Did you see the new movie trailer for zombie apocalypse sequel, “28 Years Later” yet?
If you missed it, just look at NFL survivor pools entering Week 16. The landscapes of those contests are just as bleak as Danny Boyle’s latest film, with the field thinned to just a few crafty survivors.
As mentioned in previous articles, I’m speaking to you from beyond the gambling grave, as my survivor pick went tits-up in Week 12. However, I’m serving as a spirit guide, like the “Ghost of Missed Picks Past” trying to push you Scrooges to salvation.
And while my survivor path has already come to an abrupt end, I’m still playing along and limiting my favorite selection to the few teams still available. You’re likely dealing with the same remaining teams.
Here are my best NFL picks for survivor pools ahead of Week 16, as well as the safest selection, according to the NFL odds.
Teams used: Buffalo, L.A. Chargers, Seattle, Houston, Chicago, Green Bay, Cincinnati, Denver, Minnesota, Philadelphia, Washington (X), Tampa Bay, Miami, Arizona
Best survivor pool bets for Week 16
Click on each pick to read the full analysis.
Covers Week 16 survivor pool picks
Atlanta Falcons
Opponent: vs. New York Giants
Moneyline odds: -525 (84% implied win probability)
When the going gets tough, the tough grit their teeth and take the Atlanta Falcons in Week 16.
Atlanta is about as stable as a former child star at an off-strip Vegas nightclub, playing on a short week after nearly shitting the bed against the Raiders on Monday. But it’s playing the Giants, who could be starting what is essentially their fourth-string quarterback in Tim Boyle, who’s only been with the organization for about a month.
Oddsmakers think the Falcons are 10 points better than the G-Men at home on Sunday. And luckily for survivor pools, we only need a win to advance. In order to get that victory, Atlanta just needs to run the ball and keep Kirk Cousins from inflicting harm with careless turnovers. That was the game plan in Week 15.
The Falcons are fighting to stay in the NFC postseason picture, while New York could be turning on the tank for a shot at the No. 1 overall selection in the upcoming draft. Those mixed motivations are enough to ease my nerves with Atlanta.
Buffalo Bills
Opponent: vs. New England Patriots
Moneyline odds: -1013 (91% implied win probability)
The Buffalo Bills just took down Detroit and now see the biggest swing in competition when they host the rival Patriots in Week 16.
Buffalo is sitting second in the AFC pecking order and the value of this selection goes up if Kansas City loses to Houston on Saturday (with Patrick Mahomes questionable). The Bills can improve their chances for the No. 1 seed and the honor of hosting the AFC title game in Orchard Park.
And speaking of Western New York, Sunday’s forecast is calling for sub-freezing temperatures at Highmark Stadium, with “feels like” temps around 10 degrees. That would be enough for most teams to quit and even more of an excuse for the 3-11 Patriots to stay in bed Sunday morning.
If you still have the Bills available in your pool and you’re looking to just get out of Week 16 alive, Buffalo is your pick.
