THURSDAY NIGHT PREVIEW

49ERS AT SEAHAWKS – 5:15PM PT/8:15PM ET [PRIME VIDEO]

The 49ers are a win away from winning the division and claiming third in the NFC Standings…for now. Seattle is reeling and need any sort of advantage to take down the 49ers to stay alive for all opportunities. San Fran won six straight but are likely without Deebo Samuel, which could play crucial to their matchup. Seattle lost three of their last four and their running back room is beat up across the board. The game could be close, but a lot comes down to Brock Purdy to repeat in his second straight start on a short week at one of the most difficult stadiums in the NFL. If anything, the 49ers defense comes through once again to clinch the title and playoff berth.

MY PICK: 49ERS

AFC EAST SHOWDOWN

DOLPHINS AT BILLS – 5:15PM PT/ 8:15PM ET [NFL NETWORK ON SATURDAY]

The first meeting was dramatic, including Ken Dorsey’s frustration after the team didn’t get a play off in time. This second meeting will be a different story. Miami’s coming off back-to-back losses in northern and southern California and are desperate for a win to stay alive for a division title. But not being home for the third straight game proves a problem for Tua, Mike McDaniel, and company. Buffalo continues finding ways to win and have won five of their last seven. The Bills’ defense came together after Von Miller’s injury, which is enough motivation to push for more than a division title. After dealing with the humidity in Miami, Buffalo should feel good watching Miami squirm in cold Buffalo on a somewhat short week on Saturday Night.

MY PICK: BILLS

NFC EAST SHOWDOWN

GIANTS AT COMMANDERS – 5:20PM PT/8:20PM ET

Next to the 49ers/Seahawks and the Dolphins/Bills game, this is one of the Top 3 most anticipated games in Week 15. One of those two could’ve finished each other off by fourth quarter, but it dragged on through overtime to where no one executed a game-winning drive, including a missed field goal by each team in the second half/overtime. This not only comes down to who wins (if possible), but also has control for a better playoff positioning. The Giants competed to the very extent, but injuries and exposure on both sides could wear out on New York. Meanwhile, Washington found success despite the off-the-field ugliness that never involved the team or coaching staff. Their success came from the combination of Taylor Heinecke and Brian Robinson Jr. (believe it or not). It led to a 6-1-1 record in their last eight games. The Giants fire might flame out soon. They got stomped by Philadelphia while Washington enjoyed their bye week and will host coming off the bye. Washington should rely on their run game early and often to wear out the Giants altogether.

MY PICK: COMMANDERS

YOUNG CAT VS. OLD BUC

BENGALS AT BUCCANEERS – 1:25PM PT/4:25PM ET

While Cincinnati’s finding consistency in their last five games, Tampa Bay won three of their last five, but lost two or their last three. Ja’Marr Chase’s return may have made the Bengal a serious threat for the AFC North title and the playoffs if they finish strong. This “underrated” defense makes an impact at the most crucial time possible, which led to big wins over Tennessee, Kansas City, and a revenge win over Cleveland. Tom Brady’s Bucs must clear up some issues as their closing out the regular season with four games left. The offensive line is an issue and could be why Brady’s not connecting with his receivers as well this season. Their defense is also suffering from injuries, and Vita Vea’s and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka’s injury could make the situation worse if they’re not available this Sunday. Tampa Bay is a tough out at home and a lot of their results came down to 10 points or less. Expect this to be a close one too since Cincinnati tends to play it close on the road. Tampa Tom’s defense is too beat up to deal with the likes of Joe Burrow, the Oklahoma running back duo, Ja’Marr Chase and company on offense.

MY PICK: BENGALS

MONDAY NIGHT PREVIEW

RAMS AT PACKERS – 5:15PM PT/8:15PM ET

The Packers had a good rest on a bye after a long struggle, and also a big win over Chicago a couple of weeks ago. Hopefully they recovered and connected on everything during the bye because now they must focus on their improbable run to the playoffs. Aaron Rodgers is connecting more with Christian Watson, which helps the offense get out of a jam, but hopefully the defense will follow too. Los Angeles lost six straight prior to a shocking comeback win over the Raiders thanks to Baker Mayfield (who was signed 48 hours prior). He starts for his third team and Sean McVay made sure he starts for the rest of the season. It’ll be a battle and should be entertaining to watch. While Baker is playing for his second chance at a long career, Aaron Rodgers is at risk of being benched for the rest of the season for Jordan Love. The Rams were able to win on a big comeback, but it won’t likely happen again in a close game with Green Bay.

MY PICK: PACKERS

MY TOTAL: 47

THE REST OF WEEK 15 NFL PICK’EMS

RAVENS AT BROWNS

COLTS AT VIKINGS

FALCONS AT SAINTS

EAGLES AT BEARS

LIONS AT JETS

STEELERS AT PANTHERS

COWBOYS AT JAGUARS

CHIEFS AT TEXANS

CARDINALS AT BRONCOS

TITANS AT CHARGERS

PATRIOTS AT RAIDERS (MENTOR VS. MENTEE)