Our Detroit Lions vs. New York Jets prediction takes a look at the Week 15 matchup that features a red-hot offense against a stout defense.
Let’s dive into the current NFL betting odds, key storylines to watch, and make a prediction for the game. Note that all odds are from DraftKings Sportsbook as of Monday, Dec. 12.
Lions vs. Jets Odds | Week 15
- Spread
Lions -1 - Moneyline
Lions -110, Jets -110 - Over/Under
44.5
Lions vs. Jets Prediction
We have to go all the way back to Oct. 23 to find the last game that Detroit lost by more than four points. They’ve been on a tear offensively recently, and they have now won five of their last six games, which has put them in the NFC playoff discussion.
The Lions are coming off a massive win in Week 14 over the then 10-2 Minnesota Vikings, and they’ve effectively put the NFL on notice with that performance. Jared Goff has been leading this offense incredibly well over the past couple of months, and they are now currently ranked fifth in the NFL in terms of points per game with 26.8.
A big surprising development for Detroit here recently has been the improvement of their run defense. Over the last three games, the Lions are allowing the ninth-fewest rushing yards per game with just 93.7. That is a massive difference compared to what Detroit was doing over the first half of the season.
The Lions’ high-powered offense faces a tough test this week against the Jets. New York is allowing the fifth-fewest points per game this season. The Jets have the defensive playmakers to match up well with Detroit’s skill-position options.
If Detroit wants to advance to .500 on the year, they need to rely on the offense again in this one. Goff and the passing game will need to be sharp and continue to put points up on the board in a tough matchup.
MORE: Early NFL Week 15 Predictions and Picks Against the Spread
For New York, Mike White’s been the big headliner over recent weeks due to his level of play in contrast to Zach Wilson. While it doesn’t necessarily reflect in the statistics, White’s been sharp and effective as the passer for this offense, and he’s succeeded getting the ball to the playmakers.
However, quietly in the background, New York’s defense has been the star of the show. The Jets are currently allowing just the fourth-fewest passing yards per game this season. They’ve truly made life difficult on some prolific passing attacks.
Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner has been a revelation for this franchise as a rookie, and he’s exceeded their expectations by a wide margin. The defensive front is getting after the QB — although Quinnen Williams’ injury is worth monitoring — and they’re controlling the line of scrimmage.
Assuming that White plays at QB this week (he is currently dealing with a rib injury), the key for New York winning this matchup and staying in the AFC playoff picture rides on the defense. Detroit’s coming into this game averaging the fifth-most points per contest.
If New York can make life difficult on Goff and stifle the passing attack, we should see the Jets do enough on offense to win a tight battle.
Lions vs. Jets Score Prediction
Lions 21, Jets 20