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NFL logo for Sam Farmer picks (Tim Hubbard / Los Angeles Times)
The Times’ NFL writer, Sam Farmer, examines this week’s matchups. Lines according to FanDuel Sportsbook (O/U = over/under). Last week’s record 10-6 (.625); season 153-103 (.598). Using point spreads with the scores Farmer predicted, the record against the spread last week would have been 9-6-1 (.600); season 122-127-7 (.490). TV channels are for Los Angeles area. All times Pacific.
Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph has performed well since taking over as the starter. (Stephen Brashear / Associated Press)
Saturday, 1:30 p.m.
TV: Channel 7, ESPN
Line: Steelers by 3 1/2. O/U: 36 1/2.
The Ravens have the No. 1 seed locked up, so they’re going to rest players. The Steelers can run the ball and Mason Rudolph can throw it down the field. Steelers are incentivized but should be close.
Prediction: Steelers 24, Ravens 20
Quarterback Gardner Minshew (10) can lead the Colts into the playoffs with a victory over the Texans. (Michael Conroy / Associated Press)
Saturday, 5:15 p.m.
TV: Channel 7, ESPN
Line: Texans by 1 1/2. O/U: 47 1/2.
Playoff and division implications for both teams. Quarterback C.J. Stroud has been so good for the Texans. This figures to be tight but Houston is pretty banged up and the home team is more experienced.
Prediction: Colts 23, Texans 21
Quarterback Derek Carr (4) and the Saints still have a chance to qualify for the playoffs. (Gerald Herbert / Associated Press)
Sunday, 10 a.m.
TV: Channel 2
Line: Saints by 3. O/U: 42 1/2.
Both have a chance to win the NFC South, in the unlikely event that Tampa Bay loses. The Saints looked good last week with a solid defense and a turnover-free performance by Derek Carr.
Prediction: Saints 27, Falcons 20
Lions head coach Dan Campbell has been agressive with his decisions all season. (Associated Press)
Sunday, 10 a.m.
TV: Channel 11
Line: Lions by 3. O/U: 45 1/2.
The Lions have won their division, and the Vikings have a faint pulse but need a ton of help….
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-week-18-picks-playoff-111552419.html
Author : LA Times
Publish date : 2024-01-04 11:15:52
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