NFL experts offer varied predictions for the Thanksgiving slate, with potential upsets in key matchups like Packers at Lions and Chiefs at Cowboys. Joe Burrow's return bolsters the Bengals against the Ravens, while the Bears face a tough Eagles squad on Black Friday. These games could shake up playoff races in both conferences.
The NFL's Week 13 kicks off with a loaded Thanksgiving schedule, featuring three high-stakes games that experts believe could deliver surprises. In the early matchup, the Green Bay Packers (7-3-1) visit the Detroit Lions (7-4) at 1 p.m. ET on Fox. John Breech of CBS Sports predicts a Packers 20-17 upset, citing Detroit's 0-3 record against top defenses that allow under 21 points per game, including losses to Green Bay (27-13), Kansas City (30-17), and Philadelphia (16-9). The Lions average just 13 points in those contests and struggle without a strong run game, pressuring Jared Goff. Pete Prisco counters with a 34-31 Packers win but notes the Lions' explosive home offense. Detroit News picks split, with two favoring the Lions -2.5 and two the Packers.
The 4:30 p.m. ET CBS game pits the Kansas City Chiefs (6-5) against the Dallas Cowboys (5-5-1) at AT&T Stadium. Breech forecasts Cowboys 31-24, highlighting Kansas City's 1-4 road record and Mahomes' 55.7% completion rate with one TD and two INTs in November road losses. Dallas' defense has improved since acquiring Quinnen Williams on Nov. 4, allowing 45 rushing yards and 18.5 points per game in two wins. Williams leads with a 90.8 PFF grade, 15 pressures, and 27.1% pass rush win rate. Prisco picks Chiefs 30-24, emphasizing Mahomes' late-game heroics in a comeback over Indianapolis. Detroit News leans Cowboys +3.5 (three of four).
Nightcap at 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC sees the Cincinnati Bengals (3-8) at Baltimore Ravens (6-5), with Burrow returning from turf toe. Tyler Sullivan picks Bengals +7, noting Lamar Jackson's zero TDs and two giveaways in recent weeks, plus Burrow's 17-3 ATS underdog record of 3+ points. Breech predicts Ravens 27-24. Ja'Marr Chase returns from suspension.
On Black Friday, Chicago Bears (8-3) at Philadelphia Eagles (8-3) at 3 p.m. ET on Prime. Prisco favors Eagles 30-21, expecting turnovers from Caleb Williams and Saquon Barkley production. Sullivan sees Bears +7 potential after Philly's collapse vs. Dallas.
