Best NFL Prop Bets for Lions vs. Panthers in Week 16 (Be Wary of Weather in NFC Matchup)
The Detroit Lions and Carolina Panthers will face-off in a Week 16 matchup that surprisingly has major playoff implications for both sides.
After starting at 1-6, the Lions have climbed all the way back to 7-7 and are well inside the hunt for a wild card spot in the NFC playoffs. Meanwhile, the 5-9 Carolina Panthers are only a single game back from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers atop the NFC South.
The Lions are set as 2.5-point favorites.
With the game set to take place in cold and frigid temperatures, there could be some value in a few player props in this game.
Let's dive into my favorites.
Best Prop Bets for Lions vs. Panthers
- Jared Goff UNDER 243.5 Passing Yards
- D'onta Foreman UNDER 51.5 Rushing Yards
- DJ Chark OVER 2.5 Receptions
Jared Goff UNDER 242.5 Passing Yards
We all know about the weather that Jared Goff and the Lions offense has to deal with today, but what concerns me even more about Goff's production is the defense that he's facing.
Believe it or not, the Panthers have quietly been one of the better defenses in the NFL this season, especially when it comes to stopping the pass. They rank 11th in opponent yards per pass attempt, while allowing a total average of only 211.4 passing yards per game.
Goff going up against a strong pass defense in cold and windy weather is a recipe for him to go UNDER his passing yards total.
D'onta Foreman UNDER 50.5 Rushing Yards
D'onta Foreman is starting to losing some work to Chuba Hubbard, which has become apparent in recent games. His offensive snap count has dropped in three straight games, going from 53% to 47% to 30%. Last week's performance of only nine total rushing yards on 10 carries is certainly going to have an effect on how often they give him the ball today.
Not to mention, the Detroit Lions have allowed the second fewest yards per carry over each teams last three games, giving up a measly 2.9 yards per rush over that stretch.
DJ Chark OVER 2.5 Receptions
DJ Chark had a bit of a down game last week against the New York Jets, but let's bet on him having a bounce back day against the Panthers. In the two games previous to last week, Chark hauled in five and six receptions, including one for a touchdown.
Goff may need to look for his second and third options now that he's facing a stout pass defense, which will open things up for Chark in the passing game. All we need is three receptions from him for this prop to cash.
You can track Iain's bets on Betstamp here.
Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.