As the NFL heads into Week 16, the stakes are higher than ever, particularly for teams aiming to secure their playoff positions. The Detroit Lions, after a disappointing loss, face a grim reality with their injury woes. This past Sunday, they experienced their first defeat since Week 2, and the situation worsened as running back David Montgomery was sidelined for the season due to a knee sprain sustained during the matchup against the Buffalo Bills. Montgomery joins an overwhelming list of over two dozen players currently on injured reserve for Detroit this season.

Key defensive players, including Alim McNeill and Carlton Davis III, also joined the injured list following the loss. The Lions possess one of the league's most dynamic offenses, but the question looms: can their depleted defense withstand the playoff pressures against formidable opponents? Up next, they face the struggling Chicago Bears, who are on an eight-game losing streak. The Lions hope to maintain their position at the top of the NFC North, heading into this matchup as 6.5-point road favorites—the largest spread for Week 16.

Predictions and Analysis from Expert Eric Cohen

Before making any predictions or betting on these matches, NFL expert Eric Cohen has released his insights that could significantly impact your picks. This week, Cohen, who hosts the popular Early Edge NFL Prop Show on YouTube, has carefully analyzed the entire Week 16 schedule and is ready to share his score predictions. After a stellar 14-2 record in Week 15, Cohen boasts an impressive overall record of 123-53 (70%) since Week 4, making him a trusted source for NFL betting insights. For those who have followed his predictions, the results have been rewarding.

Among the key matchups, Cohen expects the Los Angeles Rams to emerge victorious against the New York Jets, with a projected score of Rams 28, Jets 24. The Rams are favored by 3.5 points, and Cohen highlighted the intriguing nature of this matchup, noting that despite the Jets' recent offensive improvements, it's hard to envision them besting a solid team like the Rams.

Furthermore, expect high-scoring action in several games this week, particularly within the fiercely competitive AFC North. Cohen's analysis emphasizes that understanding these outcomes is crucial for making informed betting decisions this week.

In this unpredictable NFL season, Week 16 promises excitement as teams battle the odds—both on the scoreboard and with injuries. Prepare for thrilling matchups and key predictions that could lead to a significant financial payoff as the playoff race intensifies!