With the regular season coming to a close, figuring out the team’s motivations is the key for savvy bettors to find success in Week 17.
The long journey of the regular season is about to come to an end. After this Sunday’s action, 20 teams will head home for the winter while a lucky 12 will continue on in pursuit of the Lombardi Trophy.
Given the various states of clinching that have occurred, it is almost impossible to get a read on how teams will approach the final week of the season. Defining motivation gives bettors the best chance for success, and that is the theme for this week’s best bets.
Let’s get started in Baltimore as we look at a potentially low-scoring contest between two bitter rivals.
5. Steelers-Ravens Under 41.5
This is one of the NFL’s fiercest rivalries, but the teams involved have completely different agendas for Week 17. The Steelers are fighting for their playoff lives while the Ravens have already secured home field throughout the playoffs, with Baltimore planning to sit Lamar Jackson and other key starters to get ready for the postseason run.
The downgrade from Jackson to Robert Griffin III is massive, and it will diminish the Ravens’ scoring potential. Add in the Steelers’ limitations on offense, and it is clear as day that the 41.5 over/under total is way too high. Bet the under here with confidence.