Entering Week 13, a majority of the league still has something to play for this season. That’s because 20 teams are either in the playoffs or within one game of a postseason position. Yet, it’s an interesting week with most games featuring one of those teams still having motivation for 2018 against one playing out the string.
Odds courtesy of OddsShark.com
For example, the Carolina Panthers visit the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Carolina has lost its past three games but is still in the wild-card chase, while Tampa Bay is closing a disappointing season under embattled coach Dirk Koetter. The Panthers have the NFC’s best December record over the past five years at 17-7 and are 3.5-point road favorites on Sunday. Carolina has covered its past five in Tampa, winning four.
The Houston Texans are in control of the AFC South and have become the first team in league history to win eight straight games following an 0-3 start. Could be a bit of a trap game Sunday for the Texans as they are on a short week and hosting the improving Cleveland Browns, who are +6. Houston has failed to cover its past seven December games.