The 2022 NFL regular season is winding down, as we only have two weeks left until the playoffs. However, there is still plenty of playoff positioning to be determined. Of the 15 games over the weekend, 13 have some meaningful playoff implications.
The Cardinals and Falcons matchup only matters for NFL Draft positioning. Meanwhile, the contest between the Rams and Chargers has very little playoff implication. Last week the Chargers locked up a playoff spot. While they can move as high as the five seed and as low as the seven seed, the Chiefs have locked up the AFC West division title.
With 13 meaningful games this weekend, what impact does that have on the spread, and how should bettors bet on it? Let's dive into it.
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Denver Broncos vs. Kansas City Chiefs (-12.5)
After an embarrassing loss on Christmas day, the Broncos fired head coach Nathaniel Hackett on Monday. Meanwhile, the Chiefs have been one of the hottest teams in the NFL lately. However, 12.5 points is too much. These two teams played in Week 14 and Denver had their best performance of the year, as Russell Wilson had three passing touchdowns before leaving the game with a concussion. The Chiefs need to win this week to have a chance at securing the No. 1 seed in the playoffs. They will get the win and hope the Buffalo Bills lose Monday night.
My Pick: DEN +12.5
New Orleans Saints vs. Philadelphia Eagles (-6.5)
This matchup has almost as much impact on the 2023 NFL Draft as it does the playoff picture. The Eagles can secure the No. 1 seed and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs with a win. At the same time, Philadelphia owns New Orleans' first-round draft pick, which is currently in the top 10. The Eagles should win this game with relative ease. There’s only one question left; will Jalen Hurts or Gardner Minshew get the start at QB?
My Pick: PHI -6.5
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Houston Texans (+4)
A week ago, the Texans pulled off an upset win over the Titans, giving them only their second win over the year. Houston's other win this season came in Week 5 against the Jaguars. This isn't the same Jacksonville team we saw lose 13-6 in Week 5. The offense has been rolling lately, and the team has won three straight games. Next week's matchup against the Titans will determine the AFC South division winner. Yet, the Jaguars can still make the playoffs as a wild card team if they lose in Week 18 as long as they win this week and get some help. Therefore, expect Jacksonville to come out focused against the Texans.
My Pick: JAC -4
Cleveland Browns vs. Washington Commanders (-2.5)
Following their Week 16 loss to the Saints, the Browns have been eliminated from the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Commanders are going back to Carson Wentz after the team went 0-2-1 in their past three games. Washington can clinch a playoff spot with a win this week and loses by three other teams or two straight wins to end the season. However, a loss this week or next opens the door for the Green Bay Packers to sneak into the playoffs. It's hard to predict how either of these offenses will look, making it hard to bet on this game.