The NFC North champions are the Detroit Lions! It’s not something I would have imagined myself writing in my lifetime, but after Week 18, it will be official.
The Minnesota Vikings are the only team standing between the Lions and a home playoff game after they have won their first division title in thirty years.
But everything isn’t sunshine and rainbows. The Lions are still vying for a postseason berth. They might end up with the No. 2 or No. 3 seed in the NFC in Week 18.
Dan Campbell and his team will undoubtedly give the Vikings everything they have in an attempt to give them even a slim chance of winning, even though it will take a lot for the Lions to secure that second seed.
There is even less optimism for the Vikings. They are in the running for the playoffs, although they are only at 7-9. Obviously, they have to win if they want to make it to the playoffs.
They also need losses from Green Bay, Seattle, and either Tampa Bay or New Orleans. Like the Lions, the Vikings probably won’t give up until they are definitely out of it.
It’s difficult, but it is conceivable.
Here’s all the information you require.
Final analysis: Week 18 NFL Power Rankings: Cowboys and Lions are nearly matched following a contentious ending
NFL STATS CENTRAL: Up-to-date NFL schedules, stats, odds, and more.
Vikings vs. Lions predictions from Sportsbook Wire: Lions (-3.5)
Nick Mullens is starting for the Vikings, and the Lions still have something to play for.
It’s difficult to see Mullens outscoring one of the best defences in the league throughout the season, even if the Vikings defence is able to contain the offensive machine that is the Detroit Lions.
“The Vikings still have a chance to qualify for the playoffs, but the Lions may be competing for a better seed as they have already secured a spot,” writes Pete Prisco.
The Lions suffered a difficult loss last week in Dallas, but with a strong performance today against a Vikings team that has a quarterback controversy, they will be ready for the postseason back home.”
FOX Sports: Minnesota 18, Detroit 28,
The Vikings have a terrible 7-6-3 record ATS this year, thus the Lions seem like a good choice when combined with their impressive 11-5 ATS record, as noted by FOX Sports.
BetMGM: Lions -2.5 in the first half
“Lions head coach Dan Campbell said Monday he has no plans to rest starters, making the Lions a viable play,” the BetMGM crew wrote.
The Lions, who have a rest advantage against the Vikings, have performed exceptionally well in Campbell’s first games after defeat.
Detroit is 6-1 ATS as favourites in the first half following a setback under Campbell.”
