2 min read • January 03, 2025
Posted in
The NFL's regular season concludes with a high-stakes Sunday Night Football matchup between the Minnesota Vikings and the Detroit Lions on January 5, 2025. Both teams boast impressive 14-2 records, and the outcome will determine the NFC North champion and the conference's No. 1 seed, granting the winner a first-round playoff bye and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
Out:
Patrick Jones II (OLB): Knee injury; limited participation in practice earlier this week.
Questionable:
Andrew Van Ginkel (OLB): Hip injury; limited participation in practice earlier this week.
Fabian Moreau (CB): Hip injury, limited participation in practice this week.
Expected to play:
Aaron Jones (RB): Quad, full participation on Friday.
Josh Oliver (TE): Wrist, full participation in practice.
Harrison Smith (S): Foot injury, limited participation in practice earlier this week.
Ed Ingram (G): Back, full participation on Friday.
Stephon Gilmore (CB): DNP Friday for rest.
Out:
David Montgomery (RB): Knee injury; did not practice this week.
Emmanuel Moseley (CB): Illness; did not practice this week.
Questionable:
Craig Reynolds (RB): Back injury, added to the injury report on Friday after not practicing.
Kalif Raymond (WR): Hamstring injury.
Alex Anzalone (LB): Forearm injury; limited practice on Wednesday, full participation on Thursday and Friday. Has been sidelined since Week 11 with a broken left forearm, returned to practice this week.
Expected to Play:
Jack Campbell (LB): Rib injury; limited practice on Wednesday, full participation on Thursday and Friday.
Amik Robertson (CB): Calf injury; limited practice on Wednesday, full participation on Thursday and Friday.
Game Preview:
The Lions have exhibited a potent offense throughout the season, leading the NFL with an average of 33.3 points per game. Quarterback Jared Goff has been instrumental in this success, forming a dynamic partnership with wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. However, recent defensive struggles, exacerbated by injuries to key players like defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, have led to an increase in points allowed, doubling to 32.5 per game over the past month.
The Vikings, under head coach Kevin O'Connell, have surpassed preseason expectations. Quarterback Sam Darnold, acquired as a potential reclamation project, has revitalized his career, throwing for 4,153 yards and 35 touchdowns this season. Wide receiver Justin Jefferson remains a pivotal target, contributing significantly to the team's offensive output.
Key Matchup:
The game is anticipated to be a high-scoring contest, with both teams featuring explosive offenses. The Lions' defense will need to address its recent vulnerabilities to contain Darnold and Jefferson. Conversely, the Vikings' defense, which has shown strength in various metrics, will be tasked with limiting Goff and the Lions' high-powered offense.
Betting Odds:
As of January 3, the Detroit Lions are favored by 2.5 points over the Minnesota Vikings, with the over/under set at 56.5 points, indicating expectations of a high-scoring affair.
Prediction:
Analysts suggest that the Lions, with home-field advantage and a prolific offense, may have a slight edge. However, the Vikings' balanced attack and recent momentum could lead to a closely contested game. Predictions vary, with some favoring the Lions to win by at least a field goal, while others anticipate a narrow victory for the Vikings.
This matchup not only decides the division champion but also has significant implications for the NFC playoff picture, making it a must-watch for football fans.
Get the live interactive Field View and SIC Health Score ratings HERE with SIC Data and SIC Picks!
Jordan Addison Over 62.5 Receiving Yards
Bet Now with up to $1,000 bonuses at bet365|Bet Now with bonuses at betMGM | Bet Now with up to $1,000 bonus bets at Caesars Sportsbook
For our best picks this week including Spreads, Totals and Player Props, check out SIC Picks, for less than $10 a week on our annual plan!
SIC Picks are 9-3 on guaranteed picks and NFL 2+ star ATS picks are winning at 67%
For NFL Week 18 we have another guaranteed 3-star pick!
For new weekly SIC Picks subscribers who sign up between 1/1 - 1/4 at 1.30pm PT, if the guaranteed pick loses, we will refund your weekly SIC Picks subscription
Sign up to SIC Picks here at sicscore.com
SIC PICKS ARE INSIDER INJURY KNOWLEDGE FROM FORMER PRO SPORTS TEAM DOCTORS TO GIVE YOU A WINNING EDGE IN SPORTS BETTING!
SIC PICKS are powered by the proven SIC Score algorithms from our exclusive panel of former Pro Sports Team doctors to give you a sports betting edge. Each day our team of doctors analyze the players and teams and share their expert insights to help you make informed bets on the biggest unknown to sportsbooks and sports bettors - player health and injuries!
For our Best Bets including spreads, totals, props and live in game with instant alerts as game day opportunities arise with research notes, sign up to SIC Picks here for less than $10 a week on an annual plan.
Sign up to SIC Picks today to get our NFL picks sent direct to your cell!
Written by
