John Boell's NFL picks for Week 17

RAMS (7-8)

at SEAHAWKS (6-9)

Line: Rams by 3

Over/Under: 411/2

TV-Radio: Ch. 4, 8:20 p.m.

The winner of this game wins the NFC Less, I mean, West, and hosts a playoff game. This game has seen a point-spread swing (the Rams opened as 1-point underdogs) because of the uncertain status of Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (hip). Seahawks coach Pete Carroll says Hasselbeck is a long shot to start, which means backup Charlie Whitehurst takes over. (I still think Hasselbeck plays). Throw out home (Seattle is 4-3) and away records (Rams are 2-5) for this one. The Rams have a 10-5 ATS record.

The pick: Rams

BEARS (11-4)

at PACKERS (9-6)

Line: Packers by 10

Over/Under: 411/2, 4:15 p.m.

I know Danny and all the other Giants fans will become big-time Bears fans beginning at 4:15 Sunday. If the Packers win, they're in, regardless of what the Giants do against the 'Skins. When Lovie Smith was named Bears coach in 2004, he said his goals were to beat Green Bay, win the division and win a Super Bowl, in that order. Well, coach, that statement will be put to the test this weekend. The Bears are currently the No. 2 seed in the NFC. If the Falcons beat the Panthers (1 p.m. start), the Bears can't vault to the top seed. So then what will they have to play for?

The pick: Packers