Baltimore Ravens (10-3) vs. Jacksonville Jaguars (8-5)
Week 15 of the NFL brings an intriguing matchup as the Baltimore Ravens, standing strong at 10-3, visit the Jacksonville Jaguars, who have carved out an 8-5 record. This Sunday night clash on December 17, 2023, at EverBank Stadium, promises to be a highlight for those keen on football picks. With the Ravens looking to cement their position as one of the top teams and the Jaguars aiming to upset the odds, this game is set to be a showcase of tactical prowess and gridiron grit.
The Ravens enter this contest at the top of the AFC North division and riding a hot 7-1 streak over their last eight games. Quarterback Lamar Jackson is having another MVP-caliber season and leads a balanced Ravens attack that is averaging over 26 points per game. The Baltimore ground game is led by running back Gus Edwards. The powerful back is averaging 4.1 yards per carry and has 10 rushing touchdowns on the year. The Ravens offensive line has been getting great push to open holes for the running game that gashes opponents for 150 yards per contest. Edwards will need to continue to bring his physicality in short yardage situations and down near the goal line against a stingy Jacksonville run defense allowing just 105 rushing yards per game.
The Jaguars have been one of the surprise teams this season behind quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Jacksonville features Travis Etienne Jr, who has amassed 806 rushing yards and 9 touchdowns to show his ability to break through defenses. Christian Kirk has excelled as well, recording 787 receiving yards and three touchdowns on average per game with 13 plays over 20 yards that highlight his importance to Jacksonville’s aerial strategy.
Baltimore Ravens vs. Jacksonville Jaguars Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 17, 2023 at 8:20 PM ET |
| Where: | EverBank Stadium |
| TV: | NBC |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Lamar Jackson QB vs. Trevor Lawrence QB
Lamar Jackson is playing at an MVP level this season, using both his arm and legs to lead Baltimore’s three-headed rushing monster and dangerous passing attack. Jackson has thrown for over 2900 yards and 16 touchdowns while completing 67% of his passes. His dual threat ability to scramble and pick up chunks of yards on the ground with over 500 rushing yards keeps defenses on their heels. Jackson will need to avoid the Jaguars pass rush that has 31 sacks on the year and continue to spread the ball around to his playmakers out wide.
Trevor Lawrence has taken a big step forward in year two, cutting down his interceptions and using his big arm to push the ball downfield to his talented receivers. Lawrence has thrown for over 3200 yards and 17 touchdowns this season with a 66% completion rate. He led the Jaguars to a big comeback overtime win last week. His chemistry with star receiver Christian Kirk as well as tight end Evan Engram will be key if Jacksonville wants to keep pace on the scoreboard with high-powered Baltimore.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Baltimore Ravens -250, Total Odds: 38.5
The Ravens enter as favorites, reflecting their strong season record and robust performance on both sides of the ball. However, the 6.5-point spread suggests that the Jaguars are not to be underestimated, especially with their recent ATS success.
Baltimore Ravens Betting Trends
The Ravens have fared well against Jacksonville historically, going 10-5 SU in the last 15 meetings between the teams and covering in 4 straight games in Jacksonville. Baltimore has also covered the spread in 10 of their last 15 overall games. The Ravens offense has been clicking lately, going 7-1 SU over their last 8 contests. Jacksonville’s pass defense has been vulnerable, giving up over 3700 yards so far this season.
Jacksonville Jaguars Betting Trends
Jacksonville has been fantastic against the spread with 14 covers in their last 20 games overall. They are also 14-6 straight up in that span, showing the betting value and their ability to win games outright as underdogs. The Jags defense has also allowed just 18 points per game at home this season. So they have played very well in EverBank Stadium. Their scoring defense ranks 4th best in the NFL. Jacksonville is 4-0-1 ATS playing at home against the Ravens in their last 5 meetings.
Baltimore Ravens vs. Jacksonville Jaguars 12/17/23 Betting Picks
This game promises to be a tight contest, with both teams showcasing strengths that could tip the balance. The Ravens’ balanced attack and solid defense make them a formidable opponent, but the Jaguars’ resilience and home-field advantage cannot be overlooked.
Considering the trends and matchups, the Jaguars, with their impressive ATS record and strong home performance, seem poised to cover the spread. Prop bets on key players like Lamar Jackson and Travis Etienne Jr. could be attractive, and the under on a 38.5 total seems plausible given both teams’ defensive capabilities.
In the realm of online betting, this game is a fascinating one to wager on, with potential upsets and standout performances on the horizon.
