2017 NFL Picks, score predictions for Week 17

Oakland Raiders (6-9) at Los Angeles Chargers (8-7)

After starting the season 0-4, the Los Angeles Chargers have battled their way back into the playoff picture. A win gives them a chance at the No. 6 seed in the AFC, although they’ll need help to earn the berth. Luckily for them, they pull a Week 17 matchup with the Oakland Raiders.

The Raiders have been one of the biggest disappointments of the 2017 campaign. Not only were they considered a shoo-in playoff team at season’s beginning, but many saw them as a team that could make a legitimate run at the Super Bowl. That’s been about as far from the case as possible — it’s been an ugly road along the way.

To make matters worse for Oakland, its dropped its last three outings. Two of those have been close battles that came down to the final drive. The Chargers have a knack for those types of finishes, but have a much better track record in 2017 than the Raiders do in those regards.

Los Angeles stands tall in the waning minutes, stopping a game-winning drive in its tracks. Derek Carr tosses a back-breaking interception, allowing his AFC West rival a golden opportunity to taste the postseason for only the second time in eight seasons.

Prediction: Chargers win 20-16