Bet the EFL Playoffs: Miller picks Bournemouth vs Brentford, Barnsley vs Swansea City in semifinal first legs

EFL Championship playoffs start Monday with four teams looking for Premier League promotion

Which is the best league in the world?

While many will say it is the Premier League, the real action in England comes every week in the EFL Championship (just ask CR about it if you get a chance).

Monday, four teams embark on a journey that will end in about 12 days time at Wembley Stadium, for the richest match in football: a one-game final with the winner promoted to the Premier League.

But before that, the teams must navigate two-legged semifinals, with the winner determined on aggregate Saturday.

So far, two of the three promoted sides bounced right back up after just one year: winners Norwich City and runners-up Watford.

The third team relegated after last season was Bournemouth, and the Cherries will host Brentford, last year’s playoff loser to Fulham, in the first tie.

The second match today sees outsiders Barnsley host Swansea City.

My pick to win the whole thing would be Brentford, so if you can find the Bees at a good price, jump on them. Today, look for close encounters, with the games poised for Saturday’s second legs.

Check Fubo.TV for schedules

ENGLAND EFL CHAMPIONSHIP PLAYOFF SEMIFINAL FIRST LEGS

Bournemouth (+170) vs. Brentford (+175), draw (+205), 1 p.m. EDT (ESPN+)

Barnsley (+120) vs. Swansea City (+285), draw (+185), 3:15 p.m. EDT (ESPN+)

THE PICKS:
Bou/Bre both teams to score yes (+100)

Brentford pick (-105)

Swansea +0.25 AH (+100)