Expert prediction
NFL Week 17: Las Vegas Raiders vs Indianapolis Colts Odds, and Picks (Dec 31)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- The Raiders won 20-14 vs the Chiefs on Christmas Day.
- The Colts lost 10-29 to the Falcons last time out.
- These teams last met in November 2022, with the Colts winning 25-20.
The 7-8 Las Vegas Raiders travel to the 8-7 Indianapolis Colts in this key week 17 matchup. A win for the Raiders would propel them ahead of the Colts in the playoff race, whilst a defeat would all but end their hopes of post-season football.
How To Watch
- CBS
Game Preview
The Raiders look set to take on the Colts without running back Josh Jacobs. Having missed two weeks with a leg injury, Jacobs is listed as doubtful and it seems unlikely that he will feature. In his absence sopohomore Zamir White has excelled, logging 39 carries for 214 yards and one touchdown across two weeks. The Colts are among the easiest matchups for running backs so White should have another good day. The Raiders’ defense has been incredible since Antonio Pierce took over head coach duties, and have come away with two defensive touchdowns in each of their last two matchups. More of the same will be required if Las Vegas are to make the playoffs.
Colts’ receiver Michael Pittman Jr. has cleared the league’s concussion protocol and practiced in full on Thursday and Friday, leading to optimism that he will suit up on Sunday, despite being listed as questionable. Pittman’s presence on the field will be a boost to the Colts in this key matchup against the Raiders. RB Jonathan Taylor will likely see a huge workload on Sunday, with the Raiders defense rushing the QB at every opportunity dump offs and hand offs will be headed Taylor’s way with high frequency.
Prediction
As the home team, the Colts are slight favorites heading into this matchup but it could go either way in my opinion. I don’t hide the fact I’m a Raiders fan, and the victory over the Chiefs in week 16 has given the fans and players a new found belief. I’m going to ride the Antonio Pierce hype train for one more week and back Las Vegas to defy the odds yet again.
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