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Last Release of Expert NFL Picks from our handicappers.
Just so the public knows we are always transparent and honest with our reporting, in this spot we will list all of the previous weeks NFL football picks and analysis.
This page will be updated each Thursday at 5AM Eastern.
Get free NFL Picks including expert parlays picks for betting NFL games this week against the spread.
Doc's Sports
2 Unit Play. Take #389 San Francisco 49ers +7 over Seattle Seahawks (8p.m., Saturday, January 18 FOX) Just feel this is too many points to be laying for a third matchup between these two teams. Seattle is rested and healthier, but I see San Francisco being able to take this game down to the wire. The 49ers defense has played well the last two games, and I feel they can frustrate QB Sam Donald in this game at some point. San Francisco has won 7 of their last 8 games (7-1 ATS). I just do not trust Sam Donald and feel he will allow the 49ers a chance to make a game changing play or at least take this game down to the wire.4 Unit Play. Take #392 Denver -1.5 over Buffalo Broncos (4:30p.m., Saturday, January 18 CBS) Buffalo opened as a favorite, but Denver is now favored at release time. The Broncos are 6-2 lifetime in the divisional round as the No. 1 seed. Denver has the much better defense and a balanced offense that can attack the Buffalo defense on the ground or through the air. Playing in back-to-back road games will catch up to Buffalo in this game, as Denver moves onto the AFC Championship Game.
8 Unit Play. Take #393 Los Angeles Rams -2.5 (First Half Line) over Chicago Bears (6:30p.m., Sunday, January 18 NBC) NFL PLAYOFF GAME OF THE YEAR
I feel the Rams are the better and more experienced team in this matchup. The Bears have found ways to win, and the Rams may need to knock them out early. I feel that will be the case with the Bears suffering two key injuries to linebacker and lineman in that game against the Packers. Los Angeles has numerous weapons on offense, and I expect them to pick apart this Chicago defense. Chicago cannot keep getting down early in games and if it happens again on Sunday, I expect Los Angeles to knock them out. The Rams have beaten the Bears in 3 of the last 4 matchups. The Bears are just 2-2 in their last 4 games and they could have lost all 4 of them. They have been behind at halftime in 4 straight games. I see Chicago making a run in the second half and that will help the over hit. Los Angeles has gone over the posted total 8 straight times in the divisional round game. The Rams have also gone over the posted total in 6 straight road games.
Robert Ferringo
4-Unit Play. Take #391 Buffalo (+1.5) over Denver (4:30 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 17)Denver only beat four playoff teams this year. One of those wins came against the Chargers when they were resting their starters. Another came against Houston with Davis Mills at quarterback. I think Denver has an excellent defense and an offense that can occasionally be explosive. I also think they are facing a more experienced Bills team that was able to get that first win under their belt last week and brings some momentum into this game. Buffalo is not going to be rattled by the cold weather or the stakes of this game. The Bills have played, and played very well, in a ton of high-stakes playoff games over the last six years. I think they are going to come to play and if they do I think their best game is better than Denver’s.
5-Unit Play. Take #390 Seattle (-7) over San Francisco (8 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 17)
4-Unit Play. Take ‘Over’ 45.0 San Francisco at Seattle (8 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 17)
Seattle is just going to be too much for the 49ers. San Francisco has been doing incredible work this year fighting through injury after injury. However, the deeper they get into the postseason the more that lack of high-end talent is going to come back to bite them. Seattle went to San Francisco in Week 18 and absolutely dominated that game. The final was 13-3 but it probably should’ve been closer to 28-6. If you kick out the 37 points that Seattle allowed to the Rams in Week 16, the Seahawks have surrendered just 7.6 points per game since Thanksgiving. I do think that this game is going to be higher scoring than the first two meetings. The two teams combined for 1,150 yards in the first two games and that yielded just 43 points. That 25.0 yards per point is way beyond the mean and I can see some scoring regression. The last time they met in the playoffs there were 64 points scored. And if Seattle gets up early then San Fran will be thrown into chase mode. I like Seattle to put 30+ on the board themselves and get this one past the number.
2-Unit Play. 7-POINT TEASER: Take #387 Houston (+10) over New England (3 p.m.) AND Take ‘Over’ 33.5 Houston at New England (3 p.m.)
7-Unit Play. Take #393 L.A. Rams (-3.5) over Chicago (6:30 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 18)
3-Unit Play. Take ‘Over’ 48.5 L.A. Rams at Chicago (6:30 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 18)
2-Unit Play. 7-POINT TEASER: Take #393 L.A. Rams (+3.5) over Chicago (6:30 p.m.) AND Take ‘Over’ 41.5 L.A. Rams at Chicago (6:30 p.m.)
At some point the Bears are going to run out of miracles. So many things had to break their way last week to survive the Packers. I just don’t think it is going to continue to go their way. I don’t see a blowout in this game. The Rams have been shaky over the last month and did not look good last week against the Panthers. However, this Rams offense is ridiculous. They have scored 34 or more points in five of their last six games and are averaging 37.8 points per game during that stretch. That’s insane. If they can hang 37 points on the Seattle defense I think they can find the holes in Chicago’s Cover-2. And in a similar cold weather game against the Eagles last January the Rams still put 400 total yards and 22 points on the board against a much better defense. I also think the Bears are going to score points against Los Angeles; the Rams defense is super overrated. And Chicago hasn’t had a problem putting points on the board in cold weather or against physical defenses. I do think that the Rams’ playoff experience is going to be a factor, though, and I think they are going to score early and put the Bears into a chase mode. Chicago’s luck runs out here.
Carpe diem. Good luck.
Craig Trapp
NFL5-Unit Play. Take #390 Seattle (-7) Over San Francisco (8 p.m., Saturday, January 17)
The only question for the Seahawks is whether Sam Darnold can avoid the playoff yips he experienced last year. We believe Darnold and the Seahawks will avoid turnovers and dominate this game. With no weaknesses and a huge home-field advantage for Seattle, along with San Francisco being severely injured, take Seattle to win and cover the spread.
7-Unit Play. Take #393 Over (48.5) LA Rams vs Chicago (6 p.m., Sunday, January 18)
These defenses are going to struggle to slow down each other. The Rams' offense is ranked #1 in the league in almost every important category, and I believe that success will continue against a subpar Bears defense. The Bears' offense found something late in their last game, and I expect that momentum to carry over here. Take the over in the Bears and Rams game.
Craig
Scott Rickenbach
3-Unit Play. Take #391 Buffalo Bills (+1.5) at Denver (4:30 p.m., Sat, Jan. 17)The Broncos QB, Bo Nix, has one game of NFL experience in the playoffs and it was against the Bills last season and Denver lost that game 31 to 7. Certainly I respect the Broncos and understand they are rested and at home here but I like the playoff moxy of QB Josh Allen and this Bills team. The experience edge is a big factor and there is a reason this line is right around a "pick'em" even though the Broncos have so many supposed edges here. Grab the road team as the Bills eliminate the Broncos yet again and this time they do it in Denver. 3* BUFFALO +1.5
4-Unit Play. Take #389 San Francisco (+7) at Seattle (8:00 p.m., Sat, Jan. 17)
I know I know. Seattle is at home and rested and laying only a TD here after they recently dominated the Niners 13-3. Seattle simply must be the play here, right? I love being a contrarian in the NFL and it is something that has served me well through the years. Now, after an impressive win over the defending champion Eagles, the Niners are on a short week here but this is a well-prepared and well-coached team and the Seahawks, prior to the season-ending win over San Francisco, really faced a rather weak schedule (other than the Rams) since their bye week all the back in late October. In the two games versus the Rams the Seahawks went 1-1 but with the win being a fortunate one in OT. This Seahawks team also lost to the Bucs and Niners this season and I really feel they are a bit overrated. Helluva good team but not worth 7 points against this solid Niners team! 4* SAN FRANCISCO +7
3-Unit Play. Take #388 New England (-3) vs Houston (3:00 p.m., Sun, Jan. 18)
Texans WR Nico Collins was not at practice Thursday after already missing Wednesday activities. At this point it is not looking good for him as he deals with a concussion and this would be a major blow to an already lackluster Texans offense. The strength of Houston is their D but the Patriots also have a fantastic D plus they are at home here plus they have the healthier and better overall defense. When you add up all these key factors, this is a value spot with the Pats laying a field goal at home. Remember the Texans game was 7-6 before they erupted in the 4th quarter as the Steelers fell apart. The Patriots are not the Steelers and this one will play out much differently. 3* NEW ENGLAND -3
7-Unit Play. Take #375 LA Rams (-3.5) at Chicago (6:30 p.m., Sun, Jan. 18)
I like the set up here with the Rams blowing a 14-point lead last week while the Bears rallied from being down 18 points last week! Not only that, Chicago was down 11 with 5 minutes to go in the game. So Los Angeles is off a non-covering win after blowing a huge lead and the Bears are off a huge come from behind upset win. In the regular season all 4 of the LA road wins were by at least a 14-point margin! Also, 7 of the Rams last 9 regular season wins this season were by at least 14 points. The Rams averaged scoring 35 ppg their last 7 games this season and kept that going with scoring 34 points last week. I know the LA defense let them down a bit last week but I expect a bounce back effort here. Remember that the Bears had just 6 points in 3 quarters versus the Packers before that unreal 4th quarter Green Bay implosion. I just don't see the Rams making the same mistakes that Green Bay did. Remember the Bears only win in the last 3 games of the regular season was also a big comeback win over the Packers after trailing 16-6 late in that game. Chicago had to go to OT for that win. The Bears really were not overly impressive to finish the regular season and now we are getting value too based on last week's epic comeback versus GB. I have been big on the Rams since the start of the season and I am going to go back to the well one more time here as this team is so well-balanced. Keep in mind, the Bears were a dog last week and traditionally underdog winners from the Wild Card round have had a really rough time the next week. Sure the Bears have home field edge here but the way I see it that is the only true edge Chicago has in this one and the Rams strength in the trenches and overall balance on both sides of the ball will allow them to pull away as this game goes along. Don't let the number being above a field goal keep you away here. Road rout! 7* LA RAMS -3.5
Arun Shiva (Indian Cowboy)
7-Unit Play. Take Chicago Bears +4 over LA Rams (Sunday @ 6:30pm est)The Bears played like absolute dog poop last game and it took a miracle come back from them to win. And, the Rams have been getting lucky over and over again and it ends here with an incredible coach in Coach Johnson who will have his guys ready to play. Plus, this game is going to be cold and ugly and we love how Johnson has been just ridiculed for his handshake at the end of the game against LaFleur and we think that motivates him as well and we think the Bears have the significantly better offense and in particular a defense that will be shored up after a terrible first half in the last game against the Packers and we will back Chicago here.
5-Unit Play. Take Seattle Seahawks -7 over San Francisco 49ers (Saturday @ 8pm est)
I am happy to see the Niners do so well in their last game but it ends here. San Francisco had a huge win against a struggling and non united Eagles team and it all changes here against a Seahawks team who beat them last time, yes the Niners have revenge but the Seahawks are so well coached and it looks like from several accounts that Coach Kubiak might be going to the Falcons so this might be this team's last hoorah so there is a lot on the line for everyone and we like this unique Seahawks team to step up here and their consistency to continue to triump as they rocked Jacksonville if you remember and this Niners age and inconsistency to show here.
Raphael Esparza (VSI)
NFL DIVISIONAL PLAYOFF WEEKEND3 Unit Play. Take #392 Denver -1 over Buffalo (4:30p.m., Saturday January 17 CBS)
Buffalo barely escaped the Jacksonville Jaguars last week winning 27-24 and they face the Denver Broncos in Mile High. Denver had only ONE loss this year at home and that was against the Jacksonville Jaguars, but I don’t see them losing Saturday early evening. I’m not sold on this Bills team especially how they looked last week, and I see the defense of Denver and Bo Nix winning by a touchdown. Denver is 13-1 in their last 14 home games and 10-4 ATS in their last 14 home games.
5 Unit Play. Take #384 Over 48.5 Los Angeles Rams vs Chicago (6:35p.m., Sunday January 18 NBC)
Yes it will be cold, but I see Matthew Stafford throwing the ball all over the Bears defense. Rams last 10 games 8 of them have gone ‘Over’ the total and 7 of those games the Rams scored over 30 points. The Bears beat the Packers last week 31-27 and if Brock Purdy threw all over the Bears defense what will Stafford and Puka do Sunday night. I’m hoping we see the Bears offense in the second half against the Packers this Sunday night because if we do this total will fly over no matter what the weather will be. The Rams last 11 road games 9 of them have gone ‘Over’ the total and the Bears last 11 games against NFC West teams 9 of them have gone ‘Over’.
Tony George
NFL
Saturday 1/17/26
7 Units
Take #390 Seattle (-7) over San Francisco *8 EST
This is a brutal spot for San Fran. I cannot stress that enough. They already lost by 10 to Seattle 14 days ago at home and were outgained by a total of 361-173 yards. The Niners lost a huge weapon in George Kittle. Kittle only had 29 yards in that game but his presence makes the defense cover him and now that weapon is gone. Yet the books are BEGGING you to take the number. All the Sharps will take the number in a huge game – because they bet numbers and this is a fall number. I am guilty of that a lot, by design, but this is an exception for me.
If you look at the games played and days involved aspect, San Fran is playing on a short week and their 5th game in 27 days, and this is Seattle’s 3rd game in a month! That is HUGE. Off an upset win on the road despite being -2 in turnovers in that win, playing on the road in a very tough place to play, against a shutdown defense, is a big ask, and this could be a 10+ point loss in my eyes no matter how good of a coach Shanahan is.
I know Sam Darnold’s issues in big games, but the Seahawks ran for 180 yards in the last game, and needing him to shoulder the game all by himself like a Josh Allen type scenario is not needed. Seattle is the best team left standing, well rested and at home. Defense wins championships, and Seattle has the best one in the NFL of the teams left standing. I would sniff the Under on this one as well. Lay it.
LAST MINUTE NOTE: 50 minutes before release time, news reports that Darnold suffered and injury to his oblique muscle and news will not be released till Friday. I would be surprised if he did not play, reports was he felt a slight discomfort. They pulled him from practice right away. The line would only drop. Drew Lock is a capable backup and as stated, Seattle will run the ball more than pass in this game and be successful at it. I am sticking with this pick regardless.
2 Team 6 Point Teaser (-120) *4:30 EST
3 Units
Tease #391 Buffalo UP to (+7) and Tease #390 Seattle DOWN to (-1)
Sunday NFL
1/18/26
4 Units
Play #387 / #388 Houston / New England (UNDER 40.5) -110
*3 EST
Last week I had a 7 Unit Play on New England. They dominated LA. The key here is the Pats defense and Mike Vrable throwing the kitchen sink at QB Stroud today. 14 to 17 Points scored might win this game. The OL of Houston is not good. Nico Collins is out at WR for Houston, a huge weapon and deep threat and he makes plays all over the place. Cold weather as well. This will be low scoring no doubt. Both teams want to establish the run. QB Maye for New England is dangerous on the ground and he will have to run it in certain scenarios against a good Houston defense to keep drives alive. This Houston defense made Aaron Rodgers look like a clown last week. QB Maye is young and makes mistakes (turnovers could happen), and he also makes plays at the same time to move the chains. This defense will test him big time. The Pats last 3 games they allowed 23 points total and 2 of those teams had better offenses than Houston. Houston has a killer defense that make opposing teams suffer in pass mode. Play the Under.
Vernon Croy
7-Unit Play: #391 Buffalo +1-110 over Denver (Saturday, January 17, 2026, 4:30pm ET)Take Buffalo ATS as my top NFL pick for Saturday. This pick falls into one of my top NFL systems and I do expect Buffalo to step up defensively on the road. I have not been impressed with Denver over the last 3 weeks and Josh Allen has been on fire completing 80% of his passes against Jacksonville and this is a buffalo team that has eight touchdowns and no interceptions over their last five games. Buffalo has hands down the superior quarterback and they have averaged 374 yards per game this season along with 155 rushing yards per game which ranks first offensively in the NFL. Buffalo has also held opponents to just 296 yards per game against them overall the season and you simply can't pass against this Buffalo team as they rank number one defensively against the pass allowing just 159 yards per game. Play Buffalo ATS
5-Unit Play: #289 San Francisco +7-110 over Seattle (Saturday, January 17, 2026, 8:00pm ET)
Take San Francisco ATS as my top NFL pick for Saturday night. This pick falls into one of my top NFL systems and I really like San Francisco in this spot to keep this game close and even pull off the upset Saturday. San Francisco is coming off an impressive victory at Philadelphia and I do expect them to step up defensively on the road. San Francisco did take the first meeting between these two teams back on September 7th, winning that game by four points at Seattle and holding Seattle to just 13 points. Play San Francisco ATS
6-Unit Play: #388 New England -3-120 over Houston (Sunday, January 18, 2026, 3:00pm ET)
Take New England ATS as my top NFL pick for Sunday. This pick falls into one of my top NFL systems and I believe that New England is the better overall team on both sides of the ball at home. Maye is the real deal and he will bounce back after completing just 58.6% of his passes against the Chargers. New England has allowed just 290 yards per game over all the season with opponents averaging just 17.9 points per game against them. New England is also the superior team offensively, averaging 380 yards per game overall this season and 28.1 points per game which ranks second in the NFL offensively. Play New England ATS
Scott Spreitzer
2-Unit Play: Take 389 49ers +7 over Seahawks (8 p.m., Saturday, January 18)I’m taking the points with SFO. We were already looking towards a play on the Niners and with the latest news regarding Sam Darnold’s oblique injury we are raising it to a premium release. Darnold is listed as questionable but even if he plays it’s said he’s not close to 100%. Quick analysis here because we are close to release time. Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.
7-Unit Play: Take 388 Over 40.5 Texans-Patriots (3 p.m., Sunday, January 18)
I’m playing the Over between the Texans & Patriots. Let’s get the weather out of the way. The forecast calls for temperatures in the mid-30s and potential precipitation. However, the winds are expected to be minimal (4 to 7 mph). The New England attack doesn’t get its just due. Only three teams have rushed for more yards than the Patriots and they’re third in points per possession. New England is #1 in the NFL in completion percentage (71.1%), yards per attempt (8.4), and yards per catch (12.5). The offensive line should deny Houston’s normal pass rush. The Texans are nothing special on the ground but top-10 in both passing yards and in sacks allowed and I’m betting they’ll need to go up top. The Pats outscore their opponents by 10 ppg and it’s worth noting that home teams with a win margin of at least 7 ppg are 34-11 to the Over (46.3 ppg) after allowing no more than 17 points in three straight games. And finally, Patriot home games have gone over in six straight and averaged 48.8 ppg when the total has been in a range that includes this one. I’m playing the Over between the Texans & Patriots on Sunday. Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.
August Young
6-Unit Play - (391) Buffalo Bills +1, -110 over Denver Broncos (1/17 | 4:30PM EST) Well, this should come as no surprise. We cashed the 7-Unit on Josh Allen and the Bills vs. Jacksonville, despite being -1.1 in ypp margin and being dominated in the rushing game. The reason is simple... experience. Josh Allen took care of business when it mattered most vs. an inexperienced playoff QB. Allen ranks 1st in the league in his pure value vs. league average (+3.2 points). We will be going right back to it vs. Bo Nix. Let's not forget; the Bills destroyed Denver by 24 at Buffalo last year in the wild card game. Denver have been almost unstoppable at home, but Jacksonville had also won eight straight before last week. All-in-all, there is no way we can accept Bo Nix as the favorite vs. Josh Allen in this spot with all things considered.4-Unit Play - (388) New England Patriots -3, -115 over Houston Texans (1/18 | 3:00PM EST) Just an awesome matchup here between the two hottest teams in the AFC. The Texans have won 10-straight games which includes going 7-3 ATS; however, this is a short-week for them on back-to-back road games, heading in to a tough environment. The Texans are more proven vs. a tougher strength of schedule as well as being the better team when looking at the advanced stats. However, it should be no secret by now that when it comes to playoff football we like to back the better QB, and that is clearly Drake May here who ranks 3rd best in the league in points value compared to the average league QB. Stroud is way down there at 24th with a -0.4 points ranking.
Strike Point Sports
7-Unit Play. Take #389 San Francisco (+7) over Seattle (8 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 17)The 49ers are hurt. This isn’t something new for San Francisco, and their coaching staff. The 49ers have had to deal with being short handed all season long, and they have found ways to be successful. I am not sold on Sam Darnold being good enough to cover a line like this.. Yes, he had two “big wins” late in the season (San Francisco and LA Rams), but again, not sold on him performing well enough in the playoffs. Seattle just beat the 49ers 13-3 and dominated every statistical category, but again only beat them by 10. You are trying to tell me that this is going to happen again? No chance. The 49ers didn’t have Trent Williams in that game and he makes a huge difference. If there is any chance that Fred Warner plays I like the 49ers to not only cover this line, but win the game outright. Regardless, this is a Division rivalry, and this is too many points, give me the underdog 49ers.
Best of Luck - Strike Point Sports
Jason Sharpe
NFL-Saturday January 17th 2026-
4 Unit Play Take #391 Buffalo +1.5 over Denver (4:30pm est):
Simply put i think the wrong team is favored in this one. I didn't think Buffalo would win last week and they figured it out beating what I felt was arguably the best team in the AFC (Jacksonville). Add in the fact the Bills have what I feel is the top quarterback in the playoffs right now and I think he will once again figure a way to get the win in this one.
Take Buffalo.
3 Unit Play Take #389 San Francisco +7 over Seattle (8:00pm est):
I like underdogs in the NFL with great offenses and this San Francisco team with Brock Purdy running the show should be able to keep this game close. Even if not then can get in easily thru the backdoor cover. Keep in mind it's been very profitable to back divisional road underdogs when two divisional foes meet up like this one here.
Take San Francisco plus the points.
Sunday January 18th 2026-
3 Unit Play Take #387 Houston +3.5 over New England (3:00pm est):
I think this game should be closer to even so getting a field goal here is too many points to give Houston. The Texans have an awesome defense and in fact one of the best I think we have seen in the NFL the past decade. New England has benefitted from an unbelievably easy schedule and cause of that I think they are a little overrated.
Take Houston plus the points.
Griffin Murphy
7 Unit Play - Take #388 NE Patriots (-3) Over HOU Texans. (3:00p.m, Sunday, January 18th)The entire NFL world is all over how potent this Houston defense is this season,, especially after annihilating Pittsburgh in a 30-6 road win last week. Houston is 1st in the NFL when it comes to total yards of offense against, 2nd in points allowed, 4th against the rush,rush, and 6th against the pass. This team has won 9 games straight and is a 3-point underdog in this matchup. The public is all over Houston here,, as Drake Maye looked very lethargic against a very beatable Chargers team last week. The playoff atmosphere is what has scared the public with Drake Maye after going 17-29 with a TD and a pick. Whilst it looks like the Patriots are in a slight regression after last week's performance, we see this as a spectacular buy low,, sell high situation. Houston is playing like absolute maniacs,, and New England threw a lott of people off last week. We are corking it with the Patriots, as we believe in Drake Maye, Mike Vrabel, and this incredible rebuilt Patriots team.
Griffin Murphy
2 Unit Play - Take #394 Chicago Bears (+3.5) Over LA Rams. (6:30p.m, Sunday, January 18th)
Chicago once again is being disrespected by the public and the market, catching 3.5 at home in this game. This team has proven they can find a way to win regardless of the circumstances. Now this is expected to be one of the coldest football games to be played in the last decade. Ben Johnson has had his team practicing outside the entire week, and this team absolutely thrives in the cold. Los Angeles has to come from sunshine and 80-degree temperatures to play in a game that is nearly below-zero weather. Chicago keeps finding ways to win games regardless of what happens. Now in this game the Bears are catching an extra hook, with this being the biggest game they have played in 2 decades. We believe Caleb Williams is a true leader, and Ben Johnson has this team fully prepared and ready to go Sunday. This is also a huge public fade, as everyone is aware Stafford played with Detroit for the majority of his career, and the cold does not slow him down. Stafford is used to the cold, but his team is not. There is no I in team, and Chicago has proved that all season long. Meanwhile, this Rams team has lived around Stafford. We believe the Bears win this game outright, but we are taking the +3.5 points as insurance.
Griffin Murphy
Nick Menken
7 Unit – Take #389 SF 49ers (+7) over SEA Seahawks (-110) (8:00p.m, Saturday, January 17th)We have the San Francisco 49ers heading to Seattle to take on the Seahawks on Saturday night. Last week, the 49ers made a significant statement by defeating Philadelphia 23–19. That win alone showed exactly what this team is capable of when the lights are on. Yes, San Francisco lost George Kittle, and that’s a big reason why this number is sitting where it is. But this offense doesn’t suddenly fall apart because of one injury. Brock Purdy continues to play with confidence, and with Christian McCaffrey leading the way, this offense still runs through its most dangerous weapon. McCaffrey’s ability to impact the game both on the ground and through the air keeps defenses honest and opens things up for everyone else. Defensively, the 49ers remain one of the most physical units in football. They pressure the quarterback, stop the run, and force teams to earn every yard. Seattle has been inconsistent at times this season, especially against disciplined defenses like this one. This is also a divisional matchup, and games in this spot are almost always tight. San Francisco is playing with momentum and confidence, and I don’t see them backing down or getting blown out here with Sam Donald leading the way for Seattle. Getting a full touchdown with a team this well-coached and this battle-tested is simply too much value to pass up. Take the San Francisco 49ers +7 to cover against the Seahawks on Saturday night.
Nick Menken
4 Unit – Take #394 CHI Bears (+3.5) over LA Rams (-105) (6:30p.m, Sunday, January 18th)
Call them the Cardiac Bears for a reason. Last week, Chicago demonstrated resilience by rallying late against the Packers, securing a home game against the Rams on Sunday night. This team has shown all season they’re comfortable in tight, high-pressure moments, and that confidence matters this time of year. The Rams also needed late heroics, with Stafford leading a comeback win over the Panthers, but now they head on the road into a tough environment. Soldier Field at night, where the temperature will be cold, is never easy, especially against a Bears team riding momentum and believing they belong. Chicago has been playing its best football when it matters most, and that edge shows up again here. The Bears' defense is number one in takeaways for a reason. They're going to need a couple here tonight, and I think they'll get them with Stafford coming to town. I like the Bears to control the pace, keep it close, and be there at the end once more.
Nick Menken
2 Unit – Take #388 NE Patriots (-3) over HOU Texans (3:00p.m, Sunday, January 18th)
The one thing these two teams bring into this matchup is defense. Both units rank near the top of the league, and we saw that last week with the Patriots winning a physical, grind-it-out game. This one set up similarly, but the difference is where it’s being played. New England is at home, and this is a big bounce-back spot for Drake Maye after a rough outing last week. Rookie quarterbacks tend to respond well after adversity, especially at home, and the Patriots coaching staff will look to simplify things early to get him comfortable. Expect more balance, quicker reads, and fewer mistakes. Houston’s defense is solid, but their offense has been inconsistent on the road, and this feels like a game where points will be hard to come by. In low-scoring, defensive battles, laying a short number at home is usually the right side. I expect New England to control the tempo, win the field-position battle, and do just enough offensively to pull away late. Lay the points with the Patriots -3 at home on Sunday.
Nick Menken
Expert NFL Picks History:
Doc's Sports is the gold standard of sports handicapping, having been one of the most well-regarded and successful handicapping services for over 55 years (yes, we started in 1971). Doc’s is riding a streak of three straight winning seasons, and 2025 will be no different. We dominated our top plays in football, hitting 80% of our 8-unit plays, including our Big 10 Game of the Year. We have also hit 61% of our 7-unit plays the last two years! Now is the time to jump on board with a full-season package for just 749, as this will give you every college and NFL play that we make through the Super Bowl. In fact, we have hit the Super Bowl winner in six of seven years! Sign-up now and let 55 years of handicapping experience work for you.
Robert Ferringo has posted seven of 10 winning football seasons, including last year thanks to an astounding +10,830 three-month run. Robert has been among the top football handicappers in the country over the past 16 years, banking nearly +40,000 in profit between 2010-2019 for a 10-year average profit of nearly +4,000. Robert has earned 11 of 16 overall winning years and racked up 69 of 112 winning football months – so two of every three months are winners over the past 16 years! Robert is also one of the top football futures bettors in the country, hitting 70% of futures rated 5.0 or higher (22-9) in his career, and one of the best Super Bowl handicappers in the nation (16 of 19 winning years). Claim your spot on The Victory Train today!
August Young has been with Doc’s Sports for three football seasons – and they’ve all been winners, banking +5,115 in 2022, +6,765 in 2023, and +6,735 last season. Young and his team are experts at identifying the largest value across all markets. For example, they will take underdogs on the moneyline when the price is better than the spread based on advanced metric conversions and their own number charts based on historical data. They use cutting-edge data science to make their decisions in these instances to remove all bias. Over the last three years they release an average of between 6-8 plays per week and Young is also a sensational 74-45, +15,345 on plays rated 5.0+. Sign up now!
Strike Point Sports has burned the books for back-to-back winning football seasons, finishing in the Top 3 on the site both years. SPS has racked up 8 of 11 winning years for +23,030 in profit. SPS closed last year on an absolute tear, banking +7,300 in November, December and January combined. Strike Point Sports – known as "Mr. Saturday" for their college football domination – has burned the books for 8 of 10 college football years and 9 of 11 winning NFL seasons. You can expect 2-3 prime college football picks and 2-3 top NFL picks each week. SPS's selectivity is perfect for bettors who like focused action. Get on board with one of the best in the business!
Scott Spreitzer enters the football campaign on a 66-42 (61%), +7,340 winning run since Sept. 18 of last year. Spreitzer crushed it with a 4-0 sweep with his 8-Unit Football Game of the Year plays last season, the second time he's swept his GOYs at Doc's over the last five years. And when you're with Scott, you're with a handicapper and bettor who puts his money where his mouth is. He is the only two-time winner of the Las Vegas OV Football Invitational, the all-time wins champion in the Station Casinos Invitational, and he's cashed Top 20 checks in the world-famous Westgate NFL SuperContest. Get on board with a proven winner!
Jason Sharpe has beaten the books for six of nine winning football seasons and banked nearly +11,000 in 2022 and 2023 combined. Sharpe is known for his incredibly fast starts to the season and is one of the top NFL Preseason bettors in the country, going 17-10 in Week 1 of NFLX over the past 12 years. He is 90-50 (64%) with his college football picks the first two weeks of the year and a jaw-dropping 56-26 (68%) with his Week 2 college football picks! Sharpe has gone 28-16 over the last three years in the first two weeks of the NFL season. Sharpe has earned seven of 10 winning college football years and is set to do it again. Sign up now!
Craig Trapp is going into his 21st football season, and over the last 20 years he has had 14 out of 20 profitable season including last year. Trapp has posted three straight winning NFL seasons, hitting 61% last year. He also released 64% college winners in the regular season and 54% in the bowls and playoffs. Trapp went 16-8 with his big plays rated 5.0+ and you can expect 5-7 college and 3-5 NFL predictions each week. Trapp is known for his 17-year run on YouTube providing free plays every day and you can jump on the winners as Craig shows you the money again this season.
Vernon Croy is ready for his 11th season at Doc's Sports and will put his vast knowledge and experience to work for you today. Croy has posted 9 of 10 winning NFL regular seasons and he is looking to do it again. Croy uses his personal, private football systems that he has developed over the course of the last 20+ years to give him an edge over the books. He was up +3,700 last year with his top football plays rated 5.0+ and he is looking for that big play success to translate again this year. Get on board today and don't miss out as he continues his outstanding work on the gridiron!
Tony George has over 30 years of football handicapping experience, and the NFL has always been his top sport. George has 70 documented Top 10 awards across all sports and he is looking for another dominating season in 2025. George hit 64 percent of his NFL plays in 2016, and in 2021 he hit 80 percent of his college football picks rated 5.0+. George is looking for another big year with a low-volume approach. He is well known for his national radio shows over the past 15 years. Put 30 years of experience and a long-standing reputation to work for you today.
Raphael Esparza is one of the most consistent and profitable handicappers in the business. Esparza has more than 13 years’ experience as a Las Vegas sportsbook manager and is now one of the most well-connected handicappers on The Strip. This fall, Esparza will dial in and look for a monster season on the gridiron. As in all sports, Esparza is one of the best big-play handicappers in the country, and he is one of the few handicappers in the country that releases picks on every single bowl game each winter. Esparza hit his 8-Unit NFL Total of the Year last season and will do it again this year.
Griffin Murphy is an expert when it comes to college football and NFL betting profits. Murphy cannot wait to bring his clients huge wins this season. He got off to a great start last year, securing +4,680 in winnings over the first three months of the campaign. Murphy has managed to focus the majority of his time on his algorithm to get this sport just right. He is looking to produce a consistent success rate throughout this coming season and you can sign up and check him out today!
Nick Menken is one of the newest additions to the Doc’s Sports team. With years of experience and a deep understanding of both college football and NFL betting, Menken has built a reputation for delivering consistent, profitable results. His focus is always on providing his clients with the most accurate and informed picks to maximize their returns. This season, Nick is primed to deliver serious wins and can’t wait to share his insights with you. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or just getting started, now is the perfect time to join a winning team.
Arun Shiva posted the best football season in his career in 2021, banking +5,000 with start to finish winners. Shiva went 64-46 (58%), +5,305 in the NFL in 2021 and wants to do it. There is no doubt Shiva is one of the most popular handicappers year after year on Doc's Sports site, and his winning predictions and entertaining daily videos make him one to watch for during every season of every sport he handicaps. Shiva has been researching extensively for this NFL season and is ready to beat the bookies from the first game through the Super Bowl in February. Sign up now!