The undefeated Minnesota Vikings will have their biggest challenge of the year as they head to the Motor City to take on the Detroit Lions. It will be strength against strength when the high-powered Lions offense is on the field against the best defense in the league.
Series Record: 82-45-2
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Road Record: 37-27-1
Largest Win: 34-0, November 9, 1980
Largest Defeat: 45-7, December 12, 1981
Streak: W2
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The Vikings are giving up a league-low 12.3 points per game, 4.9 fewer than the second-best Kansas City Chiefs. The Lions rank 26th in the league, allowing 27.5 points per game.
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The Lions have the 2nd highest scoring offense in the league with 30.7 PPG. The Vikings are 24th with 20.8 PPG.
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The Vikings boast the best kick return and punt return averages in the league. Pair that with the best kicker in football, and special teams have become a real advantage.
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The Lions rank first in offensive success rate on first down (50%), while the Vikings rank 32nd (29.2%).
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Motown legends The Four Tops will play a halftime show.
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Justin Jefferson has been a Lions killer throughout his career, averaging 107 yards per game and a 72% catch rate when targeted.. However, he has averaged just 53 YPG in the last four meetings.
Unfortunately, we won’t get to see Kerby Joseph reunited with Justin Jefferson this week. The modern rivalry of the NFC North has been fun the last few years. It was nice to have the two annual wins penciled in back in the day, but I do enjoy it now that the Lions are an actual NFL team. It’s a clash of styles for two familiar foes. One of the best offenses in the league will face the definitively best defense in the league. Something has to give on Sunday. Either the Lions prove they can move the ball against an elite defense, or the Vikings continue their march toward becoming the most feared defense in football. Everyone seems to be on the Lions, either because the believe in them, or the Vikings are “due” for a loss. I’m not picking anything based on who is “due” anything. I know the Viking defense is due a turnover twice a game. They’re due another 2nd half shutout. I’m not picking this team to lose until I see them face an offense they can’t stop. We’ll get to enjoy watching them against the two best offenses in the league the next two weeks. I’m taking them to win this week, if I’m right, they’ll be my pick next week too.
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Vikings 20 – Lions 13
