2021 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 17

Las Vegas Raiders (8-7) at Indianapolis Colts (9-6)

Sunday, January 2, 1PM ET

Fans everywhere are going to resent me for this, but I’m still not buying the Las Vegas Raiders as a legitimate playoff team. Sure, they’ve managed to keep pace with the pack, but that doesn’t mean they’re going to get the job done down the stretch.

We’ll see evidence of that assertion in Week 17, when they’re handled by the Indianapolis Colts. The home team is the superior of the two, sporting a far more efficient offense, more talented defense and the momentum to carry them through the finish line.

We just haven’t seen enough from Derek Carr and this Las Vegas offense this season. They’ve managed to win games, largely due to their defense and, honestly, a good bit of luck. However, as a whole, this Raiders squad hasn’t been that impressive — I’m surprised they’ve made it this far considering their consistent struggles.

Even with Vegas’ tough defense, the Raiders will have a hard time slowing down Carson Wentz, Jonathan Taylor and Michael Pittman Jr. The Colts will move the ball up and down the field with ease, making it nearly impossible for the Raiders to score enough points to secure the W.

Prediction: Colts win 33-23 | Spread: Colts (-7.5)