Atlanta Falcons (7-8) vs. Chicago Bears (6-9)
Atlanta Falcons vs. Chicago Bears December 31, 2023 – In the penultimate week of the NFL season, Week 17 brings an intriguing matchup with the Atlanta Falcons traveling to face the Chicago Bears on Sunday. This contest at Soldier Field pits two teams with sub-.500 records against each other, yet both still have a lot to play for. The Falcons, sitting at 7-8, look to improve their record, while the Bears, at 6-9, aim to disrupt Atlanta’s plans. This game is a focal point for NFL week 17 free picks, with both teams having distinct strengths and weaknesses.
Atlanta Falcons vs. Chicago Bears December 31, 2023 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 31, 2023, at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Soldier Field, Chicago |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Desmond Ridder QB vs. Justin Fields QB
Desmond Ridder has exceeded expectations as a rookie QB taken in the late third round. He has shown uncommon poise in the pocket and willingness to stand tall under pressure. While he struggled with turnovers early on, Ridder has greatly improved his decision-making as the season has worn on. Over his last five games, Ridder has completed over 60% of his passes while throwing just two interceptions. He has also used his mobility to make plays with his legs when needed. Ridder’s accuracy on deep balls has steadily improved as he has developed chemistry with top target Drake London.
Meanwhile, Justin Fields has taken a monumental leap in year two as he grows more comfortable in the offense. Fields has shown a mastery of reading defenses pre-snap and going through his progressions post-snap. His accuracy and ball placement have also taken big steps forward this season, especially over the middle and on deep shots. Fields has totaled 25 touchdowns while cutting his interception rate dramatically compared to his rookie campaign. Combining his dangerous arm talent with his mobility, Fields enters the finale as one of the hottest dual-threat quarterbacks in football.
Falcons’ Offensive Flight
Bijan Robinson has become the centerpiece of Atlanta Falcons offense with 873 rushing yards and an impressive 4.6 yards per carry average since becoming their rookie running back last season. Drake London has also proven invaluable on offense with 808 receiving yards; making crucial catches has become his specialty and one of the mainstays for Ridder.
Bears’ Ground and Air Dynamics
Bears offense, although less prolific, does have its strengths. Khalil Herbert with 459 rushing yards provides a solid running option; DJ Moore, however, has emerged as an elite receiver with 1141 receiving yards and an incredible average of 13.7 yards per reception; their connection could prove decisive come game day.
NFL Betting Odds: Chicago Bears -165, Over/Under: 39
The Bears are favored in this matchup, with a Moneyline of -165. The over/under set at 39 points reflects expectations of a moderately scoring game, considering both teams’ offensive and defensive capabilities.
Atlanta Falcons Betting Trends
Atlanta are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Atlanta’s last 5 games.
Atlanta are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games against Chicago.
Atlanta are 5-11 SU in their last 16 games against Chicago.
Falcons are 2-11 SU in their last 13 games on the road.
Atlanta are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games when playing on the road against Chicago.
Chicago Bears Betting Trends
Chicago are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Chicago’s last 8 games.
Chicago are 6-14 SU in their last 20 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Chicago’s last 12 games against Atlanta.
Chicago are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games at home.
Chicago are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games when playing at home against Atlanta.
Atlanta Falcons vs. Chicago Bears Betting Picks
Given these trends and the current form of both teams, the Bears seem to be the safer bet, especially with their recent ATS success and home-field advantage. However, the Falcons’ offense, led by Robinson and London, should not be underestimated, potentially making them a risky but potentially rewarding underdog pick.
For those looking at betting websites, consider the Bears for a straight win but don’t discount the Falcons to cover the spread. The over/under is a tight call, but given both teams’ offensive capabilities and defensive vulnerabilities, betting on the over might offer some value.
Receiving Yards Prop: Bears 24, Falcons 21.
