NFL Week 16: Five Highlighted Sunday MAtchups
Rams vs Vikings:
The Vikings currently hold the 7th Seed in the NFC with two difficult games coming up against the Rams and Packers. It is safe to say they will need to upset one of these teams to make the playoffs. Vikings below average pass defense will have a difficult time attempting to stop Cooper Kupp and they will also be without RB Dalvin Cook. It is unlikely for the Rams to acquire the number 1 seed but it is almost a guarantee they will have a playoff spot. The Rams should be favored heavily in this game.
Prediction: Rams 34- Vikings 20
Bills vs Patriots:
Buffalo could not stop the Pats rushing attack the last time they matched up but it is unlikely the weather will affect this game once again. If the Pats want to win the game, they need to generate a lot of pressure on Josh Allen like they did in their first meeting. Rhamondre Stevenson will be out for this game, he has served as a good RB2 for the Pats run game. CB J.C. Jackson is amazing and could change the game. The Bills need to play a balanced game with run and pass, they are the better team from top to bottom and should retake the division after this game.
Prediction: Bills 27- Pats 24
Buccaneers vs Panthers:
The Buccaneers were shut out in their last showing and will be without Leonard Fournette, Chris Godwin, and Mike Evans. The Panthers have a good defense both defending the pass and run. The Buccaneers contained Taysom Hill’s run game which is bad news for Cam Newton. Antonio Brown is the x-factor for the Buccaneers this week, assuming he plays well the Buccaneers should leave Charlotte with a win.
Prediction Bucs 31- Panthers 21
Steelers vs Chiefs: Travis Kelce is out but Tyreek Hill is healthy. Patrick Mahomes is starting to return to his former self. T.J. Watt is the league leader in sacks despite missing 3 games and is a top candidate for DPOY. Watt needs to be disruptive in order for the Steelers to pull an upset off. The Steelers defense ranks 31st in rush yards allowed per game but allow the 12th fewest passing yards per game. Najee Harris struggled against the Titans and now will face a talented front against the Chiefs, although, they rank middle of the pack when it comes to stopping the run.
Prediction: Chiefs 27- Steelers 20
Cowboys vs Washington: The Cowboys are currently on a 3-game win streak, including a win at Washington a couple weeks back. The Cowboys defense is heating up at the right time while their offense continues to struggle and The Washington Football Team need to win out and hope for a Christmas miracle to make the playoffs. Quarterback play is key for both teams in this matchup. Expect Dallas’s defense to put on another impressive showing and the Cowboys should end the 2021 series between these teams with a sweep.
Prediction Cowboys 30- Football Team 17