2020 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 16

Indianapolis Colts (10-4) at Pittsburgh Steelers (11-3)

Sunday, December 27, 1PM ET

I was already skeptical about the Pittsburgh Steelers’ chances against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 16. Then the Steelers lost to the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday night, and now I’m starting to wonder if they won’t cough up the AFC North crown and exit the postseason in Round 1.

This just isn’t the same team that started the season 11-0. Pittsburgh’s offense is falling apart and the defense hasn’t been nearly as dominant. Ben Roethlisberger is suddenly struggling, as a lack of a reliable running game and crumbling pass protection continue to make his life exponentially more difficult.

When it comes to the Colts, there’s still plenty of positive going on with that club. The offense isn’t overwhelming with Philip Rivers calling the shots, but the running game is looking good. More importantly, the Indianapolis defense continues to own opponents, which is why I’m confident they can control whatever Pittsburgh throws at them.

The Steelers are in freefall, and a matchup with the rolling Colts isn’t going to help their cause. As great as Pittsburgh looked earlier in the year, it’s looking like one of those situations where they cooled down at the worst of times. Indianapolis gets the win and leapfrogs the Steelers in the standings.

Prediction: Colts win 24-17