NFL Week 17 Saturday preview & betting tips | Cardinals v Rams

Week 17 of the NFL Season brings excitement this Sunday (AEDT) with a three-game lineup, highlighted by a pivotal showdown between the Broncos and Bengals. Here’s our breakdown and betting tips for each game.

LA Chargers vs New England Patriots

Sunday, December 29 – 5:00am AEDT – Gillette Stadium, Foxborough

This matchup pits the playoff-contending Chargers against the struggling 3-12 Patriots. It’s shaping up to be a one-sided affair.

The Chargers, sitting at 9-6, can clinch a playoff spot with a victory. With the league’s best defensive record, the Chargers are on a high after a thrilling 34-27 comeback win over the Broncos last week. However, history does not favour LA, as they have only won once in their last nine meetings against New England. This could explain the modest 4.5-point spread in favour of the Chargers.

Meanwhile, the Patriots, who hold the NFL’s second-worst record, are eyeing the second pick in the draft. A win would hinder their rebuilding plans, yet they’ve been competitive at times, including a close 24-21 loss to the Bills last week. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye continues to adapt to the NFL but has struggled with turnovers, throwing interceptions in seven straight games.

With the Chargers’ postseason aspirations on the line, they’re expected to dominate. Back them to cover the spread at -6.5, priced at $2.20 with top bookmakers.

Denver Broncos vs Cincinnati Bengals

Sunday, December 29 – 8:30am AEDT – Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati

This match between the Broncos and Bengals carries significant postseason stakes as a single AFC playoff spot is at stake.

Last week’s loss to the Chargers significantly impacted the Broncos’ playoff chances, relegating them to the seventh seed in the AFC. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix has exceeded expectations, but Denver’s strength lies in its defence, which ranks third in points allowed and excels at forcing turnovers. Their defence will be tested by Cincinnati’s high-octane offence.

The Bengals, led by Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase, boast the league’s sixth-best offence. Despite their scoring prowess, defensive struggles have led to inconsistency, with Cincinnati ranking in the bottom five for points allowed. However, a three-game winning streak has boosted their playoff push, and they enter as -181.82Marantelli Bet favourites.

While the Bengals have the edge at home, the safer bet is the over. With the Bengals’ explosive offence and the Broncos averaging over 33 points per game in the last five weeks, this game should easily surpass 50 total points. Take the over at $1.91 with leading betting apps.

Arizona Cardinals vs Los Angeles Rams

Sunday, December 29 – 12:00pm AEDT – SoFi Stadium, Inglewood

The Rams host the Cardinals with the NFC West title in sight.

The Rams have been dominant in the second half of the season, winning eight of their last 10 games, including four straight. Veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford has led LA to consistent success, even without standout offensive or defensive stats. As home favourites, they are priced at $1.32 with Marantelli Bet .

Conversely, the Cardinals’ season has unravelled, winning only one of their last five games. Despite a strong defence, quarterback Kyler Murray’s struggles—including six interceptions in his last five games—have derailed their playoff hopes. At 7-8, Arizona is out of contention but could still influence the division standings.

With better form and home-field advantage, the Rams should comfortably cover the -6.5 spread at $1.95 with Marantelli Bet .

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