A matchup of NFC North rivals unfolds in Detroit as the Green Bay Packers take on the Detroit Lions in a prime-time showdown. The Packers arrive fresh from a Thanksgiving victory against Miami, winning 30-17 at home and covering the spread as 3.5-point favorites. Conversely, the Lions narrowly defeated the Bears 23-20, failing to cover as 10-point favorites. Historically, the Packers lead the regular-season series 104-77-2, yet the Lions have claimed five of the last six encounters, including a 24-14 win earlier this season on November 3.
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Who will emerge victorious in this pivotal clash? Explore the details in the Packers vs. Lions prediction!
Packers Aim for NFC North Supremacy
The Packers secured their third consecutive win and seventh in eight games with a dominant performance against the Dolphins. With a record of 9-3, they sit third in the NFC North, trailing the Lions by two games. They currently hold the second wild card spot in the NFC playoffs. In the Miami game, Green Bay surged ahead 14-0 in the first quarter and maintained control throughout, leading 24-3 at halftime and never allowing the Dolphins to threaten. They outgained Miami in total offense 388-375 and forced the game’s only turnover, compensating for a slight disadvantage in first downs (21-19) and time of possession (33:04 to 26:56).
This season, Green Bay ranks 8th in passing offense, averaging 234.3 yards per game. They excel in rushing as well, sitting 5th with 148.5 yards per game. The team’s scoring offense is also strong, placing 8th with an average of 26.5 points. Defensively, they rank 9th, allowing an average of 20 points per game. Quarterback Jordan Love has thrown for 2,518 yards, completing 194 of 308 passes, with 20 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. He has also contributed 48 rushing yards and a touchdown. Backup Malik Willis has appeared in limited action, tallying 380 yards and three touchdowns. Josh Jacobs leads the rushing attack with 987 yards on 221 carries, while key receiving targets include Jayden Reed and Romeo Doubs, who have combined for over 1,200 receiving yards this season. Kicker Brandon McManus has been reliable, hitting 16 of 16 extra points and 10 of 11 field goals, with a long of 51 yards.
The Packers’ initial injury report revealed several key players not practicing, including offensive lineman Elgton Jenkins (knee) and linebacker Edgerrin Cooper (hamstring). Other limited participants included cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee) and tight end John FitzPatrick (back). Fans should stay tuned for updates as the kickoff approaches.
Lions Look to Maintain Momentum
The Lions achieved their 10th consecutive win, managing to fend off the Bears despite some questionable clock management from Chicago. With an impressive record of 11-1, Detroit holds a one-game lead over the Vikings in the NFC North and sits atop the NFC playoff standings. The Lions controlled the first half against Chicago, leading 16-0, but settled for too many field goals. After leading 23-7 heading into the fourth quarter, Detroit allowed the Bears to close in, but ultimately held on to win 23-20, as Chicago’s final drive ended with a failed deep pass attempt as time expired. The Lions outgained the Bears 405-301 in total offense, secured 25 first downs compared to 17 for Chicago, and dominated the time of possession 35:14 to 24:46, which helped offset their only turnover of the match.
Detroit ranks 5th in passing offense, averaging 240.8 yards per game, and sits 4th in rushing with 154.4 yards per contest. They lead the league in scoring offense, averaging 31.9 points per game, while their defense ranks 2nd, allowing just 16.9 points. Quarterback Jared Goff has thrown for 2,982 yards, completing 244 of 340 passes, with 22 touchdowns and nine interceptions. Running backs Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery have combined for over 1,600 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns this season. Amon-Ra St. Brown stands out as the top receiver, with 76 catches for 820 yards and nine touchdowns. Jake Bates has been efficient on special teams, converting 18 of 20 field goals and 44 of 45 extra points, including a long make of 58 yards.
In the injury department, the Lions reported that left tackle Taylor Decker (knee) and defensive linemen Josh Paschal (knee) and Levi Onwuzurike (hamstring) were absent from practice. Cornerback Carlton Davis (hand/knee) was limited, and updates on their conditions will be essential as the game approaches.
Best Bets for Green Bay Packers vs. Detroit Lions
