Minnesota Vikings (14-2) vs. Detroit Lions (14-2)
Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions January 5 2025 – What makes the clash of the Minnesota Vikings, who have had an impressive season with a record of 14-2 in regular play, and the equally ranking Detroit Lions so interesting is that it is a league week 18 playoff positioning battle and culture of the NFL. The rivalry is guaranteed to be explosive, as both lines have had a stellar combination of form that would be worth watching throughout the game season and stronger contenders for this encounter.
Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions January 5 2025 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, January 5, 2025 at 8:20 PM ET |
| Where: | Ford Field, Detroit |
| TV: | NBC |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Vikings | +143 | +3 (-110) | Over 51 (-107) |
| Lions | -162 | -3 (-102) | Under 51 (-107) |
The betting odds indicate how close a matchup is expected to be. The Lions must win at least by three to cover the spread, which completely aligns with their moneyline at -162. So the home crowd is absolutely backing them. On the other side, Vikings at the moneyline of +143 and having a spread of +3 means they are most likely to stay in close range. So with the over/under set at 51 points, it can be assumed that both the offenses will score heavily.
Sam Darnold QB vs. Jared Goff QB
Sam Darnold had a stellar day in the Vikings uniform, recording 35 touchdowns with 4153 passing yards while displaying his ability to direct a high-functioning offense. Darnold has always been one who relies quite a lot on his instincts which brought with it 12 interceptions and 46 sacks, but aggressive playstyle like this was often beneficial for Minneapolis as a whole and helped Minneapolis grow towards the end of the season.
In contrast to this, Jared Goff playing for the Lions did just enough to edge past Darnold with 4398 throwing yards at a remarkable 71.7 percent completion rate. This indirectly highlights tremendous talent, understanding of the game within the pocket for the quarterback. Goff is a staunch example of consistency finishing the season with 36 touchdowns and only 10 interceptions as he guided Detroit through essential matches.
When the time comes that these two quarterbacks take to the field, Darnold’s aggressive playing style and willingness to take risks will be matched against Goff’s efficiency and calm nature. The impact both of them will have on the game will be critical.
Vikings’ Ground and Air Assault: A Dual Threat
As it is evident from their recent games, the Vikings have been able to depend on the efforts of their offense headed by Aaron Jones and Justin Jefferson. Jones has rushed for 1,093 yards and five touchdowns so he helps on the ground easy, while Jefferson amassed 1,479 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns. In their last game against the Packers, they managed to win by a narrow margin of two points at 27-25 which showed their mettle.
Lions’ Offensive Firepower: Precision Meets Power
Detroit applies an equally potent arsenal of their own. Jahmyr Gibbs has been nothing short of astonishing, boasting 1,273 yards rushing and 13 touchdowns, thus providing the Lions with explosive plays including their most recent defeat of the 49ers by 40-34. Amon-Ra St. Brown has been crucial as well with 1186 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns, further highlighting the strength of the Detroit’s receiving unit.
Minnesota Vikings Betting Trends
Minnesota are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games.
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Minnesota’s last 6 games.
Minnesota are 9-0 SU in their last 9 games.
Minnesota are 0-8 ATS in their last 8 games against Detroit.
Minnesota are 1-5 SU in their last 6 games against Detroit.
Detroit Lions Betting Trends
Detroit are 13-5 ATS in their last 18 games.
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Detroit’s last 5 games.
Detroit are 13-1 SU in their last 14 games.
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Detroit’s last 6 games against Minnesota.
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Detroit’s last 6 games at home.
Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions Betting Previews
Looking at the history, and also the current standings, the match seems to be an all-out ‘gunning’ contest with both the teams heavy on the attack. The over on 51 points seems a promising bet as the offensive capabilities have been seasoned offensive. Along with their profiling as consistent performers, Lions do have the advantages of host venue but just slightly are the match favorites. There should however not be a disregard for the Vikings’ fighting spirit and therefore why they are an interesting spread option.
Both teams have good records on attacking and that puts the Lions at an important edge on the win. Aiming for a victory that would be very close over there looks like a best practice while permitting the Vikings to cover the spread does also sound comfortable.
Score Prediction: Lions 30, Vikings 27.
