The NFL playoff race is intensifying! The Pittsburgh Steelers have taken first place in the AFC North from the Baltimore Ravens. Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears dropped from the No. 1 seed in the NFC to the No. 7 spot after a loss to the Green Bay Packers. Additionally, the Buffalo Bills had a remarkable fourth-quarter comeback against Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals, which resulted in Burrow’s first losing season since his rookie year in 2020.
This week features a rematch between the Bills and the New England Patriots, along with Jordan Love facing off against one of the NFL’s top defenses, the Denver Broncos. In what’s been dubbed the “Matthew Stafford Bowl,” the Kansas City Chiefs are challenged by the Los Angeles Chargers. Following a defeat against the Houston Texans, Kansas City’s playoff chances now sit at a mere 6% according to SportsLine.
Which teams will you bet on this Week 15? CBS Sports writers Jordan Dajani and Jared Dubin are here to predict the major games of the weekend. For your reference, the betting lines for these selections were acquired on December 10 from DraftKings Sportsbook.
Game Predictions
Atlanta Falcons at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-4.5) (TNF)
Dajani (Buccaneers -4.5): The Falcons have been struggling recently, with a 1-7 record over their last eight games, allowing almost 27 points per game. Despite the Buccaneers dropping four out of their last five since a 6-2 start, I lean towards a home win given their playoff ambitions. When playing together, Mike Evans, Bucky Irving, and Chris Godwin provide a potential advantage. Prediction: Buccaneers 27, Falcons 20
Dubin (Buccaneers -4.5): Tampa isn’t performing at their peak, but the Falcons appear to be in disarray. I anticipate Tampa can continue to score effectively at home. Predicting: Buccaneers 24, Falcons 13
Baltimore Ravens (-2.5) at Cincinnati Bengals
Dajani (Bengals +2.5): The Ravens have dropped two consecutive games, returning the division lead to Pittsburgh. The Bengals showed promise last week, almost overcoming the Bills but faltering late. With Joe Burrow back in action, I’m optimistic about their performance at home. Prediction: Bengals 35, Ravens 33
Dubin (Ravens -2.5): Sticking to tradition, I’m backing the Ravens despite the recent losses. Predicting: Ravens 27, Bengals 24
Los Angeles Chargers at Kansas City Chiefs (-5.5)
Dajani (Chargers +5.5): Considering Justin Herbert’s health after surgery, the spread seems hefty. The Chargers’ defense has impressive stats, and while the Chiefs are struggling offensively, I predict a close game. Prediction: Chiefs 20, Chargers 17
Dubin (Chargers +5.5): Despite the Chargers’ rocky performance against the Eagles, they emerged victorious thanks to strong running and defense. Prediction: Chiefs 23, Chargers 20
