New England Patriots (4-11) vs. Buffalo Bills (9-6)
New England Patriots vs. Buffalo Bills 12/31/23 – At Highmark Stadium on Sunday afternoon, the struggling New England Patriots face the formidable Buffalo Bills for an intense Week 17 matchup that promises exciting dynamics and crucial insight for fans looking for free NFL insights – as both sides look to salvage pride following disappointing 4-11 records for each side. While 9-6 Bills look for stronger playoff positioning while the Patriots aim for respect.
The Patriots’ offense has faced many hurdles this season. Quarterback Mac Jones has amassed 2120 yards at an inconsistent 77 passer rating, leaving many wondering how the team will recover from this struggle. Rhamondre Stevenson led their rushing attack with 619 yards and four touchdowns; Demario Douglas showed potential but did not reach end zone yet with five receptions but no touchdowns so far.
At the other end of the spectrum, the Bills boast an offensive unit with greater firepower. Josh Allen has amassed 3778 yards and 27 touchdowns while tossing 15 interceptions; their running game led by James Cook (1038 yards rushing) provides another dimension while Stefon Diggs (1070 receiving yards, 8 touchdowns) remains their primary threat, creating a dynamic offensive unit which the Patriots defense may find difficult to contain.
New England Patriots vs. Buffalo Bills 12/31/23 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 31, 2023 at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Highmark Stadium |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Mac Jones QB vs. Josh Allen QB
Mac Jones has regressed across the board in 2023. After showing promise as a game manager rookie, he has struggled mightily with turnovers and inconsistency issues in year two. Jones has thrown for just 2,120 yards and 6.1 yards per attempt with 10 touchdowns compared to 12 interceptions. His lack of weapons has been apparent, as the Patriots possess one of the worst passing attacks in football. Jones often panics under pressure as well, taking 22 sacks with a diminished 77.0 passer rating. He will face his toughest test of the year against the Bills’ menacing pass rush. The Patriots signal caller has yet to show he can lead winning drives or bring his team back when trailing. This week’s matchup and environment will expose Jones’s limitations.
Josh Allen has inserted himself in the MVP debate with his phenomenal statistical 2023 campaign. The dual-threat talent currently leads the league’s third-ranked passing offense in yards and passer rating. Allen has developed uncanny chemistry with top target Stefon Diggs, as the duo has connected for 1070 yards and 8 touchdowns thus far. The Bills quarterback has also showcased his underrated athleticism, scrambling for over 300 rushing yards. Allen pilots an offense averaging 28 points per game thanks to his accurate, big-play passing abilities. Theis star excels at reading defenses and knows how to exploit weaknesses in the Patriots’ struggling secondary. Buffalo moves the ball at will behind the precision and playmaking of its franchise quarterback. Allen’s real MVP case will be boosted with a signature performance to close the regular season.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Buffalo Bills -700, Total Odds: 40
The odds heavily favor the Buffalo Bills, reflecting their superior season performance and home advantage. The point spread of -12.5 for Buffalo suggests expectations of a one-sided affair, while the total odds at 40 indicate a game with moderate scoring.
New England Patriots Betting Trends
The Patriots are just 1-4 straight up and against the spread over their last 5 meetings with Buffalo. They have especially sputtered against the Bills when traveling to Highmark Stadium, going 4-16 straight up in their last 20 contests. With quarterback troubles and defensive decline, New England lacks the means to compete in this rivalry bout.
Buffalo Bills Betting Trends
Despite some midseason offensive woes, the Bills finished the campaign strong by covering in 3 of their past 4 outings. Buffalo’s aerial attack led by Allen and Diggs should soar against the Pats’ crumbling defense. The Bills also play inspired football at home, where they are 15-2 straight up over the past two seasons.
New England Patriots vs. Buffalo Bills 12/31/23 Betting Picks
Considering the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, the Bills appear to be the clear favorites. Their potent offense and strong home record against New England make them a formidable opponent. The Patriots, on the other hand, will need to significantly elevate their game to challenge Buffalo, particularly in their offensive output.
For bettors, considering the Bills to cover the spread might be a strong option, given New England’s struggles this season. The under on the total points could be a smart pick, given the Patriots’ offensive woes. For those looking for Premium picks and parlays, combining the Bills to cover with the under on total points could offer value.
Free Pick and Prediction: Buffalo Bills 28, New England Patriots 10