NFL Week 17 Predictions: New England Patriots Close 2014 Out With A Win

Dec 1, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) scrambles during the second half as New York Jets outside linebacker Calvin Pace (97) chases him at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

Texans 27 Jaguars 17

I would love to see Houston in the playoffs, but they have a 12.5% chance of that happening, which obviously is not very good. Nevertheless, they will pull away from the Jags in a must-win game, and at least set themselves up for a prayer to get into the final postseason tournament.

Chargers 23 Chiefs 17

San Diego is on a roll, and the Chiefs have just lost their starting quarterback to a lacerated spleen. I think this one is a no-brainer, especially considering what is at stake for the Chargers. They have the simplest formula to getting into the playoffs, as all they have to do is win, and they are in. Look for San Diego to try and get the running game going against the 28th ranked run defense in the league.

Jets 20 Dolphins 16

Remember when Miami thought they were going to beat out the Patriots for the division crown after their week one win over New England? Good times. The Dolphins have fallen hard, and are now in their typical December slide. Rex Ryan goes out with a bang, nearly taking out the Pats, and then getting a win over the rival Dolphins.

Vikings 24 Bears 21

I love what I have seen from rookie Teddy Bridgewater, and while he certainly has had his bad moments, I think Vikings fans will be very happy with their future at the quarterback position. We could say the complete opposite for Chicago, as their 2014 season has produced absolutely zero positives, especially when you take a look at the signal caller. Vikes get a nice closing win.

Eagles 34 Giants 28

How can you not look at the Eagles and laugh? I mean, they were 9-3, had just obliterated the Cowboys on Thanksgiving, and were seemingly on their way to a deep postseason run. But they hitched their wagon to Mark Sanchez, which is why they are now going to be sitting at home in January, and find themselves battling the hated Giants for nothing more than draft position. I’ll give them a pointless win to close out the year.

Saints 26 Bucs 17

If you predicted the 2014 New Orleans Saints’ season would go like this, then I will gladly give you all of my money, and send you on the first flight to Las Vegas. Coming into the year, I thought this group would challenge the Seahawks for the NFC crown, and possibly end up in the Super Bowl. Turns out they were no better than the lowly Bucs, who I think will lose once again tomorrow.