Atlanta Falcons (7-8) vs. Chicago Bears (6-9)
Atlanta Falcons vs. Chicago Bears 12/31/23 – As the NFL season edges closer to its climax, the Atlanta Falcons and Chicago Bears clash in a Week 17 showdown that promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats. With the Falcons standing at 7-8 and the Bears slightly behind at 6-9, this game at Soldier Field on Sunday, could be pivotal in shaping their season-end narratives. Fans and bettors alike are keenly searching for the best NFL picks and tips for this matchup, as both teams aim to finish their seasons on a high note.
The Falcons’ offense has shown plenty of promise this season, thanks to the efforts of Bijan Robinson – playing in 15 games this year and amassing 873 rushing yards on 188 attempts for an average 4.6 yards per rush average and six 20+ yard rush plays as evidence of his explosive potential. Meanwhile Drake London has proven reliable as an offensive threat with 61 receptions totalling 808 yards at 13.2 average yard per reception average, providing important contributions to their playbook and offense.
Khalil Herbert and DJ Moore have provided Chicago Bears offense with much-needed boost. Herbert, in just 10 games played, has amassed 459 yards rushing, averaging 4.5 yards per attempt – an invaluable contributor for Bears offensive strategies. Moore, as a receiver, has been simply spectacular; collecting 83 receptions for 1141 yards as an aerial threat; breaking open games through 19 20+ yard reception plays that make him one of the key players to watch in this contest.
Atlanta Falcons vs. Chicago Bears 12/31/23 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 31, 2023 at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Soldier Field |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Desmond Ridder QB vs. Justin Fields QB
Desmond Ridder has shown gradual improvement in his rookie campaign, but still battles inconsistency stemming from the typical rookie learning curve. Over his last five starts, the Falcons quarterback has a 6:3 touchdown-to-interception ratio while completing over 60% of his passes. Ridder has also chipped in over 150 rushing yards during that span, demonstrating his mobility and ability to create plays outside the pocket. However, he faces a Bears defense this week that has generated multiple turnovers in back-to-back outings.
Justin Fields has been one of the breakout offensive stars in the NFL this season. The dual-threat quarterback has terrorized opposing defenses with 2,146 yards rushing to complement his 15 passing touchdowns. Over his past three games, Fields is averaging over 270 total yards per game with five total touchdowns and zero interceptions. His combination of explosive running ability and improving passing accuracy could exploit a Falcons defense that ranks near the bottom of the league in points allowed.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Chicago Bears -165, Total Odds: 39
The betting odds favor the Bears slightly, with a spread of -3 and a moneyline of -165. The total for the game is set at 39, with the under being just as likely as the over. These odds reflect the Bears’ recent form and home-field advantage, but the Falcons’ potential for an upset should not be overlooked.
Atlanta Falcons Betting Trends
The Falcons have trended under the total in four of their last five overall. Atlanta has also gone under in nine of their previous 12 meetings with the Bears. The Falcons offense has lacked explosiveness all season, while the Bears defense has played better in recent weeks compared to earlier in the year.
Chicago Bears Betting Trends
Chicago has been an under machine lately, going under in six of its past eight contests overall. The Bears ground game should find success against Atlanta’s porous run defense to control time of possession and limit scoring opportunities for both offenses.
Atlanta Falcons vs. Chicago Bears 12/31/23 Betting Picks
Considering the statistics and trends, this game seems poised for a tight finish. While the Bears have the home advantage and a slightly better recent record, the Falcons have the weapons to make this a competitive contest. The key will be Atlanta’s ability to disrupt Chicago’s home comfort and exploit any gaps in their defense.
When it comes to making a pick, the Bears seem like the safer bet, especially with their recent ATS record and home-field advantage. However, the Falcons’ potential for an upset, particularly through their rushing game, cannot be ignored. For prop bets, looking at the quarterbacks’ passing yards could be intriguing, given their contrasting styles and abilities. The total looks set for a close call, but the trends suggest leaning towards the under.
With both teams showcasing some inconsistency, the Bears’ home advantage and stronger defensive trends might just tilt the scales in their favor. Expect a closely contested game with the Bears edging out a victory in a relatively low-scoring affair. For the best multi-handicapper picks, keep an eye on the rushing and receiving yards, as they could be crucial in determining the game’s outcome.
Free Pick and Prediction: Chicago Bears 20, Atlanta Falcons 16