Expert prediction
NFL Week 17: Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings Preview, Odds, Picks (Dec 25)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- Lions vs. Vikings odds favor Detroit at -265.
- The Minnesota Vikings have three wins in a row.
- TOTAL went OVER in Detroit’s last 5 games.
The Lions are in the playoff hunt, yet they have to beat the in-form Vikes on the road. If Minnesota played like this the entire year, things would be much different in the NFC North.
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How to Watch
- When: Thursday, December 25, 4:30 pm ET
- Where: US Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, Minnesota
- How to Watch: Netflix
Lions vs. Vikings Odds
Game Preview
The Lions lost three of their past four matches and went from division leaders to battling for the last playoff spot in the NFC. Their matches are efficient, and the previous 5 all ended with OVER, but Jared Goff and the boys are usually on the losing side after the end.
Losing to the Pittsburgh Steelers, 29-24, was after a wild ending in which Goff’s touchdown on the final play was canceled by Amon-Ra St. Brown’s offensive pass interference.
As for the Vikes, they play tougher football, and just one of their last 7 matches saw OVER. The most recent victory was against the Giants, 16-13 in New York. Previously, they’ve beaten the Commanders at home, 31-0, and the Cowboys, also on the road, 34-26.
During this victorious stretch, JJ McCarthy had 5 touchdown passes, two intercepted throws, but also two rushing scores. One of them was in New York, where it made a crucial difference.
Lions vs. Vikings Head to Head
After 128 matches, the series record is heavily in Minnesota’s favor: Minnesota has won 81 times, the Lions 45, and 2 games have ended in a tie. This season, the Lions won 27-24 at home. It was the first triumph for Detroit after 5 losses in a row.
Lions vs. Vikings Predictions
It seems McCarthy has found some offensive rhythm, so this game should go OVER. The total line is set at 44.5 points, and we definitely pick OVER, as the Lions have no other way to win here but through offense.
- Free NFL Picks: Over 44.5 points
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