NFL Picks Week 17

Risky scenarios impacting this game, if Detroit has won (or some other combos of results) Atlanta is locked in as 5 or 6 seed. But will they rest or want to get a win going into the playoffs? Just too many points to lay when it's likely Atlanta will have minimal motivation.

Bengals WIN and their in (or needed losses by Jets and either Oak or Den). Ravens can still be #1, #2 or #5 seed! In other words, expect max effort from both. Cinncy is tough at home, Balt 0-4-1 ATS vs Bengals last 5. Lean to home team vs inconsistent Ravens team.

Pitts playing for possible #1 seed or #2 seed - or drop to #5 seed. Their D is outstanding and is a huge edge vs a limited Cleveland team. Roethlisberger status remains a mystery as we post picks Thursday Night. We think the Steelers get it done here on the ground with either QB in a low scoring game.

Don't expect the Packers to be too interested in this game and expect starters to rest early if not get the game off entirely. Lions also locked in as wildcard, although can get 5 seed (multiple scenarios). Teams with #1 seeds in pocket in week 17, 1-8 ATS as a dog since '90 and 0-5 ATS since 2005, losing by an average score of 24-10.

Not real excited about picking either option in this one but the Jags should be able to ride Jones-Drew to a ball control victory.

Texans need a win to go into the playoffs with momentum and their D should slow the Tenn run game (which they must have to get the offense going) and Yates continues to get more comfortable.

Don't miss our 3 TOP PICKS for Week 17

Haven't loved the Jets on the road most of the season and this is no exception. But they are still technically (although just barely) alive for the playoffs and have a tough D that could return Miami offense to reality.

Injuries have mounted for both teams so it's tough be excited about wagering on either team. When the game is for nothing more than pride, must pick the home team.

Don't miss our 3 TOP PICKS for Week 17

Saints resting some players before this one ends very possible, as SF heavily favored to lock up #2 seed leaving NO as #3. So best advice - don't bet this game. But it's hard not to be very impressed by Saints and Brees and think of the numbers they can rack up vs the Carolina pass D.

Don't miss our 3 TOP PICKS for Week 17

Redskins have been better lately and a dog over a TD in a divisional rivalry is always tempting but we're very impressed by the finish we've seen from Philly and expect it to continue on Sunday.

Seattle finishing strong and we expect that to continue on the road as both teams would love to get that 8th win.

Oakland must WIN then get help - a Den L gives them the AFC West Title, other scenarios they sneak in as a wildcard. But in a battle of teams who seem to have mastered finding ways to lose we'll pick the underdog.

Chiefs needed 2 unlikely events last week and a win to control their own playoff destiny - the 2 unlikely's happened - but they lost so they are out of the playoffs. But despite Denver WIN and you win the division scenario, KC defense is playing better, Orton has plenty of motivation and inside info. KC could be a huge spoiler.