Detroit Lions (10-4) vs. Minnesota Vikings (7-7)
Lions vs. Vikings December 24, 2023 – In a pivotal NFL Week 16 matchup, the surging Detroit Lions, boasting a strong 10-4 record, are set to face the Minnesota Vikings, who are evenly poised at 7-7. This Sunday, clash at the U.S. Bank Stadium is not just a game; it’s a battle for pride and playoff positioning. As kickoff approaches at 1:00 PM ET, broadcasted live on FOX, all eyes are on this showdown, with NFL expert free picks closely analyzing every aspect of this encounter.
Lions vs. Vikings December 24, 2023 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 24, 2023, at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | U.S. Bank Stadium |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Jared Goff QB vs. Kirk Cousins QB
Jared Goff has put together an impressive campaign, cementing himself as one of the top passers in the league. He’s already surpassed 3,727passing yards with two games still remaining. Goff has shown elite accuracy and decision-making in the pocket this season. While he doesn’t have the strongest arm, his touch and ability to anticipate windows is top-notch. Goff excels at going through his progressions quickly and delivering an accurate, catchable ball to his targets. He’s developed uncanny chemistry with breakout star Amon-Ra St. Brown. But Goff also spreads the ball around effectively. His 26 touchdown passes ranks near the top of the NFL, to just 10 interceptions. And despite taking 27 sacks, Goff has avoided making many costly mistakes.
Kirk Cousins has been solid this season for Minnesota. He’s put up 18 touchdown passes and has an impressive 103.8 passer rating. Cousins can deliver strikes when given time in a clean pocket. However, he has struggled with turnovers at times this season. The Lions pass rush could make life difficult for Cousins if they get pressure. While he has capable targets, Cousins will need to avoid mistakes against a ball-hawking Detroit defense. Playing from behind, turnovers could sink the Vikings chances in this game. Cousins will need his best performance to keep pace with the hot Detroit offense.
Detroit’s Offensive Dynamics
The Lions’ offense isn’t limited to Goff alone; they boast an efficient machine. Running back David Montgomery has been instrumental, amassing 855 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns over 11 games; wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown supplements this ground game by collecting 1175 receiving yards on 94 receptions – making Detroit one of the league’s premier offenses.
Vikings’ Offensive Stride
Minnesota’s offense led by Alexander Mattison and Jordan Addison will provide an intriguing challenge against Detroit’s defense. Mattison has posted 660 rushing yards over 13 games while Addison boasts 824 receiving yards with nine touchdowns from 62 receptions – two players who will prove key against this divisional foe.
NFL Betting Odds: Detroit Lions -175, Over/Under: 46.5
The odds favor the Detroit Lions, with a moneyline of -175 and an over/under set at 46.5. This reflects their stronger overall performance and potent offense. However, the Vikings have been known to pull off surprises, especially at home.
Detroit Lions Betting Trends
Detroit are 14-6 ATS in their last 20 games.
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Detroit’s last 6 games.
Detroit are 15-5 SU in their last 20 games.
Lions are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games against Minnesota.
Detroit are 2-9 SU in their last 11 games against Minnesota.
Detroit are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 games on the road.
Minnesota Vikings Betting Trends
Minnesota are 6-1-2 ATS in their last 9 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Minnesota’s last 12 games.
Minnesota are 6-3 SU in their last 9 games.
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Minnesota’s last 6 games against Detroit.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Minnesota’s last 6 games at home.
Minnesota are 5-0 SU in their last 5 games when playing at home against Detroit.
Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings Betting Picks
Considering the trends and performances, the Lions appear to have the edge. Their offensive prowess, led by Goff, Montgomery, and St. Brown, is likely to challenge the Vikings’ defense. However, Cousins’ efficiency and the Vikings’ strong home record cannot be ignored.
For bettors on USA online sportsbooks, taking the Lions to win seems like a solid bet, though the Vikings could cover the spread, given their home record against Detroit. The over/under is tricky, but considering both teams’ recent scoring trends, betting on the OVER could be worthwhile.
Receiving Yards Prop: Lions 30, Vikings 24.
