A thrilling tripleheader on Christmas Day marks the beginning of Week 17 in the NFL, featuring three significant matchups showcasing division rivals. The day kicks off with the Dallas Cowboys (6-8-1) visiting the Washington Commanders (4-11), followed by the Detroit Lions (8-7) attempting to keep their playoff dreams alive against the Minnesota Vikings (7-8). The action culminates in an AFC West showdown as the Kansas City Chiefs (6-9) host the Denver Broncos (12-3).
The Cowboys and Commanders have already been eliminated from playoff contention. Dallas is reeling from three consecutive losses, while Washington recently fell to the Philadelphia Eagles. Injuries have plagued the Commanders, particularly at the quarterback position with Jayden Daniels sidelined. Dallas previously defeated Washington decisively, 44-22, in their first meeting this season. The Cowboys enter this game as a touchdown favorite, with a total points line set at the third highest of the week.
Dallas Cowboys at Washington Commanders: Betting Insights
The betting trend indicates that the Cowboys will dictate the pace of the game. Analyst Pamela Maldonado notes that when Dallas scores, Washington will need to abandon their game plan, leading to potential chaos. This scenario often results in scoring opportunities from turnovers and quick drives, favoring an over bet on total points, currently set at OVER 50.5 (-118).
For player props, both CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens are highlighted. Lamb is projected to exceed 77.5 receiving yards (-114), as he has averaged nine targets per game recently and previously performed well against the Commanders. Meanwhile, Pickens is expected to surpass 80.5 yards receiving (-110), capitalizing on favorable matchups against Washington’s secondary.
Detroit Lions at Minnesota Vikings: A Must-Win for Detroit
In the second game, the Lions face off against the Vikings, with Detroit fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive. Despite losing to the Vikings earlier this season, the Lions are favored by 6 points in this rematch. Analyst Pamela Maldonado emphasizes that the Lions outgained the Vikings in their previous meeting but fell short due to critical mistakes. If Detroit minimizes errors, they should be able to dominate.
Key player props for the Lions include Jared Goff, projected to exceed 241.5 passing yards (-114). Goff has been aggressive in recent games, supported by star receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams. Additionally, Jahmyr Gibbs is expected to surpass 33.5 receiving yards (-111), as he has consistently contributed as a reliable option in the passing game.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos: Chiefs Struggle Without Mahomes
The final game of the day sees the Chiefs facing the Broncos, who are currently tied for the best record in the NFL. The absence of Patrick Mahomes, sidelined by a torn ACL, has significantly impacted Kansas City’s performance, leaving them eliminated from playoff contention. Denver enters the game as a 13.5-point favorite, which is one of the largest spreads of the week.
Betting trends suggest a low-scoring affair, with the total set at UNDER 36.5 (-112). Analyst Pamela Maldonado points out that Kansas City struggles to maintain drives without Mahomes, and Denver’s defense is expected to capitalize on this weakness. Key player props include Bo Nix, projected to surpass 227.5 passing yards (-113), and Courtland Sutton, who is expected to exceed 60.5 receiving yards (-114).
As the NFL gear up for this festive day of football, fans and bettors alike will be closely watching how these matchups unfold. With critical implications for playoff positioning and personal performances, Christmas Day promises to be a showcase of intense competition.
