Points line looks on low side in Detroit

Sky Sports Action, 12.30am Sunday night

Detroit have had a bye week to reflect on conceding 52 points to New Orleans, but their defence is likely to be tested again by Pittsburgh in what could be a high-scoring game at Ford Field.

The situation needs to be rectified quickly as the NFC North has been blown wide open by an injury to Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers and the Lions, who have won three of their six matches, should be in the thick of the chase.

The Steelers present a tough test, though. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was questioning whether he still "had it" after throwing five interceptions in Pittsburgh's defeat to Jacksonville three weeks ago, but he has been in excellent form since.

In that time, Mike Tomlin's side became the first team to beat Kansas City and increased their dominance in the AFC North by claiming a comfortable success against Cincinnati.

The Lions have struggled against the run, which could point to Steelers rusher Le'Veon Bell having another big night as he has chalked up more than 100 yards in each of those two key victories.

But it seems as if the points line has been pitched on the short side as Detroit are capable of contributing to an entertaining contest.

Despite their defensive problems against the Saints, they were still able to score 38 points and their tally has eclipsed 23 in four of their other five outings.

The stronger Pittsburgh pass defence will be a challenge for quarterback Matthew Stafford, but they are still capable of scoring points.

Recommendation
Over 45 points
2pts 10-11 188Bet

The lowdown
Venue Ford Field, Detroit, Michigan
Surface Artificial
Weather Indoors
Vegas handicap Pittsburgh -3
Vegas points line 46

Team news
Pittsburgh
Defensive lineman Stephon Tuitt, tight end Vance McDonald and offensive tackle Marcus Gilbert have all been ruled out.
Detroit
Wide receiver Kenny Golladay and left tackle Greg Robinson will not play. Receiver Golden Tate, defensive end Ezekiel Ansah and linebacker Paul Worrilow are all questionable.

Key stat
The points total has gone under the line in six of Pittsburgh’s last seven away matches.

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