Packers vs. Lions Picks, Predictions and Best Bets

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Packers-Lions Preview: Green Bay’s Value and a Potentially High-Scoring Game

The Green Bay Packers face the Detroit Lions on Sunday afternoon in a divisional matchup. After being written off by many people through the first two weeks of the season, Green Bay is now within striking distance of winning the division again and is playing strong football.

The Packers were getting three points earlier in the week, with some lines reaching 3.5 or even four. Detroit has started to resemble the team it was a year ago, but there are still doubts about whether the Lions should be laying points against many NFL teams. Their defense has been a major concern, and Green Bay looks like the better team in this matchup.

Another view is to avoid picking a side and take the over at 55.5. No lead feels safe in this game, especially with Jared Goff playing in the dome and coming off a bye. Jahmyr Gibbs should also be well rested.

Detroit has allowed the most receiving yards and receptions to tight ends, along with nine touchdowns to the position. That creates an opportunity for Tucker Kraft, with interest in over 49.5 yards and an anytime touchdown.

Brian Branch’s return to the secondary should help Detroit, although he may not solve all the unit’s problems. The Lions will hope his return from an Achilles injury can at least slow the bleeding that has affected their secondary throughout the season.

Other considerations include Amon-Ra St. Brown over 78.5 yards and Sam LaPorta at plus 165 to score a touchdown.

Josh Jacobs’ return for Green Bay is another important storyline. The Packers’ offensive line has struggled, Jacobs has not played much, and it is unclear whether he will be on a pitch count. His effectiveness could determine whether he provides practical value in his first game back.

Green Bay’s running backs have also struggled this season. Brooks and Lloyd have had a difficult time, with Lloyd averaging two yards per carry. Whether Jacobs can make a significant impact remains uncertain.