Lions vs. Vikings: Preview, score prediction for Week 4
Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings
Both the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings come into Week 4 with a 2-1 record. The former, however, was just inches and an odd rule not being in place away from being undefeated coming into this matchup. Regardless, these divisional foes will square off in what should be a fun contest on Sunday afternoon at US Bank Stadium.
The Lions lost to the defending NFC Champions a week ago, but Golden Tate almost had the winning score. However, the review said he didn’t get across, and caused a 10-second run-off, ending the game without Matthew Stafford getting one more shot.
As for the Vikings, they rebounded off a bad Week 2 showing to have Case Keenum show up big-tim in a win over the Bucs. With Sam Bradford still sidelined, they need their backup to step up again in this matchup on Sunday.
Keys to Victory
For the Vikings to come away with the victory, it’s going to start with their defense. That’s often the case with Minnesota, but especially against a team like Stafford and the Lions. Though they don’t have to worry about defending the run with all-out force, the passing attack is so lethal. Mike Zimmer must find ways to keep Terrence Newman in situations where he won’t get toasted, or this could be a long day.
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Then, of course, there’s the Case Keenum factor in this. With Sam Bradford out again, it’s the veteran backup at the helm once again. He slung the ball like a Pro Bowler a week ago, but doesn’t need that again. Keenum needs to simply allow his weapons to make plays and avoid bad mistakes.
With the Lions visiting, their offense is going to carry them, as per usual. It’d be great to say they need to get Ameer Abdullah going, but we’re trying to be realistic here. Instead, Detroit just simply needs to vary the types of pass calls they make. Take shots, but also pick apart the flats. Keep Minnesota’s talented defense guessing and good things can happen.
Meanwhile, the Detroit defense has been one of the most shocking units in the league. They’ve been creating turnovers, but also have played solid just as a whole. Darius Slay is the leader now and he will need to be at his best against Stefon Diggs. However, the bigger key may be bottling up rookie Dalvin Cook, who could allow Minnesota to control the game if he gets loose.
Betting Odds
Point Spread: Minnesota -2.5
Moneyline: Minnesota -135, Detroit +115
Over/Under: 42.5
Odds via Sportsbook Review
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Prediction
At their best, these two teams are likely evenly matched. Especially with the way that the Lions defense is currently playing, I could see either team challenging for the NFC North crown. Having said that, the albatross in this matchup is Keenum. he was great a week ago and no one is denying that, but regression to the mean is real. And for Keenum, that means a victory on the road for Detroit.
Final Score: Detroit Lions: 30, Minnesota Vikings: 21