The New Orleans Saints have followed up a seven-game losing streak with a re-energizing two-game winning streak. The biggest decision that lead to this change of fortune is clearly the dismissal of Dennis Allen and subsequent insertion of Darren Rizzi in his place as head coach. The results are proof in and of themselves that the Saints are much better off with this change. Now the team and staff have a chance to get a week’s worth of much needed rest. With the Saints off the schedule this week, we will focus on the rest of the Week 12 action. There are plenty of storylines to follow this week, and plenty of teams to root against. Let’s take a look at all of the crucial matchups in the league this week.
Last week I went 10-4
I told you so: Steelers over Ravens!
What do I know: Commanders over Eagles?
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Thursday, November 21st – Thursday Night Football
Steelers(8-2) at Browns(2-8)
Pittsburgh comes into this one rolling on a five-game winning streak, and that streak continues to six here in Cleveland. Pittsburgh wins 35-17.
Pick: Steelers
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Sunday, November 24th – Early Games
Chiefs(9-1) at Panthers(3-7)
Carolina has enjoyed a two-game win streak but that comes to an abrupt end here against the Champs. Kansas City wins 34-10.
Pick: Chiefs
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Vikings(8-2) at Bears(4-6)
After a promising start to their season, Chicago has lost four-straight games since their bye week and could potentially lose out, with Minnesota coming to the Windy City. Minnesota wins 29-17.
Pick: Vikings
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Titans(2-8) at Texans(7-4)
Tennessee’s terrible season continues to spiral in Houston against their division rivals. Houston wins 23-10.
Pick: Texans
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Lions(9-1) at Colts(5-6)
Detroit has been cruising on an eight-game winning streak and they will find Indy nothing more than a speed bump. Detroit wins 32-12.
Pick: Lions
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Patriots(3-8) at Dolphins(4-6)
Miami’s underrated defense will lead the way against the Pats in this one. Miami wins 23-10.
Pick: Dolphins
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Buccaneers(4-6) at Giants(2-8)
The Bucs have the easiest schedule in the league going forward, and it starts with an easy win at MetLife. Atlanta may have swept the season series against Tampa Bay, but the Bucs are still in the division race thanks to all the cake they are about to eat. Tampa Bay wins 28-17.
Pick: Buccaneers
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Cowboys(3-7) at Commanders(7-4)
After suffering a tough loss last week, Washington rebounds against the pathetic Cowboys. Washington wins 42-10.
Pick: Commanders
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Sunday, November 24th – Late Games
Broncos(6-5) at Raiders(2-8)
The Denver defense will shut down the Vegas ground game while forcing them into turnovers in this close contest off the Vegas Strip. Denver wins 21-19.
Pick: Broncos
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49ers(5-5) at Packers(7-3) – Game of the Week
This razor-thin contest between NFC rivals will come down to a Green Bay touchdown on the final drive to seal a pivotal victory for the home team. Green Bay wins 28-24.
Pick: Packers
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Cardinals(6-4) at Seahawks(5-5)
This NFC West showdown is about as even a matchup as it gets. It will come down to the wire, but Seattle will hit the game-winning field goal as time expires, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. Seattle wins 20-17.
Pick: Seahawks
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Sunday Night Football
Eagles(8-2) at Rams(5-5)
Matthew Stafford and the Rams pass-catchers will test Vic Fangio’s defense like few teams have this season, but it won’t be enough to beat Philly in the City of Angels. Philadephia wins 29-27.
Pick: Eagles
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Monday, November 25th – Monday Night Football
Ravens(7-4) at Chargers(7-3)
Baltimore rebounds from a crushing loss a week ago, thanks to a rousing defensive effort in the City of Angels. Baltimore wins 23-12.
Pick: Ravens
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There it is Week 12 of the NFL season. Leave us your picks, comments, and insight below!
