BOB BALFE
1:00 EST
Rotation #367-368
Falcons (Pk) over Bucs
Falcons/Bucs – Over 46
The Falcons have fallen off the last few weeks, but today will take advantage of a banged up Tampa Defensive Line that will have to start a few new faces on it. Matt Ryan has struggled this year, but give him time and he is still a great QB. The Falcons get Freeman back today so they will be more balanced on offense. Tampa is good when they can pressure the QB. With a few starters on that line out today they won’t be able to get to Ryan. This is a statement game for Atlanta as they make their final push to try to make a wildcard. I don’t see them winning out, but today I do see them putting up a lot of points. Look for Atlanta to get a big win today. Take the Falcons and the Over.
4:05 EST
Rotation #373-374
Chiefs -3 over Raiders
Oakland has been impressive and one of those teams that people now like to back, but KC is more experienced in their system and are one of if not the most balanced team in the NFL. This Chiefs Defense is playing great right now and I believe this team has become a team we now can trust on the road and a deep playoff run is not out of the question. Oakland is on their way, but it’s going to take a little bit more time. The Raiders are just not consistent enough for me to back them in a big divisional game late in the year. Take Kansas City
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8:30 EST
Rotation #377-378
Steelers -7.5 over Colts
Matt Hasselbeck is 4-0 as a starter for the Colts this year and getting no respect from the line makers tonight. It’s amazing how many backups have started and won this year, but I have to agree with Vegas here. The Colts are banged up on that offensive line and Pittsburgh is usually a tough place to play at night. I think Hasselbeck will be decent in this game, but this should be high scoring and Pitt should eventually pull away. This scenario kind of reminds me of the AFC Championship Game with Patriots last year. New England has a banged up offensive line and can’t run the ball. That combo is never good for trying to get a road win. The Steelers pass defense was gashed last week and I believe they will make the adjustments to keep the Colts in check. Take Pittsburgh