Premier League Predictions, Weeks 17-18

Welcome back to the weekly predictions, Premier League fans! Yes, it was just three days ago that you last heard from me. But, with no Champions League action to take up our midweeks (only the chaotic knockout stage draw this morning), it means we have to fill that void with bonus Premier League! So, once again, this is a larger-than-usual Premier League Prediction piece.

Last time out, I got back on the horse admirably. After a string of weeks wherein I failed to peek my head above .500, I was close to flawless last weekend. Although I was a bit off-base on each scoreline (and each ended up being more competitive than I anticipated), the big four of Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchesters City and United did in fact all win. And while Burnley didn't end up beating West Ham, they did end up taking points off of them, which was a surprising outcome that I somewhat predicted. I'm going to give myself half-credit for that one, which sees out my week with a 4.5/5 total. That brings my season to date to a more palatable 39/68.

But, the midweek matches are less than 24 hours away, so let's not waste time gloating about my small victories. Here are your 7 for Weeks 17 and 18!

Manchester City vs. Leeds United

Leeds gave Chelsea an almighty run at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, and were a bit unlucky with two penalty decisions given against them. But I don't think lightning will strike twice; City are going to be too much of a force, especially at home.

The Pick: Man City, 2-0

Arsenal vs. West Ham United

West Ham dropped points unexpectedly last weekend while Arsenal got back to winning ways, thus it's tempting to assume the Hammers will be the more desperate side. But, with Manchester United's match suspended, I think Arsenal will be enticed by the opportunity to jump into the Top 4 with a win and won't let that opportunity slip.

The Pick: Arsenal, 2-1

Chelsea vs. Everton

Both teams didn't look like themselves two matches ago; in Chelsea's case, it was a shock loss to West Ham, and in Everton, it was a weirdly impressive win over Arsenal. However, both reverted to business as usual last weekend, with a Chelsea win and Everton capitulating to Crystal Palace; I expect that trend to continue this week.

The Pick: Chelsea, 4-1

Liverpool vs. Newcastle United

Liverpool have gutted out two consecutive tough wins, which is what title contenders need to do. That said, if the struggle continues against this Newcastle team at Anfield, alarm bells might be ringing.

The Pick: Liverpool, 3-0

Newcastle United vs. Manchester City

A brutal week for Newcastle sees them follow up the league's 2nd-place team with the league leaders. They'll at least have the benefit of home fans behind them for this one, but still, I expect it will be a hard day's night for Eddie Howe's men.

The Pick: Man City, 3-1

Wolverhampton Wanderers vs. Chelsea

A tough stretch has seen Wolves' great resurgence stall out, with just 2 points from their last 12. They certainly have the ability to fight tooth and nail against a great team, though, and I think the need for a positive result will see them do against Chelsea what they couldn't against Liverpool and Manchester City, and bring home a point.

The Pick: Draw, 1-1

Tottenham Hotspur vs. Liverpool

Antonio Conte's tenure at Tottenham has certainly been choppy, but he quietly is showing signs of righting the ship, with Spurs notching four straight victories. I don't think they're good enough to beat Liverpool yet, but they're good enough to give them a game and steal a point.