Week 17 NFL Predictions: Green Bay At Detroit

The only thing that a team can ask for heading into the final week of the season with its playoff fate undecided is that their destiny is in their own hands. That is exactly the card that the Green Bay Packers have been dealt, as they know that a win versus their AFC North rivals, the Detroit Lions, on Sunday night would see them in the postseason. That said, they are also aware that a win for the Lion would mean that the division crown and the final playoff spot in the AFC would go to Detroit. This is, without a shadow of a doubt, the biggest game on the Week 17 schedule, and the fact that it will be on national TV in primetime makes it all the more exciting. This really is what professional sports is all about, and even if you aren’t a fan of these two teams, this is a game that you are going to want to tune in and watch. The Packers head into Detroit as a 3-point betting odds favorite.

A Closer Look At The Week 17 NFL Predictions: Packers At Lions

When: Sunday, January 1 at 8:30 PM EST Where: Ford Field, Detroit TV: NBC Radio: WTMJ and WJR Live Stream: NBC Sports Live NFL Odds: TBA    

Why bet on the Green Bay Packers

One of the most iconic moments in NFL history came when Joe Namath guaranteed a Jets win in Super Bowl III. While not quite as ballsy, Aaron Rodgers stating that Green Bay would win out with 6 weeks to go in the season is still up there when it comes to guarantees. The Packers needed to win all those games to have any shot at the postseason, and they have now won 5-straight with this single game remaining. The Green Bay Packers have covered in 4 of their last 5 games, but it should be noted that they are just 3-4 ATS in road games this season. They have been a good bet versus the Lions, though, going 7-3 ATS in their last 10 meetings.

Why bet on the Detroit Lions

Are the Lions beginning to crack under the pressure of the playoff race? After reeling off 5-straight wins, it certainly looked as though Detroit was headed to an improbable AFC North crown. Back to back losses in the last 2 weeks have put that in jeopardy now, as the Lions seems to be feeling the breath of the Packers on their necks. If there is one thing swinging this crucial game in the favor of the Lions, it that they have been very good at home. They have gone 6-1 SU at Ford Field this season, and are also 4-2 ATS there. Perhaps more importantly, they are 7-2 ATS in dome games, whereas the Packers are just 1-1.

Expert Pick and Final Score Prediction

We are going to get the privilege of watching two great QB’s in their prime go head to head for all the marbles here, but it is likely going to be defense that wins this one. One turnover at the wrong time could swing this thing in either direction, which I believe plays into the hands of the Packers.

Green Bay Packers 23 Detroit Lions 21