There’s something about being 13-2 in my last 15 NFL picks on this website that makes the air smell fresher and food taste better. Indeed, it’s been an incredible run lately with my football betting selections, so let’s try and keep the magic going on my week 14 NFL picks. I’m feeling it.
Editors Note: Check also our NFL Week 14 Preview by DS Williamson
Week 14 NFL Picks
San Diego Chargers at Carolina Panthers (-1)
It’s been a rough go without all world linebacker Luke Keuchly. But he could play this week and that would make all the difference. The Panthers got embarrassed last week in Seattle and I would expect head coach Ron Rivera to rip into them. Meanwhile, the Chargers blew a chance last week to get to .500 and actually salvage their season. They went out with a whimper at home to the Bucs. Give me the Panthers to show a little pride and rebound.
Houston Texans at Indianapolis Colts (-4.5)
Now THAT is the Colts team that many expected to see this season. Sure, they still have some deficiencies, and sure, they’re coming off a short week to take on Houston, but Andrew Luck looked like Andrew Luck! Trent Cole came back on D for the Colts, and that didn’t hurt either. As for the Texans, they’ve been listless for a few weeks and we expect the fade to continue. Take Indy and lay the points.
Pittsburgh Steelers (-1.5) at Buffalo Bills
The Steelers have no margin for error and are winners of three straight. Their defense is rounding into form and the offensive line is getting stronger. As for the Bills, they played a brutal second half last week on the west coast and are essentially done for the postseason. How much will do they have left? Big Ben can smell a Super Bowl run (and maybe some Buffalo wings). Give me the better team to win.
New Orleans Saints at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-2.5)
The Bucs have really opened some eyes in the last few weeks and could be for real. It’s been a while, so you’ll forgive our season-long skepticism. As for the Saints, they laid an egg last week at home and we don’t think they’ll take it up a notch on the road in warm weather. Winston and the Bucs should be able to score at will versus a terrible Saints D, while the Tampa D doesn’t have to be great, they just have to be average to win here. This spread should really be at least 4.5 points. Give me the value and the Bucs.
Matthew Ross is a sports commentator and a radio host on TSN 690 Radio in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Follow him @MatthewWords.