About this episode
Munaf Manji, Dave Essler and Mackenzie Rivers talk NFL contest picks for week 12. The NFL Week 12 Contest Podcast on RJ Bell’s Dream Preview breaks down Circa Survivor results, contest trends, and the best ATS picks as Munaf Manji, Dave Essler, and Mackenzie Rivers analyze a slate filled with tight lines and questionable offenses. They open by reviewing Survivor carnage, noting that Atlanta’s loss knocked out the largest share of entries and that fading the top-five consensus continues to cash at over 60% on the season. Mackenzie leads with Browns vs Raiders and advocates the under, citing historic performance of totals at 36 or below and arguing that Cleveland’s defense and atrocious offensive matchups create a strong statistical edge. Munaf and Dave echo the lack of offensive upside from both Shadour Sanders and Geno Smith, projecting a slow, run-heavy game focused on Judkins and the Browns’ ground attack. Dave backs the Browns side as well, expecting Sanders to struggle against Cleveland’s elite defensive front. Dave’s second pick targets Rams vs Buccaneers, backing Los Angeles behind Stafford’s bounce-back opportunity, elite coaching, top-tier defense, and Tampa’s inflated perception after late-game heroics. Munaf supports the Rams for similar reasons and anticipates big passing production from Stafford. Mackenzie follows by reaffirming his stance that the Rams are the best team in football according to his metrics and that Tampa’s record hides a middling profile propped up by late drives. Munaf’s best bet is 49ers -7 on Monday Night Football, praising San Francisco’s restored offensive health, Brock Purdy’s efficiency, Christian McCaffrey’s consistency, and a favorable matchup against a Panthers team whose road wins hide structural flaws. Both Dave and Mackenzie agree the 49ers should dominate. Survivor strategy closes the show, with discussion of big favorites such as Seahawks, Ravens, Rams, Lions, and Niners. Dave highlights the Bears as an unconventional option due to home performance and Pittsburgh’s offensive issues, while Munaf leans Seahawks or Ravens as safe chalk. Mackenzie updates listeners on the Survivor Pod’s remaining live entry and reiterates Seattle as the preferred play. The hosts finish with promo reminders and light banter, giving listeners contest-ready insights for Week 12. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices