The Detroit Lions and Pittsburgh Steelers are set to clash in a compelling non-conference showdown on December 21, 2025, at Ford Field. This late-season matchup pits two teams with contrasting identities but shared championship aspirations against one another.
Lions vs Steelers Betting Picks and Predictions
Under head coach Dan Campbell, the Lions have unleashed a high-octane offense that averages an impressive 30.3 points and 379.9 yards per game. Led by quarterback Jared Goff and dynamic receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, Detroit's attack faces a stern test from Pittsburgh's formidable defense. The Steelers, guided by Mike Tomlin, have built their identity around a defensive unit that's recorded 40 sacks this season, with stars like T.J. Watt and Cameron Heyward consistently pressuring opposing quarterbacks.
Both teams excel at creating turnovers - the Lions boast a +9 turnover differential while Pittsburgh sits at +8. With playoff implications on the line for Detroit, who needs wins in their final three games to secure a postseason berth, this matchup carries significant weight. The Steelers, fresh off a statement Monday Night Football victory that silenced some of the "Fire Tomlin" criticism, look to play spoiler on the road.
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Detroit Lions vs Pittsburgh Steelers Betting Odds
Date: Sunday, December 21, 2025
Kickoff Time: 4:25 PM EST
Venue: Ford Field — Detroit, MI
Weather: Indoor dome conditions
- Moneyline: Detroit Lions (-357) | Pittsburgh Steelers (+280)
- Spread: Detroit Lions -7 (-110) | Pittsburgh Steelers +7 (-110)
- Total (Over/Under): 52 (Over -110 / Under -110)
Betting odds courtesy of MGM.
Detroit enters as heavy home favorites with the -357 moneyline reflecting strong confidence in a Lions victory. The seven-point spread suggests bookmakers expect a comfortable win for the home team. The 52-point total aligns with Detroit's explosive offensive capabilities, setting up potential for a high-scoring affair.
Lions vs Steelers Statistical Breakdown
The most striking disparity between these teams lies in offensive production. Detroit's scoring machine has been rolling all season, putting up 30.3 points and 379.9 total yards per game compared to Pittsburgh's more conservative 23.9 points and 288.1 yards per contest. However, both offenses are lethal in the red zone - the Lions convert at a 67.3% clip while the Steelers aren't far behind at 66.7%.
The key battle will be Detroit's explosive passing attack against Pittsburgh's relentless pass rush. St. Brown is coming off a two-touchdown performance, but he'll face a Steelers defense that's generated 40 sacks compared to Detroit's 39. Both units create havoc, setting up a fascinating chess match in the trenches.
What makes this game particularly intriguing is how evenly matched these teams are at forcing turnovers. Detroit's +9 turnover differential barely edges Pittsburgh's +8 mark. The Lions didn't commit a single turnover in their last outing, but they'll face a Pittsburgh defense led by Watt that specializes in game-changing plays. Whichever team can avoid costly mistakes while forcing them on the other side will likely control this contest.
Steelers vs Lions Prediction and Best Bets for Week 16
This matchup presents the classic clash between an offensive juggernaut and a defensive powerhouse, but the seven-point spread feels inflated for a disciplined Pittsburgh team. While Detroit's 30.3 points per game average is impressive at Ford Field, the Steelers have the defensive firepower to disrupt their rhythm.
Pittsburgh's defense has been menacing all season with 40 sacks and that crucial +8 turnover differential. Aaron Rodgers brings veteran poise to lead Pittsburgh's offense, and Tomlin consistently prepares his teams for hostile road environments. The recent Monday Night Football triumph has this group playing with renewed confidence, especially after weathering the coaching criticism.
The Steelers' ability to pressure Goff and create short fields through turnovers makes them prime candidates to keep this within a touchdown. Expect a hard-fought battle that comes down to the final possessions.
Best Bet: Steelers +7 (-110)
Pittsburgh's defensive talent and turnover-creating ability should keep this closer than a full touchdown. Their experience in big road spots under Tomlin gives them the edge to cover.
Best Player Prop: Aaron Rodgers Over 229.5 Passing Yards (-115)
To match Detroit's explosive offense, Rodgers will need to air it out. With the Lions' defense showing declining trends recently, this veteran quarterback should comfortably clear this modest yardage total while keeping Pittsburgh competitive.
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Lions vs Steelers Injury Report: Defensive Stars Questionable
Both teams face significant injury concerns heading into Week 16, with 17 total players listed on the latest reports. Pittsburgh's defensive depth could be severely tested with key playmakers in doubt.
Pittsburgh Steelers Injury Update
- T.J. Watt (LB): Did Not Participate In Practice (Lung)
- Nick Herbig (LB): Did Not Participate In Practice (Hamstring)
- James Pierre (CB): Did Not Participate In Practice (Calf)
- Ben Skowronek (WR): Limited Participation In Practice (Illness)
- Aaron Rodgers (QB): Full Participation In Practice (Left Wrist)
Watt's absence due to a lung injury is catastrophic for Pittsburgh's pass rush. Losing their premier edge rusher along with backup Herbig forces the Steelers to rely heavily on Cameron Heyward and role players. The positive news is Rodgers practiced fully despite his wrist issue and should be ready to go.
Detroit Lions Injury Update
- Taylor Decker (T): Did Not Participate In Practice (Shoulder)
- Kerby Joseph (SAF): Did Not Participate In Practice (Knee)
- Amik Robertson (CB): Limited Participation In Practice (Hand)
- Sione Vaki (RB): Limited Participation In Practice (Thumb)
Detroit's biggest concern is left tackle Decker, whose shoulder injury could leave Goff vulnerable to Pittsburgh's pass rush. Safety Joseph's knee injury compounds secondary concerns, especially if Robertson can't go at full strength. The Lions need their offensive line healthy to maximize their scoring potential against this Steelers defense.