NFL betting Odds struggled to adjust to postponements and players missing games due to landing on the reserve/COVID-19 list. What continues to complicate matters is the performance of Underdogs this season. The New Orleans Saints shut out Tom Brady and the Bucs to win straight up, covering as an 11-point road underdog. The Detroit Lions won outright and covered as 13.5-point underdogs at home versus the Arizona Cardinals.
One week after the Favorites went 11-3 against the spread, Week 15 ended up as a push. Favorites went 8-8 against the spread, including 3-1 in those postponed contests. The Under bounced back last week, going 10-6 after seeing the Over hit 10 times in Week 14. The Under is now 120-85 in non-overtime games this season.
Odds for futures bets change from week to week and there’s some real value with some of those wagers. The Green Bay Packers and Kansas City Chiefs are now the odds-on favorites to win the Super Bowl.
NFL Byes have ended, so there’s a full slate of 16 games to bet on this week. Here’s a look at every NFL Week 16 game, with best odds, picks and predictions for each contest.
When: Thursday, December 23rd, 8:20 PM
Where: Nissan Stadium, Nashville, TN
| Moneyline | Spread | Totals | |
| 49ers Best Odds | -169 (DraftKings) | -3.5/-105 (BetMGM) | Under 43.5/-110 (BetMGM) |
| Titans Best Odds | +160 (FoxBet) | +3.5/-110 (FanDuel) | Over 44/-109 (Sugar House) |
The San Francisco 49ers play the Tennessee Titans to open the NFL Week 16 slate of games just two nights after Week 15 ended. This non-conference matchup pits a pair of playoff hopefuls trending in opposite directions. The Niners enter with a solid grasp on an NFC Wild Card berth. Meanwhile, the Titans hold a loose grip on the AFC South following a disappointing loss last week.
The San Francisco 49ers (8-6, 7-7 ATS) took care of business at home against the Atlanta Falcons last week. The Niners scored on four consecutive drives to take control of the contest and beat Atlanta 31-13. Since their 3-5 start, San Francisco has completely reversed their fortunes. The 49ers are 6-2 in their past eight games and have won five of six.
Jimmy Garoppolo had one of his most complete performances of the season. He went 18 of 23 for 235 yards and a touchdown. The Niners also got a huge performance from running back Jeff Wilson Jr., who ran up 110 rushing yards and a score on 21 carries. San Francisco outgained the Falcons by 100 yards on the ground, 162-62.
The defense limited Atlanta to 13 points and 275 total yards. The Falcons converted just five of 13 third-down tries and managed just 2.7 yards per carry. The Niners sacked Matt Ryan three times and forced a fumble in the process.
The Tennessee Titans (9-5, 8-6 ATS) squandered a 13-3 halftime lead last week, falling apart in the second half with a flurry of turnovers. Three of Tennessee’s four turnovers came in the second half, and two of them were in the fourth quarter. They allowed the Steelers to score the game’s final 16 points. The Titans have now lost three of their last four games.
Tennessee’s offensive line failed them in this one. They surrendered seemingly constant pressure, and allowed four sacks. Quarterback Ryan Tannehill fumbled twice, losing one, and threw an interception in this one. It was Tannehill’s fifth multi-turnover game this season. The Titans o-line has surrendered the sixth-most sacks in the league (41), and are up against the pass rush ranked eighth in San Francisco (36).
The Titans saw Jones suffer a hamstring injury in this one, and didn’t have guard Roger Saffold in the lineup. Tennessee could get A.J. Brown back for this contest, which would be a huge help to an offense suddenly bereft of playmakers. If both Brown and Jones sit once again, Tennessee could really struggle against a stout 49ers defense. The Titans average 5.1 yards per play (21st in the NFL), and the 49ers allow 5.3 per play (eighth in the league).
Tennessee needs to win here to maintain their one-game lead in the AFC South division. The Titans are one game back of the top seed in the conference, but another loss here would drop them into the Wild Card morass. San Francisco, meanwhile, has a one-game lead as the 6-seed in the NFC and want to avoid dropping any further.
The 49ers are 5-4 against the spread when playing as at least 3.5-point favorites this season, and Tennessee is 4-1 against the spread when playing as at least 3.5-point underdogs this year. San Francisco and its opponents have gone over 44 combined points in 11 of 15 games this season. Tennessee and its opponents have combined to score more than 44 points in nine of 14 games this season.
San Francisco 24, Tennessee 19
ML: SF -169 (DraftKings); Spread: SF -3.5/-105 (BetMGM); O/U: Under 43.5/-110 (BetMGM)
When: Saturday, December 25th, 4:30 PM
Where: Lambeau Field, Green Bay, WI
| Moneyline | Spread | Totals | |
| Browns Best Odds | +280 (PointsBet) | +7/-105 (FanDuel) | Under 44/-106 (Sugar House) |
| Packers Best Odds | -312 (BetMGM) | -7/-110 (BetMGM) | Over 44.5/-110 (BetMGM) |
The Cleveland Browns play the Green Bay Packers in a matchup of classic NFL franchises on Christmas Day. This game carries with it some serious playoff implications. The Browns face a quick turnaround, having last played on Monday night. The Packers, meanwhile, enter Week 16 hold the 1-seed in the NFC, but three teams trail them in the standings by just one game.
The Cleveland Browns (7-7, 6-8 ATS) saw their Week 15 game pushed back from Saturday afternoon to Monday, but they still played without both quarterbacks Baker Mayfield and Case Keenum, as well as head coach Kevin Stefanski, receiver Jarvis Landry, and edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney, among many others. Nick Mullens, the third-string quarterback, got the start for the Browns and lead them back from a 10-0 deficit, but ultimately couldn’t do enough.
The loss prevented Cleveland from taking control of the tightly packed AFC North. Mullens finished 20 of 30 with 147 yards and one touchdown. Nick Chubb carried the ball 23 times for 91 yards and a score. But the Browns offense managed just 236 total yards.
Cleveland’s defense couldn’t hold the lead in the game’s closing moments, allowing Las Vegas’ Derek Carr drive them into field goal range. The Browns did force two turnovers in this one.
The Green Bay Packers (11-3, 11-3 ATS) clinched the NFC North division title with their win last week. But it wasn’t an easy one in Baltimore. Green Bay survived after denying the Ravens’ two-point conversion in the game’s final minute, escaping with a 31-30 win.
Aaron Rodgers threw three touchdowns in that one, tying Brett Favre on Green Bay’s all-time list. Rodgers completed 23 of 31 for 268 yards in the win. Over his last four games, Rodgers’ touchdown to interception ratio sits at 13-0. He also did seem limited by his toe injury.
Green Bay did struggle to corral Tyler Huntley, who started in place for an injured Lamar Jackson. Huntley threw for 15 yards and two touchdowns, and also ran for 73 yards and two scores in this one. The Packers allowed Baltimore to convert seven of 13 on third down, and two of four fourth-down tries.
The Packers hold the NFC’s top seed entering Week 16 and have a favorable schedule down the stretch. The Packers face a COVID-ravaged Cleveland team this week, then finish at home versus Minnesota and on the road in Detroit. But Green Bay won’t have either left tackle David Bakhtiari or cornerback Jaire Alexander this week against the Browns. The Pack also placed second-leading receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling on the COVID/reserve list Tuesday.
The Packers average 4.1 yards per carry (20th in the league) compared to the 4.1 per attempt the Browns give up (eighth in the NFL). Cleveland gives up third-down conversions on 41.2 percent of its opponents’ attempts (20th in the NFL). Green Bay has a 42.4 percent third-down conversion rate, which ranks eighth in the league.
If the Browns can get into the red zone, they should be in business. The Packers allow a score on 69.2 percent of their opponents’ red zone appearances (30th in the league). Cleveland’s offensive red-zone percentage is 61.5 percent (11th). Cleveland averages 4.9 yards per rushing attempt (third in the NFL), while Green Bay allows 4.5 per carry (22nd in the league).
The Packers have covered the spread three times this season (3-1 ATS) when playing as at least 7-point favorites. Cleveland’s only 1-6 as an underdog this season. Green Bay’s games this season have featured more combined points than this contest’s total of 44.5 points eight times. The Browns have played seven games this season that ended with a combined score higher than 44.5 points.
The Browns need this game to keep pace in the AFC playoff race. Last week’s loss hurt Cleveland, and they really can’t afford another one here, considering it’s among the nine teams jostling for four playoff spots. The Packers, meanwhile, sit atop the NFC by one game and can ill-afford a slip up here if they home to have home field advantage throughout the playoffs.
Green Bay 28, Cleveland 17
ML: GB -312 (BetMGM); Spread: GB -7/-110 (BetMGM); O/U: Over 44.5/-110 (BetMGM)
When: Saturday, December 25th, 8:15 PM
Where: State Farm Stadium, Glendale, AZ
| Moneyline | Spread | Totals | |
| Colts Best Odds | +100 (DraftKings) | +1/-110 (DraftKings) | Under 49.5/-109 (Sugar House) |
| Cardinals Best Odds | -108 (Sugar House) | -1.5/-105 (FanDuel) | Over 49.5/-105 (FanDuel) |
The Indianapolis Colts play the Arizona Cardinals in a primetime, marquee matchup for the NFL on Christmas Day. The results of this contest will have significant repercussions in the playoff race for both conferences. The Colts are poised for a run at the AFC South division crown with another win. Meanwhile, the Cardinals lost their spot atop the NFC standings with their stunning loss to Detroit last week.
The Indianapolis Colts (8-6, 9-5 ATS) faced the New England Patriots in last week’s marquee matchup on Saturday night. The Colts ran up 226 rushing yards against New England, with Jonathan Taylor sealing the win with a 67-yard touchdown late. Taylor finished with 170 rushing yards and the score on his 29 carries.
Indy held a 17-0 lead at the half, and a 20-0 lead entering the fourth quarter, before the Patriots staged something of a comeback. Takeaways have helped spurred Indy’s 7-2 run of late, and they added two more against the Patriots by picking off Mac Jones twice. The Colts are now tied with Dallas for the league lead in that category (31), and have at least one takeaway in 15 straight games. Their plus-14 turnover margin leads the league as well.
The Colts relied almost exclusively on the run to win this contest. Quarterback Carson Wentz completed five of his 12 passes for just 57 yards and one touchdown. He also threw an interception in this one.
The Arizona Cardinals (10-4, 9-5 ATS) suffered a maddening upset loss in Week 15. The Cardinals traveled to Detroit and fell flat against the then one-win Lions. Arizona entered Week 15 tied for the league’s best record and a chance to clinch their first playoff spot since 2015. Since their 7-0 start to the season, the Cardinals have lost four of their last seven games.
Kyler Murray struggled mightily and the defense seemed completely absent in the loss. Murray went 23 of 41 for 257 yards with a touchdown and an interception. He managed just three rushing yards on four carries in the game. The defense saw one of the league’s lowest scoring offenses put up 30 points.
This game pits two of the top scoring teams in the league. The Colts enter ranked third in scoring (28.4), while Arizona ranks eighth (27.0). But these teams also feature top-10 scoring defenses, with the Cardinals ranking fifth (20.3) and Indianapolis ranking ninth (21.4).
The Cardinals’ red-zone percentage is 62.5 percent (eighth in the NFL). Indy allows a score on 69.0 percent of their opponents’ red-zone appearances (28th). Arizona should be able to move the ball, considering the Colts rank 21st in yards per play (5.6) and 15th in third down percentage (39.3).
The Colts, though, are the top-ranked rushing attack in terms of yards per carry (5.2), and second-ranked rushing offense in the NFL (157.0 yards per game). They’ll have a favorable matchup against the Cardinals, who rank 26th in per yards per carry (4.6) and 17th in rushing yards per game (112.8).
Indy needs this win to keep pace in the AFC playoff race. They enter Week 16 one game behind the Titans in the AFC South, but don’t hold the tiebreaker in that matchup. Arizona, meanwhile, is tied with three other teams in the NFC at 10-4, including the LA Rams, who could steal the NFC West at this point.
Indianapolis 26, Arizona 23
ML: IND +100 (DraftKings); Spread: IND +1/-110 (DraftKings); O/U: Under 49.5/-109 (Sugar House)
When: Sunday, December 26th, 1:00 PM
Where: Gillette Stadium, Foxboro, MA
| Moneyline | Spread | Totals | |
| Bills Best Odds | +120 (Sugar House) | +2.5/-105 (FanDuel) | Under 43.5/+100 (FanDuel) |
| Patriots Best Odds | -135 (DraftKings) | -2.5/-110 (BetMGM) | Over 44/+100 (FoxBet) |
The Buffalo Bills play the New England Patriots in what might be the marquee matchup of the NFL Week 16 slate of games. Last week’s results, with Buffalo winning and the Patriots losing, has added divisional stakes to this contest. The winner will have the inside track at this year’s AFC East crown and a guaranteed spot in the playoffs.
The Buffalo Bills (8-6, 8-6 ATS) positioned themselves to retake the AFC East by winning over the Carolina Panthers last week. The Bills harried Cam Newton in that one, sacking him four times and grabbing an interception in the 31-14 victory. Buffalo enters Week 16 among five 8-6 AFC teams.
The Bills snapped a two-game losing skid with the win, but are still just 4-5 after starting 4-1 this season. Buffalo benefitted from undisciplined play by the Panthers, who extended drives for the Bills with costly penalties. Josh Allen went 19 of 34 for 210 yards, with three touchdowns and one interception.
The New England Patriots (9-5, 9-5 ATS) fell behind 20-0 in their Saturday night loss to the Indianapolis Colts last week. The Patriots couldn’t stop Indy running back Jonathan Taylor, who ran up 170 rushing yards and a touchdown. Taylor sealed that game with a 67-yard scoring dash in the fourth quarter.
New England lost its grip on the 1-seed in the AFC with the lost. Uncharacteristically sloppy play from the Patriots led to the big hole, one they couldn’t quite claw their way out of. Rookie quarterback Mac Jones went 26 of 45 for 299 yards, with two touchdowns and two interceptions in the first road loss of his career.
These two teams last met in a blustery Monday Night Football contest the Patriots won 14-10. In that game, Jones attempted three passes, but New England still came away with the win. Playing in 40 MPH wind gusts, Buffalo couldn’t stop the Pats ground game, which ran up 222 rushing yards. The Bills’ offense struggled against a stout New England defense and the wind. Buffalo made four trips into the red zone, but came away with just one touchdown.
The Bills placed wide receiver Cole Beasley on the COVID-19 list on Wednesday. Beasley was Josh Allen’s preferred short yardage target. Expect Gabe Davis, who had a monster Week 15, to take an even bigger role.
Buffalo needs to shore up its run defense ahead of this matchup. If the Bills can force Mac Jones to beat them through the air, Buffalo will be in business. The Patriots average 243 yards through the air per game (17th in the NFL). The Bills rank first, allowing 187 passing yards. Buffalo’s defense is sixth-best in the NFL with a 50 percent opponent red-zone percentage. New England’s offense ranks 24th in the league with a 54 percent red-zone rate.
On offense, Buffalo should attack the Patriots on the ground. The Bills rank fourth with 4.8 yards per carry, compared to the 4.6 per rush the Patriots give up (26th in the NFL). Buffalo’s running game ranks 12th in the NFL (120.9 yards per game). New England allows 122.4 rushing yards per game (24th). The Bills can’t afford turnovers in this one, especially since the Patriots are third in the league in takeaways (27).
When playing as at least 2.5-point favorites this season, the Patriots have an ATS record of 6-3. The Bills have covered the spread twice this year (2-1 ATS) when playing as at least 2.5-point underdogs. The Patriots are just 3-4 straight up at home this season, 4-3 against the spread in Foxboro.
In seven games this season, New England and its opponents have scored more than 43.5 total points. Buffalo has played eight games this season that finished with a point total over 43.5 points.
Buffalo 20, New England 17
ML: BUF +120 (Sugar House); Spread: BUF +2.5/-105 (FanDuel); O/U: Under 43.5/+100 (FanDuel)
When: Sunday, December 26th, 1:00 PM
Where: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA
| Moneyline | Spread | Totals | |
| Giants Best Odds | +390 (FanDuel) | +10/-110 (Wynn Bet) | Under 40.5/-109 (Sugar House) |
| Eagles Best Odds | -455 (Sugar House) | -10/-109 (Sugar House) | Over 41/+100 (FoxBet) |
The New York Giants play the Philadelphia Eagles in this Sunday afternoon matchup of NFC East rivals. The Giants’ lost season continued with a difficult loss to another division rival last week. The Eagles, meanwhile, maintained their postseason hopes with their 27-17 victory last Tuesday night.
The New York Giants (4-10, 6-8 ATS) fired offensive coordinator Jason Garrett earlier this season, but the offense hasn’t gotten any better. With the 21-6 loss to the Dallas Cowboys last week, New York averages 11.8 points per game over their last five contests. The Giants are 1-4 over those five, with the lone win coming against this Philadelphia team.
Mike Glennon suffered through one of the worst performances for a Giants quarterback ever. Glennon completed 13 of 24 passes for just 99 yards and threw three interceptions in the process, including one in the end zone. Saquon Barkley also struggled, managing just 50 rushing yards on 15 carries. He also lost a fumble for the first time in his NFL career.
The Giants have lost three games in a row and should turn their focus to the NFL Draft. New York enters Week 16 holding two top 10 picks. There’s no point in rushing Daniel Jones back into the huddle at this point.
The Philadelphia Eagles (7-7, 7-6-1 ATS) moved further up the NFC standings by defeating the Washington Football Team last Tuesday. The Eagles are one of three 7-7 teams tied for the final Wild Card berth in the conference and need another win here to keep pace.
Jalen Hurts went 20 of 26 for 296 yards, one touchdown, and one bad-luck interception that was kicked up in the air by the back of Dallas Goedert’s foot. Hurts also ran for 38 yards and two touchdowns in the win. He did fumble twice, losing one.
The Eagles outgained Washington 519-237 in the win. Philly outrushed Washington 238-63 and would’ve won by more than 10 had they not turned the ball over twice.
These two teams played in Week 12, with the Giants getting an ugly 13-7 win at home. That’s been the only game this season that Philadelphia has lost despite gaining over 200 yards on the ground. That offensive effort was offset by four turnovers and too many dropped passes, including a potential game-winner late in the fourth quarter.
The Eagles have followed that loss with a pair of blow out wins and should get another one here. The Giants have shut down Daniel Jones for the season, and neither Mike Glennon nor Jake Fromm should make much of a difference against Philly.
The Giants defense gives up 125 yards per game on the ground (26th in the league). The Eagles will be looking to exploit that fact with the No. 1 rushing offense (165.6 per game). Philadelphia averages 5.1 yards per rushing attempt (second in the NFL), while New York allows 4.4 per carry (20th).
Philly is 4-0 playing as the moneyline favorite this season, and 3-0-1 against the spread as the favorite. The Giants have been an underdog by 10 points or more three times this season, and covered the spread in one of those contests. New York and its opponents have combined to score more than 40.5 points in five of 14 games this season. Philadelphia and its opponents have gone over 40.5 combined points in 10 of 14 games this season.
The Eagles desperately need this win to keep pace in the NFC playoff chase, and New York has nothing to play for at this point.
Philadelphia 26, New York 10
ML: PHL -455 (Sugar House); Spread: PHL -10/-109 (Sugar House); O/U: Under 40.5/-109 (Sugar House)
When: Sunday, December 26th, 1:00 PM
Where: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ
| Moneyline | Spread | Totals | |
| Jaguars Best Odds | +110 (DraftKings) | +1/-110 (Wynn Bet) | Under 41/-105 (DraftKings) |
| Jets Best Odds | -110 (BetMGM) | -1.5/-109 (Sugar House) | Over 41.5/-108 (Sugar House) |
The Jacksonville Jaguars play the New York Jets in this battle of rebuilding franchises at the bottom of the AFC Conference standings. This game is one of the few contests in the NFL Week 16 slate that doesn’t carry some sort of playoff implications. What’s on the line here, really, is draft position. Jacksonville entered Week 16 holding the No. 1 overall pick, while the Jets have two top-10 selections at present.
The Jacksonville Jaguars (2-12, 4-10 ATS) fired head coach Urban Meyer ahead of their Week 15 matchup with the Houston Texans. But nothing changed with their on-field product, as the Jaguars lost their sixth straight game and 10th consecutive AFC South contest. Jacksonville suffered through special teams miscues, dropped passes, and ineffective third down play.
Trevor Lawrence went another game without a touchdown pass, although at least he didn’t throw an interception in this one. Last year’s No. 1 overall pick has not thrown a TD pass since Week 12, and that’s his only passing score over his last seven games. The Jags fed running back James Robinson more last week, but the lack of playmakers on the outside continued to hamper this offense.
Jacksonville’s lost to the Texans, coupled with the Lions’ shocking win over Arizona, vaulted the Jags to the No. 1 overall pick in next year’s draft. The Jets, meanwhile, hold the No. 4 pick entering the weekend.
The New York Jets (3-11, 4-10 ATS) took their first double-digit lead and first halftime lead of the season last week. The Jets held a 17-7 advantage on the Miami Dolphins in Week 15, but the offense failed to score in the second half of the 31-24 loss.
The Jets defense scored on a pick-six midway through the fourth quarter to tie the game, but ultimately couldn’t stop Miami in the second half. New York surrendered 183 yards to the Dolphins, which was a season-high for Miami.
Quarterback Zach Wilson went 13 of 23 for just 170 yards last week, and lost a fumble in the process. He completed just two passes in the second half. The Jets managed just 126 passing yards and 228 total yards against Miami.
This game pits the No. 1 and No. 2 overall draft picks against each other. Both quarterbacks have struggled this season as their offenses have floundered around them. Lawrence is tied for the league lead in interceptions (14), and Wilson isn’t far behind (11). Lawrence has only nine TDs passes in 14 games played, while Wilson’s thrown just six in his 10 games. Wilson sports the worst QBR (22.6) in the league, and Lawrence is only slightly better (31.7). Wilson has the worst QB Rating (66.4) and Lawrence has the second-worst (69.3) among all starting quarterbacks.
Jacksonville’s defense should keep them in this contest. The Jets average four yards per carry (25th in the league) compared to the 3.9 per attempt the Jaguars give up (third). New York’s 85.4 rushing yards per game is good for 30th in the NFL. Jacksonville’s defense gives up 112.8 on the ground (17th).
The Jags might also find some traction on the ground in this one. Jacksonville averages 4.6 yards per rushing attempt (sixth in the NFL), while the Jets give up 4.5 per carry (22nd).
The Jaguars have been an underdog by 2.5 points or more 11 times this season, and covered the spread in four of those matchups. This game will be the first that the Jets enter as favorites. Jacksonville has played seven games this season that finished with a combined score higher than 41 points. New York’s games this season have featured more combined points than this contest’s total of 41 points nine times.
Jacksonville 20, New York Jets 19
ML: JAX +110 (DraftKings); Spread: JAX +1/-110 (Wynn Bet); O/U: Under 41/-105 (DraftKings)
When: Sunday, December 26th, 1:00 PM
Where: U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, MN
| Moneyline | Spread | Totals | |
| Rams Best Odds | -145 (DraftKings) | -3/+100 (Caesars) | Under 48.5/-105 (FoxBet) |
| Vikings Best Odds | +133 (Sugar House) | +2.5/-110 (PointsBet) | Over 49.5/-110 (BetMGM) |
The Los Angeles Rams play the Minnesota Vikings in this matchup of conference rivals on Sunday afternoon. This game, like so many others at this point in the season, carries serious playoff implications. The Rams have a hold on a Wild Card berth and remain alive in the NFC West race. The Vikings, meanwhile, are fighting for their playoff lives and need a win here.
The Los Angeles Rams (10-4, 7-7 ATS) kept themselves in hunt for the NFC’s top seed by defeating the Seattle Seahawks 20-10 last Tuesday night. Cooper Kupp continued his marvelous season, catching nine passes for 136 yards and two touchdowns.
Matthew Stafford finished 21 of 29 for 244 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. Sony Michel gained 92 yards on the ground, and LA’s defense sacked Russell Wilson three times and picked off one pass. The Rams defense limited Seattle to 214 total yards and 3-of-11 on third down.
The Minnesota Vikings (7-7, 8-6 ATS) kept their playoff hopes alive and officially eliminated their division rivals from postseason contention with their 17-9 win over the Chicago Bears last Monday. Kirk Cousins entered that game 1-9 on Monday Night Football, but threw two touchdowns to help beat the short-handed Bears.
Other than those two scores, the game was forgettable for Cousins, who completed just 12 of 24 passes for 87 yards and an interception. He was sacked four times, which resulted in the Vikings gaining just 61 net yards in the passing game. Minnesota’s offense managed merely 193 total yards and went five of 17 on third down. Dalvin Cook gained 89 on his 28 carries.
The Vikings defense controlled this game, though. Minnesota forced three turnovers and limited the Bears to 1-of-5 in the red zone. The Vikings registered three sacks on Justin Fields.
LA should be able to move the ball in this game. The Rams average 296.4 passing yards per game (third in the NFL) compared to the 274.9 per game Minnesota allows (30th). The Vikings’ defense ranks 30th in yards allowed per game (380.6), while LA’s offense is sixth in the league at 380.8 yards per game. The Rams offense has a 6.1 yards-per-play average (first) compared to the 5.7 yards Minnesota allows per play (24th).
The Vikings’ red-zone percentage is 65.2 percent (third in the NFL), while the Rams allow a score on 55.6 percent of their opponents’ red-zone appearances (14th). Minnesota averages 4.4 yards per carry (14th) compared to the 3.9 per rushing attempt Los Angeles allows (third).
The Vikings have an ATS record of 3-1 when playing as at least 3-point underdogs this season. The Rams have been favored by 3 points or more 11 times this season, and covered the spread in four of those matchups. The Rams are 0-5-1 ATS in their last six games against Minnesota.
In seven games this season, Los Angeles and its opponents have gone over 49 total points. Minnesota’s done it eight times. The total has gone Over in nine of Minnesota’s last 13 games against the Rams.
The Vikings enter Week 16 holding the 7-seed in the NFC, but do so thanks to tiebreakers over both Philadelphia and New Orleans. Minnesota needs a win here to keep pace in the playoff race. But it’s not like LA has nothing to play for. The Rams are tied with three other clubs at 10-4 and have a shot at the NFC West crown down the stretch.
Los Angeles Rams 28, Minnesota 24
ML: LAR -145 (DraftKings); Spread: LAR -3/+100 (Caesars); O/U: Over 49.5/-110 (BetMGM)
When: Sunday, December 26th, 1:00 PM
Where: NRG Stadium, Houston, TX
| Moneyline | Spread | Totals | |
| Chargers Best Odds | -400 (BetMGM) | -9/-105 (FoxBet) | Under 45/-105 (FoxBet) |
| Texans Best Odds | +340 (Wynn Bet) | +9.5/-109 (Sugar House) | Over 45.5/-110 (BetMGM) |
The Los Angeles Chargers play the Houston Texans in this matchup of conference rivals on Sunday afternoon. The Chargers find themselves bunched among the nine teams fighting for the final three playoff spots in the AFC. Their loss last week pushed them into the Wild Card race. The Texans, meanwhile, enter this one with the ability to play spoiler at this point of the season.
The Los Angeles Chargers (8-6, 7-7 ATS) squandered an opportunity to take control of the AFC West division with their 34-28 overtime loss to the Kansas City Chiefs last week. The Chargers saw Travis Kelce register a career performance, nabbing 10 catches for 191 yards and two touchdowns, including the game-winner.
Justin Herbert completed 22 of 38 passing, for two touchdowns and one interception. He also ran for another score. The Chargers offense, though, came up empty on three red-zone drives. LA opted for touchdown tries throughout the game, foregoing field goals, but that backfired in this one. The Chargers converted just two of five fourth-down attempts.
The Houston Texans (3-11, 6-8 ATS) grabbed their third win of the season, and second over the Jacksonville Jaguars, with the 30-16 victory last week. Rookie quarterback Davis Mills won for the first time as a starter and the Texans used a 98-yard kickoff return to help take control of that game.
Mills finished 19 of 30 for 209 yards, two touchdowns and one interception. He found Brandin Cooks seven times for 102 yards and both scores. The defense limited Jacksonville to 296 total yards and three of 14 on third down.
Los Angeles is the latest team to be hit hard by a wave of positive COVID-19 tests. Joey Bosa has already been ruled out as an unvaccinated player, and Austin Ekeler and starting center Corey Linsley are currently on the COVID-19 list as well and will need to pass testing protocol to be able to play Sunday. The Chargers placed Chase Daniel on the COVID-19 list, as well. While Daniel missing the game wouldn’t be a big deal, but there’s fear of potential spread to Justin Herbert since they likely shared space in the team’s quarterback room.
The Texans’ home win over Jacksonville in their season opener is the team’s only home win of the season. Since then, Houston has gone 0-6 straight up and 2-4 against the spread in its last six home games. Houston is 2-10 straight up and 5-7 against the spread in its last 12 games as a home underdog.
Houston ranks 31st in the NFL in scoring with 14.8 points per game and 29th in scoring defense, allowing 26.6 points per game. The average team beats Houston by double digits, and the Chargers are a better-than-average team. Los Angeles should be able to win this one, even if the Texans have another solid defensive outing. Over their last two games, Houston’s defense has allowed a total of 29 points.
The Texans have nothing to play for but pride at this point, and Los Angeles needs a win here to keep pace in the playoff chase. As long as COVID concerns don’t sideline Herbert, the Chargers should be good to go in this one.
Los Angeles Chargers 24, Houston 16
ML: LAC -400 (BetMGM); Spread: HOU +9.5/-109 (Sugar House); O/U: Under 45/-105 (FoxBet)
When: Sunday, December 26th, 1:00 PM
Where: Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati, OH
| Moneyline | Spread | Totals | |
| Ravens Best Odds | +120 (DraftKings) | +2.5/-106 (FanDuel) | Under 44.5/-108 (FanDuel) |
| Bengals Best Odds | -135 (PointsBet) | -2.5/-110 (BetMGM) | Over 45.5/-110 (BetMGM) |
The Baltimore Ravens play the Cincinnati Bengals in this pivotal matchup for AFC playoff positioning. These AFC North rivals enter the week with the same record and the winner of this game will hold the inside track for the division title. The loser of this game risks slipping from the AFC playoff picture altogether.
The Baltimore Ravens (8-6, 7-7 ATS) played without Lamar Jackson last week and nearly pulled off a stunning upset at home. Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley played the best game of his young NFL career, leading the Ravens to four touchdowns, two passing and two on the ground.
The Ravens rallied from a 31-17 deficit and opted for a two-point conversion in the final minute rather than play for overtime against Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers. Huntley’s pass for Mark Andrews was tipped away and Baltimore lost their third game in a row as a result. Those three losses have come by a total of four points. The Ravens missed a two-point conversion in each of those contests.
The Cincinnati Bengals (8-6, 7-7 ATS) bounced back from a disappointing loss in Week 14 to grab an important in Week 15. The Bengals went to Denver and topped the Broncos 15-10 behind a solid defensive effort.
Joe Burrow went 15 of 22 for just 157 yards and one touchdown. The Broncos bottled up star rookie receiver Ja’Marr Chase, who had just one catch for three yards. Burrow turned instead to Tyler Boyd, who made five catches for 96 yards and the lone score. Denver limited Joe Mixon to just 58 yards on 17 carries.
Cincy’s defense held the Broncos under wraps all day. After Teddy Bridgewater left the game with a concussion, the Bengals preyed on backup quarterback Drew Lock, forcing a fumble. The Bengals defense limited Denver to just 18 yards on their final 10 plays from scrimmage.
The Bengals played Baltimore back in Week 7, dominating their division rival 41-17. Cincinnati put up a season-high 520 yards on offense, 409 of those through the air. That was the most total yards and most passing yards surrendered by the Ravens defense so far this season. Baltimore hasn’t surrendered more than 353 total yards or 290 passing yards in a game since then.
No matter who’s at quarterback for Baltimore, the Ravens will need to protect him better. The Ravens have allowed the most sacks in the league (48), and are facing the pass rush ranked fourth, the Bengals (39). And Joe Burrow could be in for another big game, considering the Bengals average 8.4 yards per pass attempt (first in the NFL), and the Ravens give up 7.9 per pass (30th).
The Bengals have covered the spread twice this season (2-3 ATS) when playing as at least 2.5-point favorites. Baltimore, meanwhile, has excelled against the spread as an underdog, going 4-0 so far this season. Cincinnati hasn’t been a great home team this year, going 3-4 straight up and only 1-4 against the spread. But, the Bengals are 3-1 both straight up and against the spread versus fellow AFC North opponents this season.
In 11 of 14 games this season, Cincinnati and its opponents have combined to total more than 44.5 points. Baltimore’s seen the combined scoring go over the 44.5-point total seven times. This game will go a long way to determining who wins the AFC North, with the loser likely scrounging for one of the remaining Wild Card spots.
Cincinnati 27, Baltimore 23
ML: CIN -135 (PointsBet); Spread: CIN -2.5/-110 (BetMGM); O/U: Over 45.5/-110 (BetMGM)
When: Sunday, December 26th, 1:00 PM
Where: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC
| Moneyline | Spread | Totals | |
| Buccaneers Best Odds | -500 (Caesars) | -11/-110 (Wynn Bet) | Under 43.5/+100 (FoxBet) |
| Panthers Best Odds | +410 (Sugar House) | +11/-108 (Sugar House) | Over 44/-106 (Sugar House) |
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers play the Carolina Panthers in this Sunday afternoon matchup of NFC South division rivals. The Bucs squandered a chance to clinch the division last week, suffering a surprising shutout loss. The Panthers, meanwhile, can play spoiler here while still clinging to a slim mathematical path to the playoffs.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-4, 7-7 ATS) endured a number of injuries during their Week 15 loss. The worst seems to be Chris Godwin’s knee injury. The Bucs also lost Lavonte David, Mike Evans, and Leonard Fournette during the game to injury.
Lost those offensive pieces contributed to the offense’s struggles. It was the first time in 255 consecutive games that a Tom Brady-quarterbacked team was shut out. Brady was sacked four times and turned the ball over twice (interception and fumble). The Bucs converted just six of 19 tries on third down.
The Carolina Panthers (5-9, 5-9 ATS) dropped to 0-4 this season with Cam Newton as starter, extending his winless stretch to 0-12 counting his previous time with the team. Carolina lost kicker Zane Gonzalez during warmups, which complicated matters, but ultimately couldn’t do enough against a Bills team that dominated them 31-14 last week.
Newton threw an interception and was sacked four times in the loss. Carolina managed to go just eight for 22 on third and fourth down combined. The Panthers put up just 275 total yards and merely 3.9 yards per play.
Tampa Bay will be without Godwin for the remainder of the season, but the return of Antonio Brown from his suspension should mitigate that loss some. Fournette will reportedly be placed on IR, ending his regular season. The biggest impact might come from the passing game, where Fournette had become a fairly reliable target for Tom Brady’s checkdown game. Ronald Jones II figures to fill in and he’s been a notoriously poor receiver as well a fumble-prone ball carrier, though he has also ripped off his share of long runs.
Tampa Bay has the first-ranked scoring offense in the NFL (29.3 points per game), and will be up against the Panthers’ 18th-ranked scoring defense (22.4 points per game). The Buccaneers are second in the NFL in red zone offense (65.5 percent), and will be facing the 28th-ranked red zone defense, owned by Carolina (69.0 percent).
When playing as at least 10.5-point favorites this season, the Buccaneers are 5-1 against the spread. Carolina’s 0-1 against the spread as an underdog of at least 10.5 points. Carolina has combined with its opponent to score more than 44 points in six of 14 games this season. In 10 games this season, Tampa Bay and its opponents have scored more than 44 combined points. The Over is 12-4 in the Bucs’ last 16 games against NFC South opponents.
Although not mathematically eliminated, there’s very little left to play for in Carolina this season save evaluating Sam Darnold more if and when he returns from injury. The Bucs, meanwhile, have a shot at the top seed in the NFC and need this win to keep pace in the conference.
Tampa Bay 30, Carolina 17
ML: TB -500 (Caesars); Spread: TB -11/-110 (Wynn Bet); O/U: Over 44/-106 (Sugar House)
When: Sunday, December 26th, 1:00 PM
Where: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA
| Moneyline | Spread | Totals | |
| Lions Best Odds | +210 (FanDuel) | +5/-105 (FoxBet) | Under 42/-105 (FoxBet) |
| Falcons Best Odds | -238 (Caesars) | -6/-106 (FanDuel) | Over 42/-110 (BetMGM) |
The Detroit Lions play the Atlanta Falcons in this matchup of conference rivals on Sunday afternoon. This game is one of the few contests in the NFL Week 16 slate of games without much playoff importance. The Lions have long been eliminated from postseason contention, despite their upset win last week. The Falcons, meanwhile, saw their postseason lives take perhaps a deathblow with their loss last week.
The Detroit Lions (2-11-1, 9-5 ATS) scored the biggest upset win of the weekend, defeating the Arizona Cardinals 30-12 in Week 15. Jared Goff had perhaps his best performance as a member of the Lions, completing 21 of 26 passes for 216 yards and three touchdowns.
Detroit got a career day from third-string running back Craig Reynolds, who ran up 112 rushing yards in that one. Amon-Ra St. Brown also had a big day, making eight catches for 90 yards and a score. The defense held Arizona to 8 of 18 on third and fourth down combined and picked off Kyler Murray once.
Goff outplayed Murray last week, but he unfortunately landed on the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday, so his availability is in question for this game at Atlanta. Since Goff is reportedly vaccinated, he’s not out of the picture this week just yet thanks to the new COVID protocols. Tim Boyle could get another start if Goff can’t go. But in his lone start this year, Boyle put up one of the worst lines of the year: 15 for 23 for just 77 yards and 2 interceptions against the Cleveland Browns.
The Atlanta Falcons (6-8, 6-8 ATS) playoff hopes took a major hit with their 31-13 defeat at the hands of the San Francisco 49ers. Although they were longshots to get into the playoffs prior to Week 15, Atlanta needed a win and help. Now, they’ll need to win-out and that still wouldn’t guarantee them a postseason berth.
Matt Ryan went 19 of 32 for 236 yards and a touchdown, but got sacked three times and was under seemingly constant pressure. The Falcons moved the ball well enough against San Francisco, but struggled in the red zone. They ran 13 plays from the 10-yard line or closer without scoring a touchdown, including getting stopped on five different tries from the one-yard line.
Against the Niners, Atlanta’s rushing attack struggled, gaining only 62 yards on 23 carries, as running back Mike Davis led the way with 21 yards on six carries, followed by quarterback Matt Ryan with 20 yards on five totes. Wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson, one of Atlanta’s top weapons over the past month, had 11 carries for just 18 yards. Patterson is their leading rusher and averaged more than 81 yards in the previous three games.
The Falcons enter this Week 16 matchup 1-5 both straight up and against the spread at Mercedes-Benz Stadium this year. That said, Atlanta’s 3-2 as the moneyline favorite this season. However, when playing as at least 5.5-point underdogs this season, the Lions have an ATS record of 9-2.
Detroit has played eight games this season that have had more than 42.5 combined points scored. Atlanta’s 14 games this season have gone over this contest’s total of 42.5 points nine times.
Atlanta 20, Detroit 16
ML: ATL -238 (Caesars); Spread: +5/-105 (FoxBet) ; O/U: Under 42/-105 (FoxBet)
When: Sunday, December 26th, 4:05 PM
Where: Lumen Field, Seattle, WA
| Moneyline | Spread | Totals | |
| Bears Best Odds | +240 (BetMGM) | +6/+100 (FoxBet) | Under 42.5/+100 (FoxBet) |
| Seahawks Best Odds | -263 (Sugar House) | -6.5/-109 (Sugar House) | Over 43.5/-110 (BetMGM) |
The Chicago Bears play the Seattle Seahawks in this matchup of conference rivals on Sunday afternoon. This game is another one of the few in Week 16 with only marginal playoff impact. Both teams enter following disappointing losses in Week 15. The Bears were officially eliminated from postseason contention with their loss, and Seattle
The Chicago Bears (4-10, 4-10 ATS) lost for the eighth time in their last nine games, this one a 17-9 defeat at the hands of the Minnesota Vikings. Chicago’s offense moved the ball reasonably well, but couldn’t find the end zone until the game’s final play.
Rookie quarterback Justin Fields went 26 of 39 for 285 yards and that touchdown, but couldn’t get the Bears into the end zone on the team’s previous four trips inside the 20-yard line. Fields also fumbled twice, adding to his league-leading total of 12, and took three sacks.
The Bears played in Week 15 without 14 different players, including their entire starting secondary. Despite having to replace those players, Chicago limited Kirk Cousins to 87 passing yards. Much of that, though, was due to the pass rush, which sacked Cousins four times.
Bears fans expressed their displeasure with the state of the franchise throughout the game last week. Chants of “Fire Nagy” echoed through Soldier Field, and the TV broadcast caught one fans saying: “After further review, we suck!”
The Seattle Seahawks (5-9, 7-7 ATS) saw their streak of nine consecutive winning seasons come to an end after their 20-10 loss to the Los Angeles Rams in Week 15. Although the Seahawks are still mathematically alive in the playoff race, the odds are as slim as they get at this point.
Russell Wilson went 17 of 31 for 156 yards and an interception. He missed D.K. Metcalf on a potential big play in the fourth quarter and just didn’t generate enough offense to keep pace with the Rams. Seattle managed just 214 total yards and converted only three of 11 tries on third down.
Seattle has conceded 42 sacks (fifth-most in the league), and Chicago’s defense has the third-most with 40. The Seahawks have committed the second-fewest turnovers in the league (11), and are up against the No. 29 team in terms of turnovers forced, the Bears (12). The Seahawks average 303.4 yards per game to rank 30th in the NFL. They will be facing a Bears defense ranked ninth, allowing 326.0 yards per game.
Seattle allows opponents to score on 49.0 percent of their red-zone trips (fourth in the league). Chicago’s offense has a 48.6 percent red-zone percentage (29th). The Bears’ offense ranks 29th in the NFL at 17.1 points per game. The Seahawks allow 20.1 per game (fourth). Seattle’s opponents have managed a 36.8 percent conversion rate on third downs (seventh in the NFL), compared to the 33.3 percent third-down conversion rate for Chicago on offense (31st).
The Seahawks have been favored by 6.5 points or more two times this season, and covered the spread in one of those contests. The Bears have been an underdog by 6.5 points or more seven times this year, and covered the spread in one of those matchups. Chicago and Seattle have both played six games this season that have gone over 44 combined points scored.
Seattle 21, Chicago 17
ML: SEA -263 (Sugar House); Spread: CHI +6/+100 (FoxBet); O/U: Under 42.5/+100 (FoxBet)
When: Sunday, December 26th, 4:25 PM
Where: GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, MO
| Moneyline | Spread | Totals | |
| Steelers Best Odds | +370 (Wynn Bet) | +8/-110 (Sugar House) | Under 44/-108 (FanDuel) |
| Chiefs Best Odds | -345 (DraftKings) | -8.5/-105 (FoxBet) | Over 44.5/-104 (Sugar House) |
The Pittsburgh Steelers play the Kansas City Chiefs in a matchup of conference rivals that carries with it some serious playoff implications. The Steelers kept their playoff hopes alive with an important win last week. Meanwhile, the Chiefs have ridden a seven-game winning streak to the top of the AFC standings and have a chance to strengthen their hold on the top seed.
The Pittsburgh Steelers (7-6-1, 6-8 ATS) kept their playoff hopes alive, scoring the final 16 points of the game in their 19-13 win over the Tennessee Titans. The Steelers defense forced four turnovers, including three in the second half, and sacked Ryan Tannehill four times in the win. Joe Haden’s first-down-saving tackle in the closing moments of the game helped preserve the victory.
The defense carried Pittsburgh to this win. The Steelers offense managed just 168 total yards and had to settle for four field goals when driving throughout the game. Ben Roethlisberger finished 16 of 25 for 148 yards to move into fifth on the NFL’s all-time yards passing list. He also scored his first rushing touchdown in three years.
The Kansas City Chiefs (10-4, 7-7 ATS) offense finally got going against someone other than the Las Vegas Raiders. Against the Los Angeles Chargers last week, the Chiefs put up 34 points in the overtime win, their best performance against a non-Raiders team since Week 4.
Patrick Mahomes passed for 410 yards, three touchdowns and one interception. He completed 10 of his 31 passes to Travis Kelce, who gained a career-high 191 yards along the way. 142 of those 191 yards came in the fourth quarter and overtime. Tyreek Hill had 12 receptions for 148 yards and a score. It is his fourth game this season with at least 11 catches.
Kansas City’s defense surrendered 28 points, the most they’ve surrendered since Week 5, but forced two turnovers in this one. It was KC’s six consecutive game with multiple takeaways, and they’ve won each of those contests.
On Monday, the Chiefs saw Pro Bowl tight end Travis Kelce, kicker Harrison Butker and cornerback Charvarius Ward placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list, so the line could obviously fall depending on their availability. Kelce is coming off one of the best games of his career, but he could still play if he does not experience any symptoms because he has been vaccinated. He is second on the team in catches (83) and receiving yardage (1,066).
Tyreek Hill, Rashad Fenton, and Blake Bell were placed on the COVID/reserve list on Tuesday by Kansas City. The Chiefs dipped from minus-10 favorites to minus-7.5 in many sportsbooks following the news.
Pittsburgh hasn’t won two games in a row since they ripped off four consecutive wins from Week 5 to Week 9. Since then, each straight up win has been followed by a loss (or tie). f the Steelers can somehow find a way to keep this a low-scoring affair deep into the game, they can cover the spread. They did that to the Titans last week, although the Chiefs are a much better offensive team.
Regardless, Pittsburgh can certainly run the ball better, and a big performance from rookie running back Najee Harris would definitely help. Harris only had 18 yards on 12 carries against Tennessee for the worst game of his young career.
If Mahomes is missing his top pass catchers, Kansas City might find some traction on the ground. The Chiefs rank seventh in rushing yards per carry (4.5), and have a favorable matchup against the 32nd-ranked defense in that category, as the Steelers give up 4.9.
The Chiefs have covered the spread twice when favored by 7.5 points or more this season (in three opportunities). Pittsburgh’s 2-7 straight up in its last nine road games. The Steelers have won five of the nine games they’ve played as underdogs this season.
The Under is 4-0 in the past four meetings between these clubs in Kansas City, but they haven’t met since 2018. Kansas City and its opponents have combined to score more than 44 points in 10 of 16 games this season. Pittsburgh has played six games this season that finished with a point total higher than 44 points.
Kansas City 27, Pittsburgh 20
ML: KC -345 (DraftKings); Spread: PITT +8/-110 (Sugar House); O/U: Over 44.5/-104 (Sugar House)
When: Sunday, December 26th, 4:25 PM
Where: Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, NV
| Moneyline | Spread | Totals | |
| Broncos Best Odds | +105 (BetMGM) | +1/-109 (UniBet) | Under 41.5/-109 (Sugar House) |
| Raiders Best Odds | -105 (DraftKings) | -1/-105 (DraftKings) | Over 42/-109 (UniBet) |
The Denver Broncos play the Las Vegas Raiders in a matchup of conference rivals on Sunday afternoon. Both of these teams are clinging to slim playoff hopes, and this ball game has essentially become an elimination game in the conference. The winner will itself in the running for a Wild Card berth. The loser, meanwhile, will be all but eliminated from postseason contention.
The Denver Broncos (7-7, 7-7 ATS) struggled to find traction in their Week 15 loss at home to the Cincinnati Bengals. The Broncos saw starting quarterback Teddy Bridgewater leave the game after a scary head injury. He’s been diagnosed with a concussion and could miss some time.
Bridgewater’s replacement, Drew Lock, threw a 25-yard touchdown pass to Tim Patrick shortly after entering the game, but struggled to move the offense other than that. In Denver’s final 10 plays, down only five points, the team managed just 18 total yards. The Broncos are planning for Lock to start in Week 16 on the road in Las Vegas.
The Las Vegas Raiders (7-7, 5-9 ATS) kept their playoff hopes alive after rallying to defeat the COVID-ravaged Cleveland Browns in Week 15. Las Vegas was upset about the postponement, which has positioned them to play on a short week in Week 16, but overcame the distractions and came away with a 16-14 win.
Derek Carr went 25 of 38 for 236 yards with a touchdown and an interception. He led the team on a 51-yard drive to set up a game-winning 48-yard field goal from Daniel Carson as time expired. Las Vegas converted six of 13 third down tries, which is a significant improvement over what they had been doing over the last several weeks.
The Raiders defense held Cleveland to 236 total yards and only 89 total rushing yards last week. Las Vegas did commit seven penalties and lost two turnovers, but they did win. That win made this Week 16 matchup essentially an elimination game.
The last time these teams met on October 17, the Raiders upset the Broncos 34-24 as 5-point road underdogs in their first game after head coach Jon Gruden’s resignation and before wide receiver Henry Ruggs III was involved in a fatal car accident that killed a young woman and her dog in Las Vegas.
Las Vegas has played poorly at home recently, dropping three in a row there both straight up and against the spread and not scoring more than 15 points in any of those games. Denver hasn’t lost consecutive games since a four-game skid between Weeks 4 and 7. The Broncos must play better defense against Las Vegas to cover the spread, as they’ve given up an average of 34.3 points in the past three meetings. Denver has not allowed more than 16 points in any of their seven wins this season, so the D is the key.
The Broncos have committed the ninth-fewest turnovers in the league (16), but Lock’s inability to take care of the ball, with 20 career interceptions and seven fumbles, is a real concern. His tendency to take too many sacks also makes him a downgrade from Bridgewater.
The Raiders have covered the spread once when favored by 1.5 points or more this season (in six opportunities). The Broncos have been an underdog by 1.5 points or more four times this season, and covered the spread in two of those matchups. In 11 of 15 games this season, Las Vegas and its opponents have scored more than 41.5 points. Denver’s games this season have had a combined scoring total higher than 41.5 points in five of 14 outings.
Las Vegas 20, Denver 13
ML: LV -105 (DraftKings); Spread: LV -1/-105 (DraftKings); O/U: Under 41.5/-109 (Sugar House)
When: Sunday, December 26th, 8:20 PM
Where: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX
| Moneyline | Spread | Totals | |
| Washington Best Odds | +400 (Caesars) | +10.5/-110 (DraftKings) | Under 46/-105 (FoxBet) |
| Cowboys Best Odds | -455 (FoxBet) | -10.5/-105 (BetMGM) | Over 47.5/-104 (Sugar House) |
The Washington Football Team plays the Dallas Cowboys in this matchup of division rivals on Sunday Night Football. This game carries with it significant playoff implications. Washington needs a win to stay alive in the Wild Card race. The Cowboys, meanwhile, can clinch the NFC East and a home playoff game with a win.
The Washington Football Team (6-8, 5-8-1 ATS) lost their second straight game after a four-game winning streak kept their playoff hopes alive. But Washington ultimately couldn’t overcome their COVID issues, which forced the team to start a quarterback they’d signed only a few days before.
Washington was without starting quarterback Taylor Heinicke or backup Kyle Allen in this one. Garrett Gilbert, who signed Friday, completed nine of his first 13 passes and finished 20 of 31 for 194 yards. Washington played without five starters in this one and found very little traction on the ground. They were outrushed 238-63 in that one.
The Dallas Cowboys (10-4, 11-3 ATS) put themselves in position to clinch the division by handling their Week 15 business against the offensively-challenged New York Giants. The Cowboys won 21-6, spurred by their defense, which forced four turnovers for the third straight game. With a win in Week 16, Dallas would clinch its first NFC East title since 2018.
Dak Prescott completed 28 of 37 passes for 217 yards and a score. Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard combined to gain 126 yards and a touchdown on 28 carries. Dallas has positioned itself to clinch the division with a win this week and remains one game behind the Packers for the NFC’s top seed.
When these teams played two weeks ago, Dallas came away with a 27-20 victory. The Cowboys led 24-0 and 27-8 in that one before a late comeback bid by Washington. Dallas forced four turnovers, including a fumble return for a touchdown, and had five sacks. Prescott struggled in that one, going 22 of 39 for 211 yards, with one touchdown and two interceptions, including a pick-six.
The Cowboys have the No. 4 offense in the NFL in terms of yards per play (5.9), and will be up against the No. 28 defense in that category, Washington (5.9). The 285.8 passing yards per game Dallas averages ranks sixth in the NFL, while the 271.6 Washington allows ranks 29th in the league. The Cowboys have the second-best offense in the NFL (28.6 points per game), and will be facing the 25th-ranked defense in the league (Washington allows 25.1 points per game).
The Cowboys have forced 31 turnovers (most in the NFL), and Washington has committed 21 turnovers (12th-most). Washington is successful on 39.3 percent of its third-down plays (17th in the league). Dallas’ defense gives up third-down conversions at a 31.8 percent clip (first).
Washington is 4-7 straight up as an underdog this season. The Cowboys, meanwhile, are 8-3 as moneyline favorites this season and won their only game this season when playing as at least 10.5-point favorites. Dallas and its opponents have gone over 47.5 combined points in seven of 15 games this season. Washington’s games this season have had a combined scoring total higher than 47.5 points in six of 14 outings.
Dallas 27, Washington 17
ML: DAL -455 (FoxBet); Spread: WAS +10.5/-110 (DraftKings); O/U: Under 46/-105 (FoxBet)
When: Monday, December 27th, 8:15 PM
Where: Caesars Superdome, New Orleans, LA
| Moneyline | Spread | Totals | |
| Dolphins Best Odds | +150 (DraftKings) | +3/-105 (BetMGM) | Under 38.5/-110 (BetMGM) |
| Saints Best Odds | -159 (PointsBet) | -3/-110 (PointsBet) | Over 39/-105 (FoxBet) |
The Miami Dolphins play the New Orleans Saints to close out the NFL Week 16 slate of games on Monday Night Football, barring additional postponements. This game carries with it playoff implications as both teams remain very much in the playoff race. The Dolphins have used a six-game winning streak to push back into the postseason picture. The Saints, meanwhile, scored a huge upset last week to keep their playoff hopes alive.
The Miami Dolphins (7-7, 7-7 ATS) started slowly against the Jets last week, but used a defensive surge in the second half to win their sixth straight game. The victory kept Miami alive in the playoff hunt, but now the Dolphins face much stiffer competition.
The Dolphins got a career day from running back Duke Johnson, who was signed last week as the team dealt with several running backs landing on the reserve/COVID list. Johnson rushed for 102 yards and scored two touchdowns for the first time in his career. His 100-yard rushing game stands as the first of the year for Miami.
The Dolphins are 31st in the NFL in yards per rush (3.4), and will be attempting to turn the tide against the No. 1 defense in that category, as the Saints allow 3.8 yards per rush attempt. New Orleans allows 96.6 rushing yards per game (fifth in the NFL). Miami’s running game ranks 28th in the league (86.6).
The Dolphins defense registered a season-high six sacks last week. After falling behind 17-7 at the half, Miami’s defense held the Jets offense scoreless, allowing just two completions to Zach Wilson in the third and fourth quarters.
The New Orleans Saints (7-7, 7-7 ATS) kept their playoff hopes alive with a surprising shutout of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Saints sacked Tom Brady four times and forced two turnovers in this one. The defensive effort buoyed a lackluster performance from the offense.
Taysom Hill went 13 of 27 for 154 passing yards in this one. He ran the ball 11 times for 33 yards. Alvin Kamara also rushed 11 times, but gained just 18 yards. The Saints offense settled for three field goals and converted just three of 16 third down tries in this one. The offense put up just 212 total yards.
Miami is hoping to have rookie wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (team-leading 86 catches for 849 yards) back from the reserve/COVID-19 list, and he can definitely help the team cover the spread. The Dolphins have been very fortunate to play five of their last six games at home during this winning streak.
Improved defense has obviously been the difference for both of these teams lately. New Orleans, during its two-game winning streak, limited the opposition to only nine points. The rushing attack has been pretty good too for the Saints, but Kamara (13 touches, 33 total yards) must be more involved for the home team to cover.
The Saints have covered the spread once this season (1-4 ATS) when playing as at least 3-point favorites. The Dolphins have been an underdog by 3 points or more six times this year, and covered the spread in three of those games. Miami has combined with its opponent to score more than 38.5 points in eight of 14 games this season. New Orleans’ 14 games this season have gone over this contest’s total of 38.5 points 10 times.
This is essentially an elimination game for the Dolphins, who need to win-out in order to have a realistic chance at the postseason after starting 1-7. New Orleans also has a shot at the postseason and they enter Week 16 tied with two other NFC teams with a 7-7 record. They’re behind both of those clubs due to tiebreakers so they need a win here to keep pace.
Miami 23, New Orleans 21
ML: MIA +150 (DraftKings); Spread: MIA +3/-105 (BetMGM); O/U: Over 39/-105 (FoxBet)
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