Picking games in Week 17 adds an added layer of confusion, with strategy about resting starters more important than any other factor. After Steelers coach Mike Tomlin announced Ben Roethlisberger will sit out on Sunday, perhaps the pressure is off Buffalo to play Josh Allen to clinch the No. 2 seed. Cole Beasley's fourth-quarter injury in a 38-9 game Monday night was also a reminder of the stakes for the Bills. (In short: I expect to see plenty of Matt Barkley.)
Miami Dolphins 27, Buffalo Bills 21
If the Bills win this, they will lock up the second seed. Josh Allen is playing great right now, but the Miami defense has been outstanding. This will be a real challenge for the Buffalo offense. The problem is Miami's offense is struggling with Tua Tagovailoa. Buffalo will take advantage of that and win this one to get the second seed.
Pick: Bills 26, Dolphins 17
MDS's take: The Dolphins have more to play for than the Bills, and in Week 17, that makes a big difference. I'll pick Miami.
MDS's pick: Dolphins 20, Bills 13.
Florio's take: Without knowing whether the Bills will play to win, it's impossible to pick this one with any certainty. I'll guess that the Bills try to maintain their momentum, and in the process to knock a division rival out of the playoffs.
Florio's pick: Bills 27, Dolphins 23.
