The Los Angeles Rams and New England Patriots are ready to kick off Week 14 on Thursday night. Both teams have played well recently, the Patriots winning four of their past five and the Rams winning three of their past four. It should make for an exciting matchup for football fans.
For those that don’t remember the recent history between these two teams, they saw each other in Super Bowl LIII (2019). The Patriots beat the Rams 13-3, but they were both much different teams back then. The Patriots had Tom Brady, and the Rams had Todd Gurley.
This year’s matchup is between Jared Goff and Cam Newton. The two played against each other last year when Newton was with the Panthers. Goff walked away with the victory, so you know Newton will be searching for revenge this week with his new team.
Will the Patriots get above .500 with a victory this week?
The Patriots didn’t start the season the way they were hoping, but they’ve rebounded nicely as of late. They started just 2-5, but are now 6-6 and fighting for a Wild Card spot in the playoffs. With the Miami Dolphins playing well right now, that chance is slipping.
Newton has 2,053 yards, five touchdowns, and nine interceptions through the air this season. Those numbers aren’t all bad, considering he’s played in 11 games thus far.
This was supposed to be his comeback season, but it’s quickly turning into a nightmare for him. As long as they keep winning though, Patriots fans won’t budge.
Can the Rams win their second game in a row?
The Rams have had an up-and-down season so far. They won four of their first five games, but have only won four of their last seven.
This is a crucial week for them. With Seattle dropping lately, the Rams are currently tied for first place in the NFC West. A win keeps them in that position.
Goff is having a better season than Newton, but it’s still not what the Rams need from him moving forward. He has totaled 3,372 yards, 17 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions this season. A majority of their success comes from their ability to stop the run — allowing under 100 yards per game.
Betting Odds & Lines
Who do you think is going to get the job done on Thursday night this week? FanDuel Sportsbook has the Los Angeles Rams as 4.5-point favorites over the New England Patriots. It also has the over/under listed at 44.5 total points.
Free Betting Pick
I think the Rams’ run defense plays a big role in this one. A majority of Newton’s success this season has come on the goal line rushing the ball. Newton has 11 rushing touchdowns, something the Rams need to watch out for in the red zone.
If the Rams can do that, it’ll be difficult for the Patriots to put up points. They don’t run the ball necessarily well and Newton isn’t passing the ball well either. I just don’t see the Patriots doing enough against the Rams to beat them on the road.
Final Score Prediction 27-20, Los Angeles Rams.
Pick: Los Angeles Rams (-4.5)
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