Predictions: Lions-Vikings
The Detroit Lions will take the field Sunday with a chance at making history. With a win, they will clinch the organization's first division title since 1993.
The Vikings are the closest remaining competition, and will have every intent of stopping the Lions from clinching the division against them. Their run defense presents a problem for Detroit's normally potent run game, as they rank among the league's best in that category.
Still, I think the difference-maker is coaching in this scenario. Dan Campbell has always been good at getting his players up for big games. With this game being the biggest that the organization has had in recent memory, I think the Lions will be more than ready.
As a result, I think this mentality carries them through to a division title in a close contest.
Lions 27, Vikings 21
On Sunday, the Lions have a chance to do something they haven't done in 30 years: win their division. With a win or tie against the Vikings, they'll capture the NFC North crown.
I don't think it will be easy for Dan Campbell's team -- and largely because of the Vikings' effectiveness on defense. In case you haven't read or heard already, Minnesota has allowed the seventh-fewest points in the league through the first 15 weeks of the season.
However, in this Week 16 clash, I believe Jared Goff, who's coming off a five-touchdown performance last week against Denver, will play well enough to lead Detroit to its biggest win in three decades.
Lions 24, Vikings 20
This is certainly a game that the Lions will have every opportunity to win. Despite cooling off a bit from their scorching start to the season, I think Detroit still boasts one of the best teams in the NFL.
Minnesota, on the other hand, is without QB Kirk Cousins, and has relied on the combination of Josh Dobbs and Nick Mullens, both of whom have posted largely uninspiring results. However, Dan Campbell noted that the Vikings are improved, so we will see what they have in store.
The key for Detroit's defense will be to contain the talented Justin Jefferson, rookie Jordan Addison, and old friend T.J. Hockenson. On the other side of the ball, Jared Goff has to be sharp, and the ground game will need to continue to be effective.
Overall, I think the Lions will come away victorious, and clinch their first NFC division title in my lifetime.
Lions 27, Vikings 21
With the opportunity to win the division on the line, it will be hard to see the Lions play less than their best brand of football at U.S. Bank Stadium.
After scoring 42 points against the Denver Broncos, the Lions' offense has momentum, and will continue to score points playing indoors.
Jared Goff, Sam LaPorta and Amon-Ra St. Brown should continue their stellar seasons. But, the Vikings will be looking to pin their ears back, and should dial up a lot of pressure to attempt to rattle the veteran signal-caller.
Detroit's defense will have its hands full against the Vikings' top offensive weapons. But, Nick Mullens will falter at the critical moments, giving the Lions their first division title in 30 years.
Lions 27, Vikings 24
