2021 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 16

Buffalo Bills (8-6) at New England Patriots (9-5)

Sunday, December 26, 1PM ET

It’s no secret the New England Patriots are no longer considered invincible after their defeat at the hands of the Colts this past weekend. However, as disappointing as the loss was, it’s not a sign of a sudden downfall for one of the AFC’s most intriguing franchises.

It’s all the more strange to be making this prediction considering I’ve been claiming the Buffalo Bills were among the top contenders this season. However, they’ve proven time and time again that they’re as good on the field as they are on paper. Week 16 will likely provide more evidence of that assertion.

My prediction is based largely on the New England defense’s dominance this season and Buffalo’s bipolar offense. While we all know Josh Allen is one of the best quarterbacks in the game, he’s been inconsistent throughout the 2021 campaign. Against arguably the league’s top defense, don’t be surprised if he struggles again.

Mac Jones keeps the Patriots afloat while the New England defense limits the Bills’ ability to put points on the board. It stays close in this low-scoring affair, but the Patriots manage to come out on top after a late-game push by Allen and Co.

Prediction: Patriots win 18-15 | Spread: Patriots (-1.5)