Pro Picks is a weekly column that dives into predictions for upcoming NFL matchups. As Week 16 unfolds, fans can expect two exhilarating games on Christmas Day, with an early preview of potential playoff matchup scenarios.

In an exciting opener, the Kansas City Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes, who is contending with a mild high-ankle sprain, will face off against C.J. Stroud and the Houston Texans, the AFC South winners. Following that game, Russell Wilson and the Pittsburgh Steelers will take on Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens in a crucial clash for the AFC North standings. Both recommended picks favor the favorites in these matchups.

**Philadelphia Eagles (12-2) at Washington Commanders (9-5)**
Line: Eagles -3
Jalen Hurts has revitalized Philadelphia’s passing game, leading the Eagles to a smooth week where both A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith amassed over 100 receiving yards each. Should Washington focus heavily on the pass, the Eagles can rely on Saquon Barkley for strong rushing performances. Washington narrowly escaped with a win against New Orleans, and the struggling Jayden Daniels faced a daunting defense last week, being sacked eight times. If he can’t secure better protection, things could deteriorate quickly.
**Prediction: Eagles win 26-17.**

**Jacksonville Jaguars (3-11) at Las Vegas Raiders (2-12)**
Line: Raiders -1
This matchup carries more weight for NFL draft positioning than playoff implications. A Raiders victory could hinder their chances at obtaining the first overall pick. Currently, the Jaguars are positioned at sixth, but a loss could boost them into the top five.
**Upset Pick: Jaguars win 23-20.**

**Denver Broncos (9-5) at Los Angeles Chargers (8-6)**
Line: Chargers -2.5
After a rough stretch, the Chargers are looking to bounce back, having dropped two consecutive games and allowing 40 points last week. With their offensive strategy now heavily reliant on Justin Herbert’s passing after J.K. Dobbins’ injury, the Broncos, showcasing rookie quarterback Bo Nix and a robust defense, aim for their first playoff appearance in nine years. The Chargers seek a series sweep and will face a formidable challenge. The Broncos have a strong record against the spread in recent games.
**Prediction: Chargers win 23-20.**

**Houston Texans (9-5) at Kansas City Chiefs (13-1)**
Line: Chiefs -3
Despite his injury, Mahomes is determined to help the Chiefs secure the top seed in the AFC after their first multi-score victory since Week 7. The Texans, coming off their second consecutive division title, show a solid record against the spread.
**Prediction: Chiefs win 24-19.**

**Pittsburgh Steelers (10-4) at Baltimore Ravens (9-5)**
Line: Ravens -6
With a vulnerable secondary and absent key wide receiver George Pickens, the Steelers will face a tough Ravens team looking to break their four-game losing streak against them. A win would even up the standings in the AFC North. Both teams have differing records against the spread this season.
**Prediction: Ravens win 23-18.**

**Cleveland Browns (3-11) at Cincinnati Bengals (6-8)**
Line: Bengals -7.5
Dorian Thompson-Robinson steps in as the Browns’ starting quarterback, switching roles with Jameis Winston. Meanwhile, the Bengals are underperforming, squandering an excellent season from Joe Burrow. The Browns have struggled against the spread lately, while the Bengals have shown effectiveness recently.
**Prediction: Bengals win 27-17.**

**New York Giants (2-12) at Atlanta Falcons (7-7)**
Line: Falcons -8.5
Rookie QB Michael Penix Jr. takes the helm for the Falcons. If he can avoid turnovers, Atlanta may find success against the Giants. Should Drew Lock return, New York continues vying for the top draft position.
**Prediction: Falcons win 24-16.**

**Detroit Lions (12-2) at Chicago Bears (4-10)**
Line: Lions -6.5
Pushed to maintain their hold on the NFC’s No. 1 seed, the Lions are facing injury struggles but have a solid road-game track record. The Bears, on an eight-game losing streak, look for a turnaround as they struggle internally.
**Prediction: Lions win 33-17.**

**Tennessee Titans (3-11) at Indianapolis Colts (6-8)**
Line: Colts -3.5
The Titans now depend on quarterback Mason Rudolph after sidelining Will Levis, and the Colts look to capitalize on a favorable stretch of opponents. They hope to secure a winning record despite the playoff outlook remaining uncertain.
**Prediction: Colts win 23-17.**

**Los Angeles Rams (8-6) at New York Jets (4-10)**
Line: Rams -3.5
The Rams are in the playoff hunt and have been successful recently, bolstered by Matthew Stafford’s effective play. The Jets, while out of play-off contention, aim to disrupt their adversaries’ plans.
**Prediction: Rams win 23-20.**

**Minnesota Vikings (12-2) at Seattle Seahawks (8-6)**
Line: Vikings -3
The Vikings are hot on the heels of the Lions for the NFC North title while facing a tough opponent in Seattle. Positive news regarding the health of the Seahawks’ players could change the game’s dynamics.
**Prediction: Seahawks win 22-19.**

**Arizona Cardinals (7-7) at Carolina Panthers (3-11)**
Line: Cardinals -4.5
The unpredictable Cardinals can’t afford any slip-ups as they look to secure a playoff spot. With their defense improving, they hope to manage a balanced approach against Carolina.
**Prediction: Cardinals win 20-16.**

**New England Patriots (3-11) at Buffalo Bills (11-3)**
Line: Bills -14
Josh Allen’s impressive performance will drive the Bills in their quest for the AFC’s top seed as they take on the struggling Patriots. Outside of rookie Drake Maye, New England is devoid of compelling storylines.
**Prediction: Bills win 33-16.**

**San Francisco 49ers (6-8) at Miami Dolphins (6-8)**
Line: Dolphins -1
As they edge closer to playoff elimination, the 49ers are struggling, while Miami’s defense faces scrutiny following recent performances. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa needs to improve ball security to give the Dolphins a fighting chance.
**Prediction: 49ers win 21-20.**

**Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-6) at Dallas Cowboys (6-8)**
Line: Buccaneers -4
The Buccaneers have hit their stride, winning four games in a row and aiming for a strong finish in the NFC South. They must remain cautious about the Cowboys, especially against their standout players.
**Prediction: Buccaneers win 24-17.**

**New Orleans Saints (5-9) at Green Bay Packers (10-4)**
Line: Packers -14.5
Jordan Love exhibits impressive form, propelling the Packers into postseason contention while the Saints encounter near-certain defeat.
**Prediction: Packers win 30-13.**

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In last week’s predictions, the record was impressive: 13 wins against the spread and 12 picks that were spot-on. Over the season, the overall record stands at an impressive 156 wins and 68 losses straight up, with 123 wins against the spread out of 224 games played.