NFL Week 16 lines: 5 best bets on underdogs

Looking at all the NFL Week 16 lines, there are five underdogs with the best chance to either cover or outright win in their matchups.

5. San Francisco 49ers (+5) at Arizona Cardinals

It’s a divisional matchup, and while the Cardinals are technically at home, both teams are currently playing in their host stadium. San Francisco is outmatched, but the NFC West is notorious for playing close games regardless of the matchup. The Cardinals must win to keep control of their playoff destiny, so don’t expect San Francisco to pul the upset, but covering is well within reason.

4. Tennessee Titans (+3.5) at Green Bay Packers

First off, take the over. If this game doesn’t go over 60 points it would be surprising considering how good the offenses are, and how atrocious the defenses are. That said, the Titans are one of the few teams which can go point-for-point with Aaron Rodgers. Tennessee has the league’s best back in Derrick Henry, and a duo of excellent receivers in Corey Davis and A.J. Brown. Should be a great one.

3. Jacksonville Jaguars (+7.5) vs. Chicago Bears

The Jaguars haven’t won a game since Week 1, so their inclusion on the list may surprise some. However, the Bears are banking on Mitch Trubisky to continue his hot streak, and that’s always a shaky play. Meanwhile, Gardner Minshew is back under center in Jacksonville, and represents the best quarterback in this game. Chicago should win, but expect a close game.

2. Pittsburgh Steelers (+1.5) vs. Indianapolis Colts

This is all about value. The Steelers have been a mess in recent weeks, losing their last three games including a horrific loss on Monday night to the Cincinnati Bengals. However, Pittsburgh is at home and facing a must-win if it wants to avoid a showdown with the Cleveland Browns for the AFC North crown in Week 17. Indianapolis is a damn good team led by a strong defense, but the Steelers have largely been able to say the same all year. Take the value.

1. Los Angeles Rams (-1) at Seattle Seahawks

The Rams are coming off the worst loss any NFL team has sustained this year, losing at home to the previously winless New York Jets. Los Angeles is now 9-5 and trying to wrap up a playoff berth, but with a win on Sunday in Seattle, can also reclaim first place in the NFC West with one week left. Seattle has been shaky offensively for over a month, and against a very motivated Rams defense, it’s not likely to get on track. Take the embarrassed team to bounce back.