Lions vs. Packers NFL Week 9 Picks: Can Green Bay Stop Detroit?

Lions Crush Titans

Jared Goff’s three touchdown passes powered the Lions to their fifth consecutive victory in a commanding 52-14 win over the Tennessee Titans on Sunday. David Montgomery opened the scoring spree as one of five different Lions players to find the end zone in a first-half offensive showcase.

The Lions’ offense was in top form, converting all five red-zone opportunities, while the defense and special teams shined. Detroit’s defense forced four turnovers, and their special teams chipped in with a touchdown on one of three returns, totaling an impressive 162 return yards.

Sitting atop the NFC North, Detroit now boasts the best record in the conference, riding a five-game winning streak in which they’ve averaged over 40 points per game in the last four.

This marks the franchise’s best start through seven games since 1956. Notably, they accomplished this without explosive receiver Jameson Williams, who began serving a two-game suspension for a PED violation.

Jahmyr Gibbs broke free for a 70-yard touchdown late in the first quarter, amassing a season-high 127 rushing yards in a standout performance.

Packers Beat Jaguars But Love Got Injured

Backup quarterback Malik Willis led the Packers to a thrilling 30-27 road victory over the Jaguars on Sunday, setting up Brandon McManus for his second game-winning field goal in as many weeks.

With Jordan Love sidelined by a groin injury, Willis stepped in and delivered, completing 4 of 5 passes for 56 yards and a touchdown to secure Green Bay’s fourth straight win, lifting them to 6-2.

Josh Jacobs bolstered the Packers’ offense with 127 rushing yards and two touchdowns, especially critical as Love struggled with mobility due to a groin issue.

Love, who completed 14 of 22 passes for 196 yards with an interception—his league-leading ninth—was visibly limited, tweaking his groin early and later exiting for medical attention. Despite the injury setback, Green Bay’s strong team effort clinched another close win.

According to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, Packers head coach Matt LaFleur said that there is “obviously a high level of concern” about Love’s injury.

Key Matchups

Goff’s potent Lions offense squares off against a Packers team hoping to have Love under center. Love has been the leader of Green Bay’s offense, though he’s battling a groin injury. Should Love be limited or unable to play, Willis would step in, a shift that could tilt the game’s dynamics.

Jared Goff vs. Packers Defense

Goff has been lights out, throwing three touchdowns last week and executing perfectly in the red zone. Green Bay’s defense will be on high alert, as the Lions’ offensive efficiency means any lapse could lead to points.

The Packers must apply consistent pressure to keep Goff off balance, as letting him find a rhythm could lead to a high-scoring affair in Detroit’s favor. If Goff can spread the ball effectively, the Packers’ defense might struggle to keep up.

Jahmyr Gibbs vs. Packers Run Defense

Gibbs broke loose last week with a 70-yard touchdown and amassed a season-high 127 yards. His speed and burst are assets that Green Bay’s defense must prepare for, as Gibbs has the potential to turn any carry into a big play.

If the Packers can contain him, they’ll force Detroit into a more pass-heavy approach, allowing them to focus their defensive resources on Goff. But if Gibbs gets going, it could spell trouble for the Packers.

Jordan Love (if available) vs. Lions Defense

Assuming Love plays, his ability to lead the Packers’ offense will be essential in a game where each possession is precious. While Love has been effective this season, the groin injury has hindered his mobility, which could leave him vulnerable to Detroit’s aggressive defense.

The Lions forced four turnovers last week, and if they can pressure Love into quick throws, it might limit Green Bay’s ability to sustain drives.

However, should Love be out, Malik Willis brings a different dynamic, with a mobile skill set but less experience managing full-game pressures. Willis’ presence could lead to a more conservative game plan focused on the run game, making it harder for Green Bay to keep pace with Detroit’s high-scoring offense.

Special Teams and Turnovers

Detroit’s special teams delivered a touchdown on one of three returns totaling 162 yards last week, making them a major factor once again. Green Bay will need to play disciplined, mistake-free football, as Detroit has thrived on capitalizing from short fields and opponent errors.

Both teams lean heavily on turnovers and special teams to change the game’s momentum, so avoiding miscues will be critical.

The Pick

If Love starts, his presence should keep the Packers competitive and provide stability in key moments. However, Detroit’s efficient offense and opportunistic defense give them the edge in this game, especially if Green Bay’s offense is slowed by Love’s limited mobility.

In the event that Love is sidelined and Willis starts, expect a more lopsided game in Detroit’s favor, as Green Bay would likely struggle to match Detroit’s firepower.

NFL Pick: Lions -4 (-110) at Bookmaker

Lions -4 (-110)

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