Week 7 was lined up as a statement game for the Detroit Lions, on the road against the Baltimore Ravens. Early on and ultimately, that statement was not a good one for Detroit. The Ravens dominated the Lions 38-6, though a look at the box score without seeing the score wouldn't necessarily reflect that.
Let's just chalk that up to being one of those days, and a harsh reality check this team may have needed. Not every team is as good as the Ravens are on both sides of the ball, and the list of quarterbacks the Lions will face from here on out is not filled with challenges.
That softer runs starts in Week 8 against the Las Vegas Raiders, for a Monday night game the night before Halloween. Jimmy Garoppolo may be back, and if he's not it'll be either Brian Hoyer or rookie Aidan O'Connell under center for the Raiders. The Raiders are also coming off a 30-12 loss to the Chicago Bears in Week 7.
Via FanDuel Sportsbook, here's a look at the opening odds for Lions-Raiders in Week 8, followed by a prediction for the game.
Detroit Lions vs. Raiders: Early Week 8 odds and prediction
Point Spread
Lions: -8.5 (-105)
Raiders: +8.5 (-115)
Moneyline
Lions: -390
Raiders: +310
Over/Under (44.5 points)
Over: -115
Under: -105
Prediction: Lions 31, Raiders 13
Simply put, the Lions should have no trouble with the Raiders next Monday night in what will surely be quite the pre-Halloween scene at Ford Field. Sure they're 3-4, but they've beaten the Denver Broncos (2-5), Green Bay Packers (2-4) and New England Patriots (2-5) by a total of nine points. Garoppolo makes some difference is he's able to play, but that's only a step from inept quarterback play to adequate.
If anything, 31 points might be a little light to give the Lions. But on the current betting lines in this prediction, the Lions cover the hefty spread comfortably, win outright and the under on 44.5 points just barely comes in (and perhaps lands as a bad beat for the week).
Note: Odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.