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Nov 15, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick during the game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
Home » Blog » NFL Week 16 schedule: 5 teams on upset alert

NFL Week 16 schedule: 5 teams on upset alert

Matt Verderame NFL

The NFL Week 16 schedule has some of the best games we’ve seen this year, and these five favorites are on upset alert.

5. New York Jets (-1) vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

If the Jets are going to be favored, they are going to be on this list. Yes, they have one more win than the Jaguars and they’re at home, but Trevor Lawrence, underwhelming as he may be, is still having a much better year than Zach Wilson. Additionally, New York has the league’s worst defense in many categories, and while the Jaguars aren’t exactly a huge threat to light them up, the Jets are primed for another bad loss. It’s their way.

4. Cincinnati Bengals (-3) vs. Baltimore Ravens

Both of these teams are 8-6, and both are fighting for the AFC North crown. The loser can still make the playoffs (and even technically win the division) but it’s a much easier road to the postseason with a victory on Sunday at Paul Brown Stadium. Cincinnati handled Baltimore 41-17 back in October, but will the rematch tell a different story? The Ravens have been in these spots many times, while this is the biggest game most of these Bengals have ever played in. Fun game to watch.

3. Atlanta Falcons (-5.5) vs. Detroit Lions

This is all about value. Forget about the spread, even, the Falcons have long been one of the league’s most inconsistent teams and the Lions, while awful, have won two of their last three. Now, if Detroit is without quarterback Jared Goff due to COVID, it’s hard to see an upset. However, if he can get through protocol in time, the Lions have a real shot to get to 3-11-1 on the year, spoiling their draft pick but providing hope in Motown.

2. Arizona Cardinals (-1) vs. Indianapolis Colts

This is a case of two teams going in opposite directions lately. The Cardinals have lost two straight and are all beat up on the offensive side of the ball, with quarterback Kyler Murray not looking 100 percent and receiver DeAndre Hopkins out for the remainder of the regular season. For Indianapolis, it’s been a surge since starting 1-4, now sitting at 8-6 and trying to make the AFC playoff field as a wild card. Christmas night should give us a great game.

1. New England Patriots (-2) vs. Buffalo Bills

The Bills and Patriots are essentially playing for the AFC East title. Winner is in great position. Loser is facing a long playoff road. Simply put, Buffalo is the more talented team and the weather likely won’t be a factor.

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