NFL Week 14: Picks and predictions

Jan 17, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) looks to pass during the fourth quarter against the Carolina Panthers in a NFC Divisional round playoff game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 17, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) looks to pass during the fourth quarter against the Carolina Panthers in a NFC Divisional round playoff game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
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It’s time for the Week 14 NFL slate, and that means NFL picks by Matt Verderame, who has been hotter than the sun in recent weeks.

Oakland Raiders at Kansas City Chiefs (-3)

This is going to be a phenomenal game. Both teams are excellent. Both teams are playoff-bound, and both teams hate each other. The Chiefs (9-3) and Raiders (10-2) for the AFC West lead, just as it should be.

Pick: Kansas City 20, Oakland 16

Washington Redskins at Philadelphia Eagles (EVEN)

The Redskins (6-5-1) have to win this game or playoff hopes are all but out the window. The Eagles (5-7) mailed it in last week, so no reason to expect different now.

Pick: Washington 27, Philadelphia 17

Minnesota Vikings (-3.5) at Jacksonville Jaguars

The Vikings (6-6) have to win this game or their season is officially over. Luckily for them, the Jaguars (2-10) are a total dumpster fire.

Pick: Minnesota 23, Jacksonville 9

Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions (-7.5)

Sometimes, this is very simple. The Lions (8-4) are a very good team and the Bears (3-9) are a JV team masquerading as an NFL squad.

Pick: Detroit 26, Chicago 14

Cincinnati Bengals (-6) at Cleveland Browns

The Bengals (4-7-1) are vulnerable here, but how can anybody pick the Browns (0-12) until they win a game?

Pick: Cincinnati 28, Cleveland 23