Denver Broncos (7-6) vs. Detroit Lions (9-4)
Denver Broncos vs. Detroit Lions 12/16/23 – As the NFL’s Week 15 unfolds, a key matchup is set between the Denver Broncos and the Detroit Lions. Taking place on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at Ford Field and broadcast on NFLN at 8:15 PM ET, this game is a pivotal moment for both teams’ playoff hopes. With the Broncos at 7-6 and the Lions at an impressive 9-4, this game is drawing significant attention for expert NFL free analysis.
The Broncos enter with momentum, winning 6 of their last 7 games behind strong defensive play and improved quarterback play from Russell Wilson. Denver’s rushing attack is middling, averaging just 102 yards per game. Javonte Williams is a tough interior runner but lacks breakaway speed. The real strength is Sutton on the outside. He is Wilson’s undisputed top target with 10 touchdowns and over 13 yards per catch. If Denver can establish any kind of ground game, it should open up shots downfield for Sutton against a Lions secondary that can be exploited.
Detroit’s high-flying passing offense averages 272 yards per game. Goff spreads the ball around but his top weapon is rising star Amon-Ra St. Brown. St. Brown is a crisp route runner with great hands, evidenced by his 12.2 yards per catch and 6 touchdowns. The key for Detroit will be controlling time of possession with their potent rushing attack of David Montgomery. If the Lions lean on Montgomery, it will set up play action shots to St. Brown while keeping Wilson off the field.
Denver Broncos vs. Detroit Lions 12/16/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 16, 2023 at 8:15 PM ET |
| Where: | Ford Field |
| TV: | NFLN |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Russell Wilson QB vs. Jared Goff QB
Russell Wilson has started to regain his old form over the last two months. He has 15 touchdown passes and only 2 interceptions over his last six games, showing much better decision making within the offense. Wilson’s 67.2% completion rate is also the second highest of his 11-year career. He remains one of the best deep ball throwers in the league, averaging nearly 7 yards per attempt. Wilson excels at extending plays with his legs, giving his receivers extra time to get open downfield. He has also cut down on the sacks and fumbles that plagued him earlier in 2022. If Wilson can continue to mesh with his new weapons, his pedigree and past Super Bowl success make him a threat in high leverage games down the stretch.
Jared Goff‘s resurgence has him squarely in the MVP conversation for the surprise Lions. He is posting career bests in completion percentage (66.9%), yards per attempt (7.4), and interception rate (2.2%), while on pace for his most passing yards ever in a season (3,449). Goff has developed excellent chemistry with breakout sophomore receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, hitting him for 1063 yards and 6 scores. He also utilizes running back D’Andre Swift well in the short passing game. Goff remains one of the best play action passers in the NFL, using Detroit’s strong running game to consistently freeze linebackers and open up vertical shots downfield. He has posted a stellar 94.8 passer rating at home this season, compared to just 88.2 on the road.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Detroit Lions -210, Total Odds: 47.5
The Lions are favored with a -4.5 point spread, indicating oddsmakers’ confidence in their offensive firepower. The total set at 47.5 suggests expectations for a relatively high-scoring game, aligning with both teams’ offensive capabilities.
Denver Broncos Betting Trends
The Broncos are 5-2 against the spread (ATS) in their last 7 overall, proving profitable for bettors this season. Denver is also 6-3 straight up in its last 7, indicating sustained success. The Broncos have fared well against Detroit, going 8-3 overall and 4-2 on the road. The under has hit in 4 of Denver’s last 5 road contests.
Detroit Lions Betting Trends
Detroit has exceeded expectations all season, with a cover rate of 14-6 ATS. The Lions are 7-2 ATS at home, meaning they consistently play close games as hosts. While the Lions are just 4-11 straight up against Denver all-time, the over has hit in 4 of the last 5 meetings in this series, suggesting this matchup will feature scoring.
Denver Broncos vs. Detroit Lions 12/16/23 Betting Picks
Analyzing both teams’ performances and trends, this matchup promises to be a clash of Denver’s defensive resilience against Detroit’s offensive explosiveness. The Lions, with their home advantage and dynamic offense, seem to have the upper hand.
For the final pick, Detroit’s ability to score and their strong ATS record make them a solid choice. Prop bets on individual player performances, such as St. Brown’s receiving yards, could offer additional value. Considering the trends, the total going OVER 47.5 also seems a likely outcome. For those seeking leading handicapper tips, placing trust in the Lions’ offense in this high-stakes game could be rewarding.
Free Pick and Prediction: Detroit Lions 30, Denver Broncos 24