Pittsburgh Steelers (8-7) vs. Seattle Seahawks (8-7)
As the NFL regular season nears its climax, the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Seattle Seahawks, both holding an 8-7 record, prepare to clash in a crucial Week 17 matchup. Set for Sunday this game not only promises intense action but also carries significant playoff implications. Fans and bettors alike are eagerly anticipating this encounter, looking to identify the NFL winning pick in a contest that epitomizes the drama of late-season football.
Kenny Pickett has led an impressive offensive effort this season for the Steelers. However, their true brilliance can be seen in their rushing and receiving departments. Running back Najee Harris has amassed 801 yards rushing across 15 games at an average 4 yards per attempt; breaking multiple 20+ yard runs with ease! Meanwhile in receiving, George Pickens has proven dependable. With 1009 receiving yards from 56 receptions he boasts an incredible 18 yards per reception average!
On the opposite front, Seattle Seahawks boast an impressive arsenal of offensive capabilities. Most notable has been the return of Geno Smith as quarterback; coupled with robust ground and aerial assaults. Kenneth Walker III stands out with 774 rushing yards and seven touchdowns — an indicator of his explosive playmaking abilities; DK Metcalf stands out with 60 receptions totalling 998 yards that demonstrate his central role in Seattle’s offensive strategy.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Seattle Seahawks Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 31, 2023 at 4:05 PM ET |
| Where: | Lumen Field |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Kenny Pickett QB vs. Geno Smith QB
Kenny Pickett has experienced growing pains that are characteristic of an NFL rookie quarterback during his inaugural campaign. While showing flashes of playmaking ability with his legs, Pickett has struggled to remain consistent in the passing game with below average completion percentage (62%), yards per attempt (6.4) and passer rating (81.4). Furthermore, Pickett’s decision-making has at times been questionable with 4 interceptions to 6 touchdowns being his ratio.
Geno Smith‘s return as an NFL quarterback is one of the great stories. Now in his 10th NFL season, Smith is showing incredible numbers: 17 touchdowns against 9 interceptions for an outstanding 90.4 rating in Seattle’s passing attack. Playing with confidence and poise – two qualities he often lacked earlier on his journeyman career path – Smith could well continue his MVP-caliber performance against Pittsburgh!
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Pittsburgh Steelers +155, Total Odds: 41.5
The betting odds lean slightly in favor of the Seattle Seahawks, with the Steelers positioned as underdogs. The total odds set at 41.5 points suggest a moderately high-scoring affair. Bettors might find value in the Steelers’ resilience, but Seattle’s home advantage and recent form make them a safe bet.
Pittsburgh Steelers Betting Trends
The Steelers are just 2-4 SU and ATS over their last 6 games. The total has gone UNDER in 9 of their last 13 matchups. Most worrying is their scoring woes, having failed to tally over 20 points in 4 straight contests. Their offense must awaken to keep pace on Sunday.
Seattle Seahawks Betting Trends
Conversely, Seattle enters on a hot 4-1-1 ATS run in their last 6 games. The home team is also 5-1 SU at Lumen Field this season. Their scoring has ramped up behind Geno Smith’s MVP-caliber season. Backing Seattle given their current home form seems wise.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Seattle Seahawks 12/31/23 Betting Picks
This matchup is intriguing, with both teams evenly matched in terms of overall record. The Steelers’ robust defense and the Seahawks’ balanced offense set the stage for a closely fought contest. The key will be the quarterbacks’ performance and how well each team’s defense can counter the offensive strategies.
Given the trends and team dynamics, the better pick seems to lean towards the Seahawks, especially considering their home advantage and Geno Smith’s impressive form. Prop bets on individual player performances, particularly on quarterbacks and main receivers, could be interesting. The over/under at 41.5 might lean towards the UNDER, given both teams’ recent trends. For those looking to place bets, top sportsbooks should offer a range of options for this enticing matchup.
