Predictions: Lions-Cowboys
The Lions are riding high after their division-clinching victory last week against the Minnesota Vikings.
In Dallas, the competition level vastly increases, as the Cowboys are undefeated at home this season.
I expect the Cowboys to start strong and to have a double-digit lead heading into the fourth quarter.
Dak Prescott is playing lights out, and Dan Quinn's defense is opportunistic.
But, one of the traits that has made Dan Campbell's squad so successful is its competitiveness and willingness to battle for all 60 minutes.
Detroit fights back to overcome Dallas' lead, and Jared Goff will find Sam LaPorta in the end zone for the go-ahead touchdown.
Again, the defense should be tasked with attempting to stop Prescott and wideout CeeDee Lamb.
Look for the Lions' rushing attack to execute at a high level, too, as Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery each find the end zone in Week 17.
Lions 28, Cowboys 27
Fresh off clinching the NFC North division title, the Detroit Lions have an opportunity to do what no other team has done in Week 17 — defeat the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium.
The Cowboys' home-field advantage is as significant, if not more, than any other in the league. As a result, the Lions will have their hands full in what will be a showdown between two of the best teams in the NFC.
Ultimately, I think Dallas has enough strength in the trenches to not be overwhelmed by the Lions. Teams who have matched the Lions in strength and physicality have been successful, and I think the Cowboys fit that mold.
With Cam Sutton's availability in question, Detroit's secondary could be under fire, as well, against the likes of CeeDee Lamb and Brandin Cooks. The Lions will put up a fight, but I think this game turns into a shootout that they cannot keep up in.
Cowboys 37, Lions 30
The Cowboys have to lose at home at some point, right?
Mike McCarthy's team is a perfect 7-0 at AT&T Stadium this season, and has won an NFL-best 15 consecutive home contests.
Yet, Detroit, with how it's played the last two weeks, has a chance to play spoiler Saturday night.
I believe that the tandem of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery will have a productive day on the ground, and help Dan Campbell's squad make it a close game.
But, in the end, Dak Prescott will out-play Jared Goff, and Micah Parsons and his defensive counterparts will wreak just enough havoc to enable Dallas to prevail victorious.
Cowboys 27, Lions 21
This is a contest that scares me a little bit for Detroit, which is the underdog in this matchup, despite already clinching the NFC North division last weekend.
Dallas has been one of the better offensive teams this season, led by Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb. Defensively, the Cowboys are solid, as well. I think the Lions will need to control the likes of DaRon Bland and Micah Parsons, if they hope to even have a chance.
Certainly for Detroit, it will be tough to win against this highly potent Cowboys team, especially on the road. Dallas, in fact, has won all of its games at home this season. The Lions will need to be perfect, and I unfortunately don't see that happening. So, I think Detroit will be unable to come away with the victory this weekend.
Cowboys 31, Lions 24
