The Bearded Talisman's Week 17 NFL Picks

1. Ravens +3.0 at Packers – Green Bay clinched a playoff appearance with the Lion’s loss on Christmas.    Packers are emotionally drained from the last 4 games, and really have nothing to play for, and they just need to get out of this one healthy.   The Ravens need a win to have any shot at the playoffs.  The last time the Ravens were on the road, they pitched a shutout in Cincinnati - I think the Ravens win this one straight up.

2. Browns +3.0 vs Steelers – Cleveland lost a close one to the Bills last week, so they are still competing.   This one is like their Super Bowl against the rival Steelers, who can clinch the AFC North with a win.   The Steelers win at Detroit last week does not look as impressive after watching the Lions in Minnesota.     No DK Metcalf (suspended) and no TJ Watt (injured), and three starters from the Steelers secondary are OUT.    I think the Browns pull off the upset at home.

3. Seahawks -7.0 at Panthers – Seattle needs this one to keep a firm hold on the number one seed, and they have been road warriors the entire season, only losing once by 2 points at the Rams.   Seattle is far more rested and talented.   I don’t think this one is close.

4. Bucs -5.5 at Dolphins – That Dolphins 2^nd half at home vs Cincy last week was BAD.   The Bucs stabilize this week with a big win and a Panthers loss, setting up a winner take all game next week in Tampa vs Carolina.

5. Bengals -7.0 vs Cardinals – Arizona has lost seven straight games, including three in a row by at least 7 points; and, they are probably the least healthy team in the league.   The Bengals outscored the Dolphins 31-7 over the final 32 minutes last week.  

Last week 1-4, Season 37-42-1