Las Vegas Raiders (7-8) vs. Indianapolis Colts (8-7)
Las Vegas Raiders vs. Indianapolis Colts December 31, 2023 – In a pivotal Week 17 NFL matchup, the Las Vegas Raiders, holding a 7-8 record, visit the Indianapolis Colts, who are slightly ahead with an 8-7 standing, on Sunday, December 31, 2023. The stage is set at Lucas Oil Stadium with the game airing on CBS, drawing significant attention from USA betting websites. Both teams, teetering on the edge of playoff contention, will be desperate for a win in this high-stakes encounter.
Las Vegas Raiders vs. Indianapolis Colts December 31, 2023 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 31, 2023, at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Aidan O’Connell QB vs. Gardner Minshew QB
Aidan O’Connell has shown flashes of potential but lacks consistency. He displays adequate arm strength but excels in the short to intermediate areas of the field. O’Connell has completed 63.1% of his passes, averaging a mediocre 6.6 yards per attempt. His decision making has been questionable at times, evidenced by 7 interceptions compared to only 8 touchdowns. Where O’Connell thrives most is getting the ball out quickly and allowing his playmakers to operate in space. He’s taken 18 sacks on the year, illustrating decent mobility and pocket awareness. Overall, O’Connell has room to grow but profiles as an efficient, ball-control passer that likely tops out as a high-end backup.
Gardner Minshew possesses the physical tools and intangibles you want in a franchise quarterback. He shows natural accuracy at all levels of the field, delivering catchable balls that allow receivers to maximize yards after catch. Minshew displays quality arm strength whether firing ropes outside the numbers or layering throws over the top of defenses. His accuracy and decision making have also steadily improved, as he’s completing 62.5% of passes with 14 touchdowns and 9 interceptions. Minshew is athletic enough to extend plays with his legs while keeping his eyes downfield. His leadership and competitive fire are also tremendous assets that galvanize the entire team.
Raiders’ Offensive Dynamics
The Raiders have relied heavily on running back Josh Jacobs, who has amassed 805 rushing yards; however, his average of 3.5 yards per carry indicates some difficulties in the running game. Davante Adams has stood out as an effective receiving option with 968 receiving yards secured – becoming an indispensable ally for quarterback O’Connell.
Colts’ Balanced Offense
Zack Moss has been instrumental to the Colts rushing offense, amassing 764 yards at an average of 4.3 yards per carry. Additionally, Michael Pittman Jr. has established himself as a premier receiver, tallying 1062 receiving yards and becoming an essential target for quarterback Minshew.
NFL Betting Odds: Indianapolis Colts -160, Over/Under: 43.5
The Colts are favored with a Moneyline of -160, and the over/under is set at 43.5 points, reflecting expectations of a moderately high-scoring game.
Las Vegas Raiders Betting Trends
Las Vegas are 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Las Vegas’ last 13 games.
Las Vegas are 3-7 SU in their last 10 games against Indianapolis.
Las Vegas are 1-5 SU in their last 6 games on the road.
Raiders are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games when playing on the road against Indianapolis.
Las Vegas are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games against an opponent in the American Football Conference conference.
Indianapolis Colts Betting Trends
Indianapolis are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games.
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Indianapolis’ last 5 games.
Indianapolis are 5-2 SU in their last 7 games.
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Indianapolis’ last 6 games against Las Vegas.
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Indianapolis’ last 8 games at home.
Indianapolis are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games when playing at home against Las Vegas.
Las Vegas Raiders vs. Indianapolis Colts Betting Picks
Based on the trends and performances, the Colts seem to have a slight edge, especially playing at home. However, the Raiders’ recent ATS performance, particularly on the road against Indianapolis, suggests they could cover the spread.
For those looking for football winning picks, a bet on the Colts to win but the Raiders to cover the spread might offer value. Considering the over/under, the tendency of both teams to engage in higher-scoring games recently could make betting on the over a wise choice.
Receiving Yards Prop: Colts 27, Raiders 24.
