NFL week 13 Tips: Teams battle for playoffs amid key injuries

New Orleans have playoff ambitions of their own, currently sitting at 5-6 in the NFC South. Drew Brees has been outstanding and in a better side would surely come into contention to be named MVP. However, due to his side’s struggles elsewhere they’re still in a battle to reach the post-season.

Brees has been at the peak of his powers, but if the Lions can stifle his offense just a little there will be a chance to win the match. As a result, backing Jim Caldwell’s men at 9/4 on the money line would be a worthy punt.

Denver Broncos @ Jacksonville Jaguars

Denver still have a potent defense, but even they were powerless to stop Kansas City Chiefs winning a vital AFC West encounter last week. As a result, Gary Kubiak’s men are in a vulnerable position in the playoff picture, currently sitting outside of the post-season places.

Fortunately for the Broncos they’re facing a side going through the motions in the form of Jaguars, who have lost six-straight matches with a 2-9 record with Gus Bradley staring down the barrel because of another underwhelming campaign.

Therefore backing the visitors for a 7-12 point win at 15/4 would make sense, which would help get their playoff push back on track in Jacksonville.

Miami Dolphins @ Baltimore Ravens

Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill has become a standout player over the past month, producing important performances in the club’s run of victories. Should he remain on form it could be enough to drive Miami to their first appearance in the post-season since the 2008 campaign, although they will have to do it as the wildcard as they are unlikely to overhaul the Patriots in the AFC East.

Baltimore’s defense has been crucial in keeping them in the hunt, but they will need more from their offense to get over the line. Joe Flacco has been in underwhelming form throwing just 10 touchdowns this season, while the running game has not been effective. The Dolphins are a decent bet to make it seven on the bounce on the money line at 8/5.

New York Giants @ Pittsburgh Steelers

New York have gone about their business quietly this term, but still boast the second best record in the NFC, which currently will only be good enough for the fifth seed due to Dallas Cowboys’ displays. Ben McAdoo’s men have played fairly well against inferior opponents, but will have to take their game to the next level to beat the Steelers.

Pittsburgh need to win to keep their playoff hopes alive, and their offense has talent to expose the Giants defense to claim a narrow 1-6 point victory at 27/10 at Heinz Field.

Indianapolis Colts @ New York Jets

New York made one last stand against the Patriots last week, but were undone by Tom Brady. Worryingly for Todd Bowles’ men the effort of star cornerback Darrelle Revis has been brought under the spotlight, which may rub off on the rest of his team-mates as their season peters out.

Should Luck return for his contest – as expected as he practised this week- he should thrive on the Jets’ struggles in their secondary with primary weapon TY Hilton. Bowles’ side are among one of the worst in the NFL at defending the pass, which is why backing the Colts for a 13-18 point win on the road at 7/1 could be a smart option.

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