Bucs defence is a cause for concern against Washington

Best bet
Washington +3

Jay Gruden's Washington were handed a reality check when their NFC East quest suffered a jolt against Atlanta last week, but they should be confident of putting up some points against the league's leakiest defence.

The Redskins stayed at the top of their division despite their 38-14 home reverse against the Falcons and while their 5-3 record is slightly distorted by the fact just three of their games have been on the road, it is difficult to have much faith in opponents Tampa Bay.

Much attention at the Bucs has been paid to the quarterback position, where Ryan Fitzpatrick has reclaimed the starting spot after Jameis Winston's nightmare performance in their Week Eight defeat to Cincinnati.

Tampa Bay have suffered from having to compete in the NFC South, which has been one of the toughest divisions in the game in the last few seasons, but they have conceded a whopping average of 34.4 points this season.

Washington will need veteran running back Adrian Peterson to bounce back from a disappointing 17 yards against the Falcons and they have suffered a series of injuries to their offensive line, but they won three straight games before that defeat and this looks like a good opportunity for them to get back on track.

Next best
Jacksonville +3

Jacksonville's anticipated push to make the post-season is in danger of falling apart after five defeats in their last six games, but they should be able to remain competitive against AFC South rivals Indianapolis.

The Colts have welcomed back quarterback Andrew Luck from injury this season and, like Jacksonville, have won three of their opening eight games, but it should take more than wins over Buffalo and Oakland, arguably the two worst teams in the league, to suggest they can make their presence felt in a mediocre division.

Three fourth-quarter touchdowns saw them home against the Raiders after they entered the final section of the match 28-21 down and this should prove a bigger test against a team who have conceded an average of 21.2 points per game - the eighth-lowest figure in the league.

Jacksonville running back Leonard Fournette should be fit to return after missing the last four games with a hamstring injury and his presence would take some pressure off under-fire Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles.

Best points bet
Over 43.5 points in Detroit at Chicago

The NFC North looks set to be one of the most competitive divisions in the second half of the campaign and no quarter is likely to be given in the key clash between the Lions and the Bears at Soldier Field.

Temperatures are set to be below freezing but there could still be some scope for profit by going over the total-points line.

Detroit have won nine of the last ten meetings but Chicago are at the top of the division and only five teams have bettered their average of 29.4 points per game.

The Lions have struggled in the last couple of weeks, scoring 14 at home against Seattle and just nine against Minnesota last week, and they are still adjusting to life without receiver Golden Tate, who has left for Philadelphia, but they can make their presence felt.

Best player bet
J Gordon to score a touchdown

New England have made serene progress since a Week Three defeat to Detroit and receiver Josh Gordon could have a big game against Tennessee, who have conceded nine touchdowns to wide receivers.

Gordon was a potent force in the Patriots' 31-17 home win over Green Bay last week with 130 yards and a touchdown as he benefited from the injury absence of star tight end Rob Gronkowski.

Gronk will be missing again in Nashville, so former Brown Gordon looks a big price to score his fourth touchdown of the season.

Recommendations
Washington +3
2pts 9-10 Betfair, 188Bet
Jacksonville +3
1pt 20-23 Coral, Ladbrokes
Over 43.5 points in Detroit at Chicago
2pt 10-11 general
J Gordon to score a touchdown in New England at Tennessee
1pt 2-1 Sky Bet

If you are concerned about your gambling and are worried you may have a problem, click here to find advice on how you can receive help

Read every day for no-nonsense previews and expert sports betting tips

Today's top sports betting stories

Follow us on Twitter @racingpostsport

Like us on Facebook RacingPostSport