The NFL’s Week 17 kicks off with a festive Christmas Day tripleheader featuring three pivotal matchups. The action begins with the Dallas Cowboys facing the Washington Commanders, followed by the Detroit Lions taking on the Minnesota Vikings. The day concludes with the Kansas City Chiefs hosting the Denver Broncos. As teams battle for playoff positioning or pride, betting insights from experts may help fans navigate their options.
Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Commanders
With both teams already eliminated from playoff contention, the Cowboys (6-8-1) and Commanders (4-11) will look to salvage their seasons. The Cowboys are coming off three consecutive losses, while Washington recently fell to the Philadelphia Eagles. Injuries have plagued the Commanders, particularly affecting starting quarterback Jayden Daniels, while Dallas has struggled defensively throughout the year.
In their earlier matchup this season, the Cowboys dominated, winning 44-22. They enter this Christmas clash as a touchdown favorite, and the game’s total points are set at 50.5. Betting expert Pamela Maldonado believes the Cowboys’ offensive rhythm will force Washington into a chaotic game script, likely resulting in substantial scoring opportunities.
Key player props for this matchup include wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, projected to exceed 77.5 receiving yards, and George Pickens, expected to surpass 80.5 yards. Both players have demonstrated strong performances in recent games, making them appealing options for fantasy players.
Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings
The Lions (8-7) are fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive as they face the Vikings (7-8), who are struggling to find footing in a disappointing season. Max Brosmer is set to make his second start for Minnesota after narrowly defeating Detroit in Week 9. This time, however, the Lions are favored by 6.5 points on the road.
Maldonado notes that Detroit’s previous loss to Minnesota stemmed from unconverted opportunities and mistakes. If the Lions can improve their execution, they have the potential to dominate this matchup. Notable player props include quarterback Jared Goff, expected to throw for over 241.5 yards, and running back Jahmyr Gibbs, projected to accumulate over 33.5 receiving yards. Both players are key components of Detroit’s offensive strategy.
Daily fantasy insights favor Lions players, particularly Amon-Ra St. Brown, who could see significant target volume if Detroit maintains control of the game.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos
The day concludes with an intriguing AFC West clash as the Chiefs (6-9) host the Broncos (12-3). The Chiefs are reeling after losing star quarterback Patrick Mahomes to a torn ACL, effectively ending their playoff aspirations. In contrast, the Broncos can secure the division title with a victory, entering the game as 13-point favorites.
The total for this matchup is set at a modest 36.5 points, reflecting concerns over Kansas City’s diminished offensive capabilities without Mahomes. Betting expert Matt Bowen emphasizes that the Broncos may not need to push the scoring tempo, as their defense is expected to dominate against a weakened Chiefs offense.
Player props to watch include Bo Nix, projected to surpass 227.5 passing yards, and wide receiver Courtland Sutton, who is likely to exceed 60.5 receiving yards. Both players have shown consistency in recent weeks, providing potential value for fantasy lineups.
As the NFL approaches the end of the regular season, these Christmas matchups promise excitement and intrigue. Whether through betting or daily fantasy plays, fans have multiple avenues to engage with the action.