As December football kicks off this Sunday, the stakes are higher than ever for NFL teams vying for playoff spots. After a dismal November performance, where I scraped a meager 5-8 against the spread and barely managed 7-6 straight-up, it's clear that a turnaround is imperative. My current season record stands at 80-96-3 ATS and 107-72-0 straight up. Fortunately, with the playoff push upon us, there’s room for optimism.

Key Matchups to Watch:

1. Chicago Bears (+10) at Detroit Lions

Thursday, 12:30 p.m. ET The struggling Bears face a resurgent Lions side currently at the top of the NFC. Expect to see a competitive outing, though the Lions should edge it out in the end. **Prediction:** Lions 30, Bears 27

2. New York Giants at Dallas Cowboys (-3.5)

Thursday, 4:30 p.m. ET The Cowboys have shown signs of life, and facing a lifeless Giants team compresses the odds even more. **Prediction:** Cowboys 24, Giants 17

3. Miami Dolphins at Green Bay Packers (-3)

Thursday, 8:20 p.m. ET This matchup presents a test for Tua Tagovailoa on the road. With both teams boasting solid offenses, the Packers might just come out on top. **Prediction:** Packers 28, Dolphins 22

4. Las Vegas Raiders at Kansas City Chiefs (-12)

Friday, 3 p.m. ET With Aidan O’Connell stepping in for Las Vegas, this could become a challenging outing against the Chiefs. **Prediction:** Chiefs 31, Raiders 14

5. Los Angeles Chargers (-2) at Atlanta Falcons

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET A short week for the Chargers, but their offense should outpace a struggling Falcons team lacking momentum. **Prediction:** Chargers 30, Falcons 21

6. Pittsburgh Steelers at Cincinnati Bengals (-2.5)

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET The Bengals aim to keep their slim playoff hopes alive, and with a rejuvenated Joe Burrow, they should take this one. **Prediction:** Bengals 26, Steelers 20

7. Houston Texans (-5) at Jacksonville Jaguars

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET Despite coming off a bye, the Jaguars may struggle against C.J. Stroud’s electrifying offensive capabilities. **Prediction:** Texans 33, Jaguars 20

8. Arizona Cardinals at Minnesota Vikings (-3.5)

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET Expectations for Arizona are low following their last game, while Minnesota could exploit their weaknesses for a significant win. **Prediction:** Vikings 31, Cardinals 21

9. Indianapolis Colts (-3) at New England Patriots

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET With the Colts looking to bounce back, this matchup presents an opportunity for both Richardson and Taylor to shine. **Prediction:** Colts 23, Patriots 17

10. Seattle Seahawks at New York Jets (+2)

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET An intriguing matchup with the Jets well-rested; don’t be surprised if they pull off an upset. **Prediction:** Jets 23, Seahawks 19

11. Tennessee Titans (+5.5) at Washington Commanders

Sunday, 1 p.m. ET A close game in the making, but Washington should manage a narrow victory despite recent struggles. **Prediction:** Commanders 24, Titans 21

12. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-6) at Carolina Panthers

Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET Tampa Bay appears ready to stack wins, but don’t underestimate the Panthers at home after a strong showing against Kansas City. **Prediction:** Bucs 28, Panthers 17

13. Los Angeles Rams (-3) at New Orleans Saints

Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET Both teams pressured to perform; expect McVay’s Rams to rise to the occasion. **Prediction:** Rams 31, Saints 23

14. Philadelphia Eagles at Baltimore Ravens (-3)

Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET This matchup promises to be the highlight of the week, with Lamar Jackson’s play likely determining the outcome. **Prediction:** Ravens 34, Eagles 30

15. San Francisco 49ers at Buffalo Bills (-7)

Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET With a crucial matchup for both teams and the health of Purdy in question, expect a competitive game but ultimately a Bills win. **Prediction:** Bills 30, 49ers 20

16. Cleveland Browns at Denver Broncos (-5.5)

Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET The well-rested Browns face a formidable Broncos defense, making for an intense showdown. **Prediction:** Broncos to edge out with tight defense.

This week holds critical implications for playoff races and could dictate the fate of several teams as we head further into December. Stay tuned for all the action!