New England Patriots at Buffalo Bills: Predictions, picks and odds for NFL Week 17 game – USA TODAY

The New England Patriots (4-11) have nothing to lose, and they’re playing like it. They take on the Buffalo Bills (9-6) in Week 17 as Josh Allen and company have a playoff berth on the line.
Bill Belichick avoided earning a career record for most losses in a season with a 26-23 road win over the Denver Broncos last week. Bailey Zappe threw for a season-high 256 yards and two touchdowns with no interceptions. The defense recovered two fumbles.
The Bills escaped the lowly Los Angeles Chargers and won 24-22 on a last-second field goal. They started the game down 10-0. Allen threw for 237 yards, a touchdown and an interception. He also scored two rushing touchdowns.
Last time the Patriots and Bills faced off, New England won 29-25 for an upset and Belichick’s 300th regular-season win. Mac Jones was the quarterback for the Patriots and he threw two touchdowns. Allen also scored two touchdowns and threw a pick.
PROP TALK: These are the best prop bets for NFL games this week 
NFL STATS CENTRAL: The latest NFL scores, schedules, odds, stats and more.
The Bills are favorites to defeat the Patriots, according to BetMGM NFL odds. Looking to wager? Check out the best mobile sports betting apps offering NFL betting promos in 2023, including the new ESPN BET app.
Not interested in this game? Our guide to NFL betting odds, picks and spreads has you covered with Thursday Night Football odds, Sunday Night Football odds and/or Monday Night Football odds.
 If you’re new to sports betting, don’t worry. We have tips for beginners on how to place a bet online. And USA TODAY readers can claim exclusive promos and bonus codes with these online sportsbooks and sports betting sites.
NFL MVP race:Brock Purdy implodes, Lamar Jackson rises in Ravens’ rout
Browns vs. Jets | Cowboys vs. Lions | Ravens vs. Dolphins | Bills vs. Patriots | Bears vs. Falcons | Texans vs. Titans | Colts vs. Raiders | Jaguars vs. Panthers | Giants vs. Rams | Eagles vs. Cardinals | Buccaneers vs. Saints | Commanders vs. 49ers | Seahawks vs. Steelers | Chiefs vs. Bengals | Broncos vs. Chargers | Vikings vs. Packers
Buffalo has hit a stride and Josh Allen is playing pretty steady football, despite the usual turnover. But the Patriots have become far more competitive lately with Bailey Zappe under center. New England’s defense is very good against the rush and Bill Belichick, historically, had forced Allen into inefficient performances. I like New England to cover.
Josh Allen said last week that the Bills are approaching games as if their backs are against the wall. Buffalo’s played much better since Joe Brady took over as offensive coordinator. The Bills are making a playoff push, while the Patriots are just playing for pride.
The Patriots may have spoiled Denver’s chance to make the playoffs last weekend, and have a chance to play spoiler again against the Bills. But Josh Allen and Sean McDermott know getting past this hump will get them one step closer to the postseason. Buffalo finds a way in a nailbiter. 
Yes, the Patriots played spoiler in their last matchup, but the Bills are at home and are playing with more confidence. Buffalo isn’t putting the entire burden on Josh Allen’s shoulders and have done a great job getting their run game going. They march one step closer to a playoff berth.
New England shocked Buffalo earlier this season, but this Bills team seems to have figured itself out with three-straight wins. Buffalo makes it four with its defense limited New England from doing much.
You can view the full list of USA TODAY’s NFL expert predictions here.
32 things we learned in NFL Week 16:Christmas gifts arrive early – for some teams
Gannett may earn revenue from sports betting operators for audience referrals to betting services. Sports betting operators have no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. Terms apply, see operator site for Terms and Conditions. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. Call the National Council on Problem Gambling 24/7 at 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ, OH), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN). Must be 21 or older to gamble. Sports betting and gambling are not legal in all locations. Be sure to comply with laws applicable where you reside.

source