1. Denver Broncos (-3.5) vs. Chicago Bears – The Bears are now without QB Jay Cutler AND RB Matt Forte. There’s only so much a defense can do before it begins to crack from being on the field too long due to the offense’s inability to sustain drives.
That will happen this week.
Rookie sensation LB Von Miller should be back so expect the Broncos to roll the Bears and easily cover the point spread on Sunday.
Next
2. New England Patriots (-8) vs. Was – The Redskins, losers of seven of their last eight, will play this without LT Trent Williams and TE Fred Davis who were suspended this week.
This is a huge blow to an already inept offense. Regardless, look for Tom Brady and Co. to dominate on Sunday as they inch that much closer to clinching the AFC East Title.
3. Carolina Panthers (+3) vs. Atl – See Money Line Bet.
4. Minnesota Vikings (+10) vs. Det – The Vikings are beat up but could have RB Adrian Peterson back for this one. Regardless, the Lions are a mess right now and shouldn’t be favored by 10 over anyone.
They need to show signs that they’re not in full meltdown mode and DT Ndamukong Suh will be absent once again.
The Rest
Baltimore Ravens (-16.5) vs Ind – It should be cold and the Colts will want no part of the Ravens on Sunday. Expect a blowout by at least 17.
Arizona Cardinals (+3.5) vs. SF – The 49ers will likely be without LB Patrick Willis in this one. Overall, they’re still very tough on defense, and the offense doesn’t kill itself with turnovers or penalties, but Arizona is a different team at home and will keep this close with a chance to win the game late.
Seattle Seahawks (-9.5) vs. Stl – Look into any winter vacation website and you’ll see why the Rams will get beaten badly on Monday Night. Their heads are elsewhere. The nightmare season continues and St. Louis can’t wait for it to end.
The Seahawks are beat up along the offensive line but it will not matter against this opponent.
Money Line Bet
Carolina Panthers (+120) vs. Atl – The Falcons are coming off a disappointing loss to the Tyler Yates led Houston Texans, and now get Cam Newton who is still playing brilliantly for a rookie (or veteran for that matter).
His team has rallied around him and now they’re learning how to win. Expect them to relish playing the role of spoiler this week.
