NFL Tips and Previews, Week 13
Eagles vs. Titans
December 5th
It’s not out of the question to see this as a potential Superbowl match-up, with the 10-1 Eagles taking on Tennessee, who finds itself in third position in the AFC.
It was a challenging game last week for the Titans, who fell short against Cincinnati. Some uncharacteristic efforts shaped their day.
To challenge Philadelphia, they need to get their running game going, with Philly’s biggest flaw their run defense. Look for Derrick Henry to turn one on here as he gears up for an enormous run-up to the playoffs.
Philadelphia had their way against Green Bay last week, with the 40-33 scoreline not reflecting how one-sided the game was. They smashed the Packers in their run game, with Miles Sanders doing as he pleased, while Jaylen Hurts enjoyed getting the skates on, running for 157 yards.
AJ Brown has been in excellent form this season, with a minor dip last week due to illness. He will relish the chance to remind his former team of what they are missing.
Tennessee has a good record as the underdog against NFC teams and has made a habit of covering the line. Look for them to be a sneaky chance here.
SUGGESTED BET:
Titans win at $2.82
49ers vs. Dolphins
December 5th
A strong defense has been the signature of San Francisco this season, which was no more evident than in last week’s defeat of New Orleans.
Nick Bosa and Talanoa Hufunga were brilliant, shutting down the Saints, and they will be keen to do the same to a Miami team that conceded four sacks last week.
When he does have space, Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa has been very impressive and has delivered above all expectations. It helps to have some dangerous weapons, and you can look to Tyreek Hill getting in amongst it early.
While they have been winning, the Dolphins are still conceding big scores, which is a concern with so many 49ers capable of getting off the chain.
Look for Deebo Samuel to be a significant influence, as well as Brandon Aiyuk, who was a big target, while Christian McCaffrey can do damage both receiving and running. San Francisco is looking hot and should win this one.
SUGGESTED BET:
49ers -3.5 at $1.86
Cowboys vs. Colts
December 5th
Indianapolis has been encouraging since bringing in Jeff Saturday as their new head coach several weeks ago, but the cracks are still showing after last week’s loss to the Steelers.
A strong defense has made them a difficult match-up for any team, but it is the offense where they are being found out.
Matt Ryan is a shadow of his former self at Quarterback, while Jonathan Taylor has gone nowhere near the heights of last year that saw him as a popular number-one draft pick in fantasy.
The Cowboys are in good form, winning four games from its past five and could be the real deal.
Dalton Schultz has emerged as a real threat at Tight End, nabbing two touchdowns last week in a possible sign of things to come, while the backfield duo of Tony Pollard and Ezekiel Elliott is as good as any going around.
Dallas has the credentials and everything to play for as they look to set themselves up for a deep playoff run.
SUGGESTED BET:
Cowboys first team to score at $1.50
Buccaneers vs. Saints
December 6th
New Orleans cannot get any rhythm this season and is reeling from a scoreless draw against the 49ers last week.
The question must be asked if it’s time to go back to Jameis Winston at Quarterback with some ineffective performances from Andy Dalton.
Winston’s possible return may open things up for Alvin Kamara as a dual receiving/running option. Kamara has had a quiet patch but can obliterate any opponent on his day.
As poor as the Saints have been, they are only one win away from NFC South division leaders Tampa Bay.
The Bucs have been largely disappointing this season but have still managed to eke out enough wins to stay competitive. Tom Brady has had his down days but may look at this one as a chance to get things back on track. To do so, he needs more conversions from his comprehensive receiving team, having been too dependent on Chris Godwin recently.
Look to the Saints to get this one.
