Likely Wentz start makes Colts the pick
SUNDAY
COLTS (-8) over Raiders: Carson Wentz made a brisk, sufficient recovery from near-term COVID issues, again positioning Wentz to start today against invading Vegas. He just needed final clearance from the team doctor. Rookie Sam Ehlinger’s on deck for Colts, if needed.
Giants (+6.5) over BEARS: Early-on, New Yorkers enjoyed a run which rewarded the loyal — but that streak’s well-over. Andy Dalton is slated to give it another go for the visitors, and may be capable of staying within this handicap.
Jets (+13.5) over BUCCANEERS: Currently in fourth place in tight stack of quality sides atop the NFC, Tampa in scant danger of losing this outright as they await bigger game. Bucs may not perform at absolute peak here.
Dolphins (+3) over TITANS: Tennessee figures to be much fresher, having had three days more rest since it’s coming off a Thursday nipping of the Niners. Miami’s won seven straight against modest foes, capping their run with a stuffing of the Saints in New Orleans.
COWBOYS (-6) over Cardinals: With their torrid start, did Kliff Kingsbury’s gang peak too early? Hot Cowboys enjoyed lengthy, dominating upper hand over Bill Bidwell’s club when both resided in the NFC East. White-knuckle victory?
SAINTS (-6.5) over Panthers: Carolina caught visiting Saints away from home early in September. N’Awlins has tended to be more of a force as seasons wear on, especially in divisional play. Sam Darnold is expected to step back in for Cam Newton for visitors here.
Eagles (-4.5) over WASHINGTON: Philly’s campaigning for January postseason opportunities, should their newly rejuvenated running game (130 yards against Big Blue). This isn’t an ideal style matchup for hosts, who’ve had hard time versus NFC East foes.
BILLS (-14.5) over Falcons: Buffalo comes off the muscleflexing upper-hand display against the Patriots at Foxborough ... though Falcons skill people are ever-dangerous when taken too lightly, and QB Matt Ryan can come from behind in a hurry if trifled with.
BENGALS (+4.5) over Chiefs: Cincy endured a nasty, pesky injury stretch in midseason, but with the return of the likes of Joe Mixon and broader availability of other worthies, don’t want to wade in too bravely, though am presuming that Chiefs may not find this play date easy.
PATRIOTS (-16.5) over Jaguars: These Jaguars have tended to be laggards — especially when subjected to the rigors of the hostile road. Jags playing out the string, while Patriots polishing their act.
RAVENS (+6) over Rams: Baltimore’s pinning intermediate-term hopes on QB Lamar Jackson’s health, and it remains possible that Tyler Huntley will stay off the COVID-19 list, as well. Pay close attention to weekend reports.
CHARGERS (-8) over Broncos: Thought the market opening
in the field-goal range was low, but couldn’t resist, given modest Broncos offensive capabilities, stacked against a clearly superior Chargers attack unit. Not looking to tap out here, but must give nod to healthier Bolt side.
Lions (+7.5) over SEAHAWKS: Not sold Detroit has enough to get all the way to “W” land, but with QB Jared Goff under center, would expect this to be close, facing Russell Wilson and one of the older starting contingents in the league. Time marches on.
Texans (+12.5) over 49ERS: San Fran’s loss to the Titans last week figures to prime this favorite to steamroll this foe. Alas, this stiff tariff makes this entertainment a hazardous vehicle for pigskin speculators.
PACKERS (-13) over Vikings: Not certain we want to march with this, since Minny HC Mike Zimmer has been a master of stoking up his charges on the heels of a regular-season loss. Still, Vikings gave their all. when they took out the Pack in November. Early January’s always tricky, and this will be no exception — it’ll be coooold.