The Detroit Lions are coming home for the final time this season, and the oddsmakers like their chances.
Despite Sunday’s 41–34 loss to the Rams, the Lions (8–6) opened as 7-point favorites over the Pittsburgh Steelers (7–6) in their Week 16 matchup, according to DraftKings Sportsbook. It’s a notable number, especially considering the Steelers haven’t even played their Week 15 game yet—they face the Miami Dolphins on “Monday Night Football.”
But books aren’t waiting around.
Detroit may be wobbling in the win-loss cycle, but Dan Campbell’s team is still viewed as the stronger, more explosive offense heading into this interconference matchup. And let’s be honest: Ford Field has been good to them. This will be the Lions’ final home game of the season, and with playoff hopes still alive, the expectation is that Detroit will come out swinging.
Oddsmakers clearly believe that, too.
A 7-point spread signals confidence in Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Jameson Williams to keep the offense rolling after all three put up huge numbers against the Rams. It also reflects the belief that Campbell’s “don’t go numb to losing” message is going to light a fire under a team that needs a strong finish.
The stakes? Massive for both teams.
The vibes? Nervy, but optimistic.
The opening line? Detroit, by a touchdown.
And if you’ve watched the NFC standings tighten by the hour, you already know: the Lions can’t afford anything less.
