Welcome to “Mac’s Picks for Week 13”.
Atlanta Falcons (4-7) at New York Jets (2-9)
Sunday 1p FOX
The obvious reason Tyrod Taylor replaced Justin Fields at quarterback is because he gives the New York Jets a better chance to win each of their remaining meaningless games. The more important reason is that by running a functional offense, Taylor gives Darren Mougey and Aaron Glenn an opportunity to evaluate their offensive personnel heading into a pivotal offseason.
In today’s matchup with the Atlanta Falcons, keep an eye on the Jets two recently acquired wide receivers John Metchie and AD Mitchell. Metchie, 25, a former second-round pick out of Alabama, has caught 14 of 15 targets in 3 games with the Jets for 113 yards and 2 touchdowns. Mitchell, 23, another former second-round pick out of Texas, has struggled in his first two games, catching only 3 of 13 targets for 52 yards. If one of these wide-outs develops, it will eliminate one of the Jets’ offseason needs.
Taylor, Metchie, and Mitchell will be tested today by the Falcons, who are ranked eighth in passing defense allowing 190.4 yards per game. In a battle of veteran QBs, we are going with 37-year-old Kirk Cousins to defeat his younger 36-year-old counterpart.
Atlanta Falcons 24 New York Jets 17
Mac’s Pick — Falcons (-3)
New York Giants (2-10) at New England Patriots (10-2)
Monday 8:15p ESPN
My “best bet” this week is to watch this game on ESPN2. Eli Manning is going to enjoy reminiscing to his brother about how his New York Giants defeated the New England Patriots in Super Bowl 42 and 46. While the game itself is a mismatch on paper, it does provide the Giants with hope as they look toward their future.
The Patriots, led by second-year quarterback and MVP candidate Drake Maye, have the league’s best record at 10-2. The Giants, who get rookie QB Jaxson Dart back after missing two games with a concussion, are hoping they can have the same turnaround next season. If Dart finds a way to stay healthy, and the defense improves, it will be a realistic dream.
New England Patriots 31 New York Giants 27
Mac’s Pick — Giants (+7)
MAC’S PICKS SEASON RECORD
Versus the point spread: 8-15
On the moneyline: 13-10
Bonus picks: 1-1
MAC’S PICKS DISCLAIMER
Mac’s Picks is written for entertainment purposes only. While “Mac” comes from gambling lineage, he knows he can’t actually predict the future. Therefore, use this information at your own risk.
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