The Indianapolis Colts are winless in the NFL preseason with a one-sided loss and a tie on their exhibition record.
Despite that, Indianapolis is laying -3.5 at home to the Detroit Lions in the final tune-up tilt Saturday afternoon.
My NFL picks are giving the host an edge, based on head coach Shane Steichen’s plans and an ongoing battle for the backup quarterback slot, which will prompt some points.
Here are my Lions vs. Colts predictions for Week 3 of the NFL preseason on Aug. 29.
Lions vs Colts prediction
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Who will win Lions vs Colts: Colts -3.5
Most teams are parking their starters in the preseason finale, but the Indianapolis Colts still have work to do this summer.
Head coach Shane Steichen told the media he’ll play his ones between eight and 12 snaps Saturday — minus some of his top skill players.
That’s a contrast to Dan Campbell and his plans for the Detroit Lions’ third preseason game.
Detroit’s head coach will sit his starters after getting a good look in Week 2, focusing his attention on rounding out the depth chart for both the offensive and defensive lines.
Given injury concerns in the Indy receiving corps, Steichen could go pass-heavy in order to get a good look at his WR depth but also sort out his QB2 for the upcoming season.
Indianapolis struggled on third downs in Week 2’s preseason loss to Atlanta, finishing 1-for-11 on third-down conversions, and dropped back only 23 times.
TOP PICK
Lions vs Colts Over/Under pick: Over 35.5
The Colts and Lions are sorting out their backup QB situation, which should have both offenses pressing the pass and opening the door for the Over.
Detroit has journeyman Joshua Dobbs fighting off rookie Luke Altmyer, who’s looked strong in his two exhibition performances (22-of-35 for 216 yards).
Dobbs hasn’t thrown as much but does damage with his legs when plays break down. He’s scrambled for 62 yards and a touchdown in the preseason.
Indianapolis has a similar dual-threat weapon in QB Anthony Richardson. The former face of the franchise is fighting for his career in the preseason and will get the start versus Detroit.
Richardson is 14-of-23 passing for 169 yards with nine carries for 68 yards and a rushing touchdown in the past two contests. He’ll play behind the starting offensive line on Saturday – at least for the opening half.
Riley Leonard will relieve Richardson in hopes of stealing the second-string role. He logged two starts last year and is aiming to improve on his preseason performances after going 17-of-35 for 151 yards with an INT in the exhibition slate.
Lions vs Colts live odds
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Lions vs Colts weather
Nothing but sweet, cool and calm dome air inside Lucas Oil Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
How to watch Lions vs Colts
| Location | Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN |
| Date | Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026 |
| Kickoff | 1 p.m. ET |
| TV | WJBK, WTTV |
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