Minnesota Vikings (7-9) vs. Detroit Lions (11-5)
Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions 1/7/24 – On Sunday, NFL Week 18 brings an intriguing clash as the Minnesota Vikings, with a record of 7-9, face the Detroit Lions, who boast an 11-5 standing. This game, set to kick off at 1:00 PM ET at Ford Field and televised on FOX, presents a fascinating matchup with significant playoff implications. Fans and bettors alike are keen on today’s free Super Bowl tips to navigate this exciting game.
This season has seen mixed results from both their running and receiving attacks. Alexander Mattison has amassed 676 rushing yards over 15 games at an average 45.1 average per game averaging 45.1 yards per game without reaching the end zone yet this season. Justin Jefferson has also been impressive, amassing 882 receiving yards with four touchdowns from only 9 games; this impressive mark puts the Vikings aerial attack into high gear.
The Detroit Lions have displayed impressive rushing and receiving capabilities this year. David Montgomery has amassed 975 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns in 13 games at running back – averaging an incredible 75 average yard per game! Additionally, Amon-Ra St Brown has excelled as the Lions’ primary receiver with 1371 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns over 15 contests, averaging 91.4 average yardage per game; his reliability and playmaking abilities have made a substantial contribution to Detroit’s passing game.
Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions 1/7/24 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, January 7, 2024 at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Ford Field |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Kirk Cousins QB vs. Jared Goff QB
Kirk Cousins has put together yet another inconsistent season under center for the Vikings. While he possesses the arm talent to make big plays downfield, he has struggled mightily with his accuracy and decision making. Cousins is completing just 69.5% of his passes and has a pedestrian passer rating of 103.8. Most concerning, he’s already thrown 5 interceptions compared to just 18 touchdowns. Far too often, Cousins fails to see the entire field and forces errant throws into tight coverage. He tends to crumble when pressured as well. With the Vikings likely playing from behind today, Cousins could be forced into some back-breaking turnovers if Detroit brings the heat.
On the other side, Jared Goff has orchestrated one of the best passing attacks in the NFL this season. He’s already racked up 4,255 passing yards and 28 touchdowns through the air. Goff has done an excellent job taking care of the football too, with just 12 interceptions on the year. He’s spreading the ball around nicely and keeping the chains moving with high percentage short and intermediate throws. But when Detroit needs a big play, Goff has shown the ability to push the ball downfield and create explosive plays. His 96.4 passer rating ranks among the NFL’s best. Thanks to Goff’s efficient play, the Lions have one of the most dangerous offenses in football.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Detroit Lions -175, Total Odds: 45.5
The Lions are favored with a -175 moneyline and a -3 point spread, indicating their perceived advantage in this matchup. The total set at 45.5 points suggests expectations of a moderately high-scoring game.
Minnesota Vikings Betting Trends
The Vikings are 1-5 straight up in their last 6 games, indicating they have struggled to finish out the 2022 season. They are also 0-6 against the spread in their last 6 matchups against the Lions, meaning Detroit has had their number. However, Minnesota is 9-3 straight up in their last 12 contests against Detroit, so they could keep this game close today.
Detroit Lions Betting Trends
The Lions enter today’s contest hot, covering the spread in 4 of their last 5 matchups. Detroit’s offense has also powered overs recently, going over the total in 6 of its last 8 games. The Lions are 13-5 straight up in their last 18 contests, proving they are one of the hottest teams in the NFL at the moment. Detroit has also gone over the total in 6 of its last 7 home matchups against Minnesota.
Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions 1/7/24 Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and betting trends, the Lions seem to hold an edge in this matchup, especially with their strong home record and recent form. However, the Vikings’ potential for upsets, especially with Cousins at the helm, cannot be ignored.
In terms of betting, the Lions appear to be the safer pick, especially considering their recent ATS success and home-field advantage. Prop bets on individual performances, like Jared Goff’s passing yards or Amon-Ra St. Brown’s receptions, may provide additional value. The over/under is challenging, but given both teams’ offensive capabilities, leaning towards the OVER might align with pro multi-handicapper predictions.
Free Pick and Prediction: Detroit Lions 28, Minnesota Vikings 21