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Game Preview Detroit Lions @ Pittsburgh Steelers
Week 16 brings a classic AFC-NFC clash as the Detroit Lions travel to face the Pittsburgh Steelers on December 21. Both teams are in the thick of the playoff hunt, with the Lions looking to lock down the NFC North and the Steelers battling for position in the crowded AFC Wild Card race.
Detroit has evolved into one of the most consistent offenses in the NFL, while Pittsburgh continues to rely on its defense and coaching to stay competitive. Bettors eyeing this matchup can expect a tight contest with contrasting styles.
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Odds and Key Information
- Spread: Lions -3
- Total: 41.5
- Moneyline: Lions -150, Steelers +130
- Kickoff: 1:00 PM ET
- Venue: Acrisure Stadium, Pittsburgh, PA
The Lions opened as a field-goal favorite, and sharp action has kept the line steady. Total bettors should monitor weather conditions in Pittsburgh. For current odds, visit the live NFL betting lines hub.
Detroit Lions Outlook
The Detroit Lions enter this game at 10-4, leading the NFC North behind a well-balanced offense. Quarterback Jared Goff has maintained solid numbers, supported by a top-five offensive line and standout skill players like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jahmyr Gibbs. Detroit ranks top-10 in red zone scoring and third in time of possession.
Their defense, however, remains a question mark. While Aidan Hutchinson leads a competent pass rush, the Lions have struggled with coverage breakdowns, particularly on third-and-long situations. That vulnerability could become a factor against a Pittsburgh team that thrives on grinding out possessions.
You can track Detroit’s playoff movement and power rankings on the NFL picks section.
Pittsburgh Steelers Outlook
The Pittsburgh Steelers are 8-6 and still very much alive in the AFC race. While the offense has struggled at times, a midseason quarterback change has injected some life into their passing game. Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren continue to split carries, helping Pittsburgh maintain a balanced attack.
Defensively, the Steelers remain elite in red zone stops and turnover creation. T.J. Watt anchors a front seven that consistently generates pressure without blitzing. The secondary has held up well despite injuries, particularly in zone coverage.
Pittsburgh is 5-2 ATS in home games this season, and Mike Tomlin-coached teams have historically performed well as underdogs. For deeper trends and playoff impact, visit the postseason-focused NFL playoff blog.
Key Matchup Table
| Key Matchup | Edge |
|---|---|
| QB Efficiency | Lions |
| Pass Rush | Steelers |
| Offensive Line Play | Lions |
| Turnover Margin | Steelers |
| Coaching Situationally | Steelers |
Betting Trends
The Detroit Lions are 6-3 ATS in their last nine games and 4-1 ATS as road favorites this season. They’ve hit the over in four of their last six games against AFC teams.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are 5-2 ATS in their last seven home games and have covered five straight as home underdogs. They’re 7-3 to the under when playing at Acrisure Stadium.
Historical data between NFC and AFC teams in December leans toward tighter, lower-scoring games. You can find similar matchups and betting analysis in the weekly NFL odds breakdown.
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Prediction
This matchup could come down to execution in the fourth quarter. Detroit has the more complete offense and should be able to control time of possession. However, the Steelers’ defense can create havoc, especially if they force Goff into long-yardage downs.
Weather could play a factor, which favors the more physical team. Pittsburgh’s style matches well against Detroit’s tendencies, but the Lions’ offensive line may be the difference in neutralizing Watt and extending drives.
Expect a low-scoring, one-possession game where field position and red zone efficiency decide the outcome.
Projected Score: Lions 20, Steelers 17
Spread Pick: Steelers +3
Total Lean: Under 41.5
You can explore similar totals-driven matchups in our Sunday Night Football predictions blog.
Why You Need Expert Picks
Games like Lions vs Steelers often come down to one or two key moments. That’s why expert betting insight is essential. At ScoresAndStats, the NFL picks page provides weekly breakdowns backed by data and performance trends.
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