Vikings at Lions: Predictions, picks, odds for NFL Week 18 game

Admin January 3, 2025

Is this the game of the season?

Two teams, both boasting the best record in the NFC are vying not only for a the No. 1 seed in their conference, but a division title as well. The loser of this game will not only lose out on their division and a bye week, but will also likely be forced to play the entirety of the playoffs on the road, while the winner will get the luxury of playing at home all postseason long.

Our combatants for such a momentous contest? The Detroit Lions and the Minnesota Vikings. These teams faced earlier in the year with the Lions emerging victorious, 31-29. Another close battle here would make this matchup an instant classic, but with so much on the line, both teams will throw everything they have at their opponent.

Here are our experts’ predictions for this pivotal Week 18 showdown.

Lions vs. Vikings odds, moneyline, over/under

The Lions are favorites to defeat the Vikings, according to the BetMGM NFL odds. Not interested in this game? Check out expert picks and best bets for every NFL game this week.

Spread: Lions (-3)
Moneyline: Lions (-160); Vikings (+135)
Over/under: 57

NFL Week 18 odds, predictions and picks

Lorenzo Reyes: Lions 33, Vikings 28

This will be an interesting game, and it should be a playoff-like atmosphere with plenty on the line. I like Detroit, at home, to lock up the No. 1 seed.

Richard Morin: Vikings 28, Lions 26

I have no idea who to pick. It would be fun to see the Vikings complete what turned out to be a shockingly proficient regular season.

Jordan Mendoza: Lions 34, Vikings 31

This one will be a classic to determine the No. 1 seed in the NFC. This one will be a back-and-forth affair, but the Lions win it at the end just like they did in the first meeting.