Los Angeles Rams at Detroit Lions Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 9/8/2024 8:20 PM EST

We have your Los Angeles Rams at Detroit Lions prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Los Angeles Rams hit the road to face the Detroit Lions.

Los Angeles Rams at Detroit Lions Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Los Angeles Rams +160 (FanDuel) / Detroit Lions -190 (FanDuel)
Best Spread Odds: -3.5 - Los Angeles Rams -115 (bet365) / Detroit Lions -105 (bet365)
Best Total Odds: 51.0 - Under -110 (bet365) / 50.5 - Over -115 (ESPN BET)

Game Info

Date: 9/8/2024
Time: 8:20 PM EST
Location: Ford Field (Detroit, MI)
TV: NBC

Historic Head-to-Head Stats and Analysis

Over the past three seasons, the Los Angeles Rams and the Detroit Lions have faced each other twice, with each team securing one victory. Both games were won by the home team, indicating a potential advantage for the host in these matchups. In terms of betting outcomes, each team has covered the spread once, reflecting a balanced performance against expectations. Notably, both games have resulted in the total score falling under the projected over-under line, suggesting a trend towards lower-scoring contests when these teams meet.

The most recent encounter between the Rams and the Lions took place on January 14, 2024, during the playoffs. The Detroit Lions emerged victorious with a narrow 24-23 win over the Los Angeles Rams. The game was characterized by a strong start from the Lions, who led 14-3 at the end of the first quarter. Despite a resilient effort from the Rams, who outscored the Lions in the second quarter, the Lions maintained their lead through a combination of effective rushing and passing plays. Key performances included David Montgomery's 1-yard rushing touchdown and Jahmyr Gibbs' 10-yard rushing touchdown for the Lions, while the Rams' Puka Nacua and Tutu Atwell each caught touchdown passes from Matthew Stafford. The game was tightly contested, with both teams recording over 300 total yards and no turnovers, highlighting the competitive nature of the matchup.

In the earlier matchup on October 24, 2021, the Los Angeles Rams defeated the Detroit Lions 28-19. The Rams, playing at home, overcame an early deficit to secure the win, with a strong second quarter performance that included 14 points. The Lions, despite a solid start with 10 points in the first quarter, were unable to maintain their momentum. The Rams' victory was aided by their efficient passing game, with 334 passing yards and three touchdowns, while the Lions struggled with turnovers, throwing two interceptions. The Rams' defense also played a crucial role, limiting the Lions to just 19 points and securing the win. This game, like the more recent one, also ended with the total score falling under the projected over-under line.

Los Angeles Rams at Detroit Lions Preview

The Los Angeles Rams and Detroit Lions are set to clash in a highly anticipated Week 1 matchup that promises to be a thrilling start to the 2024 NFL season. This game not only marks the beginning of a new campaign but also serves as a rematch of last season's Wild Card round, where the Lions narrowly edged out the Rams with a 24-23 victory. The Lions, under the leadership of head coach Dan Campbell, are coming off a successful 2023 season that saw them reach the NFC Championship game, and they are eager to build on that momentum.

Detroit enters the game as a 3.5-point favorite, a testament to their strong roster and home-field advantage at Ford Field. The Lions have retained most of their key players from last year's impressive 12-5 team, including quarterback Jared Goff, who has become a fan favorite after leading the team deep into the playoffs. The addition of Pro Bowl guard Kevin Zeitler further strengthens their offensive line, which will be crucial in protecting Goff and establishing the run game.

On the other side, the Rams are looking to bounce back from a first-round playoff exit last season. The offseason saw significant changes for Los Angeles, most notably the retirement of defensive stalwart Aaron Donald. However, the Rams have bolstered their roster by signing former Lions guard Jonah Jackson, aiming to provide quarterback Matthew Stafford with the protection he needs to succeed. Stafford, who will be facing his former team once again, remains a pivotal figure for the Rams, and his performance will be key to their success.

Injuries could play a significant role in this matchup. The Rams are dealing with potential absences on their offensive line, with starting left tackle Alaric Jackson suspended and right tackle Rob Havenstein nursing an ankle injury. Conversely, the Lions are optimistic about the return of key players like running back Jahmyr Gibbs and cornerback Terrion Arnold, who have been recovering from injuries during training camp.

As both teams prepare for this prime-time showdown, the Lions' recent success and home advantage position them as the favorites. However, the Rams, led by the experienced Sean McVay, are known for their resilience and will be eager to spoil Detroit's home opener. With both teams boasting talented rosters and high expectations, this game is set to be a captivating contest that could set the tone for their respective seasons.

Los Angeles Rams at Detroit Lions Pick: Detroit Lions Moneyline

The Detroit Lions are poised to start their 2024 NFL season on a high note as they face the Los Angeles Rams in a much-anticipated Week 1 matchup. The Lions enter this game as the favorites, and for good reason. Coming off a successful 2023 season where they reached the NFC Championship game, the Lions have retained a strong core of players, including quarterback Jared Goff, who has become a fan favorite after leading the team deep into the playoffs. The addition of Pro Bowl guard Kevin Zeitler further bolsters their offensive line, providing Goff with the protection needed to execute their game plan effectively.

Home-field advantage at Ford Field is another significant factor in favor of the Lions. Historically, both teams have won their recent encounters at home, and the Lions' passionate fan base is expected to create an electrifying atmosphere that could unsettle the visiting Rams. The Lions' recent victory over the Rams in the Wild Card round last season, where they narrowly edged out a 24-23 win, adds to their psychological edge heading into this rematch.

In contrast, the Rams are dealing with several challenges that could impact their performance. The offseason retirement of defensive stalwart Aaron Donald leaves a noticeable void in their defense, potentially making it easier for the Lions to exploit gaps in the Rams' defensive line. Additionally, the Rams' offensive line is facing potential disruptions, with starting left tackle Alaric Jackson suspended and right tackle Rob Havenstein nursing an ankle injury. These absences could hinder quarterback Matthew Stafford's ability to find his rhythm against a formidable Lions defense.

Injuries have also been a concern for both teams, but the Lions appear to be in a better position with key players like running back Jahmyr Gibbs and cornerback Terrion Arnold expected to return after recovering from injuries during training camp. This optimism surrounding their roster's health further strengthens the Lions' case as the favorites in this matchup.

Given these factors, the Detroit Lions are well-positioned to secure a victory in their home opener against the Rams. With a strong roster, home-field advantage, and the momentum from last season's successes, the Lions are the smart pick for the moneyline in this exciting Week 1 clash.

Los Angeles Rams at Detroit Lions Top Player Prop Picks

Jared Goff Over 23.5 Pass Completions -108 (FanDuel)

Jared Goff has become a pivotal figure for the Detroit Lions, especially after leading them to the NFC Championship game last season. With the Lions returning 9 of 11 starters on offense, including the addition of Pro Bowl guard Kevin Zeitler, Goff is well-positioned to have a strong start to the 2024 season. The Rams' defense, now without Aaron Donald, may struggle to apply the same pressure they have in the past, giving Goff more time to find his targets. Given the Lions' offensive continuity and Goff's growing rapport with his receivers, the over on 23.5 pass completions seems a solid bet.

Matthew Stafford Over 22.5 Pass Completions -107 (BetRivers)

Matthew Stafford, facing his former team once again, will be eager to prove his worth in this high-stakes matchup. Despite the Rams' offensive line concerns, Stafford's ability to perform under pressure was evident in last season's Wild Card game against the Lions, where he threw for 367 yards. With the Rams likely needing to rely on Stafford's arm to keep pace with the Lions' potent offense, the over on 22.5 pass completions is a promising pick. Stafford's familiarity with the Lions' defensive schemes and his experience in high-pressure situations further bolster the case for this prop.

Cooper Kupp Over 5.5 Receptions 110 (BetRivers)

Cooper Kupp remains a key target for Matthew Stafford, and his role will be crucial in the Rams' offensive strategy against the Lions. With the Rams potentially missing key offensive linemen, quick passes to reliable receivers like Kupp could be a primary focus. Kupp's ability to find open spaces and his chemistry with Stafford make the over on 5.5 receptions an attractive option. In a game where the Rams might need to rely heavily on their passing game, Kupp is likely to see a significant number of targets, making this prop a strong consideration.