by Stephen Rodriguez – Wannamakeabet Staff Writer
Green Bay Packers at Carolina Panthers (-2)
The moment we’ve all been waiting for is finally here. Aaron Rodgers is officially cleared to play Week 15 as the Packers (7-6) look to continue their playoff push against the Carolina Panthers (9-4). Unfortunately for them, Carolina is coming off their best win of the season and have won 5 of their last 6 games.
Last week, the Panthers handled the Minnesota Vikings (10-3) by rushing for 203 yards against the 2nd best rush defense in the league. The Panthers also proved why they’re the 5th best total defense in the league by sacking Case Keenum 6 times and forcing three turnovers; two interceptions and Keenum’s first fumble of the year.
Of course no one knows what to expect from the return of Aaron Rodgers which is why the spread is set at (-2), however if Green Bay stands any chance in this game they need to do what Minnesota couldn’t, and that’s protect the quarterback. The last time these teams met was during the 2015 season in Carolina when the Panthers won 37-29 after sacking Rodgers 5 times and picking him off in the red zone to end the game.
Rodgers’ return is unpredictable which makes judging this game difficult especially for pick of the week. Yet, there is one thing Rodgers can’t do and that’s play defense.
Green Bay ranks 7th worst in total defense and give up an average of 113.8 rushing yards per game. That plays right into the strength of the Panthers who rank 5th in rushing yards per game with 134.5.
This game will be as close as advertised. Expect the Panthers to control the time of possession with their running attack which will keep Aaron Rodgers off the field. When the Packers are on offense, Coach Ron Rivera and his defense will blitz, blitz, and keep blitzing to make the former NFL MVP uncomfortable in the pocket with his newly repaired shoulder.
Prediction: Panthers win 27-20
New York Jets at New Orleans Saints (-15.5)
Last week, New Orleans was my pick of the week and fell just short of an ATS victory. Drew Brees threw an uncharacteristic interception to end the game in Atlanta giving the Saints their second loss in three games. The NFL’s best offense will look to bounce back against the New York Jets who just lost their quarterback Josh McCown for the season and are coming off a 23-0 shutout loss against the Denver Broncos.
The Saints are 5-1 at home and average 29.6 ppg in those games. The Jets struggle on the road with a 1-4 record and average just 14 ppg. Although the spread is set at a hefty (-15.5) don’t be scared away. Given the current situation of the New York Jets, Bryce Petty will struggle against one of the most complete teams in the NFL. New Orleans with or without Alvin Kamara should handle this game with no problem.
Prediction: Saints win 28-10
Parlay Ticket:
Green Bay Packers at Carolina Panthers (-2)
New York Jets at New Orleans Saints (-15.5)
Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions (-6.5)
Baltimore Ravens (-7) at Cleveland Browns
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