Thursday Night Football Odds, Picks & Predictions: Raiders vs. Rams (Week 14)
In Week 14, the 5-7 Raiders are still vying for a playoff spot as they go up against the 3-9 Rams. The Rams can act as spoilers only since their six-game losing streak has ruined any hope of the postseason. With a three-game winning streak, the Raiders are currently focused on an AFC Wildcard Playoff seed. They need to continue the momentum if they want any chance of making that cause a reality.
Let’s see how this one might shake out on Thursday night in Los Angeles.
Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook
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NFL Week 14 Thursday Night Football Odds, Picks & Predictions (Raiders vs. Rams)
Details
- Opening Line: Rams +5.5 | O/U 43.5
- Current Line: Rams +6 | O/U 44.5
- Last meeting: September 10, 2018 – Los Angeles 33, Raiders 13
Overview
The Raiders have a top-10 offense heading into Week 14, which has been a large part of their recent success. The opposite can be said for the Rams, who come into this one with the 31st-ranked offensive attack.
On the other side, the Rams’ 14th-ranked defense, led by CB Jalen Ramsey, outperforms the Raiders’ 27th-ranked defense. The Raiders have DE Maxx Crosby but little else in the way of high-performing talent.
Although these are all paid professionals with undeniable athletic pride, the Rams have lost each of their last six games. At this point, if the Raiders catch an early lead, that might be enough to sustain them against a team that could throw in the towel.
Derek Carr’s enthusiasm continues to be palpable for this team. He’s just beginning to click with WR Davante Adams again, turning into the threat many knew the duo could be.As far as the odds go, the Raiders’ last five Thursday games have gone over the total points line as the offense continues to churn along.
Any total bettors should also take into account the Rams’ underwhelming offense that is now dealing with even more injuries at the QB position. Coming into the week, the Rams’ once prolific offense is ranked 30th overall and 29th in scoring due to injuries and a roster that is constantly in flux as a result.
Bottom Line
Raiders’ running back Josh Jacobs, who leads the league in total rushing yards (1,303), rushing yards per game (108.6) and total touches (284), has also been a major catalyst for the offense. With the Rams’ defensive front missing future Hall of Famer Aaron Donald (ankle) and LB Travin Howard (hip), expect Jacobs to be featured in the Raiders’ offense once again.
To me, all signs point toward the Raiders building an early lead then running the clock behind Jacobs and a stout offensive line. Look for this one to stay under the posted total.
Pick: Under 44.5
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