NFL picks Week 12: Falcons-Vikings and every other game

Dec 8, 2013; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Detroit Lions cornerback Bill Bentley (28) just misses making an interception during the second quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

Philadelphia Eagles at Detroit Lions (EVEN)

These two teams are really bad. Detroit (3-7) has won two straight, although I wouldn’t say they have ‘won’ either, rather they haven’t lost. They put up 18 points at Lambeau Field which should never be enough to win, and they put the same total up against Oakland. But Philadelphia (4-6) isn’t much better, and I think the Lions win a third straight.

Pick: Detroit 20, Philadelphia 17

Carolina Panthers at Dallas Cowboys (EVEN)

It’s almost impossible to go undefeated for the entire regular season, but the Panthers (10-0) have a shot at it. To do so, they will need to come through arguably their toughest test yet, up against the revitalized Cowboys (3-7) with Tony Romo back. You’re never guaranteed to win in this league, but you are guaranteed to lose at some point. The last time the Panthers lost a regular season game? November 30, 2014. Almost a full year later, they finally lose again.

Pick: Dallas 28, Carolina 24

Chicago Bears at Green Bay Packers (-10)

The Packers (7-3) finally got their season back on track with an impressive victory on the road to Minnesota. This came after three straight losses, something unheard of in Green Bay. This will be an emotional evening for the Packers, as Brett Favre‘s No. 4 jersey will be retired. The Bears (4-6) have been impressive under John Fox, but they will have a hard time keeping up with the Packers at home.

Pick: Green Bay 30, Chicago 20

Next: Sunday early games