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Premier League Predictions, Week 12

© Micah Veldkamp, 2018

 

For what feels like the 7th month running, the Premier League weekend comes off of midweek matches for many, thanks to Champions League action (or in Liverpool's case, inaction) on Tuesday and Wednesday.

You'll notice this prediction piece is coming a day later than it usually does. It was intentional; in recognition of a horrible Saturday slate this week, we're going to predict solely the Sunday matches, all 4 of which have the potential to be more watchable than anything today.

Last time out, I went 3 for 5 again, though I'm gonna give myself a 3.5 for nailing the Manchester United-Bournemouth analysis and scoreline. I once again managed to screw up a Watford prediction; the Hornets lost to lowly Newcastle, because of course they did. I also put too much faith in my Reds, who had to settle for a draw at Arsenal rather than a win.. That drops my record to a 31.5 for 45. Now, the real matches are less than 12 hours away from starting, so let's not waste any time groveling. Here are your 5 for Week 12!

Liverpool vs. Fulham

It's the 2nd place team in the league hosting the last-placed side; on paper, it's a monstrous mismatch. In reality, it's a bit tough to know what to make of each team. Liverpool, of course, is yet to lose in the League, but also has not been able to sustain any sort of positive momentum. Fulham just seems to have not figured it out how to put it together in the highest tier, but they have had several flashes of really brilliant football. I suppose I'll go with the safe choice here, which is that Liverpool will win, but in a match more contested than many would expect.

The Pick: Liverpool, 2-1

Chelsea vs. Everton

Everton comes into Stamford Bridge in good form. They've won 4 of their last 5, and their only loss was a close affair against a revitalized Manchester United team. Chelsea rolls into tomorrow back in 2nd place, thanks to a goal differential edge over Liverpool. It has the potential to be a cracker, but ultimately, you have to imagine Sarri Ball will pick apart Everton's inconsistent defense.

The Pick: Chelsea, 3-1

Arsenal vs. Wolverhampton

Arsenal's record-breaking run of victories has come to a close, but thanks to consecutive draws, they still have not lost in the Premier League since their opening 2 matches. The Gunners are scary on a roll right now, but their opponents are not to be taken lightly. Wolverhampton, the defending winners of the Championship, hit a spurt of bad form after their bright start to the season, but seem to perhaps be turning it back around after a terrific performance in a competitive loss to Tottenham last week. I think this will be a really fun, perhaps frantic affair. But you gotta roll with the hot hand.

The Pick: Arsenal, 4-2

Manchester United vs. Manchester City

Since the rebirth of Manchester City, the Manchester Derby has been one of the most anticipated matches of the season. This year, that's no different, though the teams' seasons to date have been. City has been at or near the top since day one, and now seem to be reaching their unbeatable peak once more. United had a much-publicized dreadful opening couple months. However, starting with their come-from-behind victory over Newcastle nearly a month ago, there has been a noticeable uptick in form and energy. This has the potential to be a really good one again, even with a couple stars (Paul Pogba for United, Kevin De Bruyne for City) out injured. I'm really tempted to pick a shock draw here, because I think it's possible. But I just feel like City's form is too unstoppable at the moment.

The Pick: Manchester City, 3-2

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