NFL pick 1
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My top football pick for Week 15 is the Minnesota Vikings (+3.5 points) in Cincinnati.
Nick Mullens was named the Vikings' starting quarterback. That's good news because he looks much better than Joshua Dobbs, whose level of play has completely plummeted in recent weeks, much like he did with the Cardinals earlier this season.
One thing I like about Mullens is that he gives everything he can for the team. I think the offense will rally around him.
Justin Jefferson's return to the field was short-lived. He sustained injuries to his chest and was hospitalized last week. However, he says he should be ready to play in this crucial game against the Bengals.
On the Cincinnati side, Jake Browning proved he's not a one-game wonder. He played at a high level again last week. He has completed 79% of his passes so far this year, which is remarkable.
However, the Bengals' defense is significantly weaker than Minnesota's. Both teams are desperate for a win, so I expect a fight that could go down to the last minute. In this case, I often prefer to be on the side of the neglected.
I think it's unlikely that the Bengals will win this game by four or more points, so I'll take the Vikings and the extra 3.5 points.
NFL pick 2
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I'm going with Tampa Bay (+3.5 points) to Green Bay.
The performance of Matt LaFleur's team last Monday concerns me greatly. The Packers lost a key game they needed to win to Tommy DeVito and the Giants.
Last Monday, Jordan Love was extremely shaky several times. It won't be an easy game for Green Bay against a desperate team trying to win their weak division.
Tampa could benefit from Green Bay's porous run defense. In fact, the Packers are the second-worst team in the NFL in rushing yards allowed per game.
Meanwhile, running back Rachaad White looked stronger as the season went on. After failing to surpass 80 rushing yards in each of his first 10 games of the season, he has now surpassed that mark in his last three contests.
I have to admit I'm worried the Bucs will be on the road for the fourth time in five weeks. However, that could be offset by the Packers losing a day of preparation after last Monday's game.
For me the limit is too high. I think this game will be very close, with the Bucs possibly even pulling off the upset considering how shaky the Packers looked last week. I mentioned earlier that Tampa will likely be able to move the ball well on the ground, but they could also have success through the air.
So in summary, I'm going with the Tampa Bay Bucs (+3.5 points) at Lambeau Field. Mayfield has thrown five interceptions in two games at this stadium, but this time he will do much better in such a critical game for both clubs.
NHL Tips
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In the NHL, I notice a very neglected team in the games that take place on Saturday.
The “fatigue” factor plays an important role in such physical sport. Many bettors underestimate this aspect.
For this reason, I would be tempted to bet on the Canadiens vs. the Islanders.
In my humble opinion, Montreal represents a great opportunity. The CH players then have two full days of rest, while the Islanders played a physical game against the Bruins the day before. You have to travel at night, which is not the ideal scenario.
Furthermore, the game against Montreal is a much less exciting challenge than the game against the dangerous Bruins. It is possible that there will be some relaxation in intensity among the New York players.
I'll try my luck at CH with a nice big welcoming review!
Have a nice weekend everyone and good luck with your bets!