Thanksgiving Day Showdown: Bears vs. Lions
The NFL’s Thanksgiving Day slate kicks off with a classic NFC North rivalry as the Chicago Bears visit the Detroit Lions. This matchup offers high stakes, with the Lions seeking to solidify their NFC-best record and the Bears clinging to their slim playoff hopes.
Game Preview
Lions’ Dominance
Detroit enters the game riding a nine-game winning streak, their longest since 1934, and boasts the league’s best offense, averaging 32.7 points per game. The Lions’ defense has complemented their offense, not allowing a touchdown in the last 10 quarters. Detroit aims to break their seven-game Thanksgiving losing streak, with three of those losses coming against Chicago.
Bears’ Struggles
The Bears, on a five-game losing streak, face an uphill battle. Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams has shown promise, but inconsistent play across the board has plagued the team. Chicago’s defense has surrendered nearly 2,000 yards over the past four games, and their offense has failed to exceed 20 points in four of their last five outings.
Odds & Trends
- Spread: Lions -9.5
Detroit is heavily favored, with 71% of spread-line money backing them. - Moneyline: Lions -590
Detroit’s moneyline has drawn 91% of wagers at BetRivers. - Over/Under: 48.0
The Over has been supported by 86% of the money.
Detroit’s recent dominance makes them a popular pick. They’ve also garnered the most moneyline and Super Bowl winner bets since Week 12.
Key Storylines
Lions’ Offensive and Defensive Balance
Detroit’s offense, led by quarterback Jared Goff, ranks second in total yardage (394.3 per game). Rookie running back Jahmyr Gibbs has been a revelation, with a season-high 21 carries and 90 yards in his last outing. The Lions’ defense, despite recent injuries in the secondary, has shown resilience, holding opponents scoreless for the past 10 quarters.
Bears’ Offensive Spark
Caleb Williams had his best game yet against Minnesota, throwing for 340 yards and two touchdowns. Wide receivers DJ Moore, Keenan Allen, and Romeo Odunze have formed a potent trio, while tight end Cole Kmet adds depth to the passing game. However, their inconsistency on both sides of the ball continues to hinder their playoff aspirations.
Prop Bets to Watch
- Jahmyr Gibbs 70+ Rushing Yards (-140 at DraftKings)
With David Montgomery potentially limited, Gibbs is poised for another big game against a Bears defense allowing 129.7 rushing yards per game. - Roschon Johnson Anytime TD (+225 at BetRivers)
Johnson is a reliable red-zone threat, having scored six rushing touchdowns this season, including one in each of the past two games.
Injury Report
Lions
- CB Carlton Davis (knee/thumb): Out
- OT Taylor Decker (knee): Questionable
- RB David Montgomery (shoulder): Expected to play
Bears
- S Elijah Hicks: DNP
Key Players to Watch
- Jared Goff (Lions): The veteran QB has been instrumental in Detroit’s high-powered offense.
- Caleb Williams (Bears): The rookie is finding his rhythm but faces a tough Detroit defense.
- Jahmyr Gibbs (Lions): The rookie running back has stepped up in Montgomery’s absence.
- DJ Moore (Bears): Chicago’s leading receiver will be critical in keeping pace with Detroit.
Prediction
The Lions have been nearly unstoppable, combining an explosive offense with a stingy defense. While the Bears’ Caleb Williams-led offense has shown flashes of brilliance, their defensive shortcomings and inconsistency are glaring. Detroit’s ability to control both sides of the ball should prove decisive.
Final Score: Lions 30, Bears 20
