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Week 16 NFL Predictions: Commanders Shock Eagles, Bucs Continue Their Hot Streak Against Cowboys

2024-12-18

Author: Ming

It’s finally happened—I had a winning week in my NFL picks! After weeks of disappointing outcomes, I can hardly contain my excitement. It feels like a Christmas miracle.

In the last round of games, I went 13-3 straight up, bringing my season record to a commendable 141-83-0. Against the spread, I improved to 11-5, although my record sits at 101-119-4. There’s still work to do on my ATS record, but a few more solid weeks like this could change the narrative completely.

Now, let's capitalize on this winning momentum as we transition into the postseason! Here are my predictions for Week 16's matchups:

Denver Broncos at Los Angeles Chargers (Chargers -3)

Date: Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET In an important AFC West showdown, I expect the Chargers to bounce back from two tough losses. Justin Herbert will connect on crucial passes, overcoming the Broncos' defense, which has struggled mightily this season. Prediction: Chargers 24, Broncos 17

Houston Texans at Kansas City Chiefs (Chiefs -2.5)

Date: Saturday, 1 p.m. ET Despite Patrick Mahomes dealing with an ankle injury, I believe the Chiefs will secure a victory, regardless of who takes snaps at quarterback. The Texans have had a dismal campaign and won't pose much of a threat. Prediction: Chiefs 23, Texans 17

Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens (Ravens -6.5)

Date: Saturday, 4:30 p.m. ET This intense AFC North matchup is pivotal for playoff standings. The Ravens, fresh from a loss to the Steelers earlier this season, have the advantage here with Lamar Jackson poised to have a standout game. Prediction: Ravens 27, Steelers 20

New York Giants at Atlanta Falcons (Falcons -9)

Date: Sunday, 1 p.m. ET The Falcons, buzzing from a recent win, will capitalize on their home field advantage against an injury-riddled Giants team. Expect the Falcons offense to shine bright this week. Prediction: Falcons 31, Giants 14

Arizona Cardinals at Carolina Panthers (Panthers +4.5)

Date: Sunday, 1 p.m. ET After a much-needed win against the Patriots, the Cardinals take a lengthy trip to Carolina, where they’re likely to face a more focused Panthers side looking to rebound from last week’s loss. Expect a close finish. Prediction: Cardinals 23, Panthers 21

Detroit Lions at Chicago Bears (Lions -6.5)

Date: Sunday, 1 p.m. ET The Lions face a Bears team on an eight-game losing streak. Despite the Lions’ defensive injuries, they should edge out the Bears in a slightly tighter contest than expected. Prediction: Lions 28, Bears 24

Tennessee Titans at Indianapolis Colts (Colts -3.5)

Date: Sunday, 1 p.m. ET With playoff hopes dwindling for the Colts, this game is essential for maintaining their chances. I believe they snap back after a frustrating recent loss. Prediction: Colts 24, Titans 17

Los Angeles Rams at New York Jets (Rams -3)

Date: Sunday, 1 p.m. ET This matchup presents an intriguing clash, as the Rams are hitting form. With Aaron Rodgers steadily improving, the Jets might keep pace, but I believe the Rams will ultimately prevail in a high-scoring affair. Prediction: Rams 30, Jets 29

Philadelphia Eagles at Washington Commanders (Commanders +3.5)

Date: Sunday, 1 p.m. ET The Eagles' impressive 10-game win streak will be severely tested against a motivated Commanders squad eager to prove themselves. The fatigue from a tough game against the Steelers could benefit the home team. Prediction: Commanders 21, Eagles 20

Cleveland Browns at Cincinnati Bengals (Bengals -7.5)

Date: Sunday, 1 p.m. ET Though the Bengals must win out to keep playoff hopes alive, their offensive capability should be enough to overcome a struggling Browns side. Expect strong performances from Joe Burrow and company. Prediction: Bengals 31, Browns 17

Minnesota Vikings (-3) at Seattle Seahawks

Date: Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET If Geno Smith's injury sidelines him, this could favor the Vikings greatly. Their defense has the edge, and I predict they’ll manage a solid win, pushing towards the playoffs. Prediction: Vikings 30, Seahawks 21

Jacksonville Jaguars (+1) at Las Vegas Raiders

Date: Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET This matchup has implications for future draft picks. The Jaguars' ground game should pave the way to a closely contested victory in a battle of underperforming teams. Prediction: Jaguars 24, Raiders 20

San Francisco 49ers (+1) at Miami Dolphins

Date: Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET Coming off a disappointing loss, the 49ers will look to make a statement against a Dolphins team that’s been inconsistent. I expect San Francisco's defense to stifle Tua Tagovailoa this week. Prediction: 49ers 26, Dolphins 23

New England Patriots at Buffalo Bills (Bills -14)

Date: Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET The Bills are surging, and playing at home after a convincing win against the Pats signifies a huge advantage. Josh Allen is set to shine, with the Patriots struggling on all fronts. Prediction: Bills 36, Patriots 17

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-4) at Dallas Cowboys

Date: Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET Riding a wave of momentum, the Bucs are set for another strong performance. The Cowboys may struggle to keep pace, especially under the pressure of closing out the season. Prediction: Buccaneers 27, Cowboys 20

New Orleans Saints (+13.5) at Green Bay Packers

Date: Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET With uncertainty surrounding the Saints’ quarterback position, the Packers should capitalize at home. Expect Jordan Love to have a standout performance as the Packers aim for the playoffs. Prediction: Packers 30, Saints 10

Can’t wait to see how these predictions play out! Football fans, let’s gear up for an exciting Week 16!