As the NFL regular season draws to a close, Week 17 features divisional matchups with playoff implications and others that do not matter other than for pride. Vegas is aware of this as there are a few games that have no spread yet, either because of uncertainty or because the odds for betting aren't any good. Could be that they are waiting around just like the NFL did in waiting to dole out a punishing fine to Brett Favre for his alleged lewd texts to Jenn Sterger. In any case, Vegas odds-makers want to avoid our experts beating them for the final week.
Miami Dolphins vs. New Englad Patriots (-4)
The Patriots have locked up home-field for the playoffs and Miami is only playing for pride. This would likely explain the small spread. Miami is playing on the road, which is a plus for them, but it is in the cold weather of New England, which is not good for the Fish of sunny Miami. Most playoff teams with nothing left to play for would rest their starters and let the scrubs play, but Bill Belichick is not your ordinary coach. He keeps his team running with teh pedal to the medal. Why else would you leave Tom Brady in a game when leading by over 40 points? Brady and the Pats are a machine and are not about to turn it off with the playoffs around the corner.
Prediction: Patriots 31, Dolphin 13
Dallas Cowboys vs. Philadelphia Eagles (no line)
The Cowboys are without Tony Romo and might be without backup Jon Kitna. Who will start? Stephen McGee. Who? Maybe that's why Vegas didn't set the spread yet. The Eagles have already locked up the number three seed for the playoffs, so the game is nothing more than a formality for them before the "second season" begins. Quarterback Michael Vick, who has been banged up, may not play. even still, Kevin Kolb is more than capable of leading Philly. He will still be throwing to DeSean Jackson. Dallas doesn't stand a chance and will be put out of their misery with a second consecutive loss to a team of birds.
Prediction: Eagles 27, Cowboys 9
Stay tuned for more pick from the experts here at SB Nation Arizona. But don't use us for real betting advice. I wouldn't.