NFL Week 17 - Predictions

[harry_rag]

Here we go again with the penultimate week of the regular season. I guess there's going to be a few dead rubbers to be aware of from here on in. If anyone fancies summarising the games with most and least at stake then feel free.

[PercyP]

The final two weeks of the season tends to throw up some strange results as teams turn their attention to the playoffs

Jets @ Browns

The Jets (6-9) season is already over, whilst the Browns (10-5) are still fighting in the AFC North. A win would give them a place in the playoffs. The Browns at home are 7-1 so I would be surprised to see the Jets victorious.

Lions @ Cowboys

Both these teams will be in the playoffs. Cowboys are 7-0 at home and will flourish against a Lions defence which allows the opposition to score plenty.

Cardinals @ Eagles

Eagles (11-4) have the Cowboys on their tales in the NFC East so will be playing to win. A 6-1 home record gives further confidence in the Eagles. The Cardinals are 3-12 and only have pride to play for.

Falcons @ Bears

Whilst mathematically both these teams could reach the play-offs, their chances will be extinguished should they lose this game. The Falcons (7-8) who love the physical running game will not be at a disadvantage in the Windy city.

Panthers @ Jags

The Jags (8-7) are in a three way tie for the AFC South, so they win be looking for a win against a lowly Panthers team (2-13). The Lawrence injury is a worry.

Rams @ Giants

The Giants (5-10) season is over and should lose to improve their draft pick. For the Rams (8-7) this is a must win game. The Rams offence is on fire scoring 125 points in their last four matches.

Raiders @ Colts

The Colts (8-7) are in a three way tie for the AFC South, so they win be looking for a home victory. The Raiders have played so well to get their record to (7-8) have only a very slim chance of making the playoffs. The Raiders away form is not as good as their home form 2-5 on the road.

Dolphins @ Ravens

Ravens will get the number one seed with a win against the Dolphins. The Dolphins are already sure of being in the playoffs and will be keen to get their injured offensive players fit for the end of season playoffs.

Patriots @ Bills

Bills (9-6) will make the playoffs with a victory. The Patriots (4-11) will be happy to lose and improve their draft position. After years of being beaten by their divisional rivals, the Bills will want to destroy the Pats.

Saints @ Buccaneers

The Buccs (8-7) lead the NFC South with the Saints close behind (7-8). This is a must win game for both teams.

49Ers @ Washington

49Ers were the first team to qualify for the playoffs and their focus will be on the end of season games. The Commanders (4-11) are out of the playoff picture so will take a respectable loss.

Titans @ Texans

The Texans (8-7) are in a three way tie for the AFC South, so they win be looking for a home victory. The Titans are bottom of the division (5-10) and cannot make the playoffs.

Steelers @ Seahawks

Both of these teams are 8-7 and both will want to win this.

Bengals @ Chiefs

The Chiefs (9-6) will win the AFC West. For the 8-7 Bengals this is a must win game.

Chargers @ Broncos

The Broncos (7-8) are still in the playoff picture so a win is important. The Chargers (5-10) will be playing for pride and their new coach.

Packers @ Vikings

This is a must win game for both (7-8) teams