It’s been one heck of a time for the Detroit Lions since coming out of their bye week. In the ultra-competitive NFC North, every divisional win counts, and they’ve piled up two in a row. After a big win that ended Minnesota’s undefeated start, they’re heading into a classic trap game on the road against the 1-6 Dolphins. This kind of matchup produces an awfully interesting player prop market.
Detroit is a 6.5-point road favorite on DraftKings Sportsbook. Miami is +235 to pull off the upset, with the total set at 49.5 points.
Let’s dive into the top player prop bets for Sunday’s clash between the Lions and the Dolphins.
Lions vs. Dolphins NFL Player Prop Bets
Jared Goff 70+ 1st Quarter Passing Yards (+141)
The Dolphins’ pass defense isn’t doing well. They’re tied for dead last in the NFL in yards allowed per passing attempt at 8.3; for reference, only four qualified quarterbacks have a higher mark this season. If you step on the field against them, you’ll look like an elite quarterback on a down-to-down basis.
Looking elite hasn’t been a problem for Jared Goff and the Lions’ offense. Goff ranks in the NFL’s top seven in passing yards (1,964) and passing touchdowns (15), while throwing just one interception. The problem here is the game script; it might not take very long for Detroit’s explosive offense to put this one in blowout territory. So we’ll roll with Goff’s first-quarter line to find the value.
Malik Willis 220+ Passing Yards (+116)
Detroit’s defense hasn’t been productive against the pass either, but for different reasons. On a down-to-down basis, they’ve been solid, allowing a respectable 7.3 yards per pass attempt this season. But because of game script and personnel, teams have absolutely unleashed the pass on the Lions this year. Detroit ranks 30th in opponent pass attempts and passing yards, while tied for dead last in passing touchdowns allowed.
Malik Willis and the Dolphins’ pass attack haven’t been the most productive this year. But they have some passable weapons, and Willis’ ability to extend plays with his legs will keep drives moving and pass yards up. Don’t be surprised if you look up and see Willis posting season-high numbers across the board, but we’ll keep it simple and play his passing line slightly above the expected mark.
