The final week of the regular season is upon us. Some games mean everything as teams jostle for playoff berths and positioning, while other games will mean nothing. It is important to understand the motivation of certain teams in this final week because it could affect what kind of personnel is on the field.
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The weather has gotten cold which has put scoring into the deep freeze over the past few weeks. That is another factor to consider when taking a look at the scoring totals available for NFL Week 17. Below are some of the best choices when every variable is taken into account. Odds provided by Bookmaker.eu.
New York Jets vs New England Patriots (O/U 47.5)
Our pick: UNDER 47.5
The New York Jets’ offense looked fantastic last week as they played a shootout against the Green Bay Packers. The oddsmakers believe they could be in for another high-scoring game this week against the New England Patriots as the total is listed at 47.5 points. The Patriots may have a star quarterback in Tom Brady but he is not performing as well as normal. The “under” is the right call as New England’s offense is not going to dominate in this matchup.
Washington Redskins vs Philadelphia Eagles (O/U 41.5)
Our pick: OVER 41.5
One of the lowest totals of the week is in the matchup between the Washington Redskins and Philadelphia Eagles. That is no fault of Eagles backup quarterback Nick Foles, who continues to play well in place of injured starter Carson Wentz. The total is 41.5 points and that’s because Washington is down to third-string quarterback Josh Johnson. Philadelphia should score enough in this one to push this game “over” the expected total.
Baltimore Ravens vs Cleveland Browns (O/U 41)
Our pick: OVER 41
It is an interesting clash of styles in Baltimore as the defensive-minded Ravens face off against the surging Cleveland Browns. Both teams have rookie quarterbacks, and often that means early issues, but Baltimore’s Lamar Jackson and Cleveland’s Baker Mayfield are playing well. The scoring total is listed at only 41 points but that looks low. The Ravens may well win this game at home but Mayfield will be able to make some big plays even against a solid defense. Take the “over” in this showdown.
Atlanta Falcons vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers (O/U 49.5)
Our pick: OVER 49.5
One of the highest totals of the week is in the matchup between the Atlanta Falcons and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The total is 49.5 as this one figures to have a bunch of fireworks. The oddsmakers are trying to get some action on the “under” but it will be a tough sell, and for good reason. Both teams have impressive aerial attacks and also are prone to turning the ball over. Add those things up and it means that the “over” should hit in this matchup as one of these teams could easily hit 30 points or more.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs Cincinnati Bengals (O/U 48)
Our pick: UNDER 48
While the above total wagers are ones to consider, there is one bet that stands out above the rest. The Pittsburgh Steelers are hosting the Cincinnati Bengals in a matchup of a pair of AFC North foes. The Steelers have fallen out of first place in the division and need a victory to have a chance at the North title.
The oddsmakers care less about that and are wondering more about if the “over” or the “under” will hit. The total is listed at 48 points, which seems entirely too high. Cincinnati is really banged up on offense and will have little in the way of weapons to move the ball efficiently.
The Steelers have enough firepower to score consistently against the Bengals in this one, but they are going to cruise to the victory and will be able to take their foot off the gas late in the game. With that in mind, choose the “under” on the total in the contest between the Steelers and Bengals.
Check out the latest NFL Week 17 betting odds.
