NFL Week 12 Predictions: Power Shifts Continue as Playoff Race Intensifies
The landscape of the NFL continues to evolve heading into Week 12, with NFL Week 12 predictions suggesting more surprises ahead. The Detroit Lions' dominant 8-1 start has catapulted them to Super Bowl betting favorites at +270, while the Kansas City Chiefs (+300) and Philadelphia Eagles (+450) remain strong contenders despite recent setbacks.
Thursday Night Football: Steelers vs Browns (-5.5)
The Pittsburgh Steelers' momentum after their stunning victory over Baltimore faces a stern test against Cleveland. The Steelers' defense, which dominated in Week 11 much as they did back in Week 2, should continue their strong form against a Browns offense averaging just 14.3 points in their last four games. The line movement from -4 to -5.5 favoring Pittsburgh reflects their growing strength.
Prediction: Steelers 23, Browns 16
Sunday's Key Matchups
The Minnesota Vikings (-4) visit Chicago in a game that echoes their Week 3 defensive struggle. Sam Darnold has elevated Minnesota's offense since taking over in Week 7, while Chicago's offensive woes from Week 4 have persisted. The Vikings' defense, which showed its potential in Week 5, should contain a Bears offense that's scored just 15 points per game in their last three.
The Detroit Lions (-7.5) travel to Indianapolis, looking to build on their dominance shown since Week 6. The Lions' offense, averaging 32.4 points since Week 9, faces a Colts defense that's allowed 27+ points in five straight games. This matchup particularly favors Detroit's rushing attack, which has improved significantly since their Week 7 adjustments.
Afternoon Slate Highlights
The San Francisco 49ers (+1) at Green Bay presents one of Week 12's most intriguing matchups. The 49ers' struggles since Week 10 mirror their midseason slide from last year, while Green Bay has shown remarkable improvement since their Week 1 struggles. The Packers' defense, which demonstrated its potential in Week 2, could pose problems for a 49ers offense that's looked vulnerable lately.
Sunday Night Football: Eagles vs Rams (+2.5)
Philadelphia enters as slight favorites, building on their momentum from Week 11. The Eagles' defense, which has generated consistent pressure since Week 8, matches up well against a Rams offensive line that's struggled in protection. Look for Philadelphia to control the game through their ground attack, which has averaged 165 yards per game since Week 9.
Monday Night Football: Ravens vs Chargers (+3)
The Harbaugh Bowl features two teams heading in opposite directions. Baltimore's offense has shown inconsistency since Week 10, but their defense remains elite. The Chargers, despite their improvements since Week 6, haven't solved their red zone issues that have plagued them since Week 1.
Key Games Against the Spread:
- Buccaneers -3.5 (vs Giants): Tampa Bay's rest advantage and defensive improvements since Week 8 make them attractive favorites
- Vikings -4 (at Bears): Minnesota's defensive surge since Week 10 should continue against a struggling Chicago offense
- Eagles -2.5 (at Rams): Philadelphia's balanced attack gives them the edge in a crucial road test
Teams on bye (Falcons, Bills, Bengals, Jaguars, Saints, Jets) get a crucial break as the playoff race intensifies, with several having shown marked improvement since their early-season struggles through Week 3.