A loss may slow momentum, but it doesn’t erase opportunity — and for the Detroit Lions, this week’s matchup against Minnesota offers value hiding in plain sight.
Despite last week’s loss, the Detroit Lions continue to present opportunity — both on the field and at the betting window. Even with the setback, the picks held firm, producing a 2-1 week that pushed the overall record to 20-10 on the season. As Detroit prepares to face a vulnerable Minnesota Vikings team, the timing feels right for a bounce-back performance.
The Lions enter this matchup desperate for a win, while Minnesota limps in with uncertainty under center and a roster still searching for consistency. That combination often creates value, and this week offers several angles worth attacking. With that in mind, here are three bets that could pay off — no holiday magic required.
Bet No. 1: Jameson Williams Over 64.5 Receiving Yards (-114)
Vegas continues to undervalue Jameson Williams, and the numbers make that clear. The Lions’ explosive wide receiver has cleared this line in four consecutive games and in seven of his last eight overall. More importantly, the volume supports the production.
Williams has seen nine or more targets in each of his last four games, a strong indicator of trust from quarterback Jared Goff and a clear emphasis in the offensive game plan. Since Dan Campbell took over play-calling duties, Williams’ role has expanded significantly. Over his last four games, he is averaging 111 receiving yards and has become one of the most dangerous vertical threats in the league.
Through 15 games this season, Williams has surpassed the 1,000-yard mark for the second straight year. His second-half surge has been especially impressive, as he has posted 717 yards and five touchdowns after the midway point of the season. Minnesota has struggled to contain speed on the outside, and with Detroit likely looking to attack early, Williams’ over remains one of the strongest plays on the board.
Bet No. 2: Amon-Ra St. Brown Anytime Touchdown (+110)
Amon-Ra St. Brown continues to be one of the most reliable players in football, and his touchdown prop offers solid value this week. St. Brown has 11 touchdowns this season, just one shy of his career high. He nearly tied that mark last week before a touchdown was wiped away by a controversial penalty.
Historically, St. Brown has played well against Minnesota, recording four touchdown receptions in his last seven games against the Vikings. He remains Detroit’s most trusted option in the red zone and thrives in high-leverage moments.
Fresh off a Pro Bowl selection, St. Brown is also building a case for All-Pro honors. Players chasing individual accolades often see increased usage late in the season, and Detroit has every reason to lean on its star receiver in a must-win situation.
Bet No. 3: Lions -7.5 (-102)
Detroit has been one of the league’s most reliable teams against the spread, covering in 13 of its last 15 games following a loss. That trend matters, especially for a team that has shown an ability to respond with urgency.
The Lions already dropped one game to Minnesota earlier this season, adding another layer of motivation. That loss came with rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy under center. This time, the Vikings are expected to turn to Max Brosmer, who has limited starting experience.
In his lone start, Brosmer threw four interceptions in a 26-0 loss to Seattle. Minnesota’s offense struggled to sustain drives, and the defense was left exposed. Against a Detroit team fighting to reassert itself in the playoff picture, that formula is dangerous.
Final Word
’Tis the season for parlays, and combining all three picks could turn a $10 wager into a $52 payout. Detroit needs a statement win, and the matchups suggest one is within reach.
If Santa can’t deliver winning bets this holiday season, the Lions just might.