NFL Week 16: Detroit Lions vs Minnesota Vikings Odds, and Picks (Dec 24)

• The Lions beat the Broncos 17-42 in week 15.
• The Vikings lost to the Bengals 24-27 in O/T last time out.
• These two teams will meet again in week 18.

The 10-4 Detroit Lions take on the 7-7 Minnesota Vikings in this week 16, NFC North divisional matchup. The Lions have all but secured their place in the playoffs but the Vikings could boost their own chances with a victory over Detroit here.

How To Watch

• FOX

Game Preview

The Lions romped to a 17-42 victory over the Broncos in week 15, with all of their big weapons getting involved on offense. QB Jared Goof completed 24 of 34 passes for 278 yards and 5 touchdowns, taking his tally to 26 for the season. Rookie RB Jamyhr Gibbs continued his impressive season, with 11 carries for 100 yards and a score, as well as picking up a receiving touchdown. WR Amon Ra St. Brown scored a touchdown and racked up 112 yards on 7 receptions, but the star of the show was rookie tight end Sam LaPorta. The 22-year-old caught 5 of his 6 targets for 3 touchdowns and 56 yards giving him a third week as the top tight end in the NFL this season.

The Vikings have named QB Nick Mullins the starter for week 16, despite the 28-year-old failing to lead Minnesota to a win in week 15. The 28-year-old threw 26/33 completions for 303 yards and 2 touchdowns, but also gave up 2 interceptions and was sacked 3 times. In the absence of Alexander Mattison, sophomore RB Ty Chandler made the most of his opportunity, rushing for 132 yards and a score on 23 carries. Mattison could return to the line up this week, but Chandler will likely retain lad back duties.

Prediction

The Lions are slight favorites for this one, although backing Jared Goff on the road can sometimes be a perilous sweat. Whilst Minnesota has some potent weapons, Detroit looks like a more well rounded team at the moment, so I am siding with them.

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