Rams (10-7) at Lions (12-5)
Sunday, 8 ET, Ford Field, Detroit
TV: NBC/Peacock/Universo Spread (BetMGM):
Lions by 3
Rams’ keys to victory: The Lions pass defense is vulnerable, as evidenced by Vikings QB Nick Mullens’ 807 passing yards in two games against them. QB Matthew Stafford should have success but only if he has time. The Rams must block DE Aidan Hutchinson on the edge and prevent him from knocking Stafford off his spot and making him uncomfortable in the pocket. Detroit’s run defense is stout, ranking in the top 10 in the NFL, so this one will likely come down to Stafford getting the ball to his receivers and WRs Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp winning one-onone matchups.
Lions’ keys to victory: The Lions can limit the number of possessions the Rams get by running the ball with RBs Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery against a run defense that’s average. The Lions will then set up play-action passes and deep shots to their talented receiver group. The LA secondary has been susceptible to big plays down the field and has busted coverages several times, leading to long gains and walk-in touchdowns. The Lions can cause communication issues for the Rams on the back end with play-action and unique route combinations.
Matchup to watch: Rams RT Rob Havenstein vs. Lions’ DE Hutchinson. Hutchinson is a game-wrecker who creates turnovers and negative plays; Havenstein will have his hands full.
Who wins? The Rams aren’t without weaknesses, but they can give the Lions a good fight. If their special-teams unit doesn’t collapse and the line can protect Stafford, LA could pull off the upset.
Rams, 30-27