Los Angeles Rams (2-1 Preseason) vs. Detroit Lions (2-1 Preseason)
As the new NFL season begins, attention is drawn to the Week 1 games, where the Los Angeles Rams, who currently boast of a 2-1 preseason record, clash with the Detroit Lions, who are also standing on the same record. The football game of the early season will take place on Sunday at Ford Field, Detroit I; this is a field that has harbored lots of action-packed games in the past. Broadcast nationwide by NBC, this encounter is a prime candidate for wagering on some of the best betting websites, offering exciting prospects for both seasoned and novice bettors.
The early stages of the preseason have shown the Rams’ offense to be exciting and worrying. Quarterback Stetson Bennett can be forgiven for the five interceptions. However, he threw the ball for 437 yards over two games. For good reason, the quarterback was able to air it out when necessary. His primary receiver, Jordan Whittington, caught 11 passes for 126 yards, making it clear why he is such an asset. Then there is Boston Scott, who has proven to be less flashy when running the ball for the Rams. Scott’s 157 rushing yards over three games with 4.4 yards per attempt show that his rushing is steady, if not very exciting.
Meanwhile, the Detroit Lions have been developing a more balanced offense. Hendon Hooker, fresh from completing the first stage of this academic program, threw 300 passing yards with a 65.9% accuracy and only one interception. Isaiah Williams, his main target, proved just as effective with Whittington, making 11 catches for 123 yards. Zonovan Knight still led all rushers with 75 yards over 3.1 yards per attempt on the ground, but more rushing should be found if the Lions are to capitalize on the Rams’ defensive weaknesses.
Los Angeles Rams vs. Detroit Lions Game Info
| When: | Sunday, September 8, 2024 at 8:20 PM ET |
| Where: | Ford Field |
| TV: | NBC |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Stetson Bennett QB vs. Hendon Hooker QB
Stetson Bennett of the Rams has had a very rough time in the preseason completing only 59.4% of 69 pass attempts and accumulating 437 yards, two touchdowns, and five interceptions. However, Bennett can make long throws as he managed to make a 47 yards long throw. His contributions in the upcoming matches will be very crucial to the Rams, who are looking to cement their position in the quarterback.
Completing almost 66% of his passes for 300 yards, Hendon Hooker, Lions’ quarterback was very efficient as well as in control of the lawns. Using an efficient game plan which has a low but effective passing offense of 83.5, proves that he can always be at the upper hand with very few risks taken, which is one interception compared with Bennett, who had five.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Detroit Lions -189, Total Odds: 2.5
The betting lines suggest a slight advantage for the Lions at home with a spread of -3.5 and a moneyline of -189, reflecting confidence in their performance at Ford Field where they’ve been strong historically. The total of 52.5 points anticipates a high-scoring game, aligning with both teams’ recent tendencies to push the total OVER.
Los Angeles Rams Betting Trends
The Rams have been strong against the spread, going 7-1 ATS in their last eight games and 6-3 ATS in their last nine encounters with Detroit. Additionally, the total has gone OVER in six of their last eight games, suggesting their games tend to be high-scoring, which could be crucial for those looking at the over/under market.
Detroit Lions Betting Trends
Detroit has been equally impressive, going 6-1 ATS in their last seven games and 8-1 SU in their last nine at home, showcasing strong form at Ford Field. However, the total has gone UNDER in four of their last five matchups against the Rams, presenting a conflicting trend considering the set game total.
Los Angeles Rams vs. Detroit Lions 9/8/24 Betting Picks
Considering both teams’ offensive strengths and recent trends, this matchup is poised to be a closely contested affair with potential for plenty of points. The Lions, with their slightly more balanced attack and stronger quarterback play, might edge out a home victory. However, the Rams’ ability to cover spreads and their propensity for being involved in high-scoring games cannot be overlooked.
When considering football betting picks, taking the Lions to cover the spread might be the safer bet, but the Rams are tempting as underdogs, especially with the +3.5 spread. As for the total, leaning towards the OVER could be wise given both teams’ tendencies.
