NFL Preview: Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings
One of the more intriguing matchups in the NFL season is coming up soon as the Minnesota Vikings (14-2) take on the Detroit Lions (14-2) in a rematch on Sunday, January 5 at 8:20 PM ET at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan. Current NFL betting odds reveal the Lions favored at home with a point spread at -3.0 (+100) at MYBOOKIE.
Minnesota Vikings Betting Preview
The Vikings have won their last nine games, with the last two being decided by three points or less. Their latest victory was a 27-25 showing over the Green Bay Packers.
Despite being down 3-0 at the end of the first quarter, the Vikings would have strong second and third quarters of at least 13 points each to push them ahead. Sam Darnold added to his outstanding season, putting up 377 yards and three touchdowns on 33 of 43 passes. He did have an interception, marking their only turnover in the game.
They accumulated 441 yards and 26 first downs while having possession of the ball for 35.5 minutes. Their defense held the Packers to 271 yards and 17 first downs.
The Vikings are ninth in the league when averaging 26.4 points a game. On defense they are fourth when holding opponents to 18.8 points a game. This spread gives them quality breathing room each game.
Detroit Lions Betting Preview
The Lions have won their latest two games and have scored 34 points or more in the last four. Their most recent success was a 40-34 performance against the San Francisco 49ers.
They were able to tie the game at 21 in the third quarter, as they were slightly behind in the first half. Eventually, they took the lead for good at the end of the third. Jared Goff completed 26 of 34 passes for 303 yards and three touchdowns.
Both teams were similar in total yardage and first downs. However, the Lions forced two turnovers on the 49ers and had possession of the ball for almost 35 minutes.
The Lions have the best offense in the league at 33.3 points a game. Defensively they rank ninth in allowing 20.8 points each matchup. This spread is one of the better ones in the league.
Odds, Series Trends, and Free Pick
The Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions betting odds have been offered by MyBookie, showing the Lions as three-point favorites at home. Market predictions suggest that the Lions have a 64.5 percent chance of winning at home.
With the top seed in the NFC up for grabs, both teams cannot afford a loss here. However, the Lions have the better roster of players, home advantage, a previous win over the Vikings, and the best offense in the league to win and cover the spread.