The Detroit Lions entered 2025 as one of the biggest darlings in the betting market. In Dan Campbell's first four seasons as head coach, the Lions covered 69% of their games, and they had soared over their projected win total in each of the previous three years.
The Lions were trending for another big year, winning and covering four of their first five games last season. They were favored to win the NFC as late as mid-November. But after their 4-1 start, they never won back-to-back games the rest of the season and ultimately fell out of the playoffs entirely at 9-8. It was the first losing season against the spread under Campbell (8-9). Despite that, the Lions enter 2026 with a win total of 10.5 for a third straight season and are favored to win the division for the third time in four years. -- Mackenzie Kraemer
Note: Odds by DraftKings
and subject to change.
2026 outlook: Tables turning in Lions' favor in 2026?
Two things can be true at once. Last year's 9-8 record was disappointing, but the Lions were also dealt with brutal injury luck, turnover luck and field-goal luck, all while having one of the league's toughest schedules.
Now, the pendulum swings the other way.
Detroit projects to have one of the NFL's easiest schedules in 2026, including the easiest slate of rushing defenses, giving its offense a shot at getting back to controlling games on the ground.
The biggest question is whether the rebuilt offensive line can flip back to a strength. If it does, the Lions can contend for the NFC North again. The softer schedule creates favorable spots, making them a team worth backing in the prop market and markets like team total overs, player props and higher scoring games. -- Pamela Maldonado
Best bet: Lions OVER 10.5 wins (-115)
Normally, I'd hesitate to back an number this high, but this isn't the same environment as last year. The margin was thin last year once injuries piled up and the offensive line slipped, but this roster still has high-end talent at every position. Pair that with what projects as a softer schedule and the Lions can get back to contention with a healthier, more stable version of the 2025 team. -- Maldonado
