I’m coming off a 3-1 week here on DeadHitSports, a nice accomplishment if you ask me. Things have really flushed out in terms of what to expect from teams. So I’m feeling very confidant in my Week 12 2016 Thanksgiving picks. Grab a turkey leg and mull these football betting winners over.
Editors Note: Check also our NFL Week 12 Preview by DS Williamson
2016 Thanksgiving Picks
Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions (-3)
Yes, the Viking ended their four-game losing streak last week mostly due to their defense. This is a grudge match for Minny, as Detroit beat them on their home turf three short weeks ago. That said, the Lions have defied expectations and even logic this year. There’s something special happening with this Lions squad. Remember when Barry Sanders retired? The Lions unexpectedly made the postseason the very next season. Calvin Johnson walked away from the league and now Detroit is making a similar surprising run. It’s a low spread and they’re playing at home. Give me Detroit.
Washington Redskins at Dallas Cowboys (-6.5)
Most power rankings have the Cowboys as the top team in the league right now. I don’t really see any problem with that. However, Washington is definitely in the top ten, with some lists putting them in the top eight. After starting the season with two straight losses, Kirk Cousins has led his team to a 6-1-1 record. They’ve improved the running game, improved their defense and are starting to develop a bit of a swagger. Other than their racist name, I like this team. Dallas is bound to be tested and drop a decision to a good team – and this may be the week. Gobble gobble up the points and take Washington.
Pittsburgh Steelers (-3) at Indianapolis Colts
After last week’s massacre of the Browns, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin was angry. Imagine if they had lost! The Steelers are only .500 and have no margin for error. As a team that many picked to go to the Super Bowl, they can play much better. Meanwhile, the Colts are starting to find their form on defense. But do they have enough to shut down Big Ben? I don’t think so. Give me the Steelers and pass the cranberry sauce.
Matthew Ross is a sports commentator and a radio host on TSN 690 Radio in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Follow him @MatthewWords.