The Detroit Lions moved to 5-1 with a 20-6 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday. They've won four straight games, all by at least 14 points. They have a legit case to be called the best team in the NFC right now, albeit with more to do and bigger goals on the agenda.
Another road test is coming in Week 7, as the Lions will travel to take on the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens are 4-2 and atop the AFC North, but it's safe to say they mostly haven't been that impressive thus far. In Week 6, they hung on to beat a not very good Tennessee Titans team over in London.
Teams are now given the option to not have their bye week after an international game, as had been custom. The Ravens chose to play a home game after their overseas trip. The time change may or may not be a big factor in their preparation this week.
Via FanDuel Sportsbook, here are the opening odds for Lions at Ravens in Week 7, followed by a prediction for the game.
Detroit Lions at Baltimore Ravens: Early Week 7 odds, prediction
Point Spread:
Lions (+3): -102
Ravens (-3): -120
Moneyline:
Lions: +142
Ravens: -168
Over/Under (41.5 points):
Over: -106
Under: -114
Yes, the 5-1 Lions are a three-point underdog to the Ravens. That spread is a general nod to homefield advantage, and here there's not much else to tilt things toward the Ravens.
Prediction: Ravens 20, Lions 17
Yes, I've got the Lions' winning streak ending by a narrow margin. Mobile quarterbacks haven't crushed the Detroit defense this year like they did last season, but Lamar Jackson is still somewhat on his own level as a running quarterback and he'll be a challenge to contain. Tampa Bay was the best defense the Lions have faced this season, and Baltimore's defense is on-par there. It might come down to Riley Patterson making or missing a long field goal in a tight game, and his miss against the Buccaneers didn't inspire confidence he can come through.
On the betting angles, the spread is a push, the Ravens win outright and the under hits with room to spare.
Note: Odds are subject to change and refresh periodically.