Game preview
The Detroit Lions head to Baltimore to take on the Ravens on Monday Night Football after posting a strong 5‑2 record at home. Detroit’s offense, led by quarterback Jared Goff and a revamped receiving corps, has averaged 28.5 points per game, while the defense has struggled against the run, allowing 121 yards on average.
On the other side, the Ravens enter the matchup 5‑2 on the road, boasting a balanced attack anchored by quarterback Lamar Jackson and a solid defensive front that ranks in the top ten for sacks. Their recent win over the Saints highlighted a gritty, ball‑control approach that could keep the Lions’ offense off the field.
Key matchups to watch include Detroit’s secondary versus Baltimore’s deep passing threat and the battle in the trenches between Lions’ linemen and the Ravens’ aggressive rushers. The over/under is set at 68 points, reflecting the expectation of a high‑scoring affair, while the Lions are modest favorites at -3.5.
Betting angle: Derrick Henry first TD
FanDuel is offering a prop that pays out if running back Derrick Henry crosses the goal line first for the Lions. The line sits at +250, meaning a $100 wager would return $250 if Henry scores the opening touchdown.
Why the market is intriguing: Henry has rushed for 1,200+ yards in each of his last two seasons and is a proven red‑zone threat. However, Detroit’s early‑game play‑calling often leans on short passes to set up the run, which could delay Henry’s first touch.
- If Goff opens with quick slants to the slot, the Lions could score a passing TD within the first two minutes, nullifying the prop.
- Should the Ravens start a defensive blitz, Detroit may hand the ball to Henry early to capitalize on a mismatched front.
- Weather isn’t a factor in Baltimore, so the run game should be viable regardless of conditions.
Statistically, Henry has found the end zone on the opening series in 12% of his career games, but this season his usage on first drives has risen to 18% thanks to a more aggressive playbook. Meanwhile, the Ravens have allowed a first‑quarter TD on 22% of their games, suggesting a decent chance for the Lions to strike early.
Betters should weigh the Lions’ tendency to test the waters with a quick pass versus the likelihood that Goff will lean on Henry to establish the ground game. Monitoring the pre‑game injury report for both teams’ starting linebackers could also hint at how the Ravens will defend the run in the opening minutes.
In short, the Henry first‑TD prop offers solid upside for bettors who trust the veteran’s red‑zone instincts and are comfortable with the risk of an early passing play. With the game projected to be a shootout, the prop could swing the overall betting line dramatically.