In a high-stakes NFC Championship Game, the Lions and 49ers clash with a Super Bowl berth hanging in the balance, setting the stage for a special Sunday night showdown. Despite being labelled as clear underdogs, the Detroit Lions enter the contest aiming to orchestrate a stunning upset against the formidable 49ers

Last weekend showcased two compelling matchups in the NFL. In one corner, the Detroit Lions faced off against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, emerging victorious with a final score of 31-23. Despite statistics showing the Lions being outgained, they strategically dominated the turnover and time of possession battles, ultimately tilting the game in their favour. On the other side of the gridiron, the San Francisco 49ers clashed with the Green Bay Packers, securing a hard-fought 24-21 win. While the 49ers narrowly outgained their opponents, controlling the turnover battle proved pivotal. Furthermore, their impressive conversion rate of 10 out of 16 third-down attempts underscored their effectiveness in sustaining drives and capitalising on scoring opportunities.

The match is scheduled to start at 18:30 ET on Sunday, 28 January 2024. The game time by GMT is 11:30 p.m. GMT on Sunday, January 28. The match venue is Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California

Betting tips and match predictions for the Detroit Lions vs San Francisco 49ers (January 28) game are available in this article. The latest betting odds, key stats, team news, and projected starting lineups are previewed below.

San Francisco 49ers vs Detroit Lions latest odds on betting sites 

The San Francisco 49ers’ moneyline odds are priced at 1.29 (-345 American), while the Detroit Lions’ moneyline odds are priced at 3.90 (+290). 

Over/Under:

Over 52.0 points: 1.95 (-105)

Under 52.0 points: 1.92 (-109)

Spread:

San Franciso 49ers -7.0: 1.95 (-115)

Detroit Lions +7.0: 2.00 (+100)

San Francisco 49ers vs Detroit Lions match preview and statistics

San Francisco 49ers

Brock Purdy secured another playoff victory, although his performance in this game didn’t quite reach his peak. The quarterback for the Niners completed 23 of 39 passes for 252 yards, delivering an impressive touchdown throw to George Kittle. However, he also had two plays that could have resulted in turnovers and missed several critical throws.

Nevertheless, Purdy demonstrated resilience when it mattered most, leading his offence on a pivotal 12-play, 69-yard touchdown drive. During this series, he connected on passes of 10 and 17 yards and made a crucial 9-yard run that positioned his team for the game-winning score.

On the defensive side, 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw intercepted Jordan Love twice during the game. Greenlaw’s veteran presence was evident as he tallied nine solo tackles, made three defensive stops, and consistently led the charge to the ball carrier, showcasing his impact and reliability for the team.

The 49ers ranked first overall, appeared to be headed for elimination in their first-round playoff match if they did not pull off a late-game comeback. It showed they can also fight back from behind, a critical quality in the playoffs. 

The San Francisco 49ers team news: Tight end Ross Dwelley, wide receiver Danny Gray, and defensive line Clelin Ferrell are out. Wide receiver Deebo Samuel (shoulder) and defensive tackle Arik Armstead (foot/knee) are questionable for the game.

Detroit Lions

Jared Goff showcased remarkable efficiency and poise for the Lions throughout the game, consistently delivering impactful plays while minimising errors. He completed 30 of 43 passes for 287 yards and two touchdowns, demonstrating his command of the offense. Amon-Ra St. Brown, the wide receiver, proved instrumental with eight receptions for 77 yards, including a pivotal touchdown catch that capped off a meticulously executed 10-play, 89-yard drive.

The Lions’ ground game received a significant boost from running back Jahmyr Gibbs, whose electrifying 31-yard touchdown run widened the gap in the scoreline. Gibbs concluded the game with 74 rushing yards on nine carries, providing crucial momentum for the Lions.

Despite encountering an in-game injury, center Frank Ragnow exhibited remarkable resilience, notably holding his ground against Buccaneers defensive tackle Vita Vea during the pivotal fourth-and-goal touchdown run by Reynolds, showcasing his tenacity and determination.

The Lions’ defensive unit contributed substantially, generating pressure on the opposing quarterback. Safety Ifeatu Melifonwu registered 1.5 sacks, while rookie Brian Branch added another, disrupting the rhythm of the Buccaneers’ offense and forcing Mayfield into committing errors under pressure throughout the game.

The Detroit Lions team news: Tight end James Mitchell, cornerback Jerry Jacobs, and guard Jonah Jackson are out. Wide receiver Kalif Raymond (knee) and center Frank Ragnow (knee) are questionable.

Lions vs 49ers H2H

Counting the regular season and postseason, the 49ers and Lions have faced off in 68 games. Against the Lions, the 49ers have an overall record of 39-28-1. The 49ers are currently leading the series versus the Lions by two games.

San Francisco 49ers vs Detroit Lions key players

Brock Purdy: Without starting a top overall pick at quarterback, the Niners made it to the NFC Championship. This is all thanks to their 2022 draft’s No. 262 overall seventh-round selection, who is now an NFL prodigy. In 16 games this season, Brock Purdy had a passing rating of 113.0, 4,280 yards, 31 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions.

Jared Goff: The Lions are in the NFC Championship Game on Sunday and one victory away from making their first-ever Super Bowl trip solely because of quarterback Jared Goff’s performance on the field during the regular season and in the playoffs. In 17 games this season, Jarred Goff completed with 4,575 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, good for a quarterback rating 97.9.

Detroit Lions vs San Francisco 49ers predictions

The Lions’ offensive prowess is expected to fall short, dashing their aspirations of Super Bowl glory on Sunday night. The 49ers’ defensive prowess has been evident throughout the season, as they have limited their opponents to 21 points or fewer in 13 out of 18 games. This formidable defense is poised to apply relentless pressure on quarterback Jared Goff, whose struggles in outdoor conditions are widely acknowledged. 

Goff will likely face a barrage of challenges, leading him to resort to check-downs, throwaways, or potentially risky decisions under the 49ers’ relentless defensive onslaught. Anticipating Goff’s conservative approach under pressure, the Lions may pivot towards a ground-based offensive strategy to exploit potential vulnerabilities in the 49ers’ run defense. Lions should be able to hold their ground here.

Predictions for the game are the Detroit Lions to cover the spread, and the game will be under 52.0 points.

Betting prediction: Detroit Lions +7.0

Odds: 2.00 (+100 American)

Betting prediction: Under 52.0 points

Odds: 1.92 (-109 American)