Commanders vs. Lions: Predictions, odds for NFL divisional playoff
The divisional round will feature the Detroit Lions hosting the Washington Commanders in an exciting NFC matchup.
The Lions had an impressive regular season record of 15-2, tying with the Kansas City Chiefs for the best record in the league and securing the No. 1 seed in the NFC. This sets the stage for an exciting divisional round, with the Lions in a prime position to make a strong playoff run. Veteran quarterback Jared Goff had a remarkable season, achieving a 72.4% completion rate with 37 touchdowns and only 12 interceptions, which earned him a spot as the starting quarterback in the Pro Bowl.
The Commanders' journey to the divisional round has been marked by a thrilling 23-20 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in an NFC wild-card game. This win is a significant milestone as it represents the franchise's first playoff victory since 2006. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels delivered an impressive performance, achieving a completion rate of 68.6% with 268 yards and two touchdowns, which played a key role in the victory against the Buccaneers. Additionally, the Commanders' defense excelled by limiting the Buccaneers to just 20 points—a noteworthy achievement, particularly since Tampa Bay boasted one of the top-scoring offenses during the season, averaging 29.5 points per game.
Get ready for the NFC divisional round matchup between the Washington Commanders and the Detroit Lions. Here's everything you need to know before the game kicks off.
NFL divisional playoffs predictions: Washington Commanders vs. Detroit Lions
USA Today: Lions 31, Commanders 25
Tyler Dragon writes: "The Commanders won their first playoff game since 2005. Their reward is a trip to Detroit for a meeting against the Lions on Saturday night. Dan Quinn, Jayden Daniels and Bobby Wagner have spearheaded a remarking turnaround for the Commanders. Daniels is on his way to winning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. He is the fourth rookie quarterback in NFL history to start and win 13 games, including the postseason. However, the Commanders’ magical season will end in the Motor City. I predict the Lions’ physicality upfront will overwhelm Washington. Detroit possessed the sixth-best rushing attack in the NFL, and they will get back David Montgomery to pair with Jahmyr Gibbs. Daniels will give the Lions’ injury-riddle defense fits, but Aaron Glenn’s defensive unit will make just enough stops. Detroit ends Washington’s improbable season."
ESPN: Lions have a 73% chance to win
According to ESPN's Matchup Predictor, the Detroit Lions have a 73% chance to defeat the Washington Commanders in the NFC divisional matchup.
Sporting News: Lions 31, Commanders 27
Vinnie Lyer writes: "The Lions' defense has overachieved through injuries and is hoping to get a little healthier again to face red-hot rookie Jayden Daniels. But this is a tough matchup for Detroit because of Daniels' two dynamic dimensions of firing deep shots and taking off outside. Washington's offense will need to be aggressive and not force the traditional power run too much. The Lions, however, also will be able to exploit the Commanders' run defense plenty with Jahmyr Gibbs and burn them in the slot with Amon-Ra St. Brown. Daniels gets a little more heat than Jared Goff as the Lions survive for a second straight NFC championship trip."
NFC Divisional Round odds, lines: Washington Commanders vs. Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions are favorites to defeat the Washington Commanders, according to BetMGM.
Odds as of Friday, Jan. 17
- Spread: Detroit (-9.5)
- Moneylines: Detroit (-550); Washington (+400)
- Over/under: 55.5
How to watch Washington Commanders vs. Detroit Lions in the NFC Divisional Round
- Date: Saturday, Jan. 18
- Time: 8 p.m. ET
- TV: Fox
- Stream: Fox Sports, NFL+
- Where: Ford Field (Detroit, MI)
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