Lions Favored Over Panthers in Battle of the Big Cats: Odds, Bets, Predictions for Week 16

The Detroit Lions are set to face off against the Carolina Panthers in an exciting NFC matchup. Both teams have had their ups and downs this season, but the Lions come into this game on a three-game winning streak as they fight to keep their wild-card hopes alive. Detroit is 7-3 against the spread (ATS) when playing against a team with a losing record. This bodes well for Dan Campbell’s squad as the Panthers enter with a 5-9 mark. Additionally, the Lions are an impressive 8-0 ATS when coming off a win, so they will be looking to continue that success in Carolina.

However, the Panthers have also had some success in recent games, particularly when listed as a home underdog. Carolina is 4-1 SU (straight-up) in these situations, which could mean there’s an upset in the making.

Lions vs. Panthers Point Spread, Odds, Moneyline and Over/Under:

Point Spread: Lions -2.5 (-110) | Panthers +2.5 (-110)

Moneyline: Lions -143 | Panthers +120

Point Total: Over 43.5 (-110) | Under 43.5 (-110)

Lions Offense vs. Panthers Defense

On the offensive side of the ball, the Lions have been one of the most dominant teams in the league. They are currently ranked fifth in scoring, averaging 26.4 points per game. They have also been extremely productive moving the ball, averaging 375 yards per game, which is the fourth overall.

The Panthers' defense will have its work cut out in this game, as the unit enters 15th in points allowed at 22.4 per game. Carolina also has struggled to contain opposing offenses, allowing 342 yards per game (17th).

Panthers Offense vs. Lions Defense

While the Panthers' defense will have a tough task ahead of them, Carolina's offense will definitely need to step up in order to keep pace with the high-scoring Lions. The Panthers average 19.7 points per game (24th overall), which is nearly a touchdown less than Detroit. This should be a good matchup for Carolina considering the Lions are second to last in the league in scoring defense (26 ppg).

Point Spread Bet Predictions

The Lions' success ATS and against NFC teams, combined with the Panthers' success as a home underdog, make this a difficult game to predict. But for our bet, we will revert back to which team has the most to play for and since Detroit is just one game out of the playoffs, we’ll bank on the Lions to not only win but also cover the spread (-2.5).

Bet: Lions -2.5

Over/Under Bet Predictions

The over has cashed in the Lions' last three games against NFC opponents. The Lions have no problem putting up big points and their defense allows their opponents to score frequently.

Bet: Over 43.5

The Lions' potent offense will be a tough test for the Panthers' defense, but if Carolina can find a way to put up points and take advantage of the Lions' weak defense, the game should hit the over. It should be an exciting game for football fans and bettors alike.