2021 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 17

Houston Texans (4-11) at San Francisco 49ers (8-7)

Sunday, January 2, 1PM ET

Oddly enough, the Houston Texans are on a two-game winning streak and seem to be bent on ruining their positioning in the 2022 NFL Draft. These wins mean nothing at this point in the season, but it might make a difference in the San Francisco 49ers’ playoff hopes.

Then again, probably not. The 49ers may have lost this past week, but they’re still playing some excellent football. The offense is dangerous with Deebo Samuel proving to be one of the most dynamic playmakers in the game and George Kittle is doing his thing. Even if the 49ers are forced to turn to Trey Lance with Jimmy Garoppolo injured, it shouldn’t be too much to overcome.

As for the Texans, they’re proving to be at least a competent club. Davis Mills is quietly earning some respect around the league, and the points are coming quicker than they were earlier in the year. They’ll put some pressure on the 49ers in this one, but I doubt they do enough to overcome a potent San Francisco attack.

The 49ers get the win here and keep themselves in prime position to taste the playoffs in 2022. However, don’t be surprised if the Texans at least make it a game. Ultimately, I’m rolling with the more talented team to emergence victorious.

Prediction: 49ers win 29-21 | Spread: 49ers (-13.5)