New England Patriots (-4.5) over Kansas City Chiefs – It looks like the Patriots are back to full strength after being plagued by injuries all year. I’m not sold on the Chiefs because they played a Texans team that started Brian Hoyer, and now we’re dealing with Tom Brady. It’s like going from a 2001 Dell PC to a 2015 MacBook Air. Something worth noting: Out of the 11 straight wins for the Chiefs, only two were against winning teams. 26-17 Patriots.
Denver Broncos (-7) over Pittsburgh Steelers – Wide receiver Antonio Brown has been ruled out for Sunday’s game in Denver. Big Ben is shaken up and I doubt he’ll be at 100 percent. I think the Steelers will hang in the game until mid third quarter and that’s when the Broncos are going to run away with it. Only thing I’m scared of is Peyton Manning throwing a pick 6 to ruin everything. He’s due for at least two interceptions this game. 34-23 Broncos.
Seattle Seahawks (+2.5) over Carolina Panthers – The Seahawks are 5-1 straight up in their last six games against the Panthers. As much as I love Cam Newton and Carolina, it seems like things always go the Seahawks way just at the right time. Their defense is allowing 291 total yards per game, which is ranked second in the league. Marshawn Lynch says he’s ready to go and I think he’ll be a big factor. Seattle is 4-1 ATS in its last five games as an underdog of 2.5 points or less. 23-20 Hawks.
Cardinals (-7) over Green Bay Packers – Last time these teams played each other, the Cardinals won 38-8. The only difference this time is that the Cardinals have had an extra week to rest their guys. I’m not expecting another blow out, but you can bet Arizona is going to put up points against an average packer defense. There is only so much Aaron Rodgers can do, and I think he’s in for another long game. Arizona is the only team in NFL history to win all home playoff games. 31-19 Cards.
Last week: 2-2
Regular Season ATS: 132-120-4
Playoffs ATS: 2-2
Regular Season Teaser Pick of the Week Overall: 8-9
Playoff Teaser Pick of the Week Overall: 1-0
Teaser Pick of the Week (7 Points): Cardinals PK
Seattle Seahawks +9.5