Detroit Lions Week 13 at New Orleans Saints: Early odds and prediction
After three hard-fought games in a 12-day span, punctuated by a loss to the Green Bay Packers on Thanksgiving Day, the Detroit Lions needed a break that a "mini-bye" provides. But it will be back to the grind this week, and on the road to take on the New Orleans Saints in Week 13.
It will of course be a return to familiar territory for Lions head coach Dan Campbell, who spent five seasons (2016-2020) as the Saints' tight ends coach under Sean Payton. Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn was the Saints' defensive backs coach for those same five seasons.
The 5-6 Saints are in the thick of the NFC South race, but their Week 12 loss to the Atlanta Falcons (5-6) loses them the current tiebreaker for the division lead. They are also on a two-game losing streak, split by their Week 11 bye.
Via FanDuel Sportsbook, here's a look at the early odds for Lions-Saints in Week 13, followed by a prediction for Sunday's game.
Detroit Lions at New Orleans Saints: Week 13 early odds and prediction
Point Spread
Lions (-4.5): -105
Saints (+4.5): -115
Moneyline
Lions: -198
Saints: +166
Over/Under (45.5 points)
Over: -110
Under: -110
Prediction: Lions 24, Saints 18
A mix of inefficient red zone offense and a good defense, the Saints have played seven one-score games this season (3-4 record in them). Their receiving options for quarterback Derek Carr could be thinned notably on Sunday, with Chris Olave (concussion) and Rashid Shaheed (thigh) leaving the game against the Falcons.
The Lions could have a couple notable injury absences too, in linebacker Alex Anzalone and left guard Jonah Jackson. But this looks like a solid rebound spot against a Saints team they should be able to beat with minimal stress.
On the betting sides, I've got the Lions covering and winning on the moneyline, while the under on 45.5 points hits.
Note: Odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.