There have been certain teams that surprised the league by getting off to hot starts that are now fading down the stretch. Whether it turns out to be a midseason lull or a season-defining nosedive, all of that will soon play out down the stretch. How teams are able to adapt will determine which teams will be competing for the Super Bowl.
Here’s a look at the best point spread picks for week 12.
Denver Broncos at Carolina Panthers
Broncos vs. Panthers Picks
Best Bet: Broncos -2.5
The Panthers and Broncos feature a match-up of two teams wishing they had found a way to develop a home-grown quarterback. When it comes to the veteran market, neither Denver quarterback Russell Wilson or Carolina signal-caller Baker Mayfield have performed well in their new markets.
The Broncos defense has been excellent throughout most of the season, ranking third in the NFL by allowing 17.1 points per game. Denver, however, hasn’t been able to score, ranking last in points at 14.7 per game.
Carolina’s offense had a brutal performance last week, with the Panthers only able to score three points. Denver will win an ugly one here.
Atlanta Falcons at Washington Commanders
Falcons vs. Commanders Picks
Best Bet: Commanders -4.5
What spark the Falcons had found to sneak into the NFC South race early in the season is now firmly in the rear-view mirror. While Atlanta found a way to beat Chicago last week, taking on the Commanders defense will be another story. The Falcons offense has struggled to throw the ball, only putting up 154.5 passing yards per game.
Washington will continue to build off a strong string of results and beat the Falcons by a touchdown.
Los Angeles Rams at Kansas City Chiefs
Rams vs. Chiefs Picks
Best Bet: Rams +14.5
The Rams were a mess on offense when they had Cooper Kupp on offense. Without him, things haven’t improved for Los Angeles, which will more than likely not make the playoffs to defend its Super Bowl crown. Kansas City is coming into this game riding an emotional win over the Los Angeles Chargers.
While this game has the potential for a Chiefs blowout, the Rams will keep this within 14 points.
Houston Texans at Miami Dolphins
Texans vs. Dolphins Picks
Best Bet: Dolphins -12
The Dolphins offense has been humming along over the past few weeks. Miami has scored 30 or more points in three straight games. The Dolphins are facing off against a Houston team that has problems putting up points.
The Texans have the third-worst scoring offense in the league, putting up 15.9 points per game, which ranks 30th in the league. Things won’t go well for Houston against Miami, which has established its strong offense.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Cleveland Browns
Buccaneers vs. Browns Picks
Best Bet: Buccaneers -3
The Buccaneers are starting to figure things out. Unfortunately for Cleveland, the Browns weren’t able to tread water until Deshaun Watson returned at quarterback to stay solidly in the playoff picture. Now, Tampa Bay is ready to take advantage of a wounded Browns defense.
The Buccaneers will grab a win over the struggling Browns team.
