As NFL Week 17 approaches, bettors are keenly observing key matchups that could provide lucrative opportunities. This week, players like Trevor Lawrence and Joe Burrow are anticipated to deliver strong performances against defenses that have struggled in recent weeks. Insights from Pro Football Focus (PFF) highlight how specific player capabilities and defensive weaknesses can shape betting strategies.
Lawrence Faces Hampered Colts Defense
The Jacksonville Jaguars’ quarterback, Trevor Lawrence, is set to face a beleaguered Indianapolis Colts secondary that has been plagued by injuries. PFF’s analysis shows that the Colts have consistently struggled with coverage, particularly in recent games. Their defense ranks among the weakest in the NFL, having recorded the fewest perfectly covered plays over the past few weeks.
Lawrence has maintained an average rate of perfect coverage throughout the season, but when defensive coverage breaks down, he has excelled, boasting one of the league’s top PFF grades. With the expectation that the Colts will continue to make coverage mistakes, this matchup presents a prime opportunity for Lawrence to capitalize on downfield throws. Bettors may want to consider options such as Lawrence’s passing over/under totals, Jacksonville’s alternate lines, and same-game parlays that reflect this promising outlook.
Burrow Poised for Success Against Cardinals
Similarly, Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals is expected to shine against the Arizona Cardinals, whose pass rush has been lackluster this season. PFF has categorized offensive lines and defensive pressures as weak-link systems, highlighting how crucial each player’s performance is to overall success. Burrow is particularly sensitive to breakdowns in protection; while he excels when given time, he struggles significantly when even one blocker falters.
In this upcoming game, Arizona ranks near the bottom of the league in several pressure metrics and has forced the fewest blocking mistakes of any defense this year. This favorable matchup should allow Burrow to operate with efficiency, making his passing props and related same-game parlays attractive for bettors.
As the NFL season reaches its climax, understanding these matchups and player dynamics can provide an edge in betting strategies. With valuable insights from PFF, bettors can navigate the complexities of each game and identify opportunities that may have been overlooked in the market.
