Lions at Vikings: Preview, prediction, odds and pick

The NFC North will be on full display on Sunday, as the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions battle it out inside U.S. Bank Stadium.

The Minnesota Vikings looked so good in Week 1, as Sam Bradford absolutely shredded the New Orleans Saints. However, Bradford went down with a non-contact injury the following week in practice and has yet to get back on the field. Playing terribly in his first game under center, Case Keenum bounced back in Week 3 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, throwing for three touchdowns in the game.

For the Detroit Lions, they are coming off a tough loss last week at home to the Atlanta Falcons. Now they have to go on the road to take on a Vikings team that usually plays well in front of their home crowd. Anytime the NFC North gets together for a battle, it is going to be a good one, and Sunday’s matchup should be no different.

Minnesota is getting great play out of rookie running back Dalvin Cook, who has taken over as the lead back since the Summer. The wide receiving corps of Stefon Diggs and Adam Thielen have played terrific as well, giving the Vikings a solid core on offense. Add to the mix a tight end who can stretch the field in Kyle Rudolph, and there are just too many solid weapons to deal with.

The Lions are not without their fair share of weapons as well, including a quarterback who is playing some of the best football in the league this season. Matthew Stafford was awarded the league’s biggest contract this offseason, and he has certainly played up to that contract. He has a host of options in the passing game, including Golden Tate, who already has 21 catches on the young season.

Odds

Line: N/L

Over/Under: N/A

Due to the lack of information as to who will quarterback the Vikings, there is no current spread for this game. This line and over/under will update prior to the game, so head on over to Sportsbook Review for any changes up until kickoff.

Next: 2018 NFL Mock Draft: With Jets win, QB no longer guaranteed

Prediction

The Vikings played so good with Case Keenum under center last week, beating a very solid Tampa Bay Buccaneers team to a pulp. Playing against the Vikings at home is always a tall order, and the Lions will find it hard to come away with a road NFC North victory in this one. Look for Matthew Stafford to keep them in the game, but the Vikings win it on a field goal late.

Final Score: Vikings 24 Lions 21