The official sports predictions blog of Joshua Huffman, freelance writer who is publisher of the "NFL Predictions against the Spread" series.  Blog specializes in NFL predictions from myself and links to other writers' predictions.  Occasionally will do predictions for other sports.  Check left side bar for more categorized blogs. 

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

JZN NFL Predictions vs. Spread (2011): Week 15 Picks Part 1 of 5

Here is part 1 of 5 for my Week 15 NFL Picks for the 2011-12 season. 

Jacksonville Jaguars at Atlanta Falcons (-11)
The Atlanta Falcons have basically been unbeatable at home unless they're playing the New Orleans Saints or Green Bay Packers.  The Jacksonville Jaguars are so dependent on Maurice Jones-Drew.  The problem is that the Falcons have a strong run defense.  The Jaguars could also be without WR Mike Thomas, their top wide receiver.  Check out their injury list heading into Thursday night...

The Jaguars and Falcons combine for a 7-19 record on over/under.  Makes me hesitant to give so many points.  I'd be stunned if the Falcons lost though. 

Dallas Cowboys (-7) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Dallas Cowboys are 2-7-1 ATS as favorites.  The Cowboys have also played nine of their 13 opponents within seven points.  That includes their past four. 

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers appear to have quit on Raheem Morris.  With seven consecutive losses from the Buccaneers, I'm giving the Cowboys the benefit of the doubt.  They should win...but I say that a lot. 

Seattle Seahawks at Chicago Bears (-3.5)
The Seattle Seahawks actually won the regular-season meeting last season in Chicago.  They'd eventually lose in the playoffs.  The Bears won't have Jay Cutler or Matt Forte for this game. 

The reality for me is this: The thought of Tavaris Jackson playing that Bears' defense scares me.  The Bears are desperate and at home.  The Seahawks are on a road trip coming off a Monday Night game.  The Bears would essentially be eliminated if they lose this because they play the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field in Week 16.