Best Spread Odds: -9.5 - Washington Commanders -110 (Caesars) / -9.0 - Detroit Lions -110 (bet365)
Best Total Odds: 55.5 - Under -110 (bet365) / 55.0 - Over -115 (BetRivers)
Game Info
Date: 1/18/2025
Time: 8:00 PM EST
Location: Ford Field (Detroit, MI)
TV: FOX
Historic Head-to-Head Stats and Analysis
Over the past three seasons, the Detroit Lions and Washington Commanders have faced each other once, with the Lions emerging victorious. In this matchup, the home team, Detroit, secured the win, maintaining the trend where the home team has won the only game played between these two teams in this period. The Lions also covered the spread in this game, while the Commanders did not. The game went over the total points line, with no instances of the under hitting. This singular encounter provides a limited but clear picture of the recent dynamics between these two teams, with Detroit holding the upper hand both in terms of outright victory and against the spread performance.
In the most recent game on September 18, 2022, the Detroit Lions defeated the Washington Commanders with a final score of 36-27. The Lions, playing at home, were the favorites with a closing spread of -0.5 and successfully covered it. The game saw a high-scoring affair, with the total points reaching 63, surpassing the closing over-under line of 48.5. Detroit's offense was particularly effective, amassing 425 total yards, including 191 rushing yards on 24 attempts, averaging nearly 8 yards per carry. Jared Goff led the Lions with a strong passing performance, achieving a passer rating of 121.7 and throwing four touchdown passes. The Commanders, despite a valiant effort in the second half, could not overcome the early deficit, with Carson Wentz throwing for 337 yards and three touchdowns but also suffering five sacks.
Key statistics from this game highlight the Lions' offensive efficiency and defensive pressure. Detroit's rushing attack was dominant, significantly outpacing Washington's 88 rushing yards on 21 attempts. The Lions' defense also played a crucial role, recording five sacks and limiting the Commanders' rushing effectiveness. On the other hand, Washington's passing game showed promise, with Wentz completing 65.2% of his passes, but the team's inability to protect the quarterback and establish a consistent ground game proved costly. Penalties were minimal for both teams, with Washington committing two for 17 yards and Detroit just one for 5 yards. This game serves as a reference point for the upcoming matchup, providing insights into the strengths and weaknesses each team may look to exploit.
Washington Commanders at Detroit Lions Preview
The Washington Commanders, fresh off their first playoff victory since 2005, are set to face the formidable Detroit Lions in a highly anticipated divisional round matchup. The Commanders, led by rookie sensation Jayden Daniels, have defied expectations this season, finishing with a 13-5 record and showcasing a dynamic offense that ranks fifth in the league in scoring. Daniels, who has been a revelation, completed 69% of his passes for 3,825 yards and 25 touchdowns during the regular season, while also leading the team in rushing with 891 yards and six touchdowns. His dual-threat capability will be crucial against a Lions defense that has struggled at times against mobile quarterbacks.
On the other side, the Detroit Lions have been a powerhouse this season, boasting a 15-2 record and securing the NFC's top seed. Under the leadership of head coach Dan Campbell, the Lions have transformed into a Super Bowl contender, with a balanced attack that features a potent rushing game. Running backs Jahmyr Gibbs and the returning David Montgomery are expected to exploit a Washington defense that ranks 30th against the run. The Lions' offense, led by quarterback Jared Goff, has been one of the league's most efficient, and they will look to capitalize on their home-field advantage at Ford Field.
Defensively, the Commanders have shown resilience, particularly in clutch moments, but they will need to tighten up against a Lions team that has averaged 28.5 points per game. Washington's defense, anchored by veterans Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu, will be tasked with containing Detroit's multifaceted attack. The Commanders' ability to convert on fourth downs, a hallmark of their aggressive play under head coach Dan Quinn, could play a pivotal role in keeping the game competitive.
This matchup not only pits two of the league's most exciting young quarterbacks against each other but also features a clash of coaching philosophies. Dan Quinn's aggressive, risk-taking approach will be tested against Dan Campbell's disciplined and methodical game plan. With both teams having a history of playoff encounters, the stage is set for a thrilling contest that could go down to the wire.
Washington Commanders at Detroit Lions Pick: Detroit Lions Moneyline
The Detroit Lions enter this divisional round matchup as the top seed in the NFC, boasting a formidable 15-2 record and a well-rounded team that has been dominant throughout the season. Under the leadership of head coach Dan Campbell, the Lions have transformed into a Super Bowl contender, with a balanced attack that features a potent rushing game and a highly efficient passing offense led by quarterback Jared Goff. The Lions' offense has been one of the league's most productive, averaging 28.5 points per game, and they have the advantage of playing at home in Ford Field, where they have been particularly strong.
On the other hand, the Washington Commanders, while having a remarkable season with a 13-5 record and a playoff victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, face a daunting challenge against the Lions. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has been impressive, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities, but the Commanders' defense has shown vulnerabilities, particularly against the run, ranking 30th in the league. This could be a significant disadvantage against the Lions' dynamic rushing duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and the returning David Montgomery, who are expected to exploit this weakness.
Moreover, the Lions have a history of success against the Commanders, having defeated them in their last encounter in 2022 with a decisive 36-27 victory. The Lions' defense, while having faced challenges against mobile quarterbacks, has the personnel and strategic acumen to contain Daniels and force him into difficult situations. Additionally, the Lions' ability to capitalize on home-field advantage and their superior overall roster depth make them the favorites in this matchup.
Given these factors, the Detroit Lions are well-positioned to secure a victory in this divisional round game. Their balanced offensive attack, combined with a strategic defensive approach, provides them with the edge needed to advance to the NFC Championship. Therefore, the pick is the Detroit Lions Moneyline, as they are expected to continue their dominant season and move one step closer to their Super Bowl aspirations.
Washington Commanders at Detroit Lions Top Player Prop Picks
Jayden Daniels Over 9.5 Rushing Attempts -113 (BetRivers)