I hope everyone had a nice holiday week. Judging by the tiny number of eliminations last week, many of you did. 

For Week 17, a surprising number of quality teams still have a lot to play for, so that may play less of a factor than it has in the past. Unless you're pool goes into the playoffs, there's nothing to save teams for. Pull out the big guns ... if you have any left.

Attractive Picks for Week 17

Seattle (vs. St. Louis) -  The Seahawks are an absolute juggernaut and very solid at home. They have a lot to play for, in terms of playoff seeding. The Rams don't.

San Francisco (vs. Arizona) - If getting beat up by Seattle last week wasn't motivation enough, winning the NFC West should be. It would be a complete shocker to see the Niners fold in this one.

New Orleans (vs. Carolina) - While the Saints showed their defense is still horrendous, they aren't the same team that started the season 4-0. This is hardly a lock compared to other double digit spread games this week, but it's one of the best choices for the majority of pool members out there.

Picks to Avoid in Week 17

NY Giants (vs. Philadelphia) - Its' hard to say what's happened to Eli's accuracy and the the Giants defensive line, but they've gone south ... quick. While this is a must win to have any shot at the playoffs, the Giants need a LOT of help to get it. With Vick's return, I'd steer clear.

San Diego (vs. Oakland) - Last week's win against the Jets isn't enough to have me picking the Chargers this week. They are so inconsistent, it's hard to say what they'll do in Norv Turner's (likely) last game as head coach.

Pittsburgh (vs. Cleveland) - While neither team has anything to play for this week, these are two teams playing with totally different attitudes. The Browns are a dangerous team and have already beaten the Steelers this year.

My Week 17 Pick

It came down to the Saints or the Chargers for me this week. Given the choice between Rivers and Brees, I'll take Brees every time. While it's too little too late, the Saints have played well these last two weeks, and even played tough against better teams for a few weeks before that. I like their chances against a Panthers squad that could only manage 17 points against the Radiers last week.

I hope everyone enjoyed these blog posts for the 2012 NFL season. I wish you and yours a very Happy (and safe) New Year! Don't forget to get your NFL Playoff Pool or NFL Squares Pool going for the post-season.

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Remember, it's not too late to start your own Eliminator Pool online! You can start a new NFL Survivor Pool at any time during the football season? It's fast and easy.