Matchweek 36 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 36 of 38.
Aston Villa vs Tottenham (Saturday, 10 am ET)
Week in and week out, I discussed how well Unai Emery has done with this Aston Villa club. He’s taken them from a club destined for relegation to won that has a realistic shot at finishing top six on the table. They have won two from five but only snagged one draw in that time. Forward Ollie Watkins has been the biggest bright spot for this club. The English star has 14 goals and six assists. The ability to add more to the forward-moving actions has helped him blossom as a star.
Tottenham have been a club in free fall. They were a club that looked like they would be playing Champions League football. That’s not happening, and now they are more likely to blow up the roster and start over than content for anything next season. Their biggest disadvantage has been on the road. They have conceded multiple goals in three of their last four away from home. Defensively, they play with little continuity.
I expect both teams to find the back of the net in this match, but I wouldn’t bet hard-earned money on it. However, I would bet on Aston Villa to win here, possibly by multiple goals.
Prediction: Aston Villa: 3, Tottenham 1
Brentford vs West Ham (Sunday, 9 am ET)
Brentford entered a part of the season where I wouldn’t bet on them personally. Motivation will be hard to predict. They are safe from relegation but are too far to realistically catch a top-five spot. However, I don’t think that will stop this club from competing hard. They have picked up two wins and a draw in five. They are led by Ivan Toney, who has been world-class. Danish manager Thomas Frank has undoubtedly gotten the most out of his club. They are a hard out at the Community Stadium.
West Ham are finally safe, and David Moyes is doing everything in his power to bring a piece of silverware to his club. Albeit a Europa Conference League title, it’s a title indeed. Should he win this competition, his job might be safe after all. That said, I couldn’t imagine he puts any stock into the rest of the Premier League season. They are safe and have a midweek match with AZ Alkmaar in the Netherlands. After bringing out the strongest possible IX against their Europa foes on Thursday, I’d imagine Moyes gives a few players an off day come Sunday.
Prediction: Brentford 2, West Ham 0
Everton vs Manchester City (Sunday, 9 am ET)
Everton picked up a massive 5-1 win over Brighton on Monday and are now two points clear of the relegation line. They are by no means safe, but that massive three-pointer will go a long way in their chances. They have played much better but now host the league leaders after drawing with them in the reverse fixture.
Manchester City should be out for blood in this match. They tied the reverse and have a league title right in front of it. Dropping points would only open the door for Arsenal to find a way to creep back into this match. Much like West Ham, City have an important midweek fixture. Their Champions League tie means they need to find a way to get their starters a bit of a rest. My guess is they press early and rest their players late in the game.
Prediction: Everton 1, Manchester City 2
