Matchweek 20 of the Premier League Season is here, and we once again try and take down the $50,000 prize by playing Premier League Pick Em’ on the NBC Sports Predictor App. NBC Sports Predictor is a sports app that gives you a chance to win huge cash prizes by simply making predictions on the games. This article is a guide to help you think about each match. This week we navigate through Matchday 20 of 38.
Brighton vs. Liverpool (Saturday, 10 a.m. ET)
Brighton versus Liverpool sets up to be a game where I’m oh so excited to see goals. Both teams are scoring nearly two goals per contest and are surprisingly conceding more than they usually do. Under Roberto De Zerbi, Brighton seemed more efficient in their attack. They have scored two or more goals in four consecutive matches. In that stretch, they have won two, drawn one, and lost the other. Even in their 4-2 loss to Arsenal, they never quit and tried to pull level.
Liverpool shockingly are seventh on the table and have a tough road ahead if they wish to find themselves in the top four at the end of the season. Their issues stem from the inconsistencies of their backline. They have conceded at an alarming rate. Halfway through the season, they have conceded 22 goals. Now, with Virgil Van Dijk out, they stand to see that number increase.
Both teams are loaded with attacking talent. I expect goals in this one.
Prediction: Brighton 2, Liverpool 3
Everton vs. Southampton (Saturday 10 a.m. ET)
Frank Lampard and Nathan Jones could be on the hot seat if they don’t start winning matches. While Lampard’s tenure is much longer than Jones’, it’s hard to imagine either club is impressed with the product they put on the pitch. Everton and Southampton are winless in their last six Premier League matches, and both are sitting below the relegation line.
This match turns into a must-win for both. A point for Everton could be seen as a letdown. The Saints have yet to win at Goodison Park in their last 17 matches. If Southampton win and break that streak, not only would it look bad, but it would also be bad. Everton have already lost four of their last five. Making it five in six would feel like a fireable offense.
I couldn’t imagine this match popping off with a ton of goals. I love the under here, but I think Everton will win a narrow victory.
Everton 1, Southampton 0
Newcastle vs. Fulham (Sunday, 9 a.m. ET)
Who would’ve thought Newcastle and Fulham would be where they are at on the table at the midpoint of the season? I was a believer in Newcastle, and even I am slightly surprised by how well they are playing. Newcastle is third on the table and are riding a 13-match unbeaten streak. They have been dominate by pressing teams and consistently going forward. They also lead the league in the fewest goals conceded per match.
Fulham deserve a lot of credit. They are sixth on the table after their win over Chelsea. They are on a five-match unbeaten streak and have scored on just about everyone. Only being shut out twice this season, they are a force to be reckoned with.
Newcastle are hard to break down. I think they will win and keep a clean sheet as well.
Prediction: Newcastle 2, Fulham 0
