Detroit Lions at Minnesota Vikings odds, expert picks, how to watch: A marquee NFC North matchup

The NFC North delivers a marquee matchup when the unbeaten Minnesota Vikings host the Detroit Lions. This is a significant early game in the Black and Blue Division, as the Lions are only a game behind the Vikings in a crowded race. Coming off a bye week, Minnesota is favored by a few points in this matchup.

To maintain a hot start, Minnesota needs to refine its offense. Quarterback Sam Darnold developed an instant connection with star receiver Justin Jefferson. Finding a consistent secondary receiver hasn’t been as easy. Receiver Jordan Addison is unpredictable this season and trusted tight end T.J. Hockenson remains sidelined.

The Vikings rely heavily on lead back Aaron Jones — who is also the team’s second-leading receiver. Jones exited Week 5’s win in London with a hip injury and remains questionable heading into Week 7. Minnesota traded for Houston back Cam Akers during the week — further fueling speculation about Jones’ health. If Jones can’t consistently contribute, Ty Chandler will be thrust into the Minnesota backfield.

Detroit’s defense provides elite pass coverage with a ball-hawking unit that is sixth in interception rate. But Aidan Hutchinson’s injury diminished a Lions pass rush that was 17th in defensive sack percentage when the NFL’s sack leader was healthy.

Blowout wins over Seattle and Dallas have the Lions offense playing with maximum bravado. The NFL’s top-scoring offense spreads the ball around with a top-four rushing and passing attack. David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs form the league’s top backfield tandem. Quarterback Jared Goff has strong connections with receivers Jameson Williams and Amon-Ra St. Brown.

Minnesota needs the NFL’s No. 2 rushing defense and its turnover-producing secondary (No. 1 interception rate) to make plays and slow down a confident Detroit offense.

All odds from BetMGM. Looking for NFL tickets? Find them here.

Detroit Lions at Minnesota Vikings odds

How to watch Lions vs. Vikings

• Venue: U.S. Bank Stadium — Minneapolis
• Time: 1 p.m. ET
• TV: Fox
• Streaming: Fubo (try for free)

Expert picks for Lions vs. Vikings

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(Photo of Justin Jefferson: Nic Antaya / Getty Images)