Due to the extra playoff spot and a crowd of worthy contenders, we can expect an exciting NFL playoff race for the final month of the season.
Week 15 will undoubtedly bring more drama for playoff hopefuls. After looking at NFL betting lines, I think two games will have a dramatic impact on the playoff race. So let’s take a look at those and what bets I believe are the best for them.
Patriots (+2.5) at Colts
The New England Patriots currently have a two-game lead in the AFC East over the Buffalo Bills and will look to increase that this week when they take on the Indianapolis Colts. The Pats have now won seven straight.
This season, their defense has shined, only allowing 7.2 points per game over their last five contests. Also, in that same span, the offense has averaged 28.8 PPG, resulting in the Patriots outscoring their opponents 144-36.
The Colts have been playing good football themselves, winning four of five, but three of those wins came against the Houston Texans, New York Jets, and Jacksonville Jaguars. Regardless, the Colts have put up a whopping 34.2 points over the last five games.
Indianapolis heavily relies on the run (151.7 yards per game). The Patriots are 19th against the run (114.5 yards per game), which could present a problem for New England. However, the Patriots on the road only allow 99.8 rushing yards per game, which is 10th in the NFL.
Let’s also not overlook that the Patriots are 6-0 on the road this season, while the Colts are just 3-4 at Lucas Oil Stadium. I believe that the Patriots will win this game outright on the strength of their defense.
Raiders at Browns Total 38.5 – Under
The total for this game is undoubtedly low, but the Las Vegas Raiders have struggled to score points recently and the Cleveland Browns have a COVID outbreak on their hands. After placing eight players in the COVID protocol on Tuesday, quarterback Baker Mayfield and head coach Kevin Stefanski tested positive on Wednesday.
The Browns have struggled to score points when healthy, only averaging 15.6 points per game in their last three contests. Unfortunately, I don’t see that improving with notable starters like Jarvis Landry, Austin Hooper, and Baker Mayfield not playing.
The Raiders have struggled on offense and are coming off a nine-point performance, marking the fifth time they’ve scored under 17 points in six games. I believe that the under for this game will hit, despite how low it is.
The NFL Playoff Race Is in Full Stride
There are few things as exciting as the NFL playoff race in December. Week 15 is filled with intriguing matchups.
Add even more excitement to this week’s games by heading to BetMGM and placing your wager on some of Week 15’s online sports betting action. Create an account today and receive a risk-free initial bet worth up to $1,000.
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