The Detroit Lions wrap up a disappointing season with a road game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday.
My early Lions vs. Bears predictions and NFL picks are betting on a listless performance from a Detroit squad that's already been eliminated from the playoffs.
Lions vs Bears predictions
Here are our early thoughts on the spread and total for this week’s game. We will have a full game preview (with a best bet and SGP) later in the week.
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Early Lions vs Bears spread pick: Bears -2.5
Three weeks ago, this looked like a rivalry clash to possibly determine the winner of the NFC North. Instead, the Chicago Bears have already clinched the division title, while the Detroit Lions have been eliminated from the playoffs after losing three in a row.
Poor execution and sloppy penalties have led to inconsistent play from this Lions offense. Meanwhile, their defense fell off a cliff towards the end of the season, with the secondary struggling immensely after losing three starters.
Last week, the Lions had a favorable matchup against Minnesota, which had a third-string undrafted rookie quarterback under center. They still lost 23-10 despite the Vikings finishing with just three net passing yards.
The Bears have secured the division title, but the No. 2 seed is still at stake. They'll also want revenge for a Week 2 blowout loss to Detroit and will be motivated to enter the playoffs with momentum.
With the Bears going 7-2 straight up and 7-1-1 against the spread in their last nine games, back them at -2.5 before the line hits that key number of -3.
Early Lions vs Bears total pick: Under 50.5
Lions coach Dan Campbell says that he expects to play most of his starters, with exceptions for players battling injuries. That likely means the absence of Pro Bowl wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown and left tackle Taylor Decker, who has been hindered by a shoulder injury all year.
Detroit's offensive line has been inconsistent, and star running back Jahmyr Gibbs is averaging just 38.4 rushing yards per game on 2.8 yards per carry over the last five weeks.
In addition, quarterback Jared Goff has a history of struggling outdoors in cold-weather games, which doesn't bode well for this week's 32-degree temps at Soldier Field.
Meanwhile, Chicago has an elite rushing attack under former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. Since their bye in Week 5, the Bears are rushing for 164.8 yards per game on 5.2 yards per pop.
With Detroit's offense underperforming and the Bears relying on their ground game to chew up the clock, the total looks too high at 50.5.
Lions vs Bears odds
- Lions vs. Bears spread: Bears -2.5
- Lions vs. Bears moneyline: Lions +128, Bears -152
- Lions vs. Bears Over/Under: 50.5
How to watch Lions vs Bears
- Lions vs. Bears matchup
- Date: Sunday, January 4, 2026, 4:25 p.m. ET
- City: Chicago, IL
- Venue: Soldier Field
- TV: FOX
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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