MINNEAPOLIS (Interstat) — A crucial NFC North divisional clash with playoff implications will headline the NFL’s Christmas Day slate as the Detroit Lions visit the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday, Dec. 25, 2025, at TCF Bank Stadium. Both teams enter the holiday matchup with identical urgency. The Lions (8-7) have lost three of their last four games and are looking to stabilize their postseason positioning. The Vikings (7-8), winners of three straight, are fighting to climb back into the wild-card picture. According to National Statistical’s game simulator, Minnesota is projected to win 30-21 and has been installed as a 7.5-point favorite. The over/under is set at 43.5. The game features a compelling quarterback contrast. Detroit’s Jared Goff is in a prolific stretch, passing for over 300 yards in three of his last four outings, including 364 yards and three touchdowns in a 29-24 loss to Pittsburgh last Sunday. However, his production has coincided with defensive struggles, as the Lions have allowed an average of 32.5 points during their 1-3 skid. Minnesota’s resurgence has been fueled by rookie J.J. McCarthy and a stifling defense. McCarthy, efficient and dynamic, has accounted for six touchdowns (three passing, three rushing) during the three-game win streak. The Vikings’ defense has posted two shutouts in their last three games, blanking Washington 31-0 on Dec. 7. The Vikings won the season’s first meeting 27-24 in Detroit on Nov. 2. To split the series, the Lions must contain McCarthy and re-establish their running game, which managed only 16 yards on 11 carries against Pittsburgh. For Minnesota, protecting home field and continuing its defensive dominance is paramount to keeping its season alive. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:15 p.m. CST. The national broadcast will be on NBC.