Bob Balfe:
NFL
1:00 PM EST
Rotation # 418
Saints +2 over Raiders
The Raiders and Saints are in typical situations. Neither team will make the playoffs, and both teams’ running games are a mash unit. The Raiders are currently in the #6 spot for the NFL Draft Order. Last week, Las Vegas won, knocking them back a few places. There is simply no reason to drop down any further. The Raiders are down Zamir White and Sincere McCormick. It’s hard to win on the road when you can’t run the ball and have a tough time stopping the run. Maxx Crosby being out makes it even harder for Las Vegas. The Saints have their own running back issues with Alvin Kamara out. Both teams have their fair share of injuries. New Orleans was embarrassed last week in Green Bay and needs to show a fight at home this afternoon against a Raiders team that won only one road game this year. Take the Saints.
NFL
1:00 PM EST
Rotation # 424
Bucs -10 over Panthers
Carolina deserves a lot of credit. Their season was over before it started, and instead of flopping, they have shown tremendous improvement. The problem the Panthers face today is they are on the road without many skill players, facing a Buccaneers team that has to win to keep their playoff hopes alive. Carolina has endured too many injuries on its defense this year, especially on the front seven. Tampa has a balanced running game, and Baker Mayfield has been excellent. Once Tampa gets rolling on offense, it will be tough for the Panthers to mount any comeback. Take the Bucs.
NFL
4:25 PM EST
Rotation # 426
Vikings -1 over Packers
If the Vikings win today and defeat the battered Lions next week, they will control their destiny for the #1 seed in the NFC. As of right now, Minnesota is the #5 seed, so they can drastically improve their seeding in the next two weeks. Both teams are playing well right now, but I give the Vikings’ defense the edge. Green Bay has multiple key injuries in the secondary and will be without Quay Walker as a linebacker. Minnesota being the healthier team and at home means a lot in today’s scenario. Justin Jefferson is one of the best receivers in the league, and Sam Darnold is playing a lot better. Take the Vikings.
