FREE PLAY

Detroit vs. Minnesota, 11/11/2012 13:00 EDT, Score: 24 - 34

Point Spread: -2/-105 Detroit

Sportsbook: JustBet

Result: Loss

FREE PLAY
Detroit Lions -2
Detroit and Minnesota are headed in different directions, and Detroit is the team on the upswing. The Lions have won three of their last four games since winning just one of their first four, and they are 4-0 against the spread during this stretch.

The Vikings have lost three of their last four both straight up and against the spread since winning four of their first five.

The Lions have won three of the last four meetings in the series. Overall, the Vikings have been a poor investment against NFC North foes at 3-8-1 against the spread in their last 12 games against them.

The numbers suggest Detroit is the superior team on both sides of the football. The Lions rank second in the NFL in total offense with 410.9 yards per game while the Vikings rank 22nd with 334.0 yards per game.

The Lions rank seventh in total defense with 320.5 yards allowed per game while the Vikings rank 11th with 338.4 yards allowed per contest.

The fact the Lions enter off a 31-14 victory in Jacksonville as a six-point favorite is significant because they are on a 14-6-1 against the spread run following a game in which they covered.

The Vikings are just 2-6-1 against the spread in their last nine home games.

I like the Lions regardless, but it works even more in our favor if Percy Harvin isn’t able to go. He is currently doubtful with an ankle injury. Harvin is Minnesota's leading receiver and one of the top playmakers in the league.

The Vikings were fortunate to win the season's first meeting as they were outgained 341-227 in that contest. Look for the Lions to have their revenge. Lay the points.