THE Detroit Lions get their first NFC North showdown of the 2024 NFL season, and it’s a big test (but, isn’t it all?) as they visit the Minnesota Vikings, one of two teams still undefeated, at 1 p.m. Sunday (Fox). THE Lions are on a three-game winning streak against the Vikes, with a sweep last year and a victory in December 2022 following a loss at Minneapolis in September 2022.
Will they continue this run, or will the (yes, we’re writing this) suddenly dangerous Sam Darnold light up a defense that’s suddenly missing its biggest playmaker, Aidan Hutchinson. The sportsbooks liked the Vikings, but barely, by 1½ points. Here’s what four Free Press sports journalists think of this match:
DAVE BIRKETT SCOUTING REPORT: Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings: Whose Defense Rules?
Dave Birkett
It’s been an emotional week for the Lions, who are coming off perhaps their most complete performance of the Dan Campbell era in a win over the Cowboys last week and have had to adjust to the loss of Hutchinson at caused by a horrific leg injury. The defense appears to have been unified by the loss, and I think they will respond with a strong performance Sunday against a dangerous offense that has elevated their quarterback’s play.
What the Vikings have done so well this year is wreak havoc on their defense, blitzing from all angles and tricking quarterbacks into untimely turnovers. Jared Goff has struggled with turnovers at times, especially when faced with pressure, so it is imperative that the Lions run the ball well to keep Minnesota’s defense off balance. I think the Lions are the better team, but on the road, against a rested defense that may be the best in the NFL, I think they will make one mistake too many in what should be a close game. The choice: Vikings 23, Lions 20.
Carlos Monarrez
After nearly burning an NFL franchise to the ground last week, the Lions proved they are the most dangerous team in the NFL – at home or on the road. This game is a confrontation between two good defenses and two excellent offenses. With Aidan Hutchinson, it would be a breeze for the Lions. Fortunately, the Lions could survive without him since the Vikings are giving up a lot of sacks. The Lions’ elite offense will be the difference. The choice: Lions 28, Vikings 26.
Jeff Seidel
I think we’re going to see a heavy dose of Gamblin’ Dan Campbell against the Vikings. With Aidan Hutchinson out, the Lions must beat Minnesota. This means taking risks on the fourth try. That means no more sleight of hand. Even though the defense will obviously be hurt without Hutchinson and we’ll see more stress on the secondary against a great wide receiver, the answer is to score more points. Be more aggressive. The choice: Lions 35, Vikings 31.
Shawn Windsor
It’s a tough question, and the emotion the Lions will feel in Aidan Hutchinson’s absence will propel the defense for a while. But the Vikings are rolling, and their defense is smart and unpredictable in its blitzes and disguise, and will do just enough to slow down Jared Goff and the offense. Justin Jefferson makes a play or two at the end. The choice: Vikings 27, Lions 24.
This article was originally published on Detroit Free Press: Detroit Lions Picks vs. Minnesota Vikings: Who is No. 1 in the NFC North?
