Vikings (5-6) at Lions (0-10-1)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, Ford Field, Detroit
TV: CBS
Tipico Sportsbook line: Vikings by 6 ⁄2
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Vikings’ keys to victory: Steal away any hope by rushing out to an early lead. The Lions’ defense doesn’t have an answer for QB Kirk Cousins throwing to WRs Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen downfield. Backup RB Alexander Mattison was unstoppable in the first meeting, a 19-17 Vikings win, and with RB Dalvin Cook back, the Vikings should have too many weapons as long as they protect the ball. LB Eric Kendricks and S Harrison Smith must tackle well in space, something they did adeptly and often in the teams’ Week 5 matchup.
Lions’ keys to victory: Detroit found success with QB Jared Goff throwing down the field in the Thanksgiving Day loss to Chicago, something the offense hasn’t even tried most of the year. The pass protection must hold up, but rookie RT Penei Sewell leads a capable offensive line and RB Jamaal Williams can keep the chains moving to set up play-action. Staying aggressive and not being predictable with the play calls is imperative. On defense, the Lions need impact plays from S Tracy Walker and LB Alex Anzalone, who have been inconsistent.
Matchup to watch: Vikings’ Jefferson vs. Lions CB Amani Oruwariye. Jefferson has emerged as one of the NFL’s top receiving weapons, but Oruwariye has played well of late with two interceptions and five passes defensed in the last two games.
Who wins? The Vikings won the first meeting between these teams on a last-second field goal. This one shouldn’t be nearly so dramatic.
Vikings, 28-13