Indianapolis Colts at Atlanta Falcons: Predictions, picks and odds for NFL Week 16 game

The Indianapolis Colts (8-6) and Atlanta Falcons (6-8) remain in the playoff hunt in their respective conferences, and they'll try to boost their stock against each other in Week 16.

The seventh and final playoff spot in the AFC currently belongs to Indianapolis, as they got back to their winning ways with a thumping of the Pittsburgh Steelers last week. Winners of five of their last six, the Colts have a chance to not only stay in the playoff picture but take the lead in the AFC South if Jacksonville's struggles continue.

If no one was there, does a bad loss count? Atlanta had a golden chance to strengthen its lead in the NFC South against the NFL-worst Carolina Panthers, and instead, it collapsed in a last-second loss. Now, the Falcons have little room for error in the playoff race, making this week's home game a near must-win.

PROP TALK: These are the best prop bets for NFL games this week 

Falcons vs. Colts odds, moneyline, over/under

The Falcons are favorites to defeat the Colts, according to the BetMGM NFL odds. Looking to wager? Check out the best mobile sports betting apps offering NFL betting promos in 2023, including the new ESPN BET app.

NFL STATS CENTRAL: The latest NFL scores, schedules, odds, stats and more.

• Spread: Falcons (-2.5)
• Moneyline: Falcons (-135); Colts (+115)
• Over/under: 44.5

Not interested in this game? Our guide to NFL betting odds, picks and spreads has you covered with Thursday Night Football odds, Sunday Night Football odds and/or Monday Night Football odds.

 If you’re new to sports betting, don’t worry. We have tips for beginners on how to place a bet online. And USA TODAY readers can claim exclusive promos and bonus codes with these online sportsbooks and sports betting sites.

PIGSKIN PARLAYS: Here are the best parlay bets and odds for NFL games this week 

NFL Week 16 odds, predictions and picks

Rams vs. Saints | Steelers vs. Bengals | Chargers vs. Bills | Falcons vs. Colts | Panthers vs. Packers | Texans vs. Browns | Vikings vs. Lions | Jets vs. Commanders | Titans vs. Seahawks | Buccaneers vs. Jaguars | Bears vs. Cardinals | Dolphins vs. Cowboys | Broncos vs. Patriots | Chiefs vs. Raiders | Eagles vs. Giants | 49ers vs. Ravens

Lorenzo Reyes: Colts 18, Falcons 13

Honestly, I would probably stay away from this and think there are better plays out there, given just how inconsistent the Falcons can be. That said, Atlanta has failed to cover in five of its last seven, and coach Arthur Smith seems incapable of scheming opportunities for his playmakers. The Colts are the move here.

Tyler Dragon: Colts 24, Falcons 20

The Falcons keep rotating between Desmond Ridder and Taylor Heinicke at QB. This week it’s Heinicke’s turn to lead an underwhelming Atlanta offense. The Colts (8-6) are surprising in a three-way tie for first in the AFC South. This is an important game for the Colts to keep their playoff hopes alive, especially against a reeling Falcons squad.

Safid Deen: Colts 23, Falcons 20

Gardner Minshew and the Colts may be without Michael Pittman (concussion), but have played most of the season with their backups as starters and are in contention for the AFC South and a playoff bid. While the Falcons are also in the mix, they’re making a change at quarterback – Taylor Heinicke in for Desmond Ridder – and that doesn’t bode well for their prospects at home.

Victoria Hernandez: Colts 28, Falcons 20

The Falcons are turning back to Taylor Heinicke at quarterback this week after an embarrassing 9-7 loss to the NFL’s worst team, the Panthers. But even with the change, Atlanta simply hasn’t gotten Bijan Robinson, or any other player, going. Drake London only had 24 yards a week after a record day. Indianapolis got back in the winning column last week and will be hungry for a more realistic playoff spot.

Jordan Mendoza: Colts 24, Falcons 20

Atlanta fans will spend a lot of the offseason wondering what could've been had its star players been used effectively. The Falcons are in desperate need of breakout games, but the offense continues to be shaky. The Colts' offense continues to play effective ball with another win.

You can view the full list of USA TODAY's NFL expert predictions here.

PROMO PARTY: These are the best NFL betting promos in 2023 

NFL salaries: These are the highest paid NFL players

• Highest-paid NFL players
• Quarterbacks
• Running backs
• Receivers
• Tight ends
• Offensive tackles
• Guards
• Centers
• Edge rushers
• Interior defensive linemen
• Linebackers
• Cornerbacks
• Safeties
• Kickers
• Punters

Gannett may earn revenue from sports betting operators for audience referrals to betting services. Sports betting operators have no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. Terms apply, see operator site for Terms and Conditions. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. Call the National Council on Problem Gambling 24/7 at 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ, OH), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN). Must be 21 or older to gamble. Sports betting and gambling are not legal in all locations. Be sure to comply with laws applicable where you reside.