Between the Lines with Mal Van Valkenburg

Three reasons to like the Buccaneers (-1½) over the Redskins

• Against teams with a losing record, the Bucs are 7-0. The Redskins are 5-7.

• In its past three games, Washington has averaged 13 points while giving up an average of 21.

• In road games, the Bucs are 6-0 ATS and give up only 17.8 points a game while scoring 22.3.

Three reasons to like the Bears (+3) over the Patriots

• The Bears are playing better, and quarterback Jay Cutler is making fewer mistakes.

• Weather can be a concern, and you have to like a home team getting points.

• The Patriots are coming off a big divisional victory on Monday night. There could be a letdown factor going on the road in a short week.

LAST WEEK: 1-1

SEASON: 10-15-1