Detroit vs. Everybody: 72 Percent of NFL Experts Predict 49ers to Defeat Lions

Lions are underdogs to 49ers.

The Detroit Lions are seven-point betting underdogs to the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship Game. 

Both teams are expecting to establish the run, and expect the defensive line to force the opposing quarterback into rushing passes by bringing pressure. 

On paper, the 49ers have more experience at key positions and are playing at home, seeking to avoid further disappointment. The franchise has been knocking on the doorstep of winning a Lombardi Trophy the past several years. 

According to NFL Pickwatch, 72 percent of NFL analysts are picking the Lions' season to come to an end against the NFC West division champions. 

Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson indicated one of the many challenges preparing this week was attempting to replicate the stout defensive front of the 49ers during the week of practice.  

Predictions: Lions-49ers

"Where the biggest part of our challenge starts this week is trying to replicate this front for our O-line and tight ends in practice," said Johnson. "Limited pads this time of year, so here we are completely different style than really what we’ve seen this year. The Jets, we faced last year, has a similar front in how they get off the ball. 

"So, for the next two days, we’re going to try to replicate that as much as we can in practice to show our guys and simulate the play speed. They get off the ball, I still remember (49ers Defensive Line Coach) Kris Kocurek, I was with him in Miami. I know he went down there from Detroit, and I just remember him vividly sitting there in practice, ‘Get off, get off.’ He’s just screaming, his spit flying all over the place and so he’s, in my opinion, the best in the business at teaching that front."

Detroit's offensive coordinator is aware the passing windows will be tight for Jared Goff, as the 49ers are capable of bringing pressure with a four-man rush. 

"When you can generate pressure with just a four-man rush, then there aren’t nearly as many windows there in the backend," said Johnson. "So, if we do happen to catch him in man or a fire zone, or something like that, hopefully we can capitalize on it. But, we know those opportunities will be limited.”