Who to take in Week 16 in your NFL survivor pool

Breaking down the best strategies of how to win your NFL survivor pool as the season continues into Week 16.

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Favorites went 12-4 straight up (SU) in Week 15. The Buffalo Bills, Dallas Cowboys, LA Rams and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were the underdogs that picked up outright victories.

The Bills won at the Detroit Lions 48-42, the Cowboys topped the Carolina Panthers 30-14 and the Rams out-uglied the San Francisco 49ers 12-6 Thursday night — all 3 winning teams were 2.5-point road underdogs. The Bucs, 3-point road underdogs, roughed up the LA Chargers 40-17.

The Bills (AFC East), Houston Texans (AFC South), and Pittsburgh Steelers (AFC North) have clinched division titles. while no division has been claimed in the NFC just yet. Keep that in mind as some teams will have more to play for in these upcoming games.

For the second consecutive week, no one was eliminated from the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool contest. Fifteen entries — out of 10,357 — remain, hoping to win the $5,000 prize. Breaking down the Week 15 selections, 7 advanced with the Baltimore Ravens (35-14 win at the New York Giants), 3 moved on with the Arizona Cardinals (30-17 home win vs. the New England Patriots), 2 picked the Cincinnati Bengals (37-27 victory at the Tennessee Titans), 2 had the Minnesota Vikings (30-12 home win vs. Chicago Bears Monday night) and 1 survived with the Dallas Cowboys (the 30-14 win at Panthers).

We were also on the Cardinals for our top option in Week 15 as they covered the spread as a 6-point favorites.

Our second option was the Ravens, a team that was the heaviest favorite (-16.5) this season so far. Baltimore fired out to a 21-7 lead at halftime, and 28-7 lead after 45 minutes. The host Giants were never able to get within arm’s length.

The Week 16 schedule has 6 teams favored by 6.5 or more points. The Bills (-14 vs. Patriots, Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET) and Green Bay Packers (-14.5 home vs. New Orleans Saints, Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET) are the 2 biggest favorites on the board.

Follow the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool.

– All games ET unless noted.

The pick: Buffalo Bills

Who they play: Home vs. New England Patriots – Sunday, 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

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 Thursday at 6:33 p.m. ET.

  • Line: Bills -14 / Moneyline (ML): Bills -1000 | Patriots +650

The Bills (11-3) host the Patriots (3-11) in Sunday’s late window in what should be downright frigid at Highmark Stadium. There is a very minimal chance of precipitation, but the forecast calls for mostly cloudy skies with temperatures at kickoff around 15 degrees, slipping to 11 degrees by the end of the game. Luckily for the passing games, winds will only be 3-5 MPH.

This is the first of 2 meetings between the AFC East rivals this season. They’ll face off at New England in Week 18 a few days after New Year’s Day.

Surprisingly, these teams split their 2 games last season, so there is some risk Sunday despite Buffalo being installed as a 14-point favorite. The Patriots covered both meetings last season as the Bills only outscored them 52-50 in the 2 games. In fact, QB Josh Allen completed just 59.2% of his passes for 434 yards with 2 TDs and 2 picks, along with 3 rushing TDs in the 2 games.

Still, the Patriots are on a 4-game slide, while averaging just 19.5 points per game (PPG) and allowing 25 or more points in each of the 4 losses.

BUFFALO IS MY FAVORITE SURVIVOR PLAY OF WEEK 16.

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
Live games, analysis and more 7 days a week: Get ESPN+

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No. 2 option: Green Bay Packers

Who they play: Home vs. New Orleans Saints – Monday, 8:15 p.m. (ABC / ESPN)

  • Line: Packers -14.5 / ML: Packers -1000 | Saints +650

The Packers (10-4) are still in the mix for the NFC North Division title, but time is ticking. With 3 games remaining, Green Bay is 2 games back of the Lions and Vikings, who are both 12-2 and have clinched playoff berths.

The Saints limp into Lambeau with QB Spencer Rattler expected to make a second consecutive start with QB Derek Carr (hand, concussion) likely out the of the season. To make matters worse, RB Alvin Kamara suffered an adductor injury in Week 15, and he is a question mark for Monday night.

If the Saints are rolling with Rattler and RB Kendre Miller (46 yards on 9 carries in Week 15) with no Kamara, the Saints don’t have a prayer, pun intended. Even if Kamara can play, it’s going to be a tall order.

Worse news for the Saints, there’s a 40% chance of snow showers expected by kickoff. However, the precipitation should taper off shortly before halftime if the forecast holds true.

2024 survivor game log

NO. 1 OPTION

Week 1: LOSS – Patriots 16, Bengals 10
Week 2: LOSS – Falcons 22, Eagles 21
Week 3: LOSS – Panthers 36, Raiders 22
Week 4: WIN
– 49ers 30, Patriots 13
Week 5: LOSS – Giants 29, Seahawks 20

Week 6: WIN – Eagles 20, Browns 16
Week 7: WIN – Commanders 40, Panthers 7
Week 8: LOSS – Browns 29, Ravens 24
Week 9: WIN
– Chiefs 30, Buccaneers 24 (OT)
Week 10: WIN – Vikings 12, Jaguars 7

Week 11: WIN – Lions 52, Jaguars 6
Week 12: LOSS – Titans 32, Texans 27
Week 13: WIN
– Broncos 41, Browns 32
Week 14: WIN – Buccaneers 28, Raiders 13
Week 15: WIN – Cardinals 30, Patriots 17

NO. 2 OPTION

Week 1: WIN – Saints 47, Panthers 10
Week 2: WIN – Chargers 26, Panthers 3
Week 3: LOSS – Giants 21, Browns 15
Week 4: WIN
– Cowboys 20, Giants 15
Week 5: WIN – Commanders 34, Browns 13

Week 6: WIN – Falcons 38, Panthers 20
Week 7: WIN – Bills 34, Titans 10
Week 8: WIN – Lions 52, Titans 14
Week 9: WIN – Eagles 28, Jaguars 23
Week 10: WIN – Chargers 27, Titans 17

Week 11: WIN – Texans 34, Cowboys 10
Week 12: WIN – Chiefs 30, Panthers 27
Week 13: WIN – Buccaneers 26, Panthers 23 (OT)
Week 14: WIN – Steelers 27, Browns 14
Week 15: WIN – Ravens 35, Giants 14

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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.

Access more NFL coverage:
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Who to take in Week 15 in your NFL survivor pool

Breaking down the best strategies of how to win your NFL survivor pool as the season continues into Week 15.

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In Week 14 of the NFL regular season, favorites went 10-3 straight up. The Jacksonville Jaguars (+3 at Titans), LA Rams (+3.5 vs. Bills) and Seattle Seahawks (+3 at Cardinals) were the underdog to be victorious outright.

The Pittsburgh Steelers joined the 10-win club, which now stands at 6 teams, with a comfortable 27-14 victory over the visiting Cleveland Browns.

We still have 15 entries — of 10,357 — remaining in the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool contest, hoping to win the $5,000 prize. Nobody was eliminated in Week 14, as 7 players chose the Steelers, 5 selected the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 2 chose the Philadelphia Eagles and the last selected the New Orleans Saints.

We also selected the Buccaneers with the top option in Week 14, and they coasted past the skidding Las Vegas Raiders 28-13. The Bucs piled up 420 total yards and QB Baker Mayfield threw for 3 TDs, while the Silver and Black managed just 286 total yards.

Our second option was the Steelers, and they exacted revenge for a Week 12 road loss against the Browns. Pittsburgh picked up the 27-14 victory over Cleveland, as the Steelers were plus-2 in the turnover department, and the Browns had a pair of missed field goals. That was really the difference.

The Week 15 slate features 3 teams favored by 7 or more points, including the Baltimore Ravens (-16 vs. New York Giants, 1 p.m. ET), who are the largest favorites of the 2024 season against any opponent.

Follow the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool.

– All games Sunday and ET unless noted

The pick: Arizona Cardinals

Who they play: Home vs. New England Patriots – 4:25 p.m. (CBS)

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 Thursday at 7:28 p.m. ET.

  • Line: Cardinals -6 / Moneyline (ML): Cardinals -250 | Patriots +200

The Arizona Cardinals (6-7) host the New England Patriots (3-10) in the desert, as the Cards are looking to stay in the hunt for the NFC West Division title, or at least a Wild Card in the NFC.

The Cardinals have dropped 3 in a row, so there is definitely some risk here. However, on our end, we’ve taken the top 3 favorites — the Commanders, Ravens and Vikings — previously, so Arizona is the next best option.

The Patriots have also dropped 3 in a row, although 2 of those losses are in 1-score games. This is a tricky and dangerous spot, but that’s how it gets in the later weeks of survivor. All you have to do is pick a winner, and it doesn’t matter if it is pretty.

ARIZONA IS MY FAVORITE SURVIVOR PLAY OF WEEK 15.

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
Live games, analysis and more 7 days a week: Get ESPN+

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No. 2 option: Baltimore Ravens

Who they play: At New York Giants – 1 p.m. (CBS)

  • Line: Ravens -16 / ML: Ravens -1400 | Giants +800

The Ravens (8-5) are the largest favorites of the season, and if I were considering laying these points against the New York Giants (2-11), I’d probably end up shying away. Yes, the G-Men are horrible. Yes, they’re going back to QB Tommy DeVito due to the injury to QB Drew Lock. But, a double-digit favorite on the road in the NFL is never a sure thing.

However, Baltimore should be able to easily get the job done straight up. We don’t need a cover, we just need a win.

Look at it this way…who would you rather have? Lamar Jackson or DeVito?

2024 survivor game log

NO. 1 OPTION

Week 1: LOSS – Patriots 16, Bengals 10
Week 2: LOSS – Falcons 22, Eagles 21
Week 3: LOSS – Panthers 36, Raiders 22
Week 4: WIN
– 49ers 30, Patriots 13
Week 5: LOSS – Giants 29, Seahawks 20

Week 6: WIN – Eagles 20, Browns 16
Week 7: WIN – Commanders 40, Panthers 7
Week 8: LOSS – Browns 29, Ravens 24
Week 9: WIN
– Chiefs 30, Buccaneers 24 (OT)
Week 10: WIN – Vikings 12, Jaguars 7

Week 11: WIN – Lions 52, Jaguars 6
Week 12: LOSS – Titans 32, Texans 27
Week 13: WIN
– Broncos 41, Browns 32
Week 14: WIN – Buccaneers 28, Raiders 13

WIN YOUR FANTASY FOOTBALL LEAGUE!
The Huddle has been turning players like you into winners for over 25 years. This season, it’s your turn. Custom fantasy football rankings, sleepers and tools are just a click away. Save 25% off the Internet’s best-kept secret. Subscribe now!

NO. 2 OPTION

Week 1: WIN – Saints 47, Panthers 10
Week 2: WIN – Chargers 26, Panthers 3
Week 3: LOSS – Giants 21, Browns 15
Week 4: WIN
– Cowboys 20, Giants 15
Week 5: WIN – Commanders 34, Browns 13

Week 6: WIN – Falcons 38, Panthers 20
Week 7: WIN – Bills 34, Titans 10
Week 8: WIN – Lions 52, Titans 14
Week 9: WIN – Eagles 28, Jaguars 23
Week 10: WIN – Chargers 27, Titans 17

Week 11: WIN – Texans 34, Cowboys 10
Week 12: WIN – Chiefs 30, Panthers 27
Week 13: WIN – Buccaneers 26, Panthers 23 (OT)
Week 14: WIN – Steelers 27, Browns 14

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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.

Access more NFL coverage:
BetFTW | TheHuddle Fantasy Football | BearsWire | BengalsWire | BillsWire | BroncosWire | BrownsWire | BucsWire | CardsWire | ChargersWire | ChiefsWire | ColtsWire | CommandersWire | CowboysWire | DolphinsWire | EaglesWire | FalconsWire | GiantsWire | JaguarsWire | JetsWire | LionsWire | NinersWire | PackersWire | PanthersWire | PatriotsWire | RaidersWire | RamsWire | RavensWire | SaintsWire | SeahawksWire | SteelersWire | TexansWireTitansWire | VikingsWire | DraftWire | TouchdownWire | ListWire

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Who to take in Week 14 in your NFL survivor pool

Breaking down the best strategies of how to win your NFL survivor pool as the season continues into Week 14.

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In Week 13 of the NFL regular season, favorites ended up going 13-3 straight up. The Philadelphia Eagles (+3 at Ravens), Pittsburgh Steelers. (+3 at Bengals) and Seattle Seahawks. (+1.5 at Jets) were the underdogs to win outright.

The Eagles, Buffalo Bills and Minnesota Vikings won their 10th games of the season — each at 10-2. They joined the 2 other double-digit wins club — the Detroit Lions and Kansas City Chiefs (11-1). The Lions improved to 12-1 with a 34-31 Thursday night home win vs. the Green Bay Packers.

If you still have one or more of those double-digit win teams remaining, congrats.

Just 15 entries — of 10,357 — remain in the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool contest, hoping to win the $5,000 prize. Only 1 entry was eliminated last week after picking the Cincinnati Bengals, who lost 44-38 at home to the Steelers.

We made it through in Week 13 with the Denver Broncos on Monday Night Football. They won a crazy, high-scoring 41-32 game at home against the Cleveland Browns despite QB Jameis Winston throwing for 497 passing yards with 4 TDs … but he had 3 interceptions, 2 of the pick-six variety.

Our second option in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers needed an overtime field goal to win at the Carolina Panthers. That’s back-to-back weeks that our second option was a bit nerve-wracking, both times picking against the Panthers, who made us sweat before they lost both contests on walk-off field goals.

On the Week 14 slate, the Panthers are easily the largest underdog as they’re getting 13 points when they visit the Eagles Sunday at 1 p.m. ET. The next biggest favorites are the Steelers (-6.5 vs. Browns, 1 p.m. ET) and the Bucs (-6.5 vs. Las Vegas Raiders, 1 p.m. ET).

Follow the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool.

– All games Sunday and ET unless noted

The pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Who they play: Home vs. Las Vegas Raiders – 1 p.m. (CBS)

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 Friday at 7:59 a.m. ET.

  • Line: Buccaneers -6.5 / Moneyline (ML): Buccaneers -300 | Raiders +240

The Buccaneers (6-6) enter on a 2-game win streak after losing 4 in a row. The Raiders (2-10) are on an 8-game slide, but one of their 2 wins this season was a 26-23 victory as 8.5-point underdogs at the Baltimore Ravens. So, there is some risk here in picking Tampa Bay..

There is also the fact that the Buccaneers are just a 2-4 at home this season, including losses in the last 3 — to the San Francisco 49ers (23-20 in Week 10), to the Atlanta Falcons (31-26 in Week 8) and to the Ravens (41-31 in Week 7).

The Bucs haven’t won at home since Week 4 against a banged-up Eagles side. Of course, Tampa was missing WR Mike Evans for most of those games due to injury, so QB Baker Mayfield had very few quality targets.

Still, the Raiders don’t have much to play for, while the Bucs are battling for first place in the NFC South — they are tied with the Falcons at 6-6 apiece..

TAMPA BAY IS MY FAVORITE SURVIVOR PLAY OF WEEK 14.

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
Live games, analysis and more 7 days a week: Get ESPN+

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No. 2 option: Pittsburgh Steelers

Who they play: Home vs. Cleveland Browns – 1 p.m. (CBS)

  • Line: Steelers -6.5 / ML: Steelers -275 | Browns +225

The Steelers (9-3) are looking for a little bit of revenge when the Browns (3-9) visit to Acrisure Stadium Sunday.

It was just 2 weeks ago — in the Week 12 Thursday night game — when the Browns upset the Steelers 24-19 in the snow in Cleveland. The Browns were 3.5-point underdogs, and it’s the Steelers’ only loss in their past 7 games.

It’s hard to beat a division rival twice, especially when it’s not a very good team. The Browns are not very good and they have traditionally struggled in Pittsburgh, too.

Back QB Russell Wilson and Steelers to avenge the Week 12 loss this Sunday.

2024 survivor game log

NO. 1 OPTION

Week 1: LOSS – Patriots 16, Bengals 10
Week 2: LOSS – Falcons 22, Eagles 21
Week 3: LOSS – Panthers 36, Raiders 22
Week 4: WIN
– 49ers 30, Patriots 13
Week 5: LOSS – Giants 29, Seahawks 20

Week 6: WIN – Eagles 20, Browns 16
Week 7: WIN – Commanders 40, Panthers 7
Week 8: LOSS – Browns 29, Ravens 24
Week 9: WIN
– Chiefs 30, Buccaneers 24 (OT)
Week 10: WIN – Vikings 12, Jaguars 7

Week 11: WIN – Lions 52, Jaguars 6
Week 12: LOSS – Titans 32, Texans 27
Week 13: WIN
– Broncos 41, Browns 32

WIN YOUR FANTASY FOOTBALL LEAGUE!
The Huddle has been turning players like you into winners for over 25 years. This season, it’s your turn. Custom fantasy football rankings, sleepers and tools are just a click away. Save 25% off the Internet’s best-kept secret. Subscribe now!

NO. 2 OPTION

Week 1: WIN – Saints 47, Panthers 10
Week 2: WIN – Chargers 26, Panthers 3
Week 3: LOSS – Giants 21, Browns 15
Week 4: WIN
– Cowboys 20, Giants 15
Week 5: WIN – Commanders 34, Browns 13

Week 6: WIN – Falcons 38, Panthers 20
Week 7: WIN – Bills 34, Titans 10
Week 8: WIN – Lions 52, Titans 14
Week 9: WIN – Eagles 28, Jaguars 23
Week 10: WIN – Chargers 27, Titans 17

Week 11: WIN – Texans 34, Cowboys 10
Week 12: WIN – Chiefs 30, Panthers 27
Week 13: WIN – Buccaneers 26, Panthers 23 (OT)

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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.

Access more NFL coverage:
BetFTW | TheHuddle Fantasy Football | BearsWire | BengalsWire | BillsWire | BroncosWire | BrownsWire | BucsWire | CardsWire | ChargersWire | ChiefsWire | ColtsWire | CommandersWire | CowboysWire | DolphinsWire | EaglesWire | FalconsWire | GiantsWire | JaguarsWire | JetsWire | LionsWire | NinersWire | PackersWire | PanthersWire | PatriotsWire | RaidersWire | RamsWire | RavensWire | SaintsWire | SeahawksWire | SteelersWire | TexansWireTitansWire | VikingsWire | DraftWire | TouchdownWire | ListWire

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Who to take in Week 13 in your NFL survivor pool

Breaking down the best strategies of how to win your NFL survivor pool as the season continues into Week 13.

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Four underdogs won outright in Week 12 of the NFL regular season. Three of them — Cleveland Browns (+3.5 vs. Pittsburgh), Dallas Cowboys (+10.5 at Washington) and Tennessee Titans. (+8 at Houston) — were underdogs of 3.5 or more points.

The Detroit Lions and Kansas City Chiefs each improved to 10-1. The Lions won 24-6 at Indy, while the Chiefs bounced back after a Week 11 loss at the Buffalo Bills with a 30-27 escape at the suddenly dangerous Carolina Panthers.

Just 16 entries — of 10,357 — remain in the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool contest, hoping to win the $5,000 prize after 10 were bumped off in Week 12.

We were bitten by the Titans as we selected the Houston Texans with our No. 1 option last week.  Our second option survived with the Chiefs, although it was tied late in the fourth quarter. It took a Spencer Shrader field goal as time expired to get us the W.

Looking ahead to Week 13, we have 3 Thursday games for the Thanksgiving holiday, including the Lions, a 9.5-point home favorite vs. the Chicago Bears. On Friday, the Chiefs are favored by 13 points at home against the Las Vegas Raiders.

On the Sunday slate, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-6 at Panthers, 4:05 p.m. ET) and Bills (-7 at home vs. the San Francisco 49ers, 8:20 p.m. ET) are the largest favorites, while the Denver Broncos are favored by 5.5 points over the visiting Browns Monday.

Follow the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool.

– All games Sunday and ET unless noted

The pick: Denver Broncos

Who they play: Home vs. Cleveland Browns – 8:15 p.m. (ESPN)

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 Wednesday at 8:31 p.m. ET.

  • Line: Broncos -5.5 / Moneyline (ML): Broncos -250 | Browns +200

The Broncos (7-5) welcome the Browns (3-8) to Empower Field at Mile High Monday night.

We were reminded, yet again, that nothing is a sure thing, as the first-place Steelers left Cleveland with a loss last Thursday in the snow, even though the Browns entered with just 2 wins on the season.

So, there is always risk, but we’re banking on the Browns not being able to piece together back-to-back wins. It hasn’t happened at any point this season for Cleveland.

Meanwhile, the Broncos have dominated the all-time series vs. the Browns 25-7, including 3-0 in the playoffs. Over the last 15 meetings since 1991, Denver has won 13 of the past 15.

Cleveland did win 17-16 in Denver Dec. 15, 2018. That win was with QB Baker Mayfield hitting WR Antonio Callaway with the go-ahead score early in the fourth quarter. WR Breshad Perriman also had a score in that game for the Browns as they bested QB Case Keenum and the Broncos.

So, yeah, it’s been a while since the Browns have beaten the Broncos in Denver. The personnel is completely different on both sides, and Broncos rookie QB Bo Nix looks totally legit for the home side.

DENVER IS MY FAVORITE SURVIVOR PLAY OF WEEK 13.

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
Live games, analysis and more 7 days a week: Get ESPN+

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No. 2 option: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Who they play: At Carolina Panthers – 4:05 p.m. (FOX)

  • Line: Buccaneers -6 / ML: Buccaneers -275 | Panthers +210

The Buccaneers (5-6) enter with a losing record and they’re on the road. That’s the risk. But, for our second option, we’ve already used the Bills and Chiefs, the 2 largest favorites on the board.

Other teams we considered were the Commanders and Texans, but we’ve used each of them since Week 7, too. By this time, finding an attractive team you’ve yet to use is quite difficult.

We’ll play against the Panthers, but they’ve won 2 of the past 3 games, and QB Bryce Young led Carolina to bumping off QB Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs. Mayfield and the Bucs beat the Panthers 9-0 last season in Charlotte, so expect this to be a tight contest.

2024 survivor game log

NO. 1 OPTION

Week 1: LOSS – Patriots 16, Bengals 10
Week 2: LOSS – Falcons 22, Eagles 21
Week 3: LOSS – Panthers 36, Raiders 22
Week 4: WIN
– 49ers 30, Patriots 13
Week 5: LOSS – Giants 29, Seahawks 20

Week 6: WIN – Eagles 20, Browns 16
Week 7: WIN – Commanders 40, Panthers 7
Week 8: LOSS – Browns 29, Ravens 24
Week 9: WIN
– Chiefs 30, Buccaneers 24 (OT)
Week 10: WIN – Vikings 12, Jaguars 7

Week 11: WIN – Lions 52, Jaguars 6
Week 12: LOSS – Titans 32, Texans 27

WIN YOUR FANTASY FOOTBALL LEAGUE!
The Huddle has been turning players like you into winners for over 25 years. This season, it’s your turn. Custom fantasy football rankings, sleepers and tools are just a click away. Save 25% off the Internet’s best-kept secret. Subscribe now!

NO. 2 OPTION

Week 1: WIN – Saints 47, Panthers 10
Week 2: WIN – Chargers 26, Panthers 3
Week 3: LOSS – Giants 21, Browns 15
Week 4: WIN
– Cowboys 20, Giants 15
Week 5: WIN – Commanders 34, Browns 13

Week 6: WIN – Falcons 38, Panthers 20
Week 7: WIN – Bills 34, Titans 10
Week 8: WIN – Lions 52, Titans 14
Week 9: WIN – Eagles 28, Jaguars 23
Week 10: WIN – Chargers 27, Titans 17

Week 11: WIN – Texans 34, Cowboys 10
Week 12: WIN – Chiefs 30, Panthers 27

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

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.

Access more NFL coverage:
BetFTW | TheHuddle Fantasy Football | BearsWire | BengalsWire | BillsWire | BroncosWire | BrownsWire | BucsWire | CardsWire | ChargersWire | ChiefsWire | ColtsWire | CommandersWire | CowboysWire | DolphinsWire | EaglesWire | FalconsWire | GiantsWire | JaguarsWire | JetsWire | LionsWire | NinersWire | PackersWire | PanthersWire | PatriotsWire | RaidersWire | RamsWire | RavensWire | SaintsWire | SeahawksWire | SteelersWire | TexansWireTitansWire | VikingsWire | DraftWire | TouchdownWire | ListWire

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Who to take in Week 12 in your NFL survivor pool

Breaking down the best strategies of how to win your NFL survivor pool as the season continues into Week 12.

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In Week 11 of the NFL regular season, favorites went 10-4 straight up, with the Seattle Seahawks providing the largest upset as 6-point underdogs on the road against the San Francisco 49ers.

We also saw our last unbeaten team, the Kansas City Chiefs, fall on the road as slight underdogs at the Buffalo Bills. There is almost no chance anyone selected the Chiefs in a survivor pool despite their previously unblemished record.

In Week 11 of the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool contest, no more people were shown the door, leaving 26 of the 10,357 still alive for the prize of $5,000. However, on Thursday night in Week 12, the Pittsburgh Steelers cost 5 people in a snowy battle on the road against the Cleveland Browns.

We selected the Detroit Lions in Week 11 against the Jacksonville Jaguars, with the home side blasting the visitors 52-6 in one of the most stress-free victories of the entire NFL season for survivor players. QB Mac Jones continues to struggle as a replacement for the injured QB Trevor Lawrence (shoulder).

In the second option, on Monday Night Football, the Houston Texans were a risky play on the road, even against the struggling Dallas Cowboys and backup QB Cooper Rush. Houston, which won 34-10, fired out of the chute 14-0 in the opening quarter, and after just a 17-10 lead at halftime, the Texans outscored the Cowboys 17-0 in the final 30 minutes for the comfortable victory.

Scoping out the Week 12 slate, we have 7 favorites of 6 or more points, including a pair of double-digit favorites, including one divisional matchup.

Follow the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool.

– All games Sunday and ET unless noted

The pick: Houston Texans

Who they play: Home vs. Tennessee Titans – 1 p.m. (CBS)

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 Friday at 5:44 a.m. ET.

  • Line: Texans -8 / Moneyline (ML): Texans -450 | Titans +340

The Texans (7-4) host the stumbling Tennessee Titans (2-8) after thumping the Cowboys on national television Monday night. Yes, it is a short week, and yes, the Titans are a divisional opponent. Heck, we got a reminder Thursday from a 2-win Cleveland team that nothing is a certainty.

However, the Texans swept the Titans last season, including a 26-3 victory at NRG Stadium on New Year’s Eve as a 5.5-point favorite in a lower-scoring game. Tennessee has been held to 11.0 points per game (PPG) in the past 3 losses in this series.

Let’s roll with QB C.J. Stroud, who has WR Nico Collins back healthy, as Houston looks to solve a surprisingly solid Tennessee defense. The Titans have allowed just 278.0 total yards, and 164.6 passing yards, so this will be a closer shave than expected. However, Houston will eventually get the job done at home.

HOUSTON IS MY FAVORITE SURVIVOR PLAY OF WEEK 12.

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
Live games, analysis and more 7 days a week: Get ESPN+

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No. 2 option: Kansas City Chiefs

Who they play: At Carolina Panthers – 1 p.m. (CBS)

  • Line: Chiefs -11 / ML: Chiefs -700 | Panthers +500

The Chiefs are a road team, and we try to avoid options away from home if we can help it. However, Kansas City will be angry after suffering its first loss of the season against the Buffalo Bills.

The Chiefs are east of the Mississippi River for the second consecutive weekend, and they hope it goes better than last week. Of course, facing the Panthers and facing the Bills is just a little bit different. QB Patrick Mahomes will look to get back on track against a Chiefs defense allowing 386.9 total yards and 31.0 PPG.

As a favorite this season, Kansas City is perfect straight up (8-0) in 8 outings this season. It has won 10 in a row, including the postseason, when favored. The most recent setback was a 20-14 loss on Christmas Day last season as an 11-point favorite against the Las Vegas Raiders at Arrowhead.

Other(s) to consider

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: At New York Giants – 1 p.m. (CBS)

  • Line: Buccaneers -6 / ML: Buccaneers -6 (-105) | Giants +6 (-115)

Washington Commanders: Home vs. Dallas Cowboys – 1 p.m. (FOX)

  • Line: Commanders -10.5 / ML: Commanders -10.5 (-105) | Cowboys +10.5 (-115)

2024 survivor game log

NO. 1 OPTION

Week 1: LOSS – Patriots 16, Bengals 10
Week 2: LOSS – Falcons 22, Eagles 21
Week 3: LOSS – Panthers 36, Raiders 22
Week 4: WIN
– 49ers 30, Patriots 13
Week 5: LOSS – Giants 29, Seahawks 20

Week 6: WIN – Eagles 20, Browns 16
Week 7: WIN – Commanders 40, Panthers 7
Week 8: LOSS – Browns 29, Ravens 24
Week 9: WIN
– Chiefs 30, Buccaneers 24 (OT)
Week 10: WIN – Vikings 12, Jaguars 7

Week 11: WIN – Lions 52, Jaguars 6

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NO. 2 OPTION

Week 1: WIN – Saints 47, Panthers 10
Week 2: WIN – Chargers 26, Panthers 3
Week 3: LOSS – Giants 21, Browns 15
Week 4: WIN
– Cowboys 20, Giants 15
Week 5: WIN – Commanders 34, Browns 13

Week 6: WIN – Falcons 38, Panthers 20
Week 7: WIN – Bills 34, Titans 10
Week 8: WIN – Lions 52, Titans 14
Week 9: WIN – Eagles 28, Jaguars 23
Week 10: WIN – Chargers 27, Titans 17

Week 11: WIN – Texans 34, Cowboys 10

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

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.

Access more NFL coverage:
BetFTW | TheHuddle Fantasy Football | BearsWire | BengalsWire | BillsWire | BroncosWire | BrownsWire | BucsWire | CardsWire | ChargersWire | ChiefsWire | ColtsWire | CommandersWire | CowboysWire | DolphinsWire | EaglesWire | FalconsWire | GiantsWire | JaguarsWire | JetsWire | LionsWire | NinersWire | PackersWire | PanthersWire | PatriotsWire | RaidersWire | RamsWire | RavensWire | SaintsWire | SeahawksWire | SteelersWire | TexansWireTitansWire | VikingsWire | DraftWire | TouchdownWire | ListWire

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

Who to take in Week 11 in your NFL survivor pool

Breaking down the best strategies of how to win your NFL survivor pool as the season continues into Week 11.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

In Week 10 of the NFL regular season, things mostly went according to plan. In fact, we had just 5 underdogs win outright, and 3 of those teams were ‘dogs by 2 or fewer points.

If you picked against the Carolina Panthers in Germany against the New York Giants, or against the New England Patriots at the Chicago Bears, you were shown the door. Not that odds matter in survivor pools, but the Panthers were 6.5-underdogs, while the Patriots were 6-point ‘dogs.

In Week 10 of the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool contest, 7 more people were bumped off, leaving us with 26 of the 10,357 still alive for the prize of $5,000. The Bears eliminated 5 players, while the Giants caused another player to be eliminated. One other picked the Atlanta Falcons on the road against the New Orleans Saints.

As far as our 2 picks were concerned, the Minnesota Vikings weren’t pretty in Week 10, but they got the job done 12-7 on the road against the Jacksonville Jaguars. It is always dicey taking a road team, but the Jags were starting backup QB Mac Jones for the injured QB Trevor Lawrence (shoulder). Jones was awful, as expected, but so was the Minnesota offense.

With our other option, we backed the LA Chargers, using a tried-and-true strategy of picking against the Tennessee Titans. That’s been an ace lately.

Perusing the Week 11 slate, we have 6 teams favored by 6 or more points on Sunday and Monday, with 1 double-digit favorite, the Detroit Lions taking on the aforementioned Jags.

Follow the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool.

– Games Sunday and ET unless noted

The pick: Detroit Lions

Who they play: Home vs. Jacksonville Jaguars – 1 p.m. (CBS)

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NFL odds. Lines last updated Wednesday at 10:16 a.m. ET.

  • Line: Lions -13 / Moneyline (ML): Lions -800 | Jaguars +550

The Detroit Lions (8-1) host the Jacksonville Jaguars (2-8) on Sunday at Ford Field in the D, and the Lions are the largest favorite on the board, laying 13 points.

We’ve yet to back the Lions with our primary option this season, although we did burn them in Week 8 with our secondary option against the woeful Titans. The Lions were also a 13-point favorite against Tennessee in that game, and Detroit won comfortably by a 52-14 score in the most recent home game. In fact, the Lions have won 7 in a row since their lone loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers back in Week 2.

Conclusion: DETROIT IS MY TOP SURVIVOR PLAY IN WEEK 11.

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[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

No. 2 option: Houston Texans

Who they play: At Dallas Cowboys – 8:15 p.m. (ESPN)

  • Line: Texans -7.5 / ML: Texans -400 | Cowboys +310

The Houston Texans (6-4) are big favorites against the struggling Dallas Cowboys (3-6) for Monday Night Football.

The Cowboys will be without QB Dak Prescott for the remainder of the season due to a partially-torn hamstring, so QB Cooper Rush is expected to start for a second straight outing. He was abysmal last week against the Eagles, and QB Trey Lance didn’t do much when he was called upon.

The Texans lost a tight one against the Lions in a prime-time game, so they’re on nationally for a second consecutive week. Houston is expected to welcome back WR Nico Collins, which is a shot in the arm for the Texans offense which has been without Collins and WR Stefon Diggs, who is out for the season.

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
Live games, analysis and more 7 days a week: Get ESPN+

2024 survivor game log

NO. 1 OPTION

Week 1: LOSS – Patriots 16, Bengals 10
Week 2: LOSS – Falcons 22, Eagles 21
Week 3: LOSS – Panthers 36, Raiders 22
Week 4: WIN
– 49ers 30, Patriots 13
Week 5: LOSS – Giants 29, Seahawks 20

Week 6: WIN – Eagles 20, Browns 16
Week 7: WIN – Commanders 40, Panthers 7
Week 8: LOSS – Browns 29, Ravens 24
Week 9: WIN
– Chiefs 30, Buccaneers 24 (OT)
Week 10: WIN – Vikings 12, Jaguars 7

NO. 2 OPTION

Week 1: WIN – Saints 47, Panthers 10
Week 2: WIN – Chargers 26, Panthers 3
Week 3: LOSS – Giants 21, Browns 15
Week 4: WIN
– Cowboys 20, Giants 15
Week 5: WIN – Commanders 34, Browns 13

Week 6: WIN – Falcons 38, Panthers 20
Week 7: WIN – Bills 34, Titans 10
Week 8: WIN – Lions 52, Titans 14
Week 9: WIN – Eagles 28, Jaguars 23
Week 10: WIN – Chargers 27, Titans 17

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

If you’re into online slots, including sports-themed games, then check out our guide and discover the best site for slot machines where you live.

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.

Access more NFL coverage:
BetFTW | TheHuddle Fantasy Football | BearsWire | BengalsWire | BillsWire | BroncosWire | BrownsWire | BucsWire | CardsWire | ChargersWire | ChiefsWire | ColtsWire | CommandersWire | CowboysWire | DolphinsWire | EaglesWire | FalconsWire | GiantsWire | JaguarsWire | JetsWire | LionsWire | NinersWire | PackersWire | PanthersWire | PatriotsWire | RaidersWire | RamsWire | RavensWire | SaintsWire | SeahawksWire | SteelersWire | TexansWireTitansWire | VikingsWire | DraftWire | TouchdownWire | ListWire

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

Who to take in Week 10 in your NFL survivor pool

Breaking down the best strategies of how to win your NFL survivor pool as the season continues into Week 10.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

It was an easy week to pick favorites in Week 9 of the NFL regular season. We had just one underdog win outright, as the Carolina Panthers (+7) toppled the New Orleans Saints 23-22.

Thankfully, we normally pick against the Panthers, but there are two reasons we didn’t. One, we already played the Saints in Week 1 against them in New Orleans, and two, Carolina has been showing some signs of life lately.

In Week 9 of the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool contest, there were 8 more players who hit the exit doors, leaving us with 33 of the 10,357 players still alive. Surprisingly, one person elected to take the Tampa Bay Buccaneers against the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday night at Arrowhead. They’re gone, and another player back the Houston Texans, while 6 others had the Saints.

As far as we were concerned, we backed the Chiefs for that Monday night game against the Bucs, and Kansas City held off Tampa Bay 30-24 in overtime.

In the other game, we selected the Philadelphia Eagles as a 7.5-point favorite over the Jacksonville Jaguars. It was 22-0 at one point, but the Jags stormed back for the backdoor cover with 4:04 to go in regulation, falling 28-23.

Looking ahead to Week 10, we have 7 teams favored by 6 or more points on Sunday. The New York Giants are one of those sides, taking on the aforementioned Panthers at Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany at 9:30 a.m. ET Sunday.

Follow the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool.

– Games Sunday and ET unless noted

The pick: Minnesota Vikings

Who they play: At Jacksonville Jaguars – 1 p.m. (FOX)

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NFL odds. Lines last updated Thursday at 9:36 p.m. ET.

  • Line: Vikings -7 / Moneyline (ML): Vikings -350 | Jaguars +260

The Minnesota Vikings (6-2) travel to meet the Jacksonville Jaguars (2-7) on Sunday at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville.

Surprisingly, we haven’t played the Vikings with either of our 2 options so far this season. That likely has to do with the fact Minnesota has been favored by 2.5 or fewer points in 3 of its 4 games as a favorite, while serving as an underdog in the other games. It was a 5.5-point favorite last week, largest of the season, against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday Night Football. Minnesota covered in a 21-13 victory.

After serving as a limited participant in practice Thursday, reports surfaced that Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence is nursing a left shoulder injury, and he is unlikely to play.

Conclusion: MINNESOTA IS MY TOP SURVIVOR PLAY IN WEEK 10.

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[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

No. 2 option: LA Chargers

Who they play: Home vs. Tennessee Titans – 4:05 p.m. (FOX)

  • Line: Chargers -7.5 / ML: Chargers -375 | Titans +300

The LA Chargers (5-3) are heavy favorites against the last-place Tennessee Titans (2-6).

Tennessee did pick up a win in Week 9, but it was against the New England Patriots in OT, 20-17.

Los Angeles spanked the Cleveland Browns 27-10 on the road, and it has won the past 2 games by an average margin of 17.5 points. At home, the Bolts have won 2 of 3 games this season, with the lone loss to the unbeaten Chiefs.

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
Live games, analysis and more 7 days a week: Get ESPN+

2024 survivor game log

NO. 1 OPTION

Week 1: LOSS – Patriots 16, Bengals 10
Week 2: LOSS – Falcons 22, Eagles 21
Week 3: LOSS – Panthers 36, Raiders 22
Week 4: WIN
– 49ers 30, Patriots 13
Week 5: LOSS – Giants 29, Seahawks 20

Week 6: WIN – Eagles 20, Browns 16
Week 7: WIN – Commanders 40, Panthers 7
Week 8: LOSS – Browns 29, Ravens 24
Week 9: WIN
– Chiefs 30, Buccaneers 24 (OT)

NO. 2 OPTION

Week 1: WIN – Saints 47, Panthers 10
Week 2: WIN – Chargers 26, Panthers 3
Week 3: LOSS – Giants 21, Browns 15
Week 4: WIN
– Cowboys 20, Giants 15
Week 5: WIN – Commanders 34, Browns 13

Week 6: WIN – Falcons 38, Panthers 20
Week 7: WIN – Bills 34, Titans 10
Week 8: WIN – Lions 52, Titans 14
Week 9: WIN – Eagles 28, Jaguars 23

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

If you’re into online slots, including sports-themed games, then check out our guide and discover the best site for slot machines where you live.

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.

Access more NFL coverage:
BetFTW | TheHuddle Fantasy Football | BearsWire | BengalsWire | BillsWire | BroncosWire | BrownsWire | BucsWire | CardsWire | ChargersWire | ChiefsWire | ColtsWire | CommandersWire | CowboysWire | DolphinsWire | EaglesWire | FalconsWire | GiantsWire | JaguarsWire | JetsWire | LionsWire | NinersWire | PackersWire | PanthersWire | PatriotsWire | RaidersWire | RamsWire | RavensWire | SaintsWire | SeahawksWire | SteelersWire | TexansWireTitansWire | VikingsWire | DraftWire | TouchdownWire | ListWire

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

Who to take in Week 9 in your NFL survivor pool

Breaking down the best strategies of how to win your NFL survivor pool as the season continues into Week 9.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

We were back to the upsets in NFL Week 8, as 5 teams favored by 2.5 or more points were beaten outright.

The Baltimore Ravens (-7), Cincinnati Bengals (-2.5), Miami Dolphins (-4.5), Minnesota Vikings (-2.5) and New York Jets (-7) were the teams to lose outright, and the Bengals, Dolphins and Jets were home favorites, which is even worse.

In Week 8 of the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool contest, we waved good-bye to 20 more contestants, leaving 41 of the 10,357 players still alive. We were starting to see some normalcy in October, but Week 8 bumped off nearly a third of the remaining players.

Last week, we went with the Ravens, who lost at home 29-24 to the Cleveland Browns. The Ravens entered on a 5-game win streak, while the Browns hadn’t scored more than 18 points in their first 7 games, and they lost QB Deshaun Watson to a season-ending injury. So, of course, Cleveland played its best game of the season. Ugh.

Our 2nd option was backing the Detroit Lions, and using a recent success strategy — fading the Tennessee Titans.

The Titans were actually hanging in there for a bit, answering the first 2 touchdowns by the Lions with scores of their own, before getting taken to the woodshed 52-14. It was tied 14-14 early in the 2nd quarter before the Lions scored 38 unanswered points in the rout.

Looking ahead to Week 9, we have 7 teams favored by 5 or more points, so there is a decent amount of favorites to select — the Pittsburgh Steelers and San Francisco 49ers are off this week as byes resume. We’ll be playing against 2 Sunshine State squads.

Follow the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool.

– Games Sunday and ET unless noted

The pick: Kansas City Chiefs

Who they play: Home vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Monday, 8:15 p.m. (ESPN)

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NFL odds. Lines last updated Thursday at 5:22 a.m. ET.

  • Line: Chiefs -9 / Moneyline (ML): Chiefs -450 | Buccaneers +350

The Kansas City Chiefs (7-0) host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-4) on Monday Night Football at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.

A few weeks ago, this might be a game you wouldn’t consider for survivor pool purposes. However, the Buccaneers lost WR Chris Godwin for the season in a Monday night game against the Ravens in Week 7, while WR Mike Evans suffered a hamstring injury that will keep him out at least one more game after this.

The Chiefs are the lone unbeaten team in the NFL and have won 13 in a row dating back to last season. If this game were in Tampa, even without its top receiver personnel, it wouldn’t be shocking to see the Bucs win at home. But on the road, no dice, as Tampa Bay is just too beaten up.

Conclusion: KANSAS CITY IS MY TOP SURVIVOR PLAY IN WEEK 9.

WIN YOUR FANTASY FOOTBALL LEAGUE!
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[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

No. 2 option: Philadelphia Eagles

Who they play: Home vs. Jacksonville Jaguars – 4:05 p.m. (CBS)

  • Line: Eagles -7.5 / ML: Lions -350 | Titans +280

The Philadelphia Eagles (5-2) are more than a touchdown favorite against the Jacksonville Jaguars (2-6), who are in a world of hurt.

Last week, the Jaguars lost WR Christian Kirk for the season due to a broken collarbone. WR Brian Thomas Jr. sat out with a chest injury and is expected to miss Week 9, too. WR Gabe Davis (shoulder) is also in doubt, which would leave WR Parker Washington as the top target for QB Trevor Lawrence, at least among the wideouts.

Lawrence also won’t have OL Cam Robinson, who was traded to the Vikings Wednesday. That leaves Lawrence even worse off as he’ll have less protection as he tries to find his receivers.

It’s actually surprising that this isn’t a double-digit spread. Look for the Eagles to get the job done and move survivor pool players along to Week 10.

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
Live games, analysis and more 7 days a week: Get ESPN+

2024 survivor game log

NO. 1 OPTION

Week 1: LOSS – Patriots 16, Bengals 10
Week 2: LOSS – Falcons 22, Eagles 21
Week 3: LOSS – Panthers 36, Raiders 22
Week 4: WIN
– 49ers 30, Patriots 13
Week 5: LOSS – Giants 29, Seahawks 20

Week 6: WIN – Eagles 20, Browns 16
Week 7: WIN – Commanders 40, Panthers 7
Week 8: LOSS – Browns 29, Ravens 24

NO. 2 OPTION

Week 1: WIN – Saints 47, Panthers 10
Week 2: WIN – Chargers 26, Panthers 3
Week 3: LOSS – Giants 21, Browns 15
Week 4: WIN
– Cowboys 20, Giants 15
Week 5: WIN – Commanders 34, Browns 13

Week 6: WIN – Falcons 38, Panthers 20
Week 7: WIN – Bills 34, Titans 10
Week 8: WIN – Lions 52, Titans 14

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

If you’re into online slots, including sports-themed games, then check out our guide and discover the best site for slot machines where you live.

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.

Access more NFL coverage:
BetFTW | TheHuddle Fantasy Football | BearsWire | BengalsWire | BillsWire | BroncosWire | BrownsWire | BucsWire | CardsWire | ChargersWire | ChiefsWire | ColtsWire | CommandersWire | CowboysWire | DolphinsWire | EaglesWire | FalconsWire | GiantsWire | JaguarsWire | JetsWire | LionsWire | NinersWire | PackersWire | PanthersWire | PatriotsWire | RaidersWire | RamsWire | RavensWire | SaintsWire | SeahawksWire | SteelersWire | TexansWireTitansWire | VikingsWire | DraftWire | TouchdownWire | ListWire

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

Who to take in Week 8 in your NFL survivor pool

Breaking down the best strategies of how to win your NFL survivor pool as the season continues into Week 8.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

In Week 7, things went somewhat according to plan in the National Football League, with the Kansas City Chiefs (+2), Pittsburgh Steelers (+2.5) and Seattle Seahawks (+3) posting the biggest upsets in terms of the spread. However, it’s unlikely many people were affected in survivor pools with those spreads of 3 or fewer points.

As a matter of fact, only 4 people were eliminated in Week 7 in the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool contest, leaving 61 of the 10,357 players still alive. After a host of crazy upsets and unpredictable outcomes in the first 5 weeks, we’re starting to see some normalcy in October.

Both of our top options came through last weekend in the Washington Commanders and Buffalo Bills. Our No. 1 option, the Commanders, lost starting QB Jayden Daniels to a rib injury early in the game. It appeared storm clouds were forming, but QB Marcus Mariota turned back the clock and helped the Commanders to a 40-7 home blowout of the lowly Carolina Panthers.

The best strategy in the past couple of seasons has been to fade the Panthers. Carolina’s defense is allowing an unseemly 385.7 total yards (ranking 30th), 223.6 passing yards (25th), 162.1 rushing yards (last) and 34.7 points per game (last).

Our 2nd option saw the Bills beat the Tennessee Titans 34-10 in Buffalo. When the Titans jumped out to a 10-0 lead behind new QB Mason Rudolph, there was a little hand wringing going on.

However, the 10-point favored Bills were able to rattle off 34 unanswered points, while QB Josh Allen threw for 323 yards with 2 TDs. Buffalo was an impressive 4-for-6 in the red zone, and new WR Amari Cooper fit right in with 4 catches for 66 yards with a TD grab in his team debut.

Looking at Week 8, there are 8 teams favored by 6 or more points, so there is a wide array of teams to choose from.

Follow the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool.

– Games Sunday and ET unless noted

The pick: Baltimore Ravens

Who they play: At Cleveland Browns – 1 p.m. (CBS)

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NFL odds. Lines last updated Wednesday at 5:31 a.m. ET.

  • Line: Ravens -9 / Moneyline (ML): Ravens -450 | Browns +350

The Baltimore Ravens (5-2) travel to meet the Cleveland Browns (1-6) and

This line opened with the Baltimore Ravens (5-2) favored by 8.5 points. It ballooned to 10.5, and now it has leveled off at 9. There is sure to be a ton more movement, too, but in survivor leagues, we’re not terribly concerned with that. A win by any margin gets the job done.

Generally, it’s a good rule of thumb to avoid a road team whenever possible, at least until later in the season when it can be a necessity. Baltimore is the largest road favorite of the season, facing a Cleveland Browns team which doesn’t look very good and is 1-6.

In last week’s 21-14 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, Browns QB Deshaun Watson went down with a season-ending Achilles injury and QB Dorian Thompson-Thompson left with a finger issue. Veteran QB Jameis Winston will apparently get the starting nod in Week 8.

The Ravens are playing on a short week after winning at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 41-31 Monday night, but the dynamic duo of QB Lamar Jackson and RB Derrick Henry has been nearly unstoppable during the team’s 5-game win streak. The offense is hitting on all cylinders, and it might only need 20 points to get the W in Cleveland. The Browns haven’t scored more than 18 points in a game this season and are averaging a mere 15.6 points per game (PPG), which ranks 29th in the league.

Conclusion: BALTIMORE IS MY TOP SURVIVOR PLAY IN WEEK 8.

WIN YOUR FANTASY FOOTBALL LEAGUE!
The Huddle has been turning players like you into winners for over 25 years. This season, it’s your turn. Custom fantasy football rankings, sleepers and tools are just a click away. Save 25% off the Internet’s best-kept secret. Subscribe now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

No. 2 option: Detroit Lions

Who they play: Home vs. Tennessee Titans – 1 p.m. (CBS)

  • Line: Lions -11 / ML: Lions -600 | Titans +425

The Detroit Lions (5-1) are the largest favorite of the season so far, and 1 of 2 double-digit faves on the board in Week 8. We could very well have 3, or even 4, favorites of 10 or more points by kickoff.

The Tennessee Titans (1-5) are terrible, although they showed some signs of life with Rudolph last Sunday. Still, after holding a 10-0 lead in Buffalo, the Titans never scored again, and ended up getting crushed 34-10.

The Tennessee offense has scored more than 17 points only once this season, and that came against a bad Miami Dolphins team playing with a 3rd-string QB — the Titans’ lone win, a 34-12 victory in South Florida.

The Lions have won — and covered — 4 games in a row since a stunning 20-16 setback at home in Week 2 to the Buccaneers as 7.5-point favorites. The Detroit offense is averaging 40.0 PPG in the past 3 games. Tennessee can’t compete with that kind of firepower.

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
Live games, analysis and more 7 days a week: Get ESPN+

2024 survivor game log

NO. 1 OPTION

Week 1: LOSS – Patriots 16, Bengals 10
Week 2: LOSS – Falcons 22, Eagles 21
Week 3: LOSS – Panthers 36, Raiders 22
Week 4: WIN
– 49ers 30, Patriots 13
Week 5: LOSS – Giants 29, Seahawks 20

Week 6: WIN – Eagles 20, Browns 16
Week 7: WIN – Commanders 40, Panthers 7

NO. 2 OPTION

Week 1: WIN – Saints 47, Panthers 10
Week 2: WIN – Chargers 26, Panthers 3
Week 3: LOSS – Giants 21, Browns 15
Week 4: WIN
– Cowboys 20, Giants 15
Week 5: WIN – Commanders 34, Browns 13

Week 6: WIN – Falcons 38, Panthers 20
Week 7: WIN – Bills 34, Titans 10

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

Looking to pass some time before the game starts? Get access to the latest casino games from slots to blackjack to video poker with these casino apps.

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.

Access more NFL coverage:
BetFTW | TheHuddle Fantasy Football | BearsWire | BengalsWire | BillsWire | BroncosWire | BrownsWire | BucsWire | CardsWire | ChargersWire | ChiefsWire | ColtsWire | CommandersWire | CowboysWire | DolphinsWire | EaglesWire | FalconsWire | GiantsWire | JaguarsWire | JetsWire | LionsWire | NinersWire | PackersWire | PanthersWire | PatriotsWire | RaidersWire | RamsWire | RavensWire | SaintsWire | SeahawksWire | SteelersWire | TexansWireTitansWire | VikingsWire | DraftWire | TouchdownWire | ListWire

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1367]

Who to take in Week 7 in your NFL survivor pool

Breaking down the best strategies of how to win your NFL survivor pool as the season continues into Week 7.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

Things went according to plan in Week 6 in the National Football League as 12 favorites ended up winning outright — they even covered in 11 of those games. And, the 5 favorites of 5.5 or more points ended up winning outright, too, so there were very few upsets.

In fact, in the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool contest, just 5 people were eliminated in Week 6. There are still 65 of the 10,357 players who remain alive. After a wild first 5 weeks, things finally went the way the books suggested and there were no wild upsets.

As our 1st option last week, we were correct in taking the Philadelphia Eagles, coming off a bye week to get the job done against the lowly Cleveland Browns. Philly won 20-6.

While Cleveland managed just 244 total yards of offense with 5 sacks allowed and 7 penalties, it still made things rather close as it was tied 10-10 at halftime and Philly led just 13-10 after 3 quarters. In the end, the Browns covered as a 9.5-point underdog, one of just 3 dogs to bark in Week 6.

Our 2nd pick was backing the Atlanta Falcons on the road against the Carolina Panthers. Atlanta won 38-20.

The Panthers put up a good fight for a while. This game was tied 7-7 after 15 minutes and the Falcons led just 22-17 at the break. After 3 quarters, it was also a one-score game with Atlanta ahead 28-20. However, the Falcons pulled away in the 4th quarter for the comfortable 10-point victory — covering as 6-point favorites.

The Browns/Panthers fade strategy is an ace. Both are bad with a capital B, and the Browns just dealt WR Amari Cooper to the Buffalo Bills, taking away one of the few explosive weapons they had downfield.

In Week 7, we have 5 more teams favored by 5.5 or more points. Let’s hope the sense of normalcy remains this weekend.

Follow the USA TODAY NFL Survivor Pool.

– Games Sunday and ET unless noted

The pick: Washington Commanders

Who they play: Home vs. Carolina Panthers – 4:05 p.m. (CBS)

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NFL odds. Lines last updated Wednesday at 9:26 p.m. ET.

  • Line: Commanders -7.5 / Moneyline (ML): Commanders -375 | Panthers +300

The Washington Commanders (4-2) put up a nice fight in Baltimore last week in the Battle of the Beltway, eventually falling 30-23 to the Ravens.

The Commanders offense has been explosive, which is not good news for the Carolina Panthers (1-5) defense. The Panthers have allowed 34 points or more, and 36.0 points per game (PPG), in the past 3 losses. Overall, Carolina has allowed 22 points or more in all 6 outings.

The Panthers switched from QB Bryce Young to QB Andy Dalton, and that has given the offense some life. But, losing DL Derrick Brown after Week 1, and LB Shaq Thompson in Week 4, to season-ending injuries, have exacerbated their problems. Carolina has so many holes to fill, and QB Jayden Daniels and the Washington offense will likely go wild at home in Week 7.

Conclusion: WASHINGTON IS MY TOP SURVIVOR PLAY IN WEEK 7.

WIN YOUR FANTASY FOOTBALL LEAGUE!
The Huddle has been turning players like you into winners for over 25 years. This season, it’s your turn. Custom fantasy football rankings, sleepers and tools are just a click away. Save 25% off the Internet’s best-kept secret. Subscribe now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

No. 2 option: Buffalo Bills

Who they play: Home vs. Tennessee Titans – 1 p.m. (CBS)

  • Line: Bills -9 / ML: Bills -450 | Titans +350

Oh, you thought the Cincinnati Bengals here? It isn’t a bad pick, either, but they’re on the road in a rivalry game, so you never know.

The Buffalo Bills (4-2) are the biggest favorite on the board against the Tennessee Titans (1-4), and we haven’t used them this season as either the No. 1 or No. 2 option this season.

Buffalo looked OK against the New York Jets on Monday night in Week 6. It got the job done, however, with WR Khalil Shakir active, but not 100 percent, and rookie WR Keon Coleman coming along slowly, the Bills made a splash by landing Cooper prior to the deadline. He gives the Buffalo offense a legit WR1 who can spread the field, as the 2 young depth chart toppers were not scaring anybody.

It remains to be seen how many reps or targets Cooper will see, but it shouldn’t matter. Titans QB Will Levis is hot garbage, throwing for less than 100 yards last week against a leaky Indianapolis Colts pass D. The Titans do not have a prayer here.

2024 survivor game log

NO. 1 OPTION

Week 1: LOSS – Patriots 16, Bengals 10
Week 2: LOSS – Falcons 22, Eagles 21
Week 3: LOSS – Panthers 36, Raiders 22
Week 4: WIN
– 49ers 30, Patriots 13
Week 5: LOSS – Giants 29, Seahawks 20
Week 6: WIN
– Eagles 20, Browns 16

NO. 2 OPTION

Week 1: WIN – Saints 47, Panthers 10
Week 2: WIN – Chargers 26, Panthers 3
Week 3: LOSS – Giants 21, Browns 15
Week 4: WIN
– Cowboys 20, Giants 15
Week 5: WIN – Commanders 34, Browns 13
Week 6: WIN – Falcons 38, Panthers 20

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
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