from their low expected goals figures. On the flip side, Coventry's average of 1.2 goals against a backdrop of stronger opposition suggests they're due for a breakthrough. With the handicap set at 1.25, there's value in backing Coventry to keep it competitive, and perhaps even snatch a result in North London.

Mirassol vs Sao Paulo: Mirassol Draw No Bet (-133)

Odds correct at time of publishing

Mirassol's recent form showcases a resilient 2-2-1 record, with an average of 1.6 goals scored per game at home. Their attacking prowess is evident; they've been generating an impressive 14.8 shots per match, translating into consistent scoring opportunities. On the flip side, Sao Paulo has struggled away, and with an average of 1.8 goals conceded when traveling, they may find it difficult to contain Mirassol's attacking rhythm. The home team's defense holds firm, allowing just an average of one goal per game over their last five. With Mirassol’s attacking stats supporting a strong case and a home advantage, a Draw No Bet on them feels like a smart move. The numbers suggest they could very well secure a victory, making this a compelling pick.

Parma vs Torino: Over 9.5 Total Corners (+150)

Odds correct at time of publishing

As Parma prepares to host Torino, the stage is set for a clash that suggests plenty of action on the flanks, particularly in terms of corners. Both sides have demonstrated a tendency to push forward, with Parma averaging 7.4 shots per game and Torino not far behind at 10.2. This attacking intent, coupled with their defensive frailties—Parma conceding an average of 1.8 goals over their last five matches—bodes well for a higher corner count. Parma's home games have seen them earn an average of 1.8 corners, while Torino has been steadily applying pressure away, averaging 1.2 corners per game. With both teams vying for points and their recent form indicating a competitive edge, betting on over 9.5 corners feels not just reasonable but likely, as we could very well see an open game with both sides desperate for victory.

That is the model's read on today's EPL card. Prices move, so check the price at your bookmaker before you back anything. And if a game does not feel right to you, the strongest move is to skip it -- there is another one tomorrow.

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