We’re in the home stretch of the NFL season. Just two more weeks remaining. There will be a lot of garbage games next week, but there is actually a lot to like this week — and far less need to close our eyes and gamble as there was last week. Here’s how the 16 games set up for our office pools this week:

Miami at Buffalo: The Dolphins shocked the Patriots last week, they have won three in a row, and they can taste that wild-card spot. Buffalo, meanwhile, is floundering despite coming off a win and should be outclassed here. The conditions could be a concern for Miami, but they are still the clear pick. Take the Dolphins.

Minnesota at Cincinnati: I am at a loss to explain both Minnesota’s surprising win last week and the lousy performance by the Bengals. I am willing to bet that neither will repeat itself this week, though. Take the Bengals.

Indianapolis at Kansas City: The Colts don’t have much left to play for until the playoffs start, and they know it. Kansas City, meanwhile, has some unexpected life in the race for the AFC West — something that seemed unlikely just a week ago. Take the Chiefs.

Tampa Bay at St. Louis: I like the way St. Louis is playing — at least sometimes. Their last win was impressive, and they have a winnable game at home here. I expect another win Take the Rams.

Cleveland at New York Jets: None of the above — why is that never a pick? Neither team deserves a win, and neither can be trusted. The Browns are in the midst of a long losing streak, though, so take the Jets.

Dallas at Washington: Dallas should be the clear pick here — as long as they aren’t in a close game late. Washington looked better than they have lately last week, though, despite their sixth straight loss. Still, Dallas should be desperate, and they are more talented. Take the Cowboys.

New Orleans at Carolina: The Saints seemed to have the NFC South wrapped up, but now Carolina is in a very good situation. Since that not only means a home game but also a bye, the Panthers should be very ready and hungry. New Orleans has been lousy on the road, so take the Panthers.

Tennessee at Jacksonville: Neither team is great right now. The difference, though, is that Tennessee is likely about to lose their coach. That should compromise their effort. Take the Jaguars.

Denver at Houston: Denver stumbled last week, has some injury issues, and has not been great on the road — at least compared to home. Come on, though — this is the Texans we are talking about. Take the Broncos.

New York Giants at Detroit: Despite throwing away an opportunity last week, the Lions still have a bit of life in the playoff race. After losing four of five and just looking lousy, though, it’s hard to have too much faith that their desperation will motivate them. They Giants are lousy, though, and Eli Manning throws interceptions like his brother throws touchdowns. Take the Lions.

Arizona at Seattle: The Cardinals are playing very well, and it is a shame that they are in position to be locked out of the playoffs. Seattle can clinch home field through the playoffs with a win here, so they will be very motivated. They are also at home where they are deadly. Take the Seahawks.

Pittsburgh at Green Bay: The Packers are making a surprising late charge, and if they win out they could win their division and make the playoffs. Pittsburgh is playing better now than they were, but Green Bay should be motivated here. Take the Packers.

Oakland at San Diego: The Chargers are playing very well, and are in the playoff hunt — though they can’t afford to stumble. Luckily for them, the Raiders are terrible right now and won’t be much competition. Take the Chargers.

New England at Baltimore: Both teams could really use a win here — New England to wrap up a bye and Baltimore to earn a wild card. The Patriots have been weak on the road, though, and injuries are again an issue. Baltimore is playing well and is good at home. Take the Ravens.

Chicago at Philadelphia: Both teams lead their divisions, but the perch is tenuous in both cases. A win is crucial. Philadelphia’s performance was concerning last week, but Chicago’s win was underwhelming. This is truly a coin flip. Take the Eagles at home.

Atlanta at San Francisco: San Francisco is currently the second-best team in their division — and the whole league. Atlanta is only barely the best football team in the state of Georgia. Take the 49ers.

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