Minnesota Vikings vs
Detroit LionsPredictions & Preview

Vikings vs Lions Sunday Night Football Showdown Will Determine NFC Playoff Standings

This content discusses an upcoming matchup between the Minnesota Vikings and the Detroit Lions on Sunday Night Football. The game will determine home-field advantage throughout the NFC playoffs and a first-round bye. The previous meeting between the two teams was a close game, and the upcoming rematch is anticipated to be equally intense. The Detroit Lions are currently the betting favorite with a -2.5 point spread that has not changed. The game will take place at Ford Field at 8:20 p.m. EST.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Vikings +130 | Lions -150
• Spread: Vikings +2.5 (-110) | Lions -2.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 56 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Detroit will win straight-up is 60%.

Minnesota vs Detroit Stats

Minnesota Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings are flying high with a nine-game winning streak as they head to Detroit. Their success this season has been largely due to their strong defense, which allows the fourth-fewest points per game. Despite recent challenges on the ground and in the air, the Vikings lead the league in interceptions and takeaways, and have the third-most sacks entering Week 18. Offensively, the team relies heavily on star receiver Justin Jefferson and quarterback Sam Darnold. The Vikings will look to play a clean game and overcome key injuries as they aim to secure a potential path to the Super Bowl. With a power ranking of 7, Minnesota is ranked 9 in offense and 4 in defense, with a record of 14-2 this season. For those looking to maximize their profits, choosing the Best NFL Handicappers may be beneficial.

Detroit Lions Analysis

The Detroit Lions had a tough season last year, finishing at the bottom of a three-way tiebreaker in the NFC. They lost a crucial NFC Championship Game, where a strong home crowd might have made a difference. However, they have bounced back with a revenge win against the Niners and can secure a spot in February's games with a win this weekend. The Lions are driven to win their first title and have a powerful offense, led by quarterback Jared Goff and receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. The defense has struggled at times but has the ninth-best scoring in the league. The team's key player, David Montgomery, is out with an injury, but Jahmyr Gibbs has stepped up as a strong running back. Despite some defensive weaknesses, the Lions are focused on securing the NFC's top spot. The team has a power ranking of 4 and excels in offense, averaging 32.87 points per game. They face a tough matchup against Minnesota, who have had recent success against them.

Minnesota Vikings Favored Over Struggling Detroit Lions at Ford Field

Detroit has suffered two losses at Ford Field this season and is currently on a three-game losing streak against the spread at home. On the other hand, Minnesota has a strong record of 4-2-1 against the spread on the road this season, with their previous loss to Detroit being a close two-point game decided by a late field goal. Given Detroit's recent defensive struggles, allowing an average of 32.5 points per game in their last four outings, Minnesota's passing game is poised for success. With a solid secondary and less concern about the run game due to Montgomery's absence, the Vikings are well-positioned to control Detroit's offense. It is likely that Minnesota will not only win but also cover the spread in Sunday's matchup.

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