The Bearded Talisman's Week 15 NFL Picks

1. Bears -7.5 vs Browns – Chicago has won 9 of their last 11 straight up and are facing a Browns team with two key starters OUT on the offensive line, and a Browns team that just lost at home to the Titans.   The Bears are healthy for the most part, and this game sets up to be a blowout.

2. Lions +6.0 at Rams – Detroit is as potent on offense as any team in the league, and even with the injuries in their secondary, their front seven should give the Rams problems.   Keep in mind this is a Rams team that two weeks ago lost to Carolina, and the Lions have had extra time to prepare for this game having last played December 4^th.  I’m not ready to stick a fork in the Lions yet.   I think they win this straight up.

3. Broncos +2.5 vs Packers – No way am I wagering against a Sean Payton team at home in December when that team has an 11-2 record overall and 6-0 record at home AND the Broncos are GETTING 2.5 points.   Plus the Broncos are the more healthy team.

4. Bills -1.5 at Patriots – The Bills offense looks unstoppable since halftime of the Steelers game two weeks ago, and their defense is forcing turnovers.   While the Bills are still a longshot to win the East even with a win tomorrow, a win all but locks up a playoff spot.    The Patriots have a great record at 11-2, but only 2 of their games have been against teams with records above .500.   I’m just not sold on the Patriots or their quarterback.

5. Seahawks -13.5 vs Colts – The Colts season is in a full nose-dive, so much so they are starting a 44 year old quarterback in a must-win game on the road against one of the league’s best defenses.   A season that started with so much promise for the Colts appears to be ending with a nightmare.   Has any team ever started 8-2 and finished below .500?    It very well could be the 2025 Colts.

Last Week 2-3, Season 33-36-1