The penultimate week of the regular NFL season is upon us, so make sure not to miss out on the Week 17 NFL Picks Breakdown!
Kansas City Chiefs vs Pittsburgh Steelers Prediction NFL Picks 12/25/24
Chiefs at Steelers at 1 PM ET
In their latest encounter with the Houston Texans, the Chiefs managed to score 27 points, which was sufficient for an eight-point win. Patrick Mahomes showcased his skills by completing 28 of 41 passes for 260 yards, recording one touchdown without any interceptions. Kareem Hunt made a notable impact on the ground, rushing 11 times for 55 yards and scoring a touchdown. Additionally, Xavier Worthy contributed with seven carries for 65 yards and a touchdown. The Chiefs are currently averaging 23.7 points per game, while their defense concedes an average of 18.5 points. The offense ranks 11th in the league, and the defense holds the 3rd position.
In their most recent matchup against the Ravens, the Steelers suffered a defeat with a score of 34-17. The defense struggled to contain both Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson, while the offense failed to perform adequately. Russell Wilson successfully completed 22 out of 33 passes, accumulating 217 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. Jaylen Warren led the rushing attack but managed only 48 yards. Currently, the Steelers are averaging 23.5 points per game, while their defense concedes an average of 19.9 points. The offense is positioned 12th in the league rankings, whereas the defense holds the 6th position.
The Pick:
The Chiefs' offensive performance has been remarkable as they approach this matchup, and it is anticipated that Mahomes will deliver an outstanding game. Conversely, Wilson is expected to struggle once more, and the Steelers are unlikely to maintain pace. The Chiefs are projected to secure a victory by a margin of at least seven points. Back the Chiefs against the spread in this contest.
Baltimore Ravens vs Houston Texans Prediction NFL Picks 12/25/24
Ravens at Texans at 4:30 PM ET
The Baltimore Ravens currently hold a record of 10-5 following their recent victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, with a final score of 34-17. In this matchup, the Ravens surpassed the Steelers in total yardage, achieving 418 yards compared to Pittsburgh's 315. Additionally, they secured a favorable turnover ratio of 2-1 and converted 4 out of 10 attempts on third down. Quarterback Lamar Jackson passed for 207 yards, recording three touchdowns and one interception, while running back Derrick Henry accumulated 162 rushing yards.
This season, the Houston Texans have achieved a record of 9-6, following their recent loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, which ended with a score of 27-19. In this contest, the Texans were outgained, with Kansas City amassing 375 total yards to their 311. The Texans also faced challenges in the turnover category, losing 2-0, and converting only 7 of their 13 third-down attempts. CJ Stroud had a performance that included 244 passing yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions, while Tank Dell made six catches for 98 yards and one touchdown before he was injured.
The Pick:
While the Ravens boast a top-tier offense, their defense has faced difficulties throughout the season. The Texans have triumphed in two of their last three games, but they are coming off a loss to Kansas City. Although Houston played adequately in that matchup, their offensive performance waned considerably after Dell sustained an injury. The offensive line has been a persistent issue for the Texans this season; however, I anticipate that Stroud will have a successful day throwing against the Baltimore defense. It would be wise to consider the Over in this scenario.
Seattle Seahawks vs Chicago Bears Prediction NFL Picks 12/26/24
Seahawks at Bears at 8:15 PM ET
The Seahawks recently took on the Minnesota Vikings in a competitive encounter, yet they fell short in making decisive plays towards the end, culminating in a 27-24 defeat. Geno Smith recorded 22 completions on 35 attempts, totaling 314 yards, with three touchdowns and two interceptions. Kenneth Walker III was the leading rusher, finishing with eight carries for 31 yards. The Seahawks' offense averages 226 points, while their defense allows 22.6 points per game. In terms of rankings, the offense stands at 15th in the league, while the defense is ranked 13th.
In their most recent matchup against the Detroit Lions, the Bears managed to score 17 points; however, their defense allowed 34 points, resulting in a loss. Caleb Williams delivered one of his stronger performances of the season, completing 26 out of 40 passes for a total of 334 yards and two touchdowns. Keenan Allen led the receiving corps with nine receptions for 141 yards and one touchdown. Currently, the Bears are averaging 18.9 points per game, while their defense concedes an average of 22.8 points. Offensively, the team ranks 26th in the league, whereas their defense holds the 14th position.
The Pick:
The performance of the Seahawks' defense in the previous game was notably poor, and it is anticipated that they will struggle once more in this contest. The Bears are likely to score no fewer than 24 points, and they may very well emerge victorious. To ensure a safer bet, it is smart to back the Bears against the spread in this situation.
LA Chargers vs New England Patriots Prediction NFL Picks 12/28/24
Chargers at Patriots at 1 PM ET
The Los Angeles Chargers approach this contest with the intention of building on their recent 34-27 triumph over Denver, which has brought their season record to 10-5. Justin Herbert has thrown for a total of 3,243 yards, achieving 18 touchdowns and 3 interceptions, with a completion rate of 64.7%. J.K. Dobbins is the leading rusher for the Chargers, accumulating 766 rushing yards and 8 touchdowns this season. Ladd McConkey leads the team in receptions with 69 catches for 960 yards and 5 touchdowns, while Josh Palmer has contributed 543 receiving yards. Furthermore, Quentin Johnston has tallied 477 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns.
The New England Patriots aim to bounce back from a disappointing 24-21 loss to Buffalo in their last outing. Drake Maye has thrown for a total of 2,159 yards this season, achieving 14 touchdowns and 10 interceptions with a completion percentage of 67.6%. In contrast, Jacoby Brissett has passed for 828 yards, recording 2 touchdowns and 1 interception at a rate of 59.1%. Rhamondre Stevenson leads the team in rushing with 800 yards and 7 touchdowns, while Antonio Gibson has added 434 rushing yards. Hunter Henry stands out as the leading receiver for the Patriots, with 674 receiving yards and 66 receptions.
The Pick:
The motivation for the Patriots to disrupt the Chargers' plans seems minimal, given that the Chargers lack the rivalry intensity of the Bills from the previous week. Additionally, a loss may serve the Patriots' interests better at this stage. One must also consider how the Patriots will respond after their near success against the Bills last week. I foresee the Chargers winning this contest away from home.
Denver Broncos vs Cincinnati Bengals Prediction NFL Picks 12/28/24
Broncos at Bengals at 4:30 PM ET
After their latest game against the Chargers, in which they lost 34-27, the Denver Broncos' record stands at 9-6 for the season. The Broncos were outperformed in total yardage, with the Chargers gaining 380 yards to their 355. Although they managed to secure a turnover advantage of 1-0, their performance on third down was less than satisfactory, converting just 5 out of 13 opportunities. Bo Nix had a notable performance, throwing for 263 yards and two touchdowns, while Audric Estime contributed with 48 rushing yards and one touchdown.
With a season record of 7-8, the Cincinnati Bengals secured a win against the Cleveland Browns, finishing the game with a score of 24-6. The Bengals outperformed the Browns in total yardage, amassing 326 yards to Cleveland's 273. They also dominated the turnover statistics, achieving a 3-1 ratio, and converted 4 of their 11 third-down attempts. Joe Burrow contributed significantly with 252 passing yards and three touchdown passes, while Chase Brown recorded 91 rushing yards on 18 attempts.
The Pick:
The Bengals are currently on a three-game winning streak and boast one of the most effective passing offenses in the NFL. Meanwhile, the Denver team has secured victories in four of their last five contests, although they conceded 34 points to the Chargers in their most recent match. While I believe Cincinnati will perform well offensively, I have significant reservations about their defense, which ranks among the weakest in the league. Therefore, I recommend taking the points with the Broncos in this matchup.
Arizona Cardinals vs LA Rams Prediction NFL Picks 12/28/24
Cardinals at Rams at 8:15 PM ET
The Cardinals recently faced the Carolina Panthers in a thrilling game that extended into overtime, ultimately resulting in a 36-30 defeat. In the second quarter, the Cardinals scored 17 points, but this effort fell short of clinching the win. Kyler Murray had a productive outing, completing 20 of 32 passes for a total of 202 yards, along with one touchdown and one interception. Additionally, James Conner showcased his skills with 15 carries for 117 yards and a touchdown. The Cardinals are currently averaging 22.9 points per game, while their defense allows an average of 22.8 points. Both units are positioned at 14th place in the league rankings.
The Rams are steadily approaching a victory in the NFC West following their recent triumph over the New York Jets. The defense performed exceptionally well, allowing only nine points, which contributed to a decisive 10-point win. Kyren Williams emerged as the standout player, recording 22 carries for 122 yards and scoring a touchdown. Quarterback Matthew Stafford completed 14 of 19 passes, accumulating 110 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Currently, the Rams average 21.9 points per game, while their defense concedes an average of 23.1 points. The offense is positioned 18th in the league, with the defense ranked 17th.
The Pick:
With an average of 22.9 points per game, the Cardinals are projected to maintain or exceed this scoring rate in their next contest. The Rams' defense, which concedes an average of 23.1 points, is expected to encounter difficulties again. Kyler Murray is poised for a significant performance, which will aid the Cardinals in achieving their objectives. Back the Cardinals against the spread.
Tennessee Titans vs Jacksonville Jaguars Prediction NFL Picks 12/29/24
Titans at Jaguars at 1 PM ET
During their encounter with the Colts last weekend, the Titans allowed 24 points in the second quarter and 14 points in the third, leading to a 38-30 loss. Mason Rudolph completed 252 passing yards, with two touchdown passes and three interceptions. Chig Okonkwo was the standout receiver, making nine catches for a total of 81 yards.
In the Sunday game against the Raiders, the Jaguars entered the final quarter with a slim advantage of 14-13, yet they were unable to maintain it, resulting in a 19-14 loss. Mac Jones amassed 247 yards through the air and threw one touchdown pass, while Brian Thomas was a key contributor, catching nine passes for 132 yards and the touchdown.
The Pick:
Jacksonville held a lead against the Raiders late in their most recent defeat, despite only managing 15 first downs and 308 offensive yards. The two fumbles lost did not aid their cause. The Jaguars have consistently struggled to score, with five of their last six games resulting in 20 points or fewer, leading to a disappointing 1-5 record. It would be advantageous for the offense to show signs of life. Conversely, Tennessee faced difficulties in their loss to a subpar Colts team, yielding an astonishing 335 rushing yards. The positive aspect for the Titans is that they have scored a total of 57 points in their last two outings. In their last matchup, Jacksonville secured a narrow victory over Tennessee, winning 10-6 on the road on December 8. This upcoming game may also feature a low score, although it is expected that the total will be significantly higher than the previous 16 points. I am going with the Jags.
Las Vegas Raiders vs New Orleans Saints Prediction NFL Picks 12/29/24
Raiders at Saints at 1 PM ET
The Las Vegas Raiders suffered a loss to the Falcons while achieving a win against the Jaguars. They are now on a troubling streak of six consecutive defeats in road games. Gardner Minshew is completing 66.3 percent of his passes, totaling 2,013 yards, with 9 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. The combined efforts of Brock Bowers and Jakobi Meyers have resulted in 1,910 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns. The Raiders' ground game is averaging 77.5 yards per game, led by Alexander Mattison, who has recorded 368 yards and 4 touchdowns.
The Las Vegas Raiders faced a setback against the Falcons but managed to triumph over the Jaguars. They are currently enduring a series of six consecutive losses in away games. Gardner Minshew boasts a completion percentage of 66.3, totaling 2,013 yards, 9 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. Brock Bowers and Jakobi Meyers have together accumulated 1,910 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns. The Raiders' rushing attack averages 77.5 yards per game, with Alexander Mattison at the forefront, having gained 368 yards and scored 4 touchdowns.
The Pick:
The Las Vegas Raiders are experiencing significant difficulties, with a record of 1 win in their last 10 games. Despite this, they are exhibiting determination under Antonio Pierce, highlighted by their recent triumph over the Jaguars. Prior to that, they performed admirably against the Falcons and nearly secured a victory against the Chiefs. In a contest between teams with little to gain, I would prefer to support the team that remains committed to competing, namely the Raiders.
New York Jets vs Buffalo Bills Prediction NFL Picks 12/29/24
Jets at Bills at 1 PM ET
The New York Jets faced a defeat against the Rams and secured a victory over the Jaguars. In their recent outings, the Jets have suffered losses in four of their last five away games. Aaron Rodgers has achieved a completion rate of 62.8 percent, accumulating 3,511 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions. The duo of Garrett Wilson and Davante Adams has amassed a total of 1,706 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. Additionally, the Jets' rushing offense is averaging 88.7 yards per game, with Hall leading the team with 774 yards and 5 touchdowns.
The Buffalo Bills emerged victorious against the Lions and the Patriots. They have established a streak of 10 consecutive home victories. Josh Allen boasts a completion percentage of 63.8, totaling 3,549 passing yards, 26 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions. Khalil Shakir and Keon Coleman have together achieved 1,294 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns. The Bills' rushing offense averages 133.5 yards per game, with James Cook leading the charge with 928 yards and 14 touchdowns.
The Pick:
In their previous ten matchups as double-digit favorites, the Bills have managed only a 1-9 record against the spread. Furthermore, the anticipated weather conditions include rain and temperatures in the high 40s, which could potentially balance the playing field. On the other hand, the Jets have shown resilience, achieving a 4-1 record against the spread in their last five games as double-digit underdogs. Back the Jets and take the points.
Carolina Panthers vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers Prediction NFL Picks 12/29/24
Panthers at Buccaneers at 1 PM ET
During the game on Sunday against the Cardinals, the Panthers demonstrated consistent scoring throughout all four quarters, yet they still required overtime to achieve a 36-30 win. Quarterback Bryce Young accumulated 158 total yards, throwing for two touchdowns and adding a rushing touchdown, while Chuba Hubbard had an impressive performance with 25 carries for 152 yards and two touchdowns.
Last weekend, the Buccaneers faced the Cowboys and entered the second half trailing 23-14. Tampa Bay was able to score 10 additional points, yet they ultimately lost a closely contested game with a final score of 26-24. Baker Mayfield threw for 303 yards, registering one touchdown and one interception. Bucky Irving added 68 yards on the ground along with a touchdown, and Mike Evans had five receptions for 69 yards.
The Pick:
The Panthers secured a hard-fought victory against Arizona, amassing a total of 392 yards, including 243 on the ground, and achieving 22 first downs. However, the match was marred by a series of mistakes, as the Panthers alone committed nine penalties, contributing to a total of 20 infractions in the game. Despite these challenges, they emerged victorious in overtime, with 36 points scored—a refreshing improvement compared to the mere 30 points combined in their previous two games. On the other hand, Tampa Bay managed to contain Dallas effectively, allowing only 317 yards and 15 first downs. Nevertheless, they were unable to recover from a few turnovers and a lackluster first half. Prior to this game, the Buccaneers had enjoyed a four-game winning streak and had consistently scored 24 or more points in their last five matches. For the Panthers to cover the spread, they will likely need to score between 20 and 25 points, a target that seems achievable given their capabilities.
Miami Dolphins vs Cleveland Browns Prediction NFL Picks 12/29/24
Dolphins at Browns at 4:05 PM ET
The Miami Dolphins' season record stands at 7-8 following their recent win against San Francisco, where they secured a 29-17 victory. In this contest, the Dolphins outgained the 49ers, achieving 381 total yards against 374. They also won the turnover battle with a score of 1-0 and converted 4 of their 12 third-down opportunities. Tua Tagovailoa threw for 215 yards and one touchdown, while De’Von Achane had an impressive performance, rushing for 120 yards and scoring one touchdown.
This season, the Cleveland Browns have a record of 3-12 after their latest loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, which ended with a score of 24-6. During the game, the Browns were outgained by the Bengals, accumulating 273 yards compared to Cincinnati's 326. Additionally, the Browns lost the turnover battle 3-1 and were unsuccessful on 9 of their 12 third-down attempts. Dorian Thompson-Robinson recorded 157 passing yards along with two interceptions, while Jerome Ford managed to rush for 92 yards and scored one touchdown.
The Pick:
The Dolphins have recorded a 2-5 record in away games this season and tend to face difficulties when weather conditions are unfavorable. Meanwhile, Cleveland has suffered four consecutive losses, managing to score only 13 points in their last two outings. While I would prefer to oppose Miami in this scenario, I cannot support Thompson-Robinson as the starting quarterback. Therefore, I recommend backing the Dolphins in this matchup.
Dallas Cowboys vs Philadelphia Eagles Prediction NFL Picks 12/29/24
Cowboys at Eagles at 4:25 PM ET
In the Sunday evening contest against the Buccaneers, the Cowboys entered halftime with a 23-14 advantage but managed to clinch a close win, finishing at 26-24. Cooper Rush amassed 292 yards through the air and threw one touchdown pass, while CeeDee Lamb topped the receiving corps with seven catches totaling 105 yards. Quarterback Jalen Hurts departed the game early after sustaining a concussion.
Facing the Commanders on Sunday, the Eagles were ahead 27-14 as they entered the final quarter. However, they experienced a significant collapse, yielding 22 points while scoring just 6, culminating in a tough loss of 36-33. Kenny Pickett amassed 143 passing yards, along with a touchdown and an interception. Saquon Barkley was instrumental in the offense, carrying the ball 29 times for 150 yards and achieving two touchdowns.
The Pick:
The concern surrounding Jalen Hurts' concussion will significantly impact this weekend's game and the overall outlook for Philadelphia. While the Eagles possess a robust and well-rounded roster capable of winning most contests without him, their offensive consistency may be lacking. This is particularly critical for a team that has achieved a minimum of 20 points in 11 consecutive games, boasting a record of 10-1 during that stretch. The defense will likely need to elevate its performance on Sunday, which is advantageous given that the game is being played at home. On the other hand, Dallas recorded a modest 317 total yards and 15 first downs in their recent victory, which has improved their record to 4-1 over the last five games. The Cowboys have managed to score at least 26 points in each of those four wins, positioning themselves favorably if they can replicate that success. Ultimately, I anticipate Philadelphia will prevail in a closely contested home game.
Atlanta Falcons vs Washington Commanders Prediction NFL Picks 12/29/24
Falcons at Commanders at 8:20 PM ET
The Atlanta Falcons triumphed over the Raiders and the Giants in their recent matchups. Over their last six games played on the road, the Falcons have managed to split their results. Michael Penix Jr. is currently completing 65.6 percent of his passes, totaling 240 yards, with no touchdowns and one interception. The combined efforts of Drake London and Darnell Mooney have resulted in 1,933 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. Additionally, the Falcons' ground game is averaging 124.4 yards per game, led by Bijan Robinson, who has achieved 1,196 yards and 10 touchdowns.
The Washington Commanders have secured wins against the Eagles and the Saints. In their last 8 home games, they have emerged victorious in 6. Jayden Daniels is demonstrating impressive performance, completing 69.7 percent of his passes for 3,303 yards, achieving 22 touchdowns and 8 interceptions. The combination of Terry McLaurin and Zach Ertz has resulted in 1,567 receiving yards and 16 touchdowns. Moreover, the Commanders' rushing game averages 152.7 yards per game, with Daniels at the forefront, accumulating 737 yards and 6 touchdowns.
The Pick:
The Washington Commanders have excelled in their home games, exhibiting a more dependable offensive performance, and they currently stand at 9-5-1 against the spread this season. It raises the question of whether the Falcons have the offensive strength to keep pace. We will soon find out. I am inclined to predict a victory for the Commanders at home by a touchdown.
Detroit Lions vs San Francisco 49ers Prediction NFL Picks 12/30/24
Lions at 49ers at 8:15 PM ET
The Detroit Lions faced a setback against the Bills but triumphed over the Bears. They have now won seven straight games on the road. Jared Goff is performing exceptionally, completing 71.4 percent of his passes for a total of 4,095 yards, along with 33 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams have collectively recorded 2,016 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns. Furthermore, the Lions' ground offense averages 143.9 yards per game, with Jahmyr Gibbs at the forefront, having gained 1,156 yards and scored 12 touchdowns.
The San Francisco 49ers were defeated by both the Rams and the Dolphins. They have managed to split their last eight home games. Brock Purdy is completing 65 percent of his passes, with a total of 3,487 yards, 17 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. The combined efforts of George Kittle and Jauan Jennings have resulted in 1,823 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns. The team's rushing offense averages 130 yards per game, led by Jordan Mason, who has recorded 789 yards and 3 touchdowns.
The Pick:
With the San Francisco 49ers out of playoff contention, they have no further goals to pursue. Meanwhile, the Detroit Lions are performing exceptionally well, holding a record of 13-2 straight up and 10-5 against the spread. To enhance their chances of claiming the top seed in the NFC, they must keep winning. The Lions are also expected to be driven by the memory of their playoff loss to the 49ers, a game they believe they should have won. I foresee the Lions winning by a touchdown.
Oliver’s Pick Chargers -4
AUTHOR: Oliver Zivic
