I started sharing my NFL predictions The newspaper last November 25th. Since then I have offered 11 tips and these have resulted in a stunning record of 9 wins, 1 loss and 1 draw.
The only loss was Tennessee +1.5 to the Colts in Week 13, a game the Titans lost by three points in overtime. Nothing too embarrassing!
Of course we won't be able to maintain this success forever. However, I will of course do my best to provide you with the best possible options to make money at the casinos!
NFL pick 1
Getty Images via AFP
My top pick for Week 17 of NFL action is the Chicago Bears (+2.5 points) at home against the Atlanta Falcons. I have several arguments in favor of the Illinois club in this duel.
Don't laugh too hard because Chicago will be a good team in 2024. If we look at the last six games, we will see that the Bears are playing good football. They also held a 4-2 record. Their two losses came 31-26 against the Detroit Lions and 20-17 against the Cleveland Browns. There's nothing shameful about that!
Atlanta's offense has not performed well on the road this year. In fact, as the visiting club, the Falcons averaged 14.7 points per game despite playing against several weak defenses.
It won't be easy this week. The Falcons aren't used to playing in the cold, and that's exactly what they'll do on Sunday. The temperature for the game is currently 0°C.
Plus, the matchup is perfect for the Bears. Their defensive unit is designed to stop the run: That's what the Falcons' offense relies on in the first place.
The Bears should be well-rested as they will spend the fourth of five weeks at home. Their only trip was to Cleveland, which wasn't a long trip.
Chicago will also feel the revenge factor as they look to avenge their 27-24 loss to Atlanta last year.
The Falcons are 2-5 on the road while the Bears are 4-3 at home. I believe Chicago will officially kill Atlanta's playoff chances with a win this Sunday.
NFL pick 2
Getty Images via AFP
My second choice in the NFL is the Washington Commanders (+13 points) at home against the San Francisco 49ers. Yes, I believe that the club from the American capital will not lose by 14 points or more!
Let's look at the Niners' last two games. Last week they allowed 33 points and 343 yards to the Baltimore Ravens. The week before, the weak Arizona Cardinals scored 29 points and threw for 436 yards against them. This makes me believe that the Commanders have a real chance of scoring points.
I'm going to introduce you to a way of betting that few people know about. Let's say a team had at least three interceptions in their last game. If she wins by 5.5 points or more the following week, she is unlikely to surpass the margin. Under these circumstances, these teams have posted a 17-26 record over multiple seasons, a success rate of 39.5%.
That seems logical to me! After being intercepted so many times the week before, these teams tend to become more conservative and therefore less likely to pull off an overwhelming victory in their next game. Considering Brock Purdy committed four steals last week, Washington is a good pick this week.
The 49ers also lost a full day of rest and preparation since Monday night's game, which is another advantage for the Commanders.
It's also worth noting that the game starts at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time, which is 10:00 a.m. for players in San Francisco. These are not ideal conditions.
Quarterback Jacoby Brissett will start for the Commanders. He made a very good impression both times he replaced Sam Howell this season, throwing three touchdown passes and no interceptions. Last year with the Browns, he finished with 12 major passes and six steals. Not bad.
I'm not saying the Commanders will pull off a huge upset by beating the 49ers, but I think Washington will cover their big 13 point lead!
Getty Images via AFP
NHL Tips
In the National Hockey League, we have had great success in our predictions using the fatigue factor. Let’s continue to use this vein!
In the games taking place on Saturday, December 30th, two teams will have a strong advantage in terms of scheduling: the
saber and that
lightning.
These two clubs play at home this Saturday. Their last duel also took place at home, on December 27th. In other words, Buffalo and Tampa Bay get two full days of rest from the comfort of their own homes.
On the other hand, their rivals (the Blue Jackets and the Rangers) will be much more tired for two main reasons: They played the day before, Friday, December 29th; You have to travel at night.
For these reasons, I believe the Sabers (vs. Columbus) and Lightning (vs. Rangers) are underrated by bettors and represent good betting opportunities.
Happy New Year 2024 to you!