The Carolina Panthers and the Detroit Lions meet up in a game that now has serious playoff implications. With a win and a Tampa loss, the Panthers could be tied for the lead in the NFC South while the Lions are half a game behind the Commanders for the 7th seed in the NFC. This game didn't look like it was going to mean much after the Lions started 1-6 but a 6-1 run has put them right where they want to be. The Panthers have won two of their past three games. The Lions rank 4th in total yards per game with 375.1 and 6th in points per game with 26.4. Despite the numbers, the Lions have been playing a lot better during their winning run. They allow 26.0 points (2nd worst in the NFL) and 398 yards a game. They are 3rd worst in passing yards against and 7th worst in rushing yards allowed. The Panthers are putting up 19.7 points and 288 yards a game. On the defensive side, they are giving up 22.4 points and 342.1 yards a game.


Both defenses are bad but the Lions' offense is more capable of exploiting the Carolina defense and putting up huge numbers. They put up 40 plus on a Jacksonville team that is playing well at the moment. The Lions have hit the over in nine of their last 11 games vs an NFC opponent and eight out of their last ten following an ATS win. The Panthers are 4-1 on the over in their last five December games and 3-1-1 in their last five Saturday games. The Lions have scored 25 or more points in five of their last six games. I like both teams to get into the 20s and for this game to go over the number.

Play on the OVER.