A host of big games line the card for this week’s NFL games
BetDeluxe gives you all the information you need to know.
La Rams vs. Las vegas
9th December 12:15pm
If the league had its time over again, this would not be prime-time billing, with two of the most disappointing franchises of the season going head to head.
The Rams’ title defence goes from bad to worse, losing six straight games and now with Quarterback Matthew Stafford out for the season, joining Cooper Kupp, Aaron Donald and Allen Robinson on the sidelines. Stafford’s absence brought running back Cam Akers more involvement than any other game this season, and he should get more touches as the season grinds out. Bobby Wagner has been strong on defense and will look to get in Derek Carr’s face early.
The Raiders have had a spluttering season for the most part but have strung together three consecutive wins. DaVante Adams is in a league of his own on the receiving team and will play a huge role again after putting up 177 yards and two touchdowns in last week’s win over the Chargers. He is the class difference between the two teams, and Las Vegas will win this one.
Suggested Bet – Same game multi
Leg 1: Raiders win
Leg 2: D. Adams to score the first TD
Leg 3: D. Adams 95+ receiving yards
Leg 4: C. Akers 50+ rushing yards
Total: $23
Detroit vs. Minnesota
12th December 5:00am
For the first time in a long time, Detroit is one of the form teams in the league. Its only loss in the past five weeks was a close-run defeat at the hands of Buffalo, which is nothing to be ashamed of.
Jared Goff is finally finding his niche as a franchise quarterback, combining with Amon-Ra St. Brown beautifully, while D’Andre Swift is doing as he likes in the running game.
They face a stern test against Minnesota, which has the league’s second-best record. Kirk Cousins started slow last week before ramping it up to defeat the Jets. Fortunately, the Viking’s defense got the job done at crucial times. Much has been made of Minnesota’s ability to defend, and it will need to clamp down more than it has so far to see off Detroit.
Suggested Bet: Detroit win at $1.72
LA Chargers vs. Miami
12th December 12:20pm
Los Angeles has battled manfully to win games despite injuries this season, but it does seem to be starting to catch up with them. Justin Herbert is showing some frustration with his targets’ inability to convert, despite a late run from Keenan Allen.
Miami is reeling from Sunday’s loss to an injury-riddled San Francisco but should be able to dust themselves off for this one.
Tua Tagovailoa was off his game against the 49ers, struggling to make quick decisions and throwing picks. Albeit he was against one of the best defenses going around at the moment, this will be a test of character and the constant comparisons between him and Herbert since they came through in the same draft.
Look for Miami to take this one, with Tua and Tyreek Hill to run amok.
Suggested Bet: Dolphins to win at $1.56
Arizona vs. New England
13th December 12:15pm
There has been an unease around Arizona all season long, and they will come out of their bye weekend with plenty to prove. Kliff Kingsbury is still the coach, despite some speculation, and he may need to make some bold moves to ensure he is still employed come season’s end.
Look for James Conner to get more touches after a solid couple of performances leading up to the bye, while they should have a shored-up offensive line with several players back from injury.
The X-factor is Quarterback Kyler Murray, who brings a mix of talent and frustration. But at least Murray’s ceiling is higher than his counterpart here, with Mac Jones unable to get anything going after an impressive 2021. At least the Pats have some positives on defense, nullifying Josh Allen last week but struggling against the running game. If they can put that same pressure on Murray here, they should be able to prevail.
Suggested Bet – Same game multi
Leg 1: Patriots -1.5
Leg 2: Total points under 51.5
Total: $2.63
