NFL Predictions Week 15 – Grading the NFC South Matchups

Before I make some divisional NFL betting predictions in Week 15, let me ask you what’s crazier: the fact that the NFC South is a hyper competitive division, or that nobody is talking about the Saints? With huge playoff implications on the line, let’s break down what’s going on down south.

Detroit Lions @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers -5.5

The Lions have been everyone’s favorite cover team, and this line has moved away from the home team because Tampa has been decimated by key injuries to center Jeff Faine and members of the defense including rookie Gerald McCoy. It also doesn’t help that Tampa is just 1-6 ATS in their last 7 meetings with Detroit and just 3-14 ATS when playing in their last 17 games at home.

[Off topic: by the way, do you want to get a 55% bonus on your first deposit here at BetOnline? If so JOIN NOW.]

A lot of people are making lofty NFL betting predictions for Week 15 revolving around Detroit, but they haven’t actually been that great on the line. Their rushing game is almost non-existent and they’re just 2-3 ATS in their past 5 games. They can be terrific at home, but on the road they cover in just 28.6 percent of their road games (4-8-2 ATS in their past 14 roadies).

Young teams crumble at the end of the season, and Tampa is the perfect scenario. The problem with Tampa is that they don’t blow the roof of the joint when it comes to points. They may be able to get the win, but covering Calvin Johnson will be a big issue for these guys so tread lightly.

NFL Predictions Week 15 – Detroit +5.5

Arizona Cardinals @ Carolina Panthers -2.5

Carolina is actually not a terrible team, and Goodsen is adding some stability to the rushing game that a lot of people like. Part of the reason that they’ve been a stay away team at home is because they’re just 1-6 SU and ATS when playing on their own field. So are they worth a look in your NFL predictions for Week 15?

The short answer is yes. Lost in the frenzy of Arizona actually winning last weekend was that they coughed up four fumbles on offense. Skelton has proven nothing to anyone and let’s also keep in mind that the fluctuating quarterback carousel has to be a nightmare for this team overall.

Arizona is just 1-4 ATS and winless in their past 5 road games. There’s no reason to back them in your NFL predictions this weekend with their third option at quarterback taking the field.

NFL Predictions Week 15 – Carolina -2.5

Atlanta Falcons -6.5 @ Seattle Seahawks

Usually you invoke the traditional “don’t bet against the Seahawks at home” but Atlanta has just been on fire this season. Away from home the Falcons have gone 5-2 ATS this season and they are just beating down on bad teams, which is a sign why they’re favored to win the NFC Championships. Old schoolers must absolutely love the way they’re playing football right now. I know I do.

NFL Predictions Week 15 – Atlanta -6.5

New Orleans Saints @ Baltimore Ravens -1.5

Saints are peeking at the right time, have their rushing game back and are gunning for a playoff spot right behind the Atlanta Falcons. Nobody has talked about them as legitimate contenders this season. And I do not trust this Baltimore team, especially when the Saints force them to play from behind.

NFL Predictions Week 15 – New Orleans +1.5

Think a team from the NFC South will will Super Bowl XLV? Bet on it here!