The NFL playoff race is heating up, and Week 12 features several matchups with significant postseason implications. In the NFC West, the Arizona Cardinals aim to maintain their slim division lead as they visit the Seattle Seahawks. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Chargers look to make a statement against the Baltimore Ravens on Monday Night Football. Over in college football, Army’s run-heavy offense will be put to the test against Notre Dame in a battle of independent powers. Let’s dive into some early betting picks for these high-stakes contests.
Cardinals Poised to Stay Atop NFC West
The Arizona Cardinals emerged from their bye week with a one-game lead over each of their NFC West rivals. On Sunday, they’ll face a critical test as they travel to Seattle to take on the Seahawks. Despite Seattle’s Week 11 upset over San Francisco, our experts like Arizona to cover as 1-point road favorites. As one insider notes:
While it was a redemptive performance from Geno Smith and the Seahawks to keep their season afloat, if I’m betting on a quarterback in this matchup it’s the one who is playing the best ball of his career: Kyler Murray.
The Cardinals QB is third in the league in QBR and is leading an above-average offense. I’ll roll with them, especially getting a point.
With Murray playing at an MVP level and the Cardinals’ defense rounding into form, Arizona looks well-positioned to maintain its grip on the NFC West. A win in Seattle would give the Cardinals a bit of breathing room heading into the final stretch of the season.
Don’t Sleep on the Chargers in the AFC
The Los Angeles Chargers made a statement in Week 11, knocking off the Cincinnati Bengals 34-27 on Sunday Night Football. Now at 7-3, the Chargers have the look of a legitimate contender in the AFC. One betting expert is so bullish on LA that he’s taking the Bolts at 13-1 to win the conference:
This team is built to be a tough out in the playoffs, with a battle-tested formula that features a blunt rushing attack and a swarming defense. Don’t be shocked if the Chargers upset the Ravens in Los Angeles next Monday night, adjusting this price in the process.
While the Chargers still have work to do to catch the likes of the Bills and Chiefs in the AFC pecking order, their arrow is certainly pointing up. A win over the Ravens on Monday night would send a message that this team is for real.
Can Army’s Ground Game Keep It Close Against Notre Dame?
Over in the college ranks, one of Week 13’s most intriguing matchups pits Army against Notre Dame. The Black Knights boast the nation’s top rushing attack, averaging a whopping 330 yards per game on the ground. They’ll look to control the clock and shorten the game against a talented Notre Dame squad. As one analyst sees it, that recipe could lead to a low-scoring affair:
Army’s run-heavy offense, which leads the nation with an 87% rush play rate and 330 rushing yards per game, will control the clock and limit possessions. This ball-control strategy naturally suppresses scoring opportunities for both teams.
Expect a methodical, ground-based game that keeps the total low.
While Notre Dame will be heavily favored, don’t be surprised if Army’s unique style of play allows the Black Knights to hang around. The under of 44.5 points looks like a solid bet in this one.
Other Early Betting Picks for NFL Week 12 and CFB Week 13
- Broncos (-5.5) over Raiders: Denver’s defense travels well, and the Broncos could benefit from a pro-Denver crowd in Las Vegas.
- Lions-Colts over 50.5: Detroit’s high-powered offense (39.1 ppg since October 1) makes the over an appealing play, even against an average Indy defense.
- Indiana-Ohio State under 52: The Buckeyes’ dominant defense should make life difficult for the Hoosiers in this Big Ten battle.
Remember, it’s still early in the week, and lines can move significantly based on betting action and other factors. But these picks provide a roadmap for navigating what should be another exciting week of football. Be sure to check back later in the week for updated odds and analysis as kickoff approaches. And as always, bet responsibly and enjoy the games!
