While we limp to the finish here the NFL is just beginning to heat up. After going 1-4 a week ago Zach needs to kick it up a notch these last few weeks, and finishing 3-2 last week means my goal is to stay the course and close the season comfortably above .500. Our Steelers are long shots to make the playoffs, so I guess we’ll need to invest in other rooting interests on the road to the Super Bowl.

My Season: 59-46

Zach’s Season: 49-56

Buffalo (-11.5) at LA Chargers

Lots of folks were ready to give up on the Bills, but since handing the Cowboys a three TD beatdown it’s funny to watch people jump back on the bandwagon. They’re still not going to win the division, but watch out if Buffalo earns a wild card. Conversely, the Chargers have already fired their coach and lost QB Justin Herbert to broken finger. LA winning would be an epic stunner…but can they keep it close?? Zach believes that the underdogs could possibly play better than they have all season under new leadership, but it won’t be enough. I agree with that assessment.

My Pick: Buffalo

Zach’s Pick: Buffalo

Cleveland at Houston (-2.5)

Thanks to close victories by both teams last week the chances of the Steelers getting into the playoffs are slim to none, with slim warming up the car. Credit where it is due to the Browns, who have fared better than I expected, although I think they’d get beaten like a drum against any postseason opponent. The Texans still have an opportunity to win their division, but have work left to do. This is a monumental Christmas Eve battle, and I think the home team gets the job done as long as rookie QB CJ Stroud clears concussion protocol. Conversely, Zach gives the nod to Cleveland on the strength of their defense.

My Pick: Houston

Zach’s Pick: Cleveland

Seattle (-2.5) at Tennessee

The Seahawks got a monster win over Philadelphia Monday night but still have a few hurdles to clear in the NFC playoff scrum thanks to losing 5 out of 6 before beating the Eagles. The Titans have to settle for the role of spoiler, having lost two of their last three, both in overtime, meaning they haven’t given up and are still battling for victories. It’s a classic trap game and nothing would surprise me, but I think Geno Smith will be back under center for the favorites and they’ll remain in playoff contention. Zach concurs.

My Pick: Seattle

Zach’s Pick: Seattle

Las Vegas at Kansas City (-10)

The Chiefs should still easily win the AFC West, but they clearly have alot more doubters than anyone could’ve imagined as recently as Halloween. Meanwhile, the Raiders laid a smackdown on the Chargers that forced that organization to fire both the head coach & general manager. On paper it doesn’t look very appetizing, but could it be yet another trap game?? The home field is significant, and I’m not quite ready to toss KC into the trash bin. The points concern Zach, and he feels like the Chiefs have been playing down to their competition…but he doesn’t believe a Christmas miracle is in the cards for Vegas.

My Pick: Kansas City

Zach’s Pick: Kansas City

Baltimore at San Francisco (-5.5)

As much as I hate to admit it the Ravens are firing on all cylinders and might be the best team in the AFC. They’ve won four in a row, while the Niners are riding a six game winning steak. Could this be a Christmas Night Super Bowl preview?? It’s possible. I foresee a low scoring, well played slugfest with a couple of WOW plays on offense but even more impressive gems from both defenses. Something like 20-13, with the home team continuing their momentum. Zach sees ‘Frisco as the more complete & balanced team.

My Pick: San Francisco

Zach’s Pick: San Francisco