Bierman’s Best Bets – NFL Week 15
Sandman Nation, the solid NFL season rolls on! After a 2-1 performance last week, we’re now 24-17-1 on the year. This week, we’re backing three home favorites in matchups that could have a big impact on the playoff race. Good luck, and enjoy the action!
Rams at 49ers (-2.5) (*All lines are from DraftKings Sportsbook)
Both the Rams and 49ers came through for us last week, but this week I’m siding with San Francisco. While the Rams pulled off an exhilarating win over the Bills in the highest-scoring game of the 2024 season, that victory came at SoFi Stadium against a team that traveled 3,000 miles. On the other hand, the 49ers looked dominant in their win over the Bears, continuing to showcase a top-5 offense even without key players Christian McCaffrey and Jordan Mason.
San Francisco also boasts a top-3 defense in terms of yardage allowed, while the Rams’ defense ranks 26th. The matchup heavily favors the 49ers, especially with both teams needing a win to stay competitive in the NFC West. At 6-7, San Francisco is in greater need of this victory, and they should be able to exploit the Rams’ defensive weaknesses. With the line under a field goal, the 49ers are a strong play this week.
The Pick: 49ers -2.5
Steelers at Eagles (-5)
The Philadelphia Eagles quietly lead the NFL in total defense, allowing just 284 yards per game, a key factor in their success this season. While the Pittsburgh Steelers also have a strong defense, ranked in the top 10, the edge in this game comes down to the offenses.
Philadelphia’s attack, led by Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, and A.J. Brown, has been one of the league’s most consistent and explosive units. While the game against the Panthers was closer than I would have expected, they still have a significant advantage over Pittsburgh, particularly on offense. The Steelers have managed to sit at 10-3 against the spread this year, but I continue to believe they are doing it with smoke and mirrors. Without WR George Pickens, who is likely sidelined again, the Steelers could struggle to generate much against an Eagles defense that’s playing at an elite level.
Additionally, this game comes at a tough point in Pittsburgh’s schedule, following three straight division games and with a matchup against the Ravens next week. This spot sets up well for Philadelphia to assert themselves and take control. Look for the Eagles to dominate on both sides of the ball and cover comfortably, with the potential for a double-digit win.
The Pick: Eagles -5
Patriots at Cardinals (-6.5)
The Cardinals have dropped three straight games, but it’s worth noting the level of competition: two losses came against the NFC West-leading Seahawks, and the other was a nailbiter against the 11-2 Vikings. Meanwhile, the Patriots, despite occasionally competitive showings, remain one of the NFL’s worst teams with just three wins this season.
New England’s rookie QB Drake Maye shows potential and flashes of promise, but he’s still adjusting to the league and prone to costly mistakes. On the other hand, the Cardinals hold a clear advantage offensively, ranking 12th compared to the Patriots’ 31st-ranked offense. While both defenses are middle-of-the-road, Arizona’s more balanced approach gives them the upper hand in this matchup.
The Cardinals have shown they can take care of weaker opponents, as seen in wins earlier this season against teams like the Jets and Bears. At home, facing a struggling team traveling across the country, Arizona is well-positioned to get back on track. Laying less than a touchdown feels like solid value here, as the Cardinals should win comfortably.
The Pick: Cardinals -6.5
