Nat Coombs is an NFL writer and broadcaster who has been anchoring TV and radio coverage in the UK for over 15 years, working with a range of networks including BBC, TalkSPORT, FIVE, ESPN and Channel 4. 

He also hosts his own NFL podcast The Nat Coombs Show and writes a column for The Times. 

Nat has joined The Panel to share his three best tips for the weekend’s NFL action using the best prices from the leading NFL betting sites.

This week’s treble pays out around 6/1 with Betway 

Nat Coombs’ NFL Week 12 Predictions:

Cardinals @ Vikings Prediction: Minnesota To Cover On Home Soil

The underestimation of Minnesota is borderline criminal. 

Yes, they were my only pick that didn’t land last week, but chalk that up to a wild last few minutes against the Bears – including an unusual onside kick malfunction – that belied how in control they were of the game until then. 

And now, with Danny Dimes parachuted in, who can stop them? Seriously though, the addition of the former Giants starter could prove to be inspired, if they use him in pinch-hitting scenarios that utilise his clear ability on the ground.

The Vikes still boast a top-five overall DVOA and the narrative which suggests this team is all about its (formidable) defense is getting tiring.

Particularly as quarterback Sam Darnold had another composed performance against Chicago and of course masterminded the overtime win, which maintains one of the best records in football.

Bear in mind this is an offense that boasts the best receiver in football in Justin Jefferson, a pretty strong WR2 Jordan Addison, a top-10 running back Aaron Jones and a top-10 tight end TJ Hockenson. 

Arizona mirror Minnesota in many ways, not convincing many sceptics that they can be a true contender, but more than hanging in the mix, not least by virtue of the four-way shootout that is the NFC West, which is the most compelling division in football. 

The Cards boast a top-10 offensive DVOA, but much of its success is predicated on its run game, led by James Conner, firing. 

It didn’t against the Seahawks last week and I think Brian Flores and the Vikes defense will contain it again.

Nat Coombs’ Panel Tip 1: Vikings -3.5 To Beat The Cardinals – 20/21 With Betway

Colts @ Patriots Tip: Indy To Add To Pats Woes

The Pats were woeful against Miami. The worst offensive line in the game (ranked 32nd by PFF) shows no signs of improving, allowing the Dolphins 18 pressures and five sacks on rookie quarterback Drake Maye. 

That’s not the kind of situation you want to be putting your future franchise quarterback in week after week. 

On my podcast (The Nat Coombs Show) this week, Mike Carlson and I discussed if there’s a real risk that Jerod Mayo is a “one-and-done” coach. 

It’d be unusual for the New England organisation to cut and run so quickly, but Mayo has to end the season strong. They might. 

Maye is showing promise and time and again, we see abject teams rally in the final quarter of the (regular) season to finish with a glow. 

But it’s unlikely to be this week against the Colts, who essentially have their season on the line. 

A win brings hope and they’ll move to 6-7. If Anthony Richardson can keep improving, they may feel they can catch the fallible Texans in the AFC South. 

Maye could well be the more promising quarterback prospect of the two young slingers, but Richardson who takes the win this weekend. 

Nat Coombs’ Panel Tip 2: Nat Coombs’ Panel Pick 2: Colts -2.5 To Beat The Patriots – 5/6 With Betway

Seahawks @ Jets Betting: Points Soar At Metlife

The Jets season of disarray continues, with the exit of Joe Douglas and the obligatory chatter ensuing on the back of (another) Pat McAfee Show appearance from the controversial Aaron Rodgers, who indicated he’ll stay at the Jets next season “if” he continues to play at all. 

It’d be a shame for Rodgers to go out like this. 

Undoubtedly one of the best quarterbacks of his generation, the Jets freefall has been one of the biggest disappointments of the season.

Especially for yours truly, who may or may not have suggested that Rodgers was set for a “season for the ages”. I guess it has been, just not the one I predicted, or Jets fans wanted. 

Firing head coach Robert Saleh was premature and has weakened their defense, which was hitherto effective. 

New York come into this off a bye week, so you have to think they’ll have some fresh perspective, even against a fast-improving Seattle defense, that’s beginning to bear the hallmarks of a Mike McDonald-led unit. 

It’s also the Geno Smith revenge game, as the Seattle quarterback heads back to New York to face his former team. I spy points on both sides, with the total at a tempting number to take the over. 

Nat Coombs’ Panel Tip 3: Nat Coombs’ Panel Pick 3: Seahawks & Jets Over 42.5 Total Points – 10/11 With Betway