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Detroit (8-7-0) at Minnesota (7-8-0)
- When: Dec 25 2025, 4:30 PM
- Where: U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, MN
- Where to watch: Netflix
- Last Meeting: MIN 27-24, November 2nd, 2025
Detroit vs Minnesota Preview & Prediction
Spread: Detroit -7.5
Moneyline: Detroit (-370)
Total: 42.5
Detroit Lions Betting Breakdown
Detroit enters Christmas Day in an unfamiliar and uncomfortable position. After back to back division titles and a recent run as one of the NFC’s top contenders, the Lions are now fighting just to stay alive. They cannot win the NFC North, and their playoff path requires help, but the door is not completely shut.
The Lions sit at 8-7 and are coming off consecutive losses for the first time in years. That alone speaks to how unusual this stretch has been. Last week’s home loss exposed several weaknesses that have been bubbling under the surface. Detroit’s defense has been hit hard by injuries, especially in the secondary, and explosive plays have become a weekly problem.
Offensively, the Lions no longer resemble the run first bully that carried them the last two seasons. Injuries along the offensive line have disrupted continuity, and the rushing attack has stalled badly. When Detroit fails to establish the run, the entire offense tightens up. Jared Goff is still capable of moving the ball, but the play action advantage that once defined this unit has faded.
Despite the issues, Detroit remains favored by 7.5. That number reflects Minnesota’s limitations and Detroit’s urgency. The Lions know a loss here likely ends their season, and desperation tends to sharpen focus.
Minnesota Vikings Betting Breakdown
Minnesota has already been eliminated from postseason contention, but that does not mean the Vikings are mailing this in. Instead, they are using the final weeks as an evaluation period, especially at quarterback.
Undrafted rookie Max Brosmer steps into his second career start with lessons learned the hard way. His debut came against an elite defense and went about as poorly as possible. Since then, he has settled down, shown better command, and helped guide Minnesota to a win in relief duty last week.
This matchup is much friendlier. Detroit’s defense has struggled mightily against big plays, and the Vikings can afford to let Brosmer play loose. With nothing to lose and a home crowd behind him, Minnesota may be more aggressive than expected.
The Vikings’ season has been defined by regression. After a 14 win campaign and multiple Pro Bowl selections a year ago, this roster looks thinner and less explosive. Still, pride games in division rivalries can get strange.
Betting Outlook and Prediction
Minnesota’s quarterback situation creates uncertainty, but Detroit’s defensive issues make a blowout unlikely. Expect a tight first half before Detroit’s urgency and experience take over late. The Lions should control possession just enough to separate, but Minnesota keeps this competitive longer than expected.
Final Score: Lions 24, Vikings 17
Lean: Minnesota +7.5
Total: Under 42.5
- NFL Football Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
