Best Bet: Detroit Lions David Montgomery Finds End Zone

The Detroit Lions have the opportunity to accomplish several milestones this week, when they step foot at Ford Field to face the Minnesota Vikings. 

Running back David Montgomery, who is very close to a 1,000-yard rushing season, has had a successful first season in Motown, aided by the entire offense, according to running backs coach Scottie Montgomery. 

Montgomery told reporters this week, “I’d be remiss if I (didn’t express) we have the O-line that we have, if I (didn’t express) we have our tight ends. If you look at our receivers in the force-blocking game, on the perimeter, which can be complicated, they give our guys an exceptional chance to get to the next level.”

Play Michigan lead writer Drew Ellis believes Montgomery will cap off a successful 2023 season with a touchdown at home against Minnesota. 

"It’s hard to know what to expect from the Lions in this game. Though Dan Campbell has said the starters are playing, that doesn’t guarantee that they will be playing a full game. One thing I do know, though, is that this team should come out motivated to be physical after what happened in Dallas. I look for the offense to make a statement, when it's on the field, and to establish the run," Ellis tells All Lions. "While Jahmyr Gibbs has been the more explosive runner, David Montgomery has still been the back to grind-out the short-yardage carries. 

"I expect him to be able to find the end zone in the first half of the game. That is why my best bet is the talented running back finding the end zone this week at Ford Field (-115)."

Bonus

Detroit's secondary was able to gain momentum on the road facing Vikings quarterback Nick Mullens. 

Two weeks ago, Detroit's secondary recorded four interceptions against the journeyman signal-caller.

If you are looking for a value play, Mullens turning the football over could benefit your bankroll.  

"Nick Mullens has not been great at avoiding turnovers. In his two starts for Minnesota, he has thrown six interceptions. That includes four against the Lions," Ellis explains. "He just can’t help himself but to force a bad throw here and there. With the Lions playing their starting secondary and adding C.J. Gardner-Johnson to the mix, it should be a prime opportunity to hawk some more balls. I like the Lions to get at least two interceptions on Mullens (+175)."