Week 16 BEARS vs. Buffalo Bills, Xmas Eve

[SouthSideRyan]

I know it's an oddball scenario so there's not much history to go off of(other than the Eagles game UMfan mentioned), but I can't imagine a team resting starters in week 17 when they need to win in week 18. Pedersen has said he wouldn't.

[WrigleyField 22]

I know it's an oddball scenario so there's not much history to go off of(other than the Eagles game UMfan mentioned), but I can't imagine a team resting starters in week 17 when they need to win in week 18. Pedersen has said he wouldn't.

If there was a guy with an injury that benefits from rest, that would be the one area. I asked around a little on Twitter and it doesn't sound like the Jags injury report is significant, so I don't think it comes into play.

 

The only other way it comes into play is packing it in early if you go down early. If Texans jump out to a surprise 2 score lead, you're best bet is to get out of there unscathed and ready for week 18, rather than mounting a low stakes, low probability comeback.

[SouthSideRyan]

They also still have their #7 seed inside straight with a win over HOU/Loss to TEN paired with

 

Week 17

NE beats MIA

SEA beats NYJ

 

Week 18

BUF beats NE

NYJ beats MIA

 

PIT loses at least one of @ BAL or vs CLE

[WrigleyField 22]

They also still have their #7 seed inside straight with a win over HOU/Loss to TEN paired with

 

Week 17

NE beats MIA

SEA beats NYJ

 

Week 18

BUF beats NE

NYJ beats MIA

 

PIT loses at least one of @ BAL or vs CLE

Yea those are really low odds though.

 

Per 538, a win bumps their odds up 2% and a loss bumps down 5%. So a 7% swing for the WC. While not nothing, when paired with the week 18 being a 100% win and in prop, it's just a game where you should be fine being in a hedge mode. Every decision is "is this worth the 7% WC increase, when the the division is the main prize."

[itisallpartoftheplan]

Bears are getting the #1 pick. Lovie going to try to win this week and Jax will be resting players for Week 18. My only concern is with the Vikings resting guys week 18

 

Vikings should need to win week 18 to keep the 2 seed unless Minnesota wins and SF loses this week.