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Lions Host Commanders as NFC’s Top Seed for First Time Ever

Ford Field has a contest on tap as the Commanders and the Lions will both be trying to pick up a win.

(Photo by Getty Images) Jared Goff

Washington (13-5-0) at Detroit (15-2-0)

  • When: Jan 18 2025, 8:00 PM
  • Where: Ford Field, Detroit, MI
  • Where to watch: FOX

Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total

Washington Commanders @ Detroit Lions
Moneyline

Washington Commanders   +375
Detroit Lions   -525

Washington Commanders @ Detroit Lions
Point Spread

Washington Commanders   9.5 (-115)
Detroit Lions   -9.5 (-105)

Washington Commanders @ Detroit Lions
Total

Over   55.5 (-115)
Under   55.5 (-105)

Key Players:
Washington: Jayden Daniels
Detroit: Jared Goff

Team Stats

Commanders   Lions
13-5 Record 15-2
6-3 Away & Home 7-2
11-6-1 ATS 12-5-0
11-7-0 O/U 9-7-1

Last Matchup:
DET 36-27, September 18th, 2022

Game Preview

The Detroit Lions are entering Saturday night’s divisional-round showdown against the Washington Commanders as significant 9.5-point favorites, with the total set at 55.5. This matchup marks a milestone for the Lions, who are hosting as the NFC’s No. 1 seed for the first time in franchise history after a record-setting 15-2 season. Detroit has its sights set on ending a championship drought that dates back to 1957, and oddsmakers currently favor the Lions as top contenders for the Super Bowl.

Detroit’s rise under head coach Dan Campbell has been nothing short of remarkable. Once a team ridiculed for mediocrity, the Lions have transformed into a powerhouse. “We were the hunters, and now we’re the hunted in the lions’ den,” said All-Pro safety Kerby Joseph. Campbell, who boasts an 11-2 prime-time record, is confident his team can handle the spotlight.

Washington, however, embraces the underdog role. Predicted to win just six games this season, the Commanders exceeded expectations thanks to rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. Known for his late-game heroics, Daniels has led Washington to multiple fourth-quarter comebacks, including last week’s 24-21 wild-card win over Tampa Bay. Daniels became the first rookie in NFL history to lead his team in both passing and rushing yards during a playoff victory.

The Commanders’ aggressive style on fourth downs, orchestrated by head coach Dan Quinn, has been a game-changer. Washington converted an NFL-best 87% of fourth-down attempts this season. Similarly, Campbell’s Lions thrive on taking risks, having led the league in fourth-down attempts over the past four years. This battle of aggressive coaching could result in pivotal game-changing moments.

Detroit’s powerful rushing attack will benefit from the return of David Montgomery, who missed time with a knee injury. Pairing with rookie Jahmyr Gibbs, the duo averaged 138.5 rushing yards per game in the regular season. Facing Washington’s 30th-ranked run defense, Detroit’s ground game should have plenty of opportunities to dominate.

Despite Washington’s recent streak of five wins decided on the final play, their porous run defense and reliance on late-game magic may not be enough to keep pace with Detroit’s high-powered offense. While the Commanders have shown resilience, the Lions’ balanced attack, prime-time experience, and home-field advantage make them a solid pick to cover the spread.

Predictions:

Final Score: Lions 34, Commanders 23

Best Bets:

Lions -9.5

Over 55.5

Jahmyr Gibbs Over 70.5 Rushing Yards

Jayden Daniels Over 1.5 Passing Touchdowns

Expect Detroit to set the tone early with their rushing game while capitalizing on Washington’s defensive vulnerabilities. The Lions should advance convincingly, keeping their Super Bowl aspirations alive.

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