2017 NFL Picks, score predictions for Week 13

Detroit Lions (6-5) at Baltimore Ravens (6-5)

I wouldn’t be surprised if this ended up being one of the games of the week. Two teams still desperately clinging to dreams of making the playoffs. One has a terrific offense and unreliable defense, while the other is the exact opposite.

So in the battle of offense vs defense, which one reigns supreme? In this situation, I’m going with the offense of the Detroit Lions to be the group that does just enough to secure the win. It’s not going to be pretty, but it will result in some outstanding gridiron action that should keep fans watching until the very end.

So why the Lions? Their offense has been sensational in recent weeks, even almost ending the Vikings’ losing streak on Thanksgiving. While the Baltimore Ravens defense has been one of the best this season, it’s not going to muster enough to keep Matthew Stafford and Co. at bay for 60 minutes.

The other thing leaning in Detroit’s favor is the fact that the Ravens offense has been so hit-or-miss in 2017. Joe Flacco is quickly fading, and the lack of a reliable running game hasn’t helped. Baltimore won’t be able to move the ball well enough to keep up on the scoreboard.

Prediction: Lions win 23-16