Pro Picks: Top 3 Division Matchups to Watch This Thanksgiving Day

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In his weekly Pro Picks column, AP Pro Football Writer Rob Maaddi outlines his selections for upcoming games. For a comprehensive list of all Pro Picks, visit this link.

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This Thanksgiving, the Detroit Lions are showcasing a remarkable transformation. Currently, the Lions boast an impressive 8-2 record as they prepare for their Thursday game against the Green Bay Packers, who stand at 4-6. This marks Detroit’s most successful start since 1962, continuing their upward trajectory from a 7-2 finish last season following an initial 1-6 slump.

Quarterback Jared Goff led the Lions to a thrilling victory against Chicago last week, despite earlier setbacks. On the other side, Jordan Love was pivotal in the Packers’ recent triumph over the Chargers.

Thanksgiving Day football begins with the Packers-Lions game, followed by Dallas taking on Washington, and San Francisco facing Seattle in the evening game.

The Lions are favored to win by 7 1/2 points, as per FanDuel Sportsbook. Pro Picks endorses the leading team.

LIONS predicted to win 27-17.
PITTSBURGH at CINCINNATI

Point Spread: Steelers -1 1/2

Pittsburgh (6-4), now under a new offensive coordinator, hopes to revitalize their gameplay with Kenny Pickett at the helm. The Bengals (5-5), missing Joe Burrow for the season, will rely on Jake Browning.

Pro Pick: STEELERS to win 22-16.
BUFFALO at PHILADELPHIA

Point Spread: Eagles -3

The Eagles (9-1) are in high spirits following a victory over Kansas City. Despite their strong form, matching the previous game’s intensity on a short week might be challenging. The Bills (6-5), led by Josh Allen, are more driven in this matchup.

Pro Pick: BILLS to edge out with a 24-23 win.
WASHINGTON at DALLAS

Point Spread: Cowboys -12 1/2

Dallas (7-3) has a strong record but faces a challenging schedule post-Washington (4-7). The Commanders have had mixed results, performing well against Philadelphia but losing to the Giants.

Pro Pick: COWBOYS to win 31-16.
SAN FRANCISCO at SEATTLE

Point Spread: 49ers -7

A fully fit 49ers team (7-3) is playing at a high level, while the Seahawks (6-4) are struggling post-Rams sweep and with a hurt Geno Smith.

Pro Pick: 49ERS to win 26-17.
MIAMI at NEW YORK JETS

Point Spread: Dolphins -9 1/2

The game features Miami’s dynamic offense against the Jets’ (4-6) robust defense. Tim Boyle steps in for the Jets against the leading Dolphins (7-3).

Pro Pick: DOLPHINS to win 24-16.
NEW ENGLAND at NEW YORK GIANTS

Point Spread: Patriots -3 1/2

The Patriots (2-8), surprisingly favored, may start Mac Jones or Bailey Zappe. The Giants (3-8) are close behind, following a win led by Tommy DeVito.

Pro Pick: PATRIOTS to win 23-18.
JACKSONVILLE at HOUSTON

Point Spread: Jaguars -1 1/2

In a surprising twist, both the Jaguars (7-3) and Texans (6-4) are vying for the top spot in the AFC South, with Houston’s rookie QB C.J. Stroud and coach DeMeco Ryans leading the charge.

Pro Pick: JAGUARS to win 27-23.
NEW ORLEANS at ATLANTA

Point Spread: Falcons -1 1/2

This crucial matchup between the Saints (5-5) and Falcons (4-6) could foreshadow the NFC South’s direction. Desmond Ridder returns as Atlanta’s QB, while New Orleans may start Derek Carr or Jameis Winston.

Pro Pick: FALCONS to win 22-20.
CAROLINA at TENNESSEE

Point Spread: Titans -4

Both the Panthers (1-9) and Titans (3-7) are enduring tough seasons. Carolina’s loss, however, impacts their draft pick, which belongs to Chicago.

Pro Pick: TITANS to narrowly win 21-20.
TAMPA BAY at INDIANAPOLIS

Point Spread: Colts -2 1/2

The Colts (5-5) remain in playoff contention but recently released linebacker Shaquille Leonard. The Buccaneers (4-6) are still in the race due to their division’s overall performance.

Pro Pick: BUCCANEERS to win 24-23.
KANSAS CITY at LAS VEG

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More about NFL Thanksgiving Predictions

• NFL Game Predictions
• Thanksgiving Day Football
• Pro Picks Analysis
• Detroit Lions Season Performance
• Pittsburgh Steelers Strategy
• Buffalo Bills Upset Potential
• San Francisco 49ers Current Form
• Miami Dolphins Offensive Strategy
• New England Patriots vs. New York Giants Preview