Vikings at Lions: Game preview, odds, prediction
On Thanksgiving, the Detroit Lions host the Minnesota Vikings as the NFC North is up for grabs.
Though there are several weeks left in the 2016 NFL season, the NFC North could be decided on Thanksgiving. The visiting Minnesota Vikings take on the traditional Thanksgiving host Detroit Lions in a game that will decide first place in the surprisingly mediocre division.
Mike Zimmer and the Vikings head into Detroit with a 6-4 record. That might sound good, but keep in mind they started off 5-0. After losing four straight games, they finally won one against the Arizona Cardinals. Minnesota must carry over this momentum into Thanksgiving as they face the Lions. Sam Bradford has a reputation for being a solid quarterback and game manager. That’s precisely what he is. While he can’t win you games with his arm, he also won’t lose you games.
Conversely, the Lions are 4-1 over their last five games and have a two game winning streak after beating the Jacksonville Jaguars. Matthew Stafford has emerged as a leader on their offense. Despite not having Calvin Johnson anymore, he’s been remarkably good at making plays while not turning the ball over. Knock on wood, but he’s been healthy. Their defense has stepped up in recent weeks too.
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Odds
Line: Detroit (-2.5 spread, -139 moneyline)
Over/Under: 42
This game will be played at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan. It features two NFC North rivals who are looking to grab first place. Unless there’s a tie on Thanksgiving (and don’t rule that out), at the end of the game, the winner will be alone in first place. Both teams are playing with very little rest, but at the same time, they’ll be playing with the same amount so neither can say they have an advantage.
The spread looks about right, but it should be one point higher. 3.5 sounds perfect for this game. Take the slight over in this game. While both defenses are strong, they aren’t dominant.
Prediction: 28-24 Lions. Matthew Stafford has a strong day and Sam Bradford is solid, but the Lions win the battle in the trenches.