Minnesota Vikings (7-9) vs. Detroit Lions (11-5)
Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions January 7, 2024 – As the NFL regular season comes to a close, Minnesota Vikings travel to Ford Field for a vital Week 18 matchup against Detroit Lions. Both teams boasting winning records of 7-9 for Minnesota and 11-5 for Detroit respectively, this contest could significantly impact playoff positioning; both fans and bettors are eagerly searching for Super Bowl free picks ahead of this thrilling contest.
Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions January 7, 2024 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, January 7, 2024, at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Ford Field, Detroit |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Kirk Cousins QB vs. Jared Goff QB
Kirk Cousins has put together a decent statistical season despite Minnesota’s lack of success. He’s thrown for 2,331 yards with an 18/5 TD/INT ratio and has added multiple rushing touchdowns as well. However, Cousins struggles when pressured, so Detroit’s defensive front will look to fluster the veteran signal caller.
Lions quarterback Jared Goff has taken his game to another level in 2023. With career bests in yards (4,255) and touchdowns (28), Goff has led a high-flying Detroit offense. His accuracy and decision making have been superb, helping his team race out to a 13-3 record. Expect Goff to continue his excellent campaign against a porous Vikings defense.
Vikings Backs and Receivers Look to Build Rapport with Cousins
Minnesota boasts versatile talents like running back Alexander Mattison and wideout Justin Jefferson, but scoring points has still been a challenge. Mattison has yet to find the endzone while averaging just 45.1 rushing yards per contest. Meanwhile, Jefferson’s production has fallen off since his otherworldly sophomore season. Still, his big play ability can strike at any time. For the Vikings offense to get going, Cousins needs to find consistency distributing to his playmakers.
Lions’ Offensive Prowess
Detroit counters with their own arsenal of offensive weapons. Running back David Montgomery has been an exceptional contributor, rushing for 975 yards and 12 touchdowns in 13 games to give Detroit an effective, balanced attack. Wide receiver Amon-Ra St Brown, with 1371 receiving yards over 15 games and 9 touchdowns as Goff’s primary target, makes for an effective pair in Detroit’s passing game.
NFL Betting Odds: Detroit Lions -175, Over/Under: 45.5
The Lions enter as favorites, reflected in the moneyline of -175. The over/under at 45.5 points suggests a moderately high-scoring affair, aligning with both teams’ offensive capabilities.
Minnesota Vikings Betting Trends
Minnesota are 1-5 SU in their last 6 games.
Vikings are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games against Detroit.
Minnesota are 9-3 SU in their last 12 games against Detroit.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Minnesota’s last 7 games on the road.
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Minnesota’s last 6 games when playing on the road against Detroit.
Minnesota are 6-3 ATS in their last 9 games against an opponent in the National Football Conference conference.
Detroit Lions Betting Trends
Detroit are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games.
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Detroit’s last 8 games.
Detroit are 13-5 SU in their last 18 games.
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Detroit’s last 7 games against Minnesota.
Detroit are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games at home.
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Detroit’s last 6 games when playing at home against Minnesota.
Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions Betting Picks
Considering the stats and recent form, the Lions seem to have the edge in this matchup. Their consistent performance, especially at home, makes them a solid pick. The Vikings’ struggles ATS, particularly against Detroit, further tilt the odds in favor of the Lions.
For bettors looking for more than just a straight pick, the over/under offers an interesting proposition. Given both teams’ propensity to score, betting on the over seems a prudent choice. Additionally, exploring prop bets on individual performances, like Goff’s passing yards or Jefferson’s receptions, could be profitable.
Legal Betting Sites offer various options for this game, and it’s crucial to compare odds and lines for the best value. Always remember to bet responsibly.
Receiving Yards Prop: Lions 28, Vikings 20.
