The Detroit Lions head to Levi’s Stadium to face the San Francisco 49ers on Monday in a highly anticipated rematch of the 2024 NFC Championship Game. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best NFL odds from the top sportsbooks.
NFL Pick: Lions -3.5 (-105) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Lions vs. 49ers
Monday, December 30, 2024 – 08:15 PM ET at Levi’s Stadium
The Lions Got Back on Track
Jared Goff delivered a stellar performance in Detroit’s 34-17 victory over the Chicago Bears on Sunday, throwing for 336 yards and three touchdowns. His chemistry with Jameson Williams was on full display, as Williams exploded for a career-high 143 receiving yards on five catches, highlighted by an 82-yard touchdown.
Jahmyr Gibbs added another dimension to the offense, rushing for 109 yards and a score, contributing to Detroit’s single-season franchise record of 493 points. The Lions also improved to 7-0 on the road, breaking their previous franchise-best mark.
Detroit’s offense showed creativity and precision, including a trick play that saw Goff fake a stumble before connecting with Sam LaPorta for a 21-yard touchdown. Coming off an 11-game win streak and a loss to Buffalo, the Lions have rebounded impressively and remain tied atop the NFC standings.
The 49ers Will Miss the Playoffs
The 49ers, fresh off a 29-17 loss to Miami on Sunday, are looking to regroup after being eliminated from playoff contention. Brock Purdy had a solid outing with 313 passing yards and two touchdowns but threw a costly interception. Purdy also led the team in rushing with 26 yards, while George Kittle (106 yards) and Deebo Samuel (96 yards, one touchdown) carried the receiving load.
Despite trimming Miami’s lead to 19-17 with Purdy’s late touchdown pass to Eric Saubert, San Francisco couldn’t overcome critical mistakes. With a losing record guaranteed for the first time since 2020, the 49ers face an uphill battle against Detroit’s high-powered attack.
Keys to the Game
Goff’s precision and poise have been instrumental in Detroit’s success. Coming off a 336-yard, three-touchdown outing, Goff’s ability to connect with deep threats like Williams makes the Lions’ offense difficult to contain. San Francisco’s defense, which has struggled to force turnovers, must disrupt Goff early to prevent another big day.
Williams’ speed poses a significant threat to San Francisco’s secondary. After an 82-yard touchdown last week, he’s a constant danger to break open the game. The 49ers need to limit his explosive plays, likely through double coverage, or risk falling behind quickly.
Gibbs’ versatility adds balance to Detroit’s offense. His 109 rushing yards and a touchdown against Chicago allowed the Lions to control the pace. If Gibbs finds success against San Francisco’s defensive front, it will open up play-action opportunities for Goff and make Detroit’s attack even harder to defend.
Purdy has shown flashes of brilliance but remains prone to costly mistakes, including a key interception in the loss to Miami. With Kittle and Samuel at his disposal, Purdy must capitalize on mismatches and avoid turnovers. Detroit’s defense, which thrives when protecting a lead, will aim to pressure Purdy into hurried decisions.
Kittle and Samuel combined for 202 yards against Miami, showcasing their ability to create mismatches. San Francisco’s best chance lies in keeping these two involved early and often, forcing Detroit to adjust defensively and keeping the Lions’ offense off the field.
Detroit’s success with trick plays and situational execution could be a deciding factor. Meanwhile, San Francisco’s turnover issues have been their Achilles’ heel. Whichever team can limit mistakes and control the ball will have a significant edge.
NFL Pick
The Lions’ balanced offense and record-breaking season give them a clear advantage. While the 49ers have the playmakers to keep things close, Detroit’s superior execution and ability to capitalize on mistakes will likely be the difference.
NFL Pick: Lions -3.5 (-105) at Bet365
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