NFL Week 9 Preview: Picks & Predictions (Lions vs. Packers)
The biggest divisional matchup of the week will be in the afternoon slate. The 6-1 Lions will travel to Green Bay to play the 6-2 Packers. The Packers have their bye next week and will be playing hard for this victory at home to take the lead in the division. There are some major injury concerns for the Packers, which could drastically change the outcome of this game.
The Lions decimated the Titans 52-14 last week. They scored on a punt return and six times on offense. Tackle Taylor Decker (chest) missed practice Wednesday but was limited on Thursday. Defensive lineman Joshua Pascal (illness) and linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez (ankle) have missed practice both days and could miss this week's game.
The Packers survived against the Jaguars without Jordan Love, 30-27. Malik Willis stepped up and finished out this game while Love was out. He is the biggest injury concern in this game. Love hurt his groin and missed practice Wednesday but was limited on Thursday. Cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee) has not practiced this week. Center Josh Myers (wrist) did not practice Thursday and is in jeopardy of missing Sunday.
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Lions vs. Packers Betting Preview
(Odds via DraftKings Sportsbook)
- Opening line: Packers -1.5
- Current line: Lions -2.5 (-110)
- Total: O/U 48.5
Will Jordan Love play?
Jordan Love only played 63% of snaps last week after suffering a groin injury. He is on track to play after logging limited practice on Thursday. I think he will suit up, barring any setbacks. He may be less mobile this week, but it should not matter much. He has only been sacked seven times in six games. His offensive line has done a great job protecting him this season. They need another great game to keep Love in the game. Love needs to limit turnovers this week because the Lions' offense will make you pay. He is tied with Baker Mayfield and Patrick Mahomes for the league lead in interceptions (9).
Can Anyone Stop The Lions' Offense?
Detroit is averaging 43 points per game over their last four games. They have scored more offensive touchdowns (24) in their last five games than incompletions (20) during that span. The offense is currently as efficient as possible, and the Packers may have to keep up because they may be unable to stop them. They average 156.7 rushing yards per game at 5.1 yards per attempt. Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery may be the best two-headed committee in the league, with 14 combined TDs this season.
Jared Goff is second in the league with a 115.3 passer rating, only behind Lamar Jackson (115.4). He is the motor to this offense, with 13 TDs and four interceptions. Goff also is second in the league with an average of nine yards per attempt. This offense can make big plays but will be without Jameson Williams as he serves the final game of his two-game suspension. He leads the team with seven plays of 20+ yards. The Packers will have to play keep-up this week, but they have the offense to do it with Jordan Love.
Pick: Packers +2.5 (-110)