| 49ers |
over |
Rams |
The Rams delivered an offensive showcase to defeat the Bills at home, but their youthful roster has led to inconsistent performances. Meanwhile, the Niners rediscovered their offensive rhythm last week, with Purdy leading the charge and Kittle shining as a key playmaker. Despite ongoing injuries in the backfield, San Fran remains dangerous through the air. Shanahan's history of out-coaching McVay in pivotal matchups could come into play once again in this critical regular-season showdown. |
| Chiefs |
over |
Browns |
The Chiefs have earned a reputation for being "lucky" in close games, but their consistent success in tight situations across all three phases of the game is why they’ve secured back-to-back titles. While blowouts have been rare, this matchup feels like the perfect opportunity for KC to make a statement. Mahomes has the tools to exploit Cleveland’s vulnerable pass defense, creating opportunities for explosive plays early. This could pave the way for the Chiefs to dominate both in the running game and with their relentless pass rush against Winston. |
| Bengals |
over |
Titans |
The Bengals face a quick turnaround this week and will go up against a familiar face in former OC Callahan. His insights into Cincy's offensive schemes, combined with a solid home defense, should make this matchup tighter than anticipated. The battle between Burrow and Levis will be one to watch, but the Bengals' dynamic offensive firepower gives them the edge they need to secure another crucial late-season victory. |
| Commanders |
over |
Saints |
Can't justify the homer pick on this one with how banged up the Saints are. Daniels is back in familiar territory, returning to the state where he dazzled as a Heisman winner last season. Coming off their bye, Washington is well-positioned to establish a strong ground game with Daniels and their deep RB rotation while mixing in explosive plays through the air. Meanwhile, the Saints are dealing with ongoing QB instability, making it tough for them to match the Commanders' offensive firepower. Hoping for an upset for the home underdogs. |
| Ravens |
over |
Giants |
The Ravens are in prime position following their bye, with Henry ready to take full advantage of a porous New York run defense. Jackson should also thrive, capitalizing on gaps in the secondary for big plays through the air. Baltimore’s defense, bolstered by the extra time to make adjustments, is poised to dominate against Lock, making this a highly favorable matchup for the Ravens. |
| Cowboys |
over |
Panthers |
This will be a lot closer than we think. The Cowboys are coming off a short week, while the Panthers are showing signs of resilience with three consecutive one-score losses since their bye. Young has done a good job protecting the ball recently, with only one INT and three sacks in that stretch, but Dallas' defense is likely to apply more pressure. With both teams fielding the league's worst run defenses, this matchup sets up an environment where both Young and Rush can find comfort and opportunities through the air. |
| Jets |
over |
Jaguars |
This matchup might be one of the least appealing of the week, featuring two teams already focused on rebuilding for next season. The Jags will lean on a safe, high-percentage passing strategy to minimize risks with Jones at the helm. Meanwhile, Rodgers has been steady in recent weeks, with five TD passes and just one INT in his last three games. In a defensive battle, Rodgers' experience tips the scale, and New York is poised to grind out a road victory. |
| Texans |
over |
Dolphins |
The Phins remain in the mix for an AFC playoff spot, while the Texans are rested and ready after their bye. This sets the stage for a tightly contested matchup. Houston's success often hinges on Mixon's production, as the team holds a 3-3 record when he is held to 100 rushing yards or fewer. However, Miami boasts the NFL's seventh-ranked run defense, making it a tough challenge for the Texans' ground game. Miami's road struggles (2-4 straight up this season) could keep things interesting in what promises to be a competitive game. |
| Broncos |
over |
Colts |
The Colts are coming off a bye, and all eyes will be on Richardson as he faces a tough test. He has been inconsistent on the road, with a 2-2 record, completing just 49.2% of his passes, throwing five TDs, and six INTs. Denver, on the other hand, has been strong at home with a 4-2 record and a stingy defense allowing only 19.2 PPG. The Broncos have also been solid as favorites, covering the spread in 6 of 7 games. This matchup leans in Denver's favor, especially with Richardson's struggles in road games. |
| Lions |
over |
Bills |
Is this a potential Super Bowl preview? Both the Lions and Bills lead the NFL in scoring, each averaging over 30 PPG. Allen will look to exploit a Detroit defense that’s been solid despite dealing with multiple injuries. Goff, with an impressive 111.9 passer rating at home, is poised to lead the Lions in a high-stakes battle. Campbell is known for his bold decision-making, and with both teams playing with intensity, the game could come down to a key fourth-down conversion. The Bills, with an 86.8% success rate on fourth downs, will certainly be aggressive in crunch time. |
| Eagles |
over |
Steelers |
Or maybe this Pennsylvania matchup could be the Super Bowl preview of the week? The Eagles are on an impressive nine-game tear. The question is how much success Barkley will have against the Steelers' tough run defense. Wilson will look to match Hurts in the passing game, especially in the first half, and the Steelers will do their best to keep the game close. This could go either way, so I'm picking the home team. Hopefully, no batteries will be thrown. |
| Cardinals |
over |
Patriots |
Arizona enters this matchup with a 4-3 record at home this season and is eager to snap a three-game losing streak. The Pats have had an inconsistent road performance, though they’ve covered the spread in four of their last six games. Maye has shown steady improvement with each start, and we expect that growth to continue. With both teams playing tight, this game will likely come down to the wire. |
| Chargers |
over |
Buccaneers |
Baker got a break last week as the Raiders failed to show up, but he won't be as lucky against the Chargers. Their pass rush is more than capable of disrupting his rhythm, especially after they shut down the run game early. With the Chargers' defense focusing on limiting Mayfield’s downfield passing options, it’ll be a tougher challenge for him. On the other side, the battle between Minter and Coen will be fascinating, but in the end, Herbert and the Chargers' playmakers will make the bigger impact. |
| Vikings |
over |
Bears |
The Bears' offense has been unreliable all season, and with Williams under center, it's hard to have confidence in their playcalling or execution. Meanwhile, the Vikings have found their rhythm with a strong, aggressive passing game, led by Darnold connecting with his receivers. Minnesota’s offense is firing on all cylinders, and they’ll continue to dominate, burying a division rival in prime time. |
| Seahawks |
over |
Packers |
My upset pick this week. The Seahawks' defense has been stepping up under Macdonald recently, and now their running game is firing on all cylinders, helping to set up the passing attack for Smith. Meanwhile, the Packers have relied heavily on Jacobs due to Love's struggles. The Seahawks have the advantage of playing at home with a raucous crowd behind them in prime time. |
| Falcons |
over |
Raiders |
Lucky break for Atlanta. Cousins has been struggling lately, with no TDs and eight INTs in his last four games. Meanwhile, the Raiders are dealing with QB issues, as O'Connell is banged up, and former Falcons QB Ridder might get the start. Atlanta, on a three-game road losing streak, will need to find its rhythm if it hopes to break the skid. Atlanta’s chance of ending their road woes will depend on improving their passing game and containing the Raiders' offense. |
