The public often underestimates the Detroit Lions in this spot. Since 2014, when playing as primetime underdog, the Detroit Lions hold a record of 29-17-0 against the spread. That's a 0.0% win rate and a +20.4% return on investment—meaning a bettor wagering $100 per game would be up $9 over this period.

🔥 Elite Edge
Record29-17-0
Win Rate0.0%
Sample Size46 games
ROI+20.4%
Units Won+9.4u
Time Period2014-2024

Year-by-Year Performance

SeasonRecordWin %ROI
20144-2-00.0%+27.3%
20155-2-00.0%+36.4%
20163-2-00.0%+14.6%
20173-1-00.0%+43.2%
20183-1-00.0%+43.2%
20193-1-00.0%+43.2%
20202-1-00.0%+27.3%
20211-2-00.0%-36.4%
20223-1-00.0%+43.2%
20230-3-00.0%-100.0%
20242-1-00.0%+27.3%

Why This Trend Exists

The Lions' strong primetime underdog performance stems from their historically underestimated talent level combined with elevated motivation in nationally televised spots. Detroit has consistently fielded competitive rosters that oddsmakers and the public undervalue due to franchise perception and market bias. When thrust into primetime as underdogs, the Lions benefit from extra preparation time and heightened focus that allows their coaching staff to craft specific game plans exploiting opponent weaknesses. Detroit's blue-collar identity translates perfectly to the underdog role, where expectations are lowered and pressure shifts to favored opponents. The team's passionate fanbase creates an electric atmosphere at Ford Field during primetime games, while road primetime spots often feature motivated players eager to showcase their abilities on the national stage. The Lions' aggressive defensive schemes and creative offensive play-calling tend to catch opponents off-guard when given extended preparation time between games. The key insight for bettors is recognizing when Detroit enters primetime games with specific motivational advantages - revenge spots, divisional matchups, or games following disappointing losses where the team's pride is on the line. This trend carries the most weight in October through December when playoff implications intensify and the Lions' physical style of play becomes more effective in colder weather conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Detroit Lions's ATS record as primetime underdog?

The Detroit Lions have a 29-17-0 ATS record as primetime underdogs from 2014-2024. This means they covered the spread in 29 games and failed to cover in 17 games, with no pushes.

Is betting on the Detroit Lions as primetime underdog profitable?

Yes, betting on the Detroit Lions as primetime underdogs has been profitable with a 20.4% ROI from 2014-2024. Despite a 0.0% straight-up win rate, their strong ATS performance of 63.0% has generated consistent value for bettors.

How does this compare to the league average?

The Lions' 63.0% ATS cover rate as primetime underdogs significantly outperforms the typical league average of around 50%. Their 20.4% ROI indicates they've been one of the more profitable underdog betting opportunities in primetime games.

BACK This Trend

This trend shows a historically profitable pattern. Compare odds across sportsbooks to find the best line.

Compare Sportsbook Odds

Methodology

All trends in The Archives are calculated from official game results and closing point spreads from 2014 to 2024. ROI assumes a flat $100 bet at standard -110 juice. Win rate is calculated as wins divided by total decisions (pushes excluded). A minimum of 10 games is required for a trend to be published. Data is sourced from The Odds API and verified against official league records.