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Baltimore Ravens at Houston Texans odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Baltimore Ravens at Houston Texans odds and lines, with expert NFL picks and predictions.

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The Baltimore Ravens (10-5) and Houston Texans (9-6) meet on Christmas Day. Kickoff from NRG Stadium is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. ET (Netflix). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s NFL odds around the Ravens vs. Texans odds, and make our expert NFL picks and predictions.

The Ravens notched their third win in 4 games with a 34-17 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 16. They covered as 7.5-point home favorites as the Over 44 hit. Baltimore dominated the ground game, piling up 220 rushing yards, 162 from RB Derrick Henry. QB Lamar Jackson tossed 3 TD, boosting his season total to 37. The win moved the Ravens into a tie with the Steelers for the AFC North lead.

Houston’s 2-game win streak ended in Week 16 with a 27-19 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. The Texans failed to cover as 3.5-point road underdogs as the Over 42.5 hit. QB C.J. Stroud had an up-and-down performance with 2 TDs and 2 INTs. WR Tank Dell, who had 6 catches for 98 yards, suffered a devastating knee injury on a touchdown play.

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Ravens at Texans odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NFL odds. Lines last updated at 6:51 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Ravens -250 (bet $250 to win $100) | Texans +200 (bet $100 to win $200)
Against the spread (ATS): Ravens -5.5 (-110) | Texans +5.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 47 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Ravens at Texans key injuries

Ravens

WR Nelson Agholor (concussion) out
DB Jalyn Armour-Davis (hamstring) out
WR Zay Flowers (shoulder) questionable
RB Justice Hill (concussion) out
CB Tre’Davious White (shoulder) questionable

Texans

DE Denico Autry (knee) questionable
WR Tank Dell (knee) out/IR
DL Foley Fatukasi (foot) out
OL Shaq Mason (knee) out
C Juice Scruggs (foot) out

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Ravens at Texans picks and predictions

Prediction

Ravens 27, Texans 20

Moneyline

PASS.

The Ravens (-250) will win their fourth straight game and will take it by a touchdown or more. They have won the last 5 meetings with the Texans, covering the spread in 4 of those games. I’ll take my wager to the spread.

Against the spread

BET RAVENS -5.5 (-110).

Baltimore has won and covered in 3 of their last 4 games, including their last 2 road outings. The Texans are just 1-2-1 ATS in their last 4. Jackson continues to play at an MVP level, and with the Ravens tied with the Steelers atop the AFC North, they can’t afford a misstep with only 2 games left.

For Houston, success hinges on RB Joe Mixon, as the ground game opens opportunities for Stroud’s deep passing. However, facing a Ravens defense that allows just 65.5 rushing yards per game to running backs—the second-best mark in the league—makes that an uphill battle. Last week, the Chiefs limited Mixon to 55 rushing yards, and the Texans couldn’t overcome it.

Baltimore’s defense is a nightmare matchup for a Texans team struggling to find consistency, especially in the run game. Expect the Ravens to keep rolling.

Over/Under

I don’t see a clear edge on the total. The Ravens have gone Over in 3 of their last 4, while the Texans are 2-2 against the total. The Under is 7-2-1 in their last 10 head-to-head matchups.

While both teams can score—Baltimore averages 30.1 PPG and Houston 23.1 PPG—the trends are inconsistent. My lean would be the Over, but with no strong indicators, I’ll officially PASS on this bet as my prediciton lands right on the number.

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Winner winner chicken dinner: NFL parlay for Week 17

Analyzing NFL Week 17 betting odds and lines, with predictions and picks for the best Christmas parlay bet to make.

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We head into Week 17 of the 2024 NFL regular season, and it’s rather uncharted territory. We have 2 games on Christmas Day, and it still seems a little goofy having NFL football on Wednesday.

The Kansas City Chiefs and Pittsburgh Steelers battle at 1 p.m. ET at Acrisure Stadium, and that game is streaming on Netflix. Let’s hope things go a little better than they did for the Jake Paul-Mike Tyson farce, and we’re not constantly staring at the circle of death.

In the late window, the Baltimore Ravens and Houston Texans square off at 4:30 p.m. ET, also on Netflix, giving us 2 holiday games with huge implications in the AFC playoff picture.

We struck gold on Thanksgiving with a 3-for-3 parlay winner, and followed that up for the Sunday slate that week with another 3-for-3 parlay winner. Let’s hope the holidays are equally good to us here.

Not only will we pick a winner for each of the two Wednesday games, but we’ll toss in the Seattle Seahawks and Chicago Bears game on Thursday, so we can have a 3-game slate.

After looking at BetMGM Sportsbook’s NFL Week 17 odds, here is our “Winner winner Christmas dinner” NFL parlay bet to cash in on among SportsbookWire’s NFL expert picks and predictions.

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Winner winner Christmas dinner NFL parlay

WEEK 17

Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NFL odds. Lines last updated Tuesday at 7:31 p.m. ET. All games ET.

Leg 1: Under 44 (-110) – Chiefs at Steelers – Wednesday, 1 p.m. (Netflix)

The Chiefs (14-1) square off with the Steelers (10-5) in the early-window game on Christmas Day, and it could be a potential playoff preview.

Kansas City has cashed low in 3 of the past 4 games, averaging just 21.5 points per game (PPG) on offense in the past 4 outings. Defensively, though, the Chiefs have been fierce, allowing 19 or fewer points in each of those contests.

In fact, looking at Kansas City’s defense, it has allowed just 307.2 total yards, 91.4 rushing yards and 18.5 PPG, and each of those marks rank inside the Top 5 in the NFL

Much of Pittsburgh’s success has been because of the defense, too, and it is particularly stout against the run, allowing 102.7 yards per game to rank inside the Top 10. The Steelers have hit the Under in 2 of the past 3 games, while allowing 20 or fewer points in all 6 previous home outings.

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Leg 2: RAVENS -5.5 (-110) at Texans – Wednesday, 4:30 p.m. (Netflix)

The Ravens (10-5) travel to meet the Texans (9-6) in huge game in the AFC playoff picture.

The Ravens doubled up the Steelers 34-17 last week in Charm City to win and cover for the third time in the past 4 games. Baltimore is also 3-1 ATS in the past 4 games when favored by 4 or more points.

For the Texans, they have to soldier on after losing WR Tank Dell to a gruesome knee injury last week. QB C.J. Stroud was visibly upset, even shedding tears on the field for his fallen friend. Houston lost 27-19 to the Chiefs last week, and it is just 1-2-1 ATS in the past 4 games, while going 1-2 ATS in the previous 3 games as an underdog.

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Leg 3: SEAHAWKS -3.5 (-110) at Bears – Thursday, 8:15 p.m. (Prime Video)

The Seattle Seahawks (8-7) meet the Chicago Bears (4-11) in a Thursday night game on Boxing Day.

I trusted the Bears in Week 15, and they ruined my 3-game parlay. I promised never to trust them again. Chicago was doubled up by the Detroit Lions last week, falling 34-17 at Soldier Field.

Chicago is 0-3 SU/ATS in 3 games under interim coach Thomas Brown, averaging just 14.0 PPG on offense while allowing at least 30 points in each of the 3 outings. Perhaps Matt Eberflus wasn’t that bad after all.

Anyway, the Seahawks are in the mix for the NFC West Division championship, while the Bears are in the mix for a high draft pick. This won’t end well for the home side, and it’s surprising to see the line so low.

PARLAY CARD

UNDER 44 (-110) Chiefs at Steelers
RAVENS -5.5 (-110) at Texans
SEAHAWKS -3.5 (-110) at Bears

Parlay payout: Bet $10 to profit $59.58 (payout = $69.58).

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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Kansas City Chiefs at Pittsburgh Steelers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Kansas City Chiefs at Pittsburgh Steelers odds and lines, with expert NFL picks and predictions.

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The Kansas City Chiefs (14-1) take on the Pittsburgh Steelers (10-5) Wednesday — Christmas Day — in Week 17. Kickoff from Acrisure Stadium is set for 1 p.m. ET (Netflix). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s NFL odds around the Chiefs vs. Steelers odds, and make our expert NFL picks and predictions.

The Chiefs took down the Houston Texans Saturday 27-19, covering the spread as 3.5-point home favorites with the Over (42.5) hitting. QB Patrick Mahomes shrugged off a high-ankle sprain and went 28-for-41 for 260 passing yards, 1 TD and 0 INTs. He also rushed 5 times for 33 yards and score. WR Xavier Worthy was the top target, finishing with 7 catches for 65 yards and 1 TD.

The Steelers dropped their second in a row as they fell 34-17 Saturday at the Baltimore Ravens. QB Russell Wilson was 22-for-33 for 217 yards, 2 TDs and 1 INT as Pittsburgh failed to cover as 7.5-point underdogs and the Over (44) cashed. Missing WR George Pickens (hamstring) for a third game in a row game has really hamstrung this offense. The good news: He was a full participant in practice Monday and is expected to play Wednesday, which would be huge for the Steelers.

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Chiefs at Steelers odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NFL odds. Lines last updated Tuesday at 5:27 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Chiefs -150 (bet $150 to win $100) | Steelers +125 (bet $100 to win $125)
Against the spread (ATS): Chiefs -2.5 (-120) | Steelers +2.5 (+100)
Over/Under (O/U): 44 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Chiefs at Steelers key injuries

Chiefs

S Chamarri Conner (concussion) out
OL D.J. Humphries (hamstring) out
DL Chris Jones (calf) questionable
OL Jawaan Taylor (knee) questionable

Steelers

QB Justin Fields (abdomen) questionable
CB Joey Porter Jr. (knee) out

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Chiefs at Steelers picks and predictions

Prediction

Steelers 20, Chiefs 17

Moneyline

The Steelers are tied with the Ravens atop the AFC North. Pittsburgh holds the tiebreaker and would be the third seed in the AFC if the season ended today. This Christmas game means far more to Pittsburgh than it does Kansas City, though the Mahomes & Co. are 1 win or 1 Buffalo Bills loss from locking up the top seed — and the AFC bye.

The Chiefs o-line is banged up, and honestly, their tackles have been terrible. Steelers LB T.J. Watt is going to shred them, and I could see K.C. waving the white flag and pulling Mahomes to avoid injury.

TAKE STEELERS (+125) at home.

Against the spread

Since I’m on the Pittsburgh moneyline, it’s a PASS on the spread, but I’d understand if you feel the safer play is taking the 2.5 points.

I’m going with Chiefs TE PAT FREIERMUTH OVER 28.5 RECEIVING YARDS (-120) here. It’s slated to be 38 degrees, and the run game will be huge, but the short-passing game will be the secondary option. The Chiefs have allowed the second-most receiving yards to tight ends over the last 5 weeks, according to fftoday.com.

Over/Under

The Steelers are 7-3 O/U in their last 10 games. The Chiefs are 5-5, and they just ended a 3-game Under streak last week. I look more into the weather, and what this game means for both sides than I do the trends, though.

As mentioned, it’s going to be a cold, miserable, hard-hitting game in Pittsburgh. I really don’t see either team scoring more than 24 points.

BET UNDER 44 (-110), and you should have room to spare.

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New Orleans Saints at Green Bay Packers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s New Orleans Saints at Green Bay Packers odds and lines, with expert NFL picks and predictions.

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The New Orleans Saints (5-9) and the Green Bay Packers (10-4) meet for Monday Night Football in Week 16 at Lambeau Field. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET (ESPN / ABC). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s NFL odds around the Saints vs. Packers odds, and make our expert NFL picks and predictions.

The Saints were tripped up by the Washington Commanders 20-19 last week, although they were able to cover as 7.5-point underdogs as the Under (44.5) cashed. New Orleans is a respectable 3-2 straight up (SU) and against the spread (ATS) in the past 5 games, while cashing the Under in 3 straight, and 4 of the past 5 outings.

The Packers have picked up 4 wins in the past 5 games, including a 30-13 road victory against the Seattle Seahawks last week. Green Bay has covered 4 in a row, while the Under has cashed in 2 of the past 3 games, and 4 of the previous 6 outings. The Under is also 6-3-1 in the past 10 outings.

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Saints at Packers odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NFL odds. Lines last updated Sunday at 6:57 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Saints +625 (bet $100 to win $625) | Packers -1000 (bet $1,000 to win $100)
Against the spread: Saints +14 (-110) | Packers -14 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 42.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Saints at Packers key injuries

Saints

QB Derek Carr (hand) out
RB Alvin Kamara (groin) out
WR Bub Means (ankle) out
WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling (chest, illness) questionable
WR Chris Olave (head) out

Packers

CB Jaire Alexander (knee) questionable
CB Corey Ballentine (knee) questionable
S Javon Bullard (ankle) out
TE Luke Musgrave (ankle) questionable
LB Quay Walker (ankle) out
S Evan Williams (quadriceps) questionable

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Saints at Packers picks and predictions

Prediction

Packers 30, Saints 12

Moneyline

The Packers (-1000) will set you back 10 times your potential return, which is way too much risk for a standalone wager or as part of your multi-leg parlay. Betting such heavy favorites is not a recommended long-term betting strategy, especially in the NFL.

PASS.

Against the spread

The PACKERS -14 (-110) are worth a look in the cold in Green Bay.

The Saints +14 (-110) are banged up, playing without Carr, Kamara and potentially Valdes-Scantling, who has been the team’s most effective receiver lately. It’s hard to envision where the scoring is going to come from for New Orleans.

The Packers are still jockeying for seeding in the upcoming NFC playoffs, so they’ll have their foot on the gas, taking advantage of a beaten up and beleaguered opponent.

Over/Under

UNDER 42.5 (-110) is the lean, but go with a half-unit play at most.

There is a concern that the Packers could to do most of the heavy lifting against this banged up Saints squad. It’s not hard to see Green Bay getting well into the 30s. But, where will the points come from for New Orleans?

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LA Rams at New York Jets odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Los Angeles Rams at New York Jets odds and lines, with expert NFL picks and predictions.

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The LA Rams (8-6) visit the New York Jets (4-10) Sunday for a Week 16 showdown at MetLife Stadium. Kickoff from East Rutherford, N.J., is set for 1 p.m. ET (CBS). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s NFL odds around the Rams vs. Jets odds, and make our expert NFL picks and predictions.

The Rams have won 3 games in a row, putting themselves in great position to make a playoff run in January. They are tied for first place in the NFC West with the Seattle Seahawks — though the Rams own the tiebreaker thanks to a head-to-head win, but they play again in Week 18. LA is coming off a 12-6 victory as a 2.5-point underdog at the San Francisco 49ers in the Week 15 Thursday night game — the Under (48.5) easily cashed.

The Jets snapped a 4-game losing streak last Sunday by beating the Jacksonville Jaguars 32-25 as 3-point road favorites. New York finished with 400 total yards, the second straight week of 400 yards or more. The win was a nice bounce-back following a disappointing overtime 32-26 loss at the Miami Dolphins in Week 14.

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Rams at Jets odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NFL odds. Lines last updated at 1:22 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Rams -165 (bet $165 to win $100) | Jets +140 (bet $100 to win $140)
Against the spread (ATS): Rams -3 (-110) | Jets +3 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 46.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Rams at Jets key injuries

Rams

None

Jets

RB Braelon Allen (back) questionable
CB Michael Carter II (back) out
OL Alijah Vera-Tucker (ankle) questionable
DL Quinnen Williams (hamstring) questionable

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Rams at Jets picks and predictions

Prediction

Rams 24, Jets 20

Moneyline

The Rams (-165) have been playing much better as of late, winning a 44-42 shootout against the Buffalo Bills in Week 14 before beating the 49ers 12-6 four days later.

The Jets (+140) are coming off a win over the Jaguars and have gained 400-plus yards in back-to-back weeks, but they’re still one of the weaker teams in the league.

Given the Rams’ volatility from week to week this season, they’re not worth taking on the ML at -165. PASS.

Against the spread

In their last 8 games, the Rams are 6-2 ATS. The Jets are a paltry 5-9 ATS on the season, including 3-7 ATS in the last 10 games.

Even with the number of one-possession games the Rams play, they’re still a good bet to cover the spread.

The spread is sitting at the key number of -3, so it’s not a bad idea to take the Rams now before the line moves up to -3.5.

BET RAMS -3 (-110) to cover the spread in their fourth straight game.

Over/Under

With the kickoff temperature projected to be around 24 degrees with 8 mph winds, colder conditions could make throwing the ball a bit more difficult. As a result, both teams could turn more toward their rushing attack, something the Rams have done in each of the last 2 weeks; RB Kyren Williams has 29 carries in back-to-back games.

The Jets’ passing attack isn’t prolific right now despite having talented receivers, so we could see the final score be lower than anticipated.

BET UNDER 46.5 (-110).

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Winner winner chicken dinner: NFL parlay for Week 16

Analyzing NFL Week 16 betting odds and lines, with predictions and picks for the best parlay bet to make.

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After a decent Thursday night game and a couple of Saturday contests, there isn’t a full slate Sunday in Week 16 of the NFL season. It’s similar to bye weeks in the past, but there are some very intriguing games.

Our parlay went 2-0 on the Sunday portion of the schedule in Week 15. The Cincinnati Bengals (-6) picked up a high-scoring road win and cover at the Tennessee Titans, 37-27. It looks like a narrow cover, but the Bengals were up 16 with 1:09 left in regulation before a Titans TD with zeroes on the clock.

The second leg of last week’s parlay had the Denver Broncos (-4.5) picking up an easier cover with a 31-13 home win against the Indianapolis Colts. It was an unforced error by the Colts that seemed to turn the tide. With Indy ahead 13-7 lead early in the third quarter, Colts RB Jonathan Taylor appeared to score a 41-yard rushing touchdown that would have crushed our Broncos (-4.5) play. However, Taylor dropped the ball at the 1-yard line before crossing the goal. After that miscue, it was all Denver.

In the Monday nighter, we put trust in the Chicago Bears (+7) and rookie QB Caleb Williams. That was a huge miscalculation as Chicago was pounded 30-12 in Minneapolis. The Bears lost to the Minnesota Vikings 30-27 in overtime in their first head-to-head meeting of the season, but this one was never close.

As we head into Week 16, let’s get back on track and build that bankroll for the upcoming holidays.

After looking at BetMGM Sportsbook’s NFL Week 16 odds, here is our “Winner winner chicken dinner” NFL parlay bet to cash in on among SportsbookWire’s NFL expert picks and predictions.

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Winner winner chicken dinner NFL parlay

WEEK 16

Odds provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NFL odds. Lines last updated Saturday at 11:38 p.m. ET. All games Sunday and ET.

Leg 1: EAGELS -3.5 (-110) at Commanders – 1 p.m. (FOX)

The Philadelphia Eagles (12-2) visit the Washington Commanders (9-5) in an early-window game near the nation’s capital in Week 16.

While the Eagles have clinched a playoff berth, they’re jockeying for home-field advantage and that bonus first-round bye in the NFC playoffs. The Detroit Lions and Vikings are also 12-2, so the Eagles need to keep their foot on the gas.

Philly can also lock up the NFC East Division title with the victory Sunday. The Eagles took care of the Commanders 26-18 as 4.5-point favorites in the Week 11 Thursday Night Football game. It was a rare Philadelphia cover in this series, as it is just 2-5-2 against the spread (ATS) in the past 9 meetings since Sept. 13, 2020. So, there is some risk here.

The Eagles have been passing test after test against playoff-bound teams lately. They beat the Commanders in Week 11, won at the LA Rams 37-20 in Week 12, edged the Baltimore Ravens on the road, 24-19 in Week 13 and roughed up the Pittsburgh Steelers 27-13 last week in Philly. The only team the Eagles had trouble with in their last 6 games came against the already-eliminated Carolina Panthers in Week 14 with a narrow 22-16 home win.

The Eagles seem to play to the level of the competition, so feel good about laying the points in this road contest.

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Leg 2: RAMS -3 (-110) at Jets – 1 p.m. (CBS)

The LA Rams (8-6) visit the New York Jets (4-10) in a another cross-country battle.

After going 0-2 straight up (SU) and against the spread (ATS) in the first two trips east of the Mississippi River — losses at the Lions and Bears — the Rams have won the past two trips.

In Week 11, the Rams went to chilly Foxborough and won 28-22 as 4-point favorites at the New England Patriots. Two weeks later, the Rams won 21-14 as 2.5-point favorites at the New Orleans Saints.

The Jets showed a little spunk at the Jacksonville Jaguars last week in a 32-25 win as 3-point favorites, covering their second game in a row — both on the road. However, at home, Gang Green has lost the past 2 games — to the Seattle Seahawks (26-21 in Week 13) and Colts (28-27 in Week 11), 2 teams with playoff aspirations.

The Rams are a good football team with 2 dangerous receivers and a top-tier running back. The Jets are a team with a still dangerous offense, but also a team which is just playing out the string. New York is just 3-8 ATS in the past 11 games.

Feel confident backing the Rams on the road.

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Leg 3: CARDINALS -5 (-110) at Panthers – 1 p.m. (FOX)

The Arizona Cardinals (7-7) meet the Carolina Panthers (3-11) at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.

The Cardinals are still very much in the mix in the NFC West Division despite a .500 record. Arizona topped the visiting Patriots 30-17 last week to cover as a 6-point favorite. The Cards are 6-2 ATS in the past 8 outings.

The Panthers have been a thorn in the side of teams lately, going 5-1 ATS in their past 6 contests. However, Carolina withered 30-14 as a 2.5-point home favorite against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 15.

Arizona has a dual-threat QB in Kyler Murray, a strong run game with RB James Conner and a solid TE in Trey McBride, who is still looking for his first receiving score of the season. The Cardinals offense is primed and ready for a huge week against a Panthers defense which struggles in areas Arizona is strongest.

PARLAY CARD

EAGLES -3.5 (-110) at Commanders
RAMS -3 (-110) at Jets
CARDINALS -5 (-110) at Cardinals

Parlay payout: Bet $10 to profit $59.58 (payout = $69.58).

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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New England Patriots at Buffalo Bills odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s New England Patriots at Buffalo Bills odds and lines, with expert NFL picks and predictions.

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The New England Patriots (3-11) and the Buffalo Bills (11-3) meet Sunday in a Week 16 game at Highmark Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:25 p.m. ET (CBS). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s NFL odds around the Patriots vs. Bills odds, and make our expert NFL picks and predictions.

The Patriots suffered a 30-17 loss at the Arizona Cardinals Dec. 15, failing to cover as 6-point underdogs while the Over (46) cashed. New England is 1-3 against the spread (ATS) in the past 4 games, while the Over has cashed in each outing. New England has allowed 25 or more points in each game.

The Bills outlasted the Detroit Lions 48-42 as a 2.5-point underdog in a marquee battle at Ford Field Sunday in Week 15 as the Over (55.5) cashed. Buffalo has won 6 of the past 7 games, while going 4-1 ATS in the past 5 and 7-2 across the previous 9 outings.

The Over is on a 5-0-1 run for the Bills, while going 7-1-1 in the past 9 outings. Buffalo is averaging 45.0 points per game (PPG) in the past 2 games, while allowing 43.0 PPG in the span. The Bills have 30+ points in 8 consecutive games, tying an NFL record.

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Patriots at Bills odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NFL odds. Lines last updated Saturday at 11 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Patriots +650 (bet $100 to win $650) | Bills -1000 (bet $1,000 to win $100)
Against the spread: Patriots +14 (-110) | Bills -14 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 46.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Patriots at Bills key injuries

Patriots

S Kyle Dugger (ankle, illness) questionable
RB JaMycal Hasty (ankle) out
CB Marcus Jones (hip) out
FS Jabrill Peppers (hamstring) questionable
OG Cole Strange (knee) questionable
OT Caedan Wallace (ankle) out
DE Keion White (groin) questionable

Bills

CB Rasul Douglas (knee) questionable
S Damar Hamlin (rib) questionable
LB Matt Milano (biceps, groin) questionable
S Taylor Rapp (neck) questionable
WR Curtis Samuel (rib) questionable
LB Baylon Spector (calf) questionable
LB Dorian Williams (elbow) questionable

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Patriots at Bills picks and predictions

Prediction

Bills 36, Patriots 16

Moneyline

The Bills (-1000) will cost you 10 times your potential return, and that’s way too much risk for not nearly enough reward. If you want to risk $100 for every $10 in profit, that’s your prerogative, but it’s not a recommended betting strategy over the long term.

PASS.

Against the spread

The BILLS -14 (-110) have wrapped up the AFC East title, but they’re still technically in the mix for the No. 1 overall seed for the playoffs. And, Buffalo is aiming for NFL history with a ninth consecutive game with 30 or more points. It should be able to win in Week 16 to stay in the mix for the top seed depending upon what the Kansas City Chiefs do.

The Patriots +14 (-110) have been pesky, playing 4 one-score games in the past 7 outings. However, New England is just 1-3 ATS in the past 4 outings, and it is 0-2 ATS in the past 2 tries as an underdog of 7.5 or higher.

Over/Under

OVER 46.5 (-110) is worth a look in this AFC East battle.

The Over has connected in 4 in a row for the Patriots, with New England allowing 25 or more points in each outing. And, as mentioned, the Bills have scored 30+ in each of the past 8 outings. The Bills could do most of the heavy lifting to get this one across the line.

And, if you were concerned about weather, there won’t be any precipitation in the forecast, although temperatures will be frigid and in the teens. That shouldn’t slow down 2 northern teams, however.

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

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Arizona Cardinals at Carolina Panthers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Arizona Cardinals at Carolina Panthers odds and lines, with expert NFL picks and predictions.

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The Arizona Cardinals (7-7) and the Carolina Panthers (3-11) meet Sunday in a Week 16 game at Bank of America Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET (FOX). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s NFL odds around the Cardinals vs. Panthers odds, and make our expert NFL picks and predictions.

The Cardinals have managed to win just once in the past 4 games on the road, although Arizona is a respectable 4-2 against the spread (ATS) away from home this season.

Arizona scored a 30-17 win over the New England Patriots as a 6-point favorite as the Over (46) just came in last Sunday. It was the highest scoring total since a 41-10 win in Week 2 against the LA Rams.

Carolina suffered a 30-14 loss to the visiting Dallas Cowboys last Sunday, halting a 5-game cover streak. Since a 20-17 OT win against the New York Giants in Munich, Germany in Week 10, the Panthers have dropped 4 in a row. The Over is 3-1 in the past 4 games, and 5-2 across the past 7 outings.

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Cardinals at Panthers odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NFL odds. Lines last updated Saturday at 10:39 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Cardinals -250 (bet $250 to win $100) | Panthers +190 (bet $100 to win $190)
Against the spread (ATS): Cardinals -5 (-110) | Panthers +5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 47 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Cardinals at Panthers key injuries

Cardinals

RB Trey Benson (ankle) out
OG Evan Brown (neck) questionable
RB DeeJay Dallas (illness) questionable
OL Paris Johnson Jr. (knee) out
CB Elijah Jones (ankle) out
DL Roy Lopez (ankle) questionable
LB Jesse Luketa (thigh) out
CB Sean Murphy-Bunting (hand) questionable
PK Matt Prater (knee) out
LB Mack Wilson Sr. (concussion) out

Panthers

LB Jadeveon Clowney (illness, knee) questionable
WR Jalen Coker (quadriceps) questionable
OT Ikem Ekwonu (illness) questionable
OG Robert Hunt (illness) questionable
WR Xavier Legette (hip) out
WR David Moore (concussion) questionable
DE A’Shawn Robinson (knee) questionable

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
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Cardinals at Panthers picks and predictions

Prediction

Cardinals 30, Panthers 19

Moneyline

The Cardinals (-250) will cost you 2 1/2 times your potential return, and that’s a little on the risky side for a road team.

Arizona is 7-7 and battling for a division title, while Carolina is 3-11 and simply playing on the string. However, the Panthers have been very competitive lately, with 5 of the past 6 games decided by a single score, so it won’t be easy.

PASS.

Against the spread

The CARDINALS -5 (-110) are laying a rather moderate number on the road. However, the Cardinals have a dangerous dual-threat QB in Murray, and the Panthers +5 (-110) have had a devil of a time trying to stop the run this season.

Carolina ranks last in the NFL allowing 173.0 yards per game on the road, and it is also last in the league with 29.9 PPG allowed. Murray and Conner should have huge days in Charlotte.

Over/Under

OVER 47 (-110) is the lean, but go with a half-unit play at most.

The total has ended up going high in 3 of the past 4 games, while cashing at a 9-3 pace in the past 12 outings for Carolina. The Panthers defense has really struggled this season in all facets.

Arizona has hit high in the past 2 games, averaging 24.0 PPG on offense, with 23.5 PPG allowed on defense in the span.

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

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Cleveland Browns at Cincinnati Bengals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Cleveland Browns at Cincinnati Bengals odds and lines, with expert NFL picks and predictions.

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The Cleveland Browns (3-11) and the Cincinnati Bengals (6-8) meet Sunday in a Week 16 game at Paycor Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET (CBS). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s NFL odds around the Browns vs. Bengals odds, and make our expert NFL picks and predictions.

The Browns picked up a surprising 24-19 win in the snow over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday night in Week 13 as a big underdog. Cleveland also had an upset win over the Baltimore Ravens in Week 8, showing this is a team which can be dangerous. But, Cleveland has lost and failed to cover the past 3 outings.

The defense has struggled for Cleveland lately, allowing 89 points in the past 3 games, or 29.7 points per game (PPG). The offense has had trouble with turnovers, too, which is why coach Kevin Stefanski has elected to bench QB Jameis Winston, turning to QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson for his first start of the season.

The Bengals are still, technically, alive for a playoff spot. They cannot afford any additional losses, and even if Cincinnati wins out it might not be enough. The Bengals have back-to-back road wins and covers over the Dallas Cowboys and Tennessee Titans to stay alive.

These teams met in Cleveland back in Week 7, and the Bengals won 21-14 as a 5.5-point favorite as the Under (43) cashed.

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Browns at Bengals odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NFL odds. Lines last updated Saturday at 9:33 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Browns +350 (bet $100 to win $350) | Bengals -450 (bet $450 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Browns +9 (-110) | Bengals -9 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 47 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Browns at Bengals key injuries

Browns

CB Martin Emerson (concussion) questionable
DE Shelby Harris (elbow) out
TE David Njoku (hamstring) questionable
WR Cedric Tillman (concussion) questionable
QB Jameis Winston (shoulder) questionable

Bengals

OT Orlando Brown (fibula) questionable
OG Alex Cappa (concussion) questionable
DE Sam Hubbard (knee) out
TE Tanner Hudson (knee) out
WR Charlie Jones (groin) questionable
DT Sheldon Rankins (illness) out

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
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Browns at Bengals picks and predictions

Prediction

Bengals 29, Browns 16

Moneyline

The Bengals (-450) will cost you 4 1/2 times your potential return, and that’s way too much risk for not nearly enough reward, whether you pick them straight up or as part of a multi-leg parlay.

Yes, Cincinnati should pick up the victory against a depleted Browns (+350) team using their third-string quarterback in an evaluation process. However, Cleveland has proven to be a thorn in the side of favored divisional opponents this season.

PASS.

Against the spread

The BENGALS -9 (-110) is a big number for a divisional game, but again, the Browns +9 (-110) are playing out the string and starting a third-string QB. Cleveland’s offense lost RB Nick Chubb to a broken foot in the Kansas City game, too, and nothing seems to be going right for the Browns.

Cincinnati has great combination of QB Joe Burrow and WR Ja’Marr Chase, and that’s going to be a handful for the Cleveland defense.

Over/Under

UNDER 47.5 (-115) is worth a look. The concern is whether the Browns defense can slow this fast-paced Cincinnati pass defense. Cleveland’s offense can certainly be held down, but the Bengals have scored 27 or more points in 6 straight games, cashing the Over at a 6-1 pace in the past 7 outings.

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

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Alex’s best bet: New York Giants at Atlanta Falcons

SportsbookWire.com’s Alex White likes a total when in the New York Giants at Atlanta Falcons Week 16 NFL matchup.

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SportsbookWire.com’s Alex White is “really confident” in her best NFL bet for Week 16 when the New York Giants (2-12) visit the Atlanta Falcons (7-7) Sunday.

Kickoff from Mercedes-Benz Stadium is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET and will be televised on FOX. As of Saturday at 9:06 p.m. ET, BetMGM Sportsbook has the O/U line at 43 (Over: -110 | Under: -110).

Rookie QB Michael Penix Jr. will make his first start for the Falcons, who are 5-9 O/U on the season. The Giants, who will have QB Drew Lock under center, are also 5-9 O/U.

But is the Under what Alex likes as her best bet? Listen below to find out.

🏈Sunday’s best NFL bet 💰

Our @alexwhitee likes a 💰TOTAL💰 as her #NFL top play in Week 16. It involves the New York @Giants 🏈and the @AtlantaFalcons. 🏈Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. ET. What do you think? 🤔What is your 💸best bet💸? pic.twitter.com/ZERdzJWS1e

— SportsBookWire (@SportsBookWire) December 22, 2024

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Make sure to catch Alex on Sports By the Book Saturday 11 a.m.-noon ET, and Sunday through Wednesday noon-1 p.m. ET, and on Punch Lines every Monday and Wednesday 3 p.m.-4 p.m. ET — live from the South Point Sportsbook in Las Vegas. Follow @alexwhitee on Twitter/X.

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

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