The Detroit Lions’ playoffs chances are no longer solely in their hands, but at least they still have as shot. They will try to keep that flickering hopes alive when they go up against Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills. Will the Lions complete their first back-to-back wins of the season this weekend? Or will the Bills prevent a three-game losing skid?
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Betting Preview for the Detroit Lions vs Buffalo Bills NFL Season Week 15 Game on December 16, 2018
Where: New Era Field, Buffalo
When: Sunday, December 16, 2018, 1:00 PM ET
Line: Detroit Lions (+2.5) vs Buffalo Bills (-2.5) – view all 2018 NFL lines
TV Broadcast: FOX
Betting on the Detroit Lions (5-8)
After back-to-back losses, the Lions finally found their way back into the win column with a 17-3 triumph on the road against the Arizona Cardinals last Sunday. Matthew Stafford passed for only 101 yards with zero touchdowns, but the backfield stepped up along with the Lions’ defense to guide the team to a victory. Zach Zenner reminded people he’s still in the league by rushing for 54 yards and a touchdown on 12 carries, while cornerback Darius Slay victimized Cardinals rookie quarterback Josh Rosen with a pick-six. Slay could live up to his name once again this coming again, as he’ll be looking to make a killing on the defensive end against another rookie signal-caller in Josh Allen, who has thrown two interceptions in each of the Lions’ last two games. Buffalo’s offense isn’t among the deadliest – in fact, it’s only 31st in the league in scoring with 15.5 points per game – so Detroit should be able to make stops in this upcoming contest.
The Lions have leaned heavily on their defense to keep games within reach. Detroit's strategic emphasis on creating turnovers and leveraging aggressive blitz packages has pressured opposing quarterbacks.
This approach has been particularly effective against teams with less experienced signal-callers, like Josh Allen. Slay and company will aim to capitalize on Allen's tendency for interceptions, having thrown multiple picks in recent matchups.
On the road so far this season, the Lions are 2-4 straight up (SU) and conversely 4-2 against the spread (ATS) in their last six road games.
Betting on the Buffalo Bills (4-9)
Say what you want to say about the Bills, but at least they seem to have found their quarterback of the future, albeit in a still unpolished Josh Allen. The first-year pro out of Wyoming only had 206 passing yards and zero touchdowns with two picks on 18-of-36 completions in last Sunday’s 27-23 loss to the New York Jets, but flashed his elite talent on the ground for a quarterback by rushing for 101 yards and a touchdown on nine carries By doing so, he set a new NFL record for most rushing yards in a three-game span in the Super Bowl era. Meanwhile, wide receiver Robert Foster came out of nowhere and turned seven receptions on eight targets into 104 receiving yards. He’s going to show more of that before he becomes a reliable playmaker for the Bills, but the team will take any form of production from anyone on the team, considering their offensive struggles.
Buffalo's offensive line has struggled against defensive pressure. With injuries affecting key players, consistency has been hard to achieve.
Their 31st league ranking in scoring reflects these issues. These challenges are heightened by the Lions' defensive capabilities, which could exploit Buffalo's pass protection troubles. The Bills must find rhythm in their passing game to avoid another low-scoring disappointment.
As the home team this season, Buffalo is 2-4 SU while the over is 3-0 in the Bills’ last three games at New Era Field.
Weather Impact on Game
Weather conditions in Buffalo can be a wild card, especially in December. Forecasts suggest potential snow showers and cold temperatures, which might influence game play.
Such conditions could impact the passing game for both teams, placing greater emphasis on the ground attack. Detroit's running backs, coupled with Allen's rushing ability, could gain prominence if passing becomes risky.
Writer’s Prediction
Buffalo wins, 23-20.
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The post Detroit Lions vs Buffalo Bills Predictions, Picks, Odds, and Betting Preview – NFL Week 15 – December 16 2018 appeared first on Sports Betting Tips, News, and Analysis.
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