Sport

NFL Week 17: Expert Predictions, Betting Odds, and Must-Watch Games

2024-12-29

Author: Ying

As the thrilling 2024 NFL regular season reaches its climax, Week 17 is packed with electrifying matchups that could shake up playoff standings. Fans are buzzing as star quarterbacks Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson bring their MVP-caliber performances to center stage. The Buffalo Bills are gearing up to face the New York Jets, while Jordan Love and the Green Bay Packers aim to hand the Minnesota Vikings just their third loss of the season. Plus, all eyes will be on Michael Penix Jr. as he makes his second NFL start against Offensive Rookie of the Year favorite Jayden Daniels in a prime-time showdown.

Key Matchups for Week 17
Buffalo Bills vs. New York Jets

- *Time:* Sunday, 1 p.m. ET (CBS) - *Current Odds:* Bills -2.5, O/U 45.5 The Bills enter as favorites but have struggled with consistency. Meanwhile, the Jets are reeling after a tough loss to the Rams. Injuries loom large, particularly with Aaron Rodgers’ status uncertain, raising concerns over the Jets' offense. Expect the Bills to capitalize on home-field advantage in what appears to be a must-win for both teams.

Dallas Cowboys vs. Philadelphia Eagles

- *Time:* Sunday, 1 p.m. ET (Fox) - *Current Odds:* Eagles -2, O/U 47 With Jalen Hurts' health in question due to concussion protocols, the Eagles anticipate a nail-biter. Historically, the Cowboys have performed well against the spread in competitive games, and with their current momentum, they could leverage this rivalry to secure a crucial win.

Carolina Panthers vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

- *Time:* Sunday, 1 p.m. ET (CBS) - *Current Odds:* Buccaneers -5, O/U 43 The Buccaneers find themselves in a position to reclaim the NFC South after a disappointing loss last week. The Panthers have shown signs of improvement, but with their defensive woes and the Bucs' strong running game led by Bucky Irving and Rachaad White, this is a critical contest for both teams.

Additional Notable Games
Indianapolis Colts vs. New York Giants

- *Time:* Sunday, 1 p.m. ET (Fox) - *Current Odds:* Colts -2, O/U 43.5 The Giants are in turmoil, while the Colts still cling to wild-card aspirations. This game could very well determine the Giants' next steps for the future.

Tennessee Titans vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

- *Time:* Sunday, 1 p.m. ET (CBS) - *Current Odds:* Jaguars -4, O/U 46 In a matchup that might not affect playoff positioning but is critical for draft stakes, the Jaguars are favored at home. Both teams feature backup quarterbacks, leading to potential unpredictability in this contest.

Miami Dolphins vs. Cleveland Browns

- *Time:* Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET (CBS) - *Current Odds:* Browns -2, O/U 44.5 With the Dolphins hitting a nice stride, the absence of Nick Chubb for the Browns has dramatically altered their offensive efficiency. This could favor Miami, who is also welcoming back star receiver Jaylen Waddle.

Primetime Highlights
Green Bay Packers vs. Minnesota Vikings

- *Time:* Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET (Fox) - *Current Odds:* Packers -2, O/U 45.5 As two powerhouse teams clash, the Vikings' home-field advantage could play a pivotal role. The Packers have shown promise yet falter when facing top opponents. This matchup will serve as a litmus test for both teams’ playoff readiness.

Atlanta Falcons vs. Washington Commanders

- *Time:* Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET (NBC) - *Current Odds:* Falcons -2, O/U 46 With former college stars Michael Penix Jr. and Jayden Daniels leading the charge, expect a high-energy showdown in prime time. The emergence of these quarterbacks adds another layer of excitement to an already competitive atmosphere.

Detroit Lions vs. San Francisco 49ers

- *Time:* Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET (ABC/ESPN) - *Current Odds:* 49ers -4.5, O/U 49.5 In a rematch of last year's NFC Championship Game, this is positioned to be one of the week's biggest spectacles. The 49ers, known for their defensive prowess, will seek redemption against the strong Lions offense.

Conclusion

Week 17 promises explosive football action, with playoff aspirations hanging in the balance. Betting enthusiasts and fans alike should stay tuned to see which teams can capitalize in these crucial matchups. Will your favorite team rise to the occasion, or will chaos reign supreme in this climactic week of the NFL season? Don't miss the action!