News - Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions Preview, Prediction & Odds | Week 9, 2025

Minnesota Vikings The storyline everyone’s watching is the return of Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who’s back under center after missing all games after week two with a high ankle sprain. This homecoming carries extra weight for McCarthy, who won a national championship at Michigan and went 27-1 as a starter for the Wolverines. Now he’s returning to his home state to face a Lions defense that’s been suffocating opponents all season. Minnesota’s season has been defined by inconsistency and injuries at the most critical positions. McCarthy’s return provides a glimmer of hope, but he faces an uphill battle. Over his first two starts this season, the young quarterback threw three interceptions, took nine sacks, and lost a fumble—growing pains for a player transitioning from college to the NFL. Making matters worse, veteran backup Carson Wentz is having season-ending shoulder surgery, leaving the Vikings thin at the position. Detroit Lions Detroit is playing with the confidence of a championship contender. At 5-2 and trailing only Kansas City in some power rankings, the Lions have established themselves as one of the most complete teams in the NFC. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs posted a career-high 218 yards from scrimmage against Tampa Bay, including a career-long 78-yard touchdown run. The offensive line has also found its groove, with Graham Glasgow moving to center and young players like sixth-round pick Christian Mahogany stepping up. On defense, Aidan Hutchinson just signed a four-year, $180 million contract with $141 million guaranteed—a massive investment that reflects his importance to this unit. Safety Brian Branch returns from a one-game suspension, adding another weapon to a defense that ranks eighth overall and fourth against the run. Many games this week have had college-like point spreads. After many blowouts last week, apparently Vegas thinks a trend was started. It seems unlikely the Vikings will win. It seems unlikely McCarthy will be effective. Yes, even with that summary, the Vikings will find a way to keep it competitive. Minnesota Vikings +8.5