NFL Week 17 Sunday Picks: Expert Straight-Up, ATS, and Survivor Pool Predictions
As the NFL regular season hurtles toward its climax, Week 17’s Sunday slate offers high-stakes drama with playoff implications hanging in the balance. Experts from CBS Sports, NFL.com, and betting analysts weigh in on straight-up winners, against-the-spread (ATS) picks, and survivor pool strategies, highlighting motivated teams like the Jaguars, Buccaneers, and Rams.[1]
Jaguars Favored Over Colts in Division Clash
Jacksonville Jaguars (-5.5) enter their matchup against the Indianapolis Colts with strong motivation to clinch the division. CBS Sports Senior NFL analyst Pete Prisco emphasizes the Jaguars’ edge, noting the Colts’ slim playoff hopes compared to Jacksonville’s urgency. “The Colts have slim playoff hopes, while the Jaguars are trying to win the division. Motivation goes to the Jaguars,” Prisco states.[1] A YouTube analyst echoes the sentiment on Jacksonville’s recent form, calling it their best win in years, though suggesting the Colts could cover in a close game like 27-21 or 30-24.[2]
| Game | Straight-Up Pick | ATS Pick | Expert Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jaguars at Colts | Jaguars | Jaguars -5.5 | Motivation favors JAX[1] |
Buccaneers Look to Cover in Miami
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-5.5) face a faltering Miami Dolphins squad that’s “done” after recent poor performances. Prisco predicts a Buccaneers win driven by Baker Mayfield’s offense: “The Bucs have to win the next two to win the division. Miami is done… Look for Tampa Bay to win it behind a better showing from Baker Mayfield.”[1] Contrasting views emerge, with a YouTube pick favoring Miami +5.5 and Sharp Football Analysis betting the Dolphins under 19.5 points, citing Tampa’s recent tailspin.[2][4] Action Network highlights related trends but focuses elsewhere.[3]
“This is a road game for Tampa Bay, but will it feel like it?” – Pete Prisco[1]
Rams Poised for Bounce-Back Win in Atlanta
Los Angeles Rams (-7.5 or -8.5) host the Atlanta Falcons, with Prisco forecasting a 31-21 Rams victory. “The Rams are still playing for the division title, while the Falcons are headed to vacation… The Rams will be rested and play well in a bounce-back spot.” Atlanta’s recent two wins are noted, but the competition jump is too steep.[1]
Packers Edge Ravens on Saturday Night
Though technically Saturday, Green Bay Packers (-4.5) vs. Baltimore Ravens caps the weekend at 8 p.m. ET on Peacock. Analysts back Green Bay regardless of quarterback, citing Lamar Jackson’s struggles: eight touchdowns vs. five interceptions in his last eight starts, plus a new injury.[1]
Other Key Sunday Picks from Experts
- Texans over Chargers: Houston’s defensive line overwhelms LA’s offense.[2]
- Bengals -7 vs. opponent: Strong pick for Cincinnati to win and cover.[2]
- Pittsburgh -3 at Cleveland: Steelers to win and cover in intriguing AFC North battle.[2]
- Panthers ATS vs. Seahawks: Carolina 8-4 ATS as underdogs, offense trending up under Dave Canales.[3]
Survivor Pool Strategy
For survivor pools, experts recommend avoiding traps with unmotivated teams. Top choices include Jaguars (high motivation, favorable matchup) and Rams (rested, division on line). Packers offer value against a slumping Ravens squad. NFL.com’s aggregated picks show strong consensus on motivated playoff contenders, with Ali’s record at 157-82 straight-up.[5] Bettors should monitor injury reports, especially Jackson’s status.[1]
Betting Trends and Conflicts
Opinions diverge on Buccaneers-Dolphins, with Prisco’s cover pick clashing against under bets and Miami +5.5 leans.[1][2][4] ATS records like Panthers’ 5-1 as home dogs add intrigue.[3] Odds may shift; check latest lines.
| Game | Consensus SU | Consensus ATS |
|---|---|---|
| Buccaneers at Dolphins | Buccaneers | Split (-5.5) |
| Rams at Falcons | Rams | Rams -7.5/-8.5 |
| Jaguars at Colts | Jaguars | Jaguars -5.5/-6.5 |
Week 17 underscores playoff chases: NFC South (Buccaneers), NFC West (Rams), AFC South (Jaguars). Tune in for live action and adjust survivor picks accordingly.
(Word count: 1028)